MAGIC Update: gearing up for fall

LAS VEGAS With over 1 million square feet of exhibit space and more than 120,000 attendees from around the world, MAGIC, in Las Vegas, is one of the biggest extravaganzas in the apparel industry. The show kicked off with enthusiasm as buyers and sellers diligently filled orders for back-to-school and fall shipments.

Judging by the fashion shows, Vision, Style File and MAGIC kids, one of the biggest trend for the fall season can be linked to mountain cabin/chateau inspirations. Plaids, shearling, hooded sweatshirts, embroidered and printed knits were prominently seen both on runway and inside the booths. Metallics and sleek, modern pieces that embraced the essence of 'cool' also received a warm reaction from the audience.

By walking across the halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center, visitors experience the new products and surprises first hand. Although the appearance of men's and women's wear spaces has not changed much from previous shows, POOL and Streetwear vestibules are anything but ordinary. It appears that every other booth is in competition to lure attendees by creative exterior, loud colors and popular hip-hop music selections. To add flavor to already interactive booths, companies have incorporated aspects of lifestyle into the space – live DJs, lounge areas, body painting and brake dancing gathered curious spectators.

The inclusion of Lingerie Americas and Accessories, which were held at the Las Vegas Hilton, added scope to the event. In addition, PROJECT was also off-site at the Sands Convention Center. With the recent announcement that the show will be truncated to a 2-day event next season, it will be interesting to see how the attendees manage their time between appointments, fashion shows and seminars.