LAS VEGAS – MAGIC, PROJECT, and SOURCING at MAGIC, produced by Informa Markets Fashion and held Aug. 8-10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), was a star-studded affair focused on the future of fashion. Not only were stars like Katy Perry a highlight, but so was the return of international buyers with 85 countries represented.
The third MAGIC show since the pandemic, there were 30,000 registered attendees and more than 2,000 fashion brands on hand, including Betsey Johnson, Chinese Laundry, LUSH, 7 For All Mankind, Blank NYC, Calvin Klein, Hudson, Inimigo, Levi’s, Polo Ralph Lauren, Free People, Intentionally Blank and many more. More than 25% of exhibitors were new to the show.
“MAGIC Las Vegas brought the high energy that MAGIC is known for. We saw retailers from all over the country shopping, connecting with brands, and enjoying our on-site experiences and education sessions. The show floor was bursting with excitement as attendees gathered for a showcase of new and emerging trends, from urban cowgirl to matching sets, neon blazers, and an amazing assortment of apparel, accessories and footwear,” Jordan Rudow, Vice President of MAGIC, said.
Highlights of the fashion trade show included an opening night reception held in the LVCC’s West Hall featuring rapper, singer and songwriter T-Pain. Another highly anticipated party, sponsored by NFL x Jeff Hamilton, a new memorabilia jacket apparel collection between Jeff Hamilton and the NFL, was held at the Jewel Nightclub inside Aria Resort & Casino, and the collection was displayed throughout the event venue.
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Although entertainment and networking are a big part of Informa Markets Fashion’s MAGIC, PROJECT, and SOURCING at MAGIC event, education is a focus as speakers chat about what to expect in the world of fashion and what the future has in store for the industry. Highlights included Kelly Helfman, Informa Markets Fashion President, in the session, “Vegas 101: How and what to shop at MAGIC Las Vegas.” Helfman shared with attendees best practices while shopping Las Vegas, and highlighted must-see education sessions, experiences and trends to look out for on the trade show floor.
Helfman was back on stage with Wendy Bendoni, a fashion marketing coordinator, and actress and celebrity host Rachel McCord for the session, “Trend Alert: What’s Hot, What’s Happening & What’s on Trend,” discussing what the MAGIC customer is wearing and where to get it.
“Words cannot describe how amazing this show was. If you were there, you know the energy I am talking about. The photos and videos don’t do the energy justice. Thank you to all our incredible brands and retailers who attended, the speakers, celebrities, press, influencers, but most importantly, my incredible team who is responsible for making all of this MAGIC happen,” Helfman said.
A Teenage Dream
Attendees flooded the North Hall of the LVCC to see pop star Katy Perry who was the keynote speaker for the trade show. She shared information about her shoe line Katy Perry Collection, her love of fashion, and her Las Vegas residency at The Theatre at Resorts World.
Another featured celebrity was Lifestyle entrepreneur, TV personality, and New York Times best-selling author Kristin Cavallari who was on hand to share her journey to entrepreneurship, building a successful brand and business.
Other sessions included: “Future-Proofing Your Retail Business,” “Tips for Running a Successful Business Amidst Real Life,” “Anything Goes: Trends That Embrace the Eclectic,” “The Journey to Sustainability,” “Driving Decision Making with Digital,” “Metaverse Branding,” “Creating Seamless Commerce and Safeguarding Supply Chains,” and Apparel Production Sourcing in 2023…Changes Ahead!”
There were surprises during the trade show at every turn. Highlights included coffee and donuts sponsored by Adrienne, a Retreat Yourself Lounge sponsored by Fashion Index, MAGIC Retailer Swag Bay Day, DIY Purse Charms sponsored by Pretty Garbage, Oh Crepe! Blue Blush Spritz and Crepe Bar, Afterpay Prosecco Happy Hour.
Reach Kelly Helfman at Kelly.helfman@informa.com
