Las Vegas Apparel Successfully Launches Inaugural Event
New Addition to Las Vegas Fashion Week Draws Buyers From 30+ States
Las Vegas Apparel wrapped up its first semi-annual edition, August 8-10 at the Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas (WMCLV), with overwhelmingly positive feedback from both exhibitors and buyers. Las Vegas Apparel’s fashion week addition – composed of an intimate shopping environment, curated resources, onsite amenities and attendance reach – drew an upbeat response over the course of the new three-day event.
“We couldn’t have imagined a better way to kick off Las Vegas Apparel’s first market,” said Caron Stover, IMC senior vice president, Apparel. “Our trusted Atlanta Apparel brand attracted buyers seeking new sourcing and shopping opportunities out west. We can’t wait to see the many ways this market will continue to grow moving forward.”
Buyers from more than 30 states visited the new market, with the most significant representation from the West (California, Washington, Utah), Southwest (Texas) and Southeast (Alabama, Florida and Georgia). Las Vegas Apparel also welcomed visitors from Canada and Colombia, expanding the market’s international reach. The majority of attending buyers hailed from apparel shops, with gift shops and online retailers also well-represented.
“I’ve been attending shows for 20+ years,” said retailer Judith Turner of Turner’s Creations, located in Denver. “We love the layout and professionalism at Las Vegas Apparel – it is easy to shop and navigate. We are excited to come back next time.”
Retailer Michelle Scheid, owner of Mainstream Boutique in Ankeny, Iowa, said, “I loved the space and environment at Las Vegas Apparel. The drinks and food were a hit and we discovered new lines! Las Vegas Apparel has a good thing going.”
Energy remained high throughout the premiere market as buyers and exhibitors took advantage of the relaxed and comfortable shopping experience on the trade show floor and popular amenities including complimentary breakfast and lunch, happy hours and giveaways.
“Our attendees were thrilled to receive the hospitality they know and love in Atlanta,” added Stover. “Buyers loved the happy hours and fun atmosphere, and business was booming.”
Exhibitor Kesha Henderson, owner of Funky Flair Boutique in Marietta, Ga., added, “This show is new, sparkly, exciting and screams Vegas. I was really able to talk to my vendors, get to know them and further develop relationships here at Las Vegas Apparel.”
Exhibitors also expressed enthusiasm about attending the next edition of Las Vegas Apparel, excited for new business opportunities along with the hallmark Atlanta Apparel experience.
Exhibitor Mimi Teshome of Blessed Apparel said, “We love being here! We are blown away by everything from buyers down to the lighting and design. We opened four new accounts in 30 minutes, so coming to Las Vegas Apparel is something we will continue to do!”
Exhibitor Greta Ballard of Palladium Jewelry noted, “The layout and amenities at Las Vegas Apparel were wonderful. The southern hospitality has definitely been brought to Vegas.”
Las Vegas Apparel presented 40+ young contemporary, jewelry, accessories and shoe lines. Nearly a dozen World Market Center Las Vegas permanent showrooms also afforded buyers access to an additional 250 lines including point-of-purchase resources such as candles, stationery, personal care items, décor and gifts.
Las Vegas Apparel is Atlanta Apparel’s West Coast fashion sourcing market. Atlanta Apparel’s eight yearly markets feature the latest looks in contemporary, young contemporary, fashion accessories and more, plus specialty categories such as children's, plus-size, bridal and social occasion. The next Las Vegas Apparel event happens in February. Market information is available online at LasVegas-Apparel.com.