Retailers bring a night of fashion to the masses

NEW YORK — New York Fashion Week has become more than just an opportunity for top designers to showcase their wares to industry insiders, celebrities and others privileged enough to get inside the tents. Fashion Week has become a chance for designers and retailers to bring the latest trends to the masses.

Fashion’s Night Out has returned for 2011 and is probably the best example of Fashion Week coming to the people. Retailer’s including QVC, Loehmann’s and New York & Company are all participating in the one-night event on Sept. 8 that offers after-hours shopping, discounts and more at select locations.

QVC said it will broadcoast live from New York City’s trendy SoHo neighborhood during Fashion Week and will open its doors to the public at 6 p.m. EST on Sept. 8. The company said it will provide guests with an interactive multimedia shopping experience and the opportunity to see their favorite personalities, including Heidi Klum, Isaac Mizrahi, Melania Trump and Kris Jenner. In addition, the company is offering makeup and skincare consultations at its dedicated beauty area.

"We are thrilled to, once again, bring the excitement of Fashion's Night Out and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week to our viewers," said Claire Watts, CEO of QVC U.S. "With a star-studded list of celebrities and designers as well as access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content, this is one programming event that shoppers won't want to miss."

As reported earlier by Retailing Today, Loehmann’s will hold an in-store runway show on Sept. 8 at its New York Flagship store.

New York & Company announced that its Fashion’s Night Out event will take place at its flagship store in Midtown Manhattan and will feature a DJ, food and the stars of the reality TV show, the “Real Housewives of NYC.”

Click here to learn more about Fashion’s Night Out.