Fashion's Night Out Will Return In 2010!

Filed Under: Fashion Smashion Anna Wintour Business Blitz Vogue Diane von Furstenberg

Happy News!

Fashion's Night Out will return next year, bringing the fun and festivities to shoppers worldwide once again.

Despite initial reports that the endeavor was "not incredible from a business point of view," as Barneys creative director Simon Doonan put it, the event actually turned out to be quite successful.

"The numbers are in, and it's clear that Fashion's Night Out was a tremendous success," according to Mayor Michael Bloomberg. He goes to say that, "Thousands of New Yorkers attended the events in all five boroughs, supporting the city's retail and fashion industries, and helping a worthwhile cause. It's sure to be an even bigger event in 2010."

According to an independent study conducted by ShopperTrak, in the 700+ stores that stayed open that night, foot traffic increased by 50%. A survey done by marketing and tourism organization, NYC & Co., concluded that 75% of shoppers made at least one purchase that night, two-thirds of consumers visited stores they had never been to before, and 61% left their normal dwellings to explore neighborhoods outside where they work or live.

Prolific designer and CFDA president, Diane von Furstenberg, said: "To have designers in stores to celebrate and start a shopping season is the best idea for everyboyd. It creates excitement and lots of business."

Vogue editor Anna Wintour, who hatched the scheme for FNO, said "We were absolutely bowled over by the response to Fashion's Night Out. It was only 15 minutes after the event began, and we were getting reports about lines around the block at stores throughout the city. It was wonderful to see people embrace this initiative, and we are thrilled that they wish it to return."

Exciting! The second annual Fashion's Night Out event will take place September 9, 2010. Can't wait!

[Image via WENN.]

Posted: October 29, 2009 at 2:30 pm