Fashion's Night Out inaugural launch in September '09 was an amazing success. Not only did traffic into retailers nearly double during this one night event, but more than 700 stores remained open until 11pm. From blog posts to tweets--it seemed like everyone was attending events throughout New York City's five boroughs, many of which were making purchases or visiting stores they have never been in before.
The fashion industry knows a good thing when they see it, and are looking to find more ways like Fashion's Night Out to re-energize the Garment District, but with a year-long focus. Could more innovative ideas like FNO, that which brings the designer, the retailer and the consumer all together be just the shot in the arm that the Garment District needs?
Maybe blame it on the delay of Project Runway (yeah let's blame it on that.) Maybe blame it on the sentiment over the recession. Maybe it was the disconnect between designers and their fans. But whatever is to blame, the enthusiasm over fashion had begun to wane a little. While social media has begun to fill in some gaps blurring the line with brands, designers and their patrons, there is still the need for offline, in person events in which that online closeness and excitement can be translated into something tangible. Tangible experiences are what create sales and future purchases.
So tonight Mayor Bloomberg and about 75 fashion execs will be gathering to discuss ideas to re-energize the Garmet District by generating jobs, offering retailer discounts and possibly a no sales tax day on FNO with the bottom line of New York City keeping its stronghold as one of the major players in the fashion industry. Will it work?
*Photo Credit: Panacheprivee.com
