Apparently the British and the French are coming.  Well, they are already here.  Fashion Rollcall has selected the top three European fashion houses/retailers to cross the Atlantic in 2009.  They are:

• A. Balenciaga
• B. Hermes
• C. Topshop

Topshop opened a store in Manhattan today with Kate Moss on hand.  A sizeable crowd welcomed the supermodel and the retail giant. [The Cut]

Woodbury Commons Premium Outlet has a new tenant, Balenciaga.  The Balenciaga outlet store opens today.  They will be offering a 40% discount off the regular retail price. [The Cut]

Another French luxury brand is opening a temporary store in the States, this time in the Hamptons.  Yes, Hermes is opening a 2,000 square foot space that will offer mainly beach attire. [Business of Fashion via WWD]

New York is the beneficiary of these store openings and we are feeling lucky.  Topshop is located in Soho, and both the Balenciaga and Hermes locations are easily accessible from New York City.

There will be a Showdown tomorrow.  Two of these fashion houses will move on, only one will win.  Take some time to view the Hermes video to see what you have to look forward to this summer.