NWA Fashion Week Kicks off With Shopping Night Out
During a stagnant economy in 2009, many thought of fashion as a frivolous industry that was largely unnecessary during such trying times for most of the world. In an attempt to revive New York Fashion Week, Fashion Night Out was born. Starting in New York City, Fashion’s Night Out is a “global initiative” that sought out to “celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence and boost the industry’s economy,” according to Fashion’s Night Out website. Fashion’s Night Out was so successful that it has since been introduced to multiple cities, such as London, Paris, Sydney and now, Fayetteville, Ark.
To kick off the inaugural NWA Fashion Week, “Shopping Night Out” was born, which was modeled after the event in New York City. Shopping Night Out aims to be a “big party” with “one night only specials” all over Northwest Arkansas at all of the local boutiques, according to the NWA Fashion Week website.
Belle Boutique, the UA’s own campus boutique had snacks, 20 percent off the whole store as well as two $100 gift card giveaways for the event, said Brittany Roberts, owner of Belle Boutique.
“It just really encourages shopping local. There are no major retailers involved in NWA fashion week. Nothing against major retailers, but it is important to support your local businesses,” Roberts said.
The sense of community was a major factor in Shopping Night Out, as well as for the entire week.
“Previously the local boutiques were always fighting for sponsors since there were so many fashion shows at many different times of the year, so my boss (Jade Terminella, co-founder of NWA Fashion week,) thought we should just do one huge event,” said Angela Strauss, manager of Lola Boutique. “It’s nice to have all of this publicity, but our main goal is to give back to charity.”
Lola Boutique also hosted 20 percent off the entire store, as well as free champagne, $1,000 gift card giveaway and tickets to Friday night’s fashion show.
“I think it’s so great that something like this is happening in Northwest Arkansas,” said Payton Bridewell, fashion blogger. “I am a girl who loves fashion and I love to blog about items that I find in the local boutiques, so I think having a Shopping Night Out here is so fun.”
Other stores that took part in Shopping Night Out include Savior-Faire, Riffraff, Masons, Maude and Chic Boutique.
For more information about NWA Fashion Week, visit nwafw.com.
