The third annual Fashion’s Night Out took place on Thursday, September 8 in New York City. The evening brought jam packed fashion events to retail locations all around Manhattan. 2011’s Fashion Night Out was bigger than previous years, making it a celebrated highlight for the fashion industry.

More than 1000 stores around New York City participated in Fashion’s Night Out, which kicked off the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Not only was New York City a participant, but so were over 250 other cities across the United States. Created by Vogue’s editor Anna Wintour, Fashion’s Night Out has become an international sensation with countries around the world partaking in the event as well.

Retailers all across New York City stayed open later than usual for fashionistas to enjoy extended hours of shopping. Special events were seen throughout Manhattan. Celebrity appearances were a main highlight of the event. Located in the Meatpacking District, the grand opening of a new Intermix store welcomed Bravo’s reality TV star Rachel Zoe.

 The fashion stylist visited the boutique store to celebrate its opening. Those who wanted to shop in the famous Billionaire Boys Club on West Broadway were able to catch a glimpse of musically talented Pharrell Williams. The popular musician made an appearance at the store by working behind the cash register.

Daniel Radcliffe, widely known for his performance as Harry Potter in the movie series, arrived at Jeffrey New York for a guest appearance and had a meet and greet with people shopping in the store.

If Daniel Radcliffe wasn’t enough to entertain teeny boppers, throngs of excited teenagers gathered at Dolce & Gabbana to see international pop sensation Justin Bieber as he was also in attendance for Fashion’s Night Out.

Musical performances from the world’s most talented singers were also a large part of the evening. British singer Estelle performed at Diane von Furstenburg, while Queens rapper Nicki Minaj, a fashionistas herself, attended the launching of Yves Saint Lauren’s new Cabas Chyc handbag.

Lovers of the Jonas Brother’s lined up at Saks Fifth Avenue as musician Joe Jonas attended an event at the large New York City store. Not far from Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s on 34^th Street welcomed Kelly Rowland, who sang some of her solo songs.

For those who wanted to see hip hop superstar Drake, he was at Versace’s boutique on 5^th Avenue, mixing behind the DJ booth, giving shoppers energizing music as they browed through the store. Musicians were spread out across Manhattan for the special fashion occasion and made a strong presence during Fashion’s Night Out.

Along with a strong celebrity presence throughout the evening, retailers across the city also hosted unique and entertaining special events. Magnolia Bakery, famously introduced by the fashion forward HBO series “Sex and the City” made specialty fashion cupcakes for the occasion. Cupcakes were decorated with stylish purses and shoes.

All the money raised from the sales of these cupcakes was sent directly to New York City AIDs Fund in the Community Trust. The downtown location of Bloomingdale’s had a performance by Alexa Ray Joel, the daughter of Billy Joel, as well as an opportunity to personalize underwear with rhinestones.

Fashion’s Night Out was a great alternative for fashion lovers across New York City who wanted to experience the events and excitement of Fashion Week.

Although attending fashion shows at the annual Fashion Week requires tickets, Fashion’s Night Out gave everyone a chance to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities, sample finger foods, and sip on drinks as retailers across the city provided upbeat music, performances, and a trendy atmosphere to enjoy fashion.

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