Welcome to Racked Philly, where we'll report on retail and fashion comings and goings around town. See a store open, close, or otherwise claim your attention? Hit the tipline, and we'll get right on it.
For the first time ever, Philadelphia retailers are getting in on the action of Fashion's Night Out. The economy-spurring brainchild of Vogue's Anna Wintour, the annual shopping event aims to boost consumer spending as retailers entice shoppers with special discounts, promotions, and freebies, plus refreshments, trunk shows, and makeovers. Mark your calendars: The one-night-only event takes place Thursday, September 6.
This year, you can avoid the mayhem at the King of Prussia Mall and opt for Walnut Street as your FNO homebase. Many of the shops along the popular thoroughfare have signed up to participate, including Anthropologie, Kenneth Cole, Juicy Couture, BCBG, Lacoste, Free People, Ralph Lauren, and Nicole Miller, all of which are promising in-store activities and incentives.
Even better, some of Philly's independent boutiques—Joan Shepp, Third Street Habit, Knit Wit, Aoki, and SA VA, to name a few—are joining the fun. For example, SA VA will offer shoppers a sneak peek at their fall collection of Philly-made, sustainable apparel while an expert stylist will be on hand to offer styling advice and wardrobe tips. Old City's Third Street Habit will host a trunk show featuring Mother Denim, and will also offer shoppers a glimpse at next season's styles from labels like Isabel Marant, Graham & Spencer, and James Perse. Shoppers can also expect cocktails and freebies.
The festivities begin at 6 p.m. on September 6, and retailers will stay open late, until 11 p.m. Our advice? Arrive early. Freebies tend to go fast and crowds tend to grow even faster. For more info, surf over to FNO Philly on Facebook.