If all H&Ms looked like this one on Spiegelgasse, they might be mistaken for boutiques. The…read moreatmospheric location with its gorgeous old-fashion enclosed elevator and huge spiral staircase, chased by a polished wooden banister, improves the store immensely and gives the Vienna flagship an injection of sophistication and class. Definitely beautiful to walk around, though be careful, those stairs are narrow and it's a tight squeeze if some girl is coming down with a mobile phone glued to her head.
H&M is split on three different levels, menswear on the bottom and ladieswear and accessories on the ground and second floor. The layout is clean and, rare for all H&Ms in my area, very spaciously laid out. I did not feel crushed in an aisle. Racks are organized with room to move while still presenting the clothing well. It definitely has a boutique feel.
Stock and sizes are limited because of the space. I saw fewer larger sizes than small and medium ones, though this could simply be because they go through merchandise quickly. Call ahead if you want a specific item. The shoes here are particularly small (not much larger than European size 38) and the accessories were pretty picked over.
Upstairs and downstairs cashiers also help reduce lines, and the later evening hours are good for shopping after a day of sightseeing or working. This spot is very popular with tourists on Kaertnerstrasse and the Stephensplatz, so expect it to be busy. I had little trouble locating a salesperson when I needed help.
