the buzz log

While Michelle Obama may be rocking the "fashion for the masses" look in London, the British store Topshop hit the streets of New York to launch its American invasion (in a good way). Those who love a trend but hate to spend had already formed a line five blocks long to check out the store opening. Those not in line got online to search for "topshop" and "topshop online."

Think of the British import as a higher-priced Forever 21 with an English accent. The supermodel Kate Moss, who could easily fit into toothpick-sized outfits, has lent her star power for a Topshop clothing line. Let's hope it's more generously shaped for the American bod.

The blog Racked dubbed the openig of the London retailer "Topshopocalypse," and live blogged the event, which included a three-hour wait to get in, the arrival of a Topshop Vespa, and "an abrasive British woman yelling 'shop, shop, shop.'"

The advent of a new store for the chic and cheap works for these recessionary times. The New York Times noticed that many shoppers have been trading down from pricey stores to cheaper ones with traditionally blander looks. (Yes, you, Talbot's.) The frenzy around the new store suggests that lower price does not have to come at the cost of high fashion. Recessionistas, rejoice.