Fashion’s Night Out makes its Manayunk debut

For the past four years, from New York City to Paris, and London to Milan, designers and boutiques have taken part in a celebrated night of fashion to spark people’s interest in local retailers and get them hooked on the latest fashion trends.

Although Manayunk was an unofficial participant last year, the neighborhood was proud to make its official Fashion’s Night Out debut this year.

Sixteen shops including Nicole Miller, TAG, The Little Apple, ReMix and others made the night stand out with special attractions such as a live DJ, wine tastings and special sales.

With many stores on Main Street participating, Sal Margvelashvili of Tag Denim says the event helps to connect the neighborhood with local businesses.

“I think bringing the shops together and kind of having that family atmosphere,” Margvelashvili said, “it just promotes a fun experience for everyone.”

“I had some regular customers come in on a day they wouldn’t normally come in because of the event,” Molly Cygan Rossettie, owner and shopkeeper of The Little Apple, said. “I had a lot of new customers towards the end of the night, too, so it was worth being open for sure.”

Despite being Manayunk’s first official year as a participant in the international event, Fashion’s Night Out proved to be a success, not only financially but also in the mission of bringing exposure to Manayunk.

“Last night was a great start towards establishing what we hope will be an annual tradition on Main Street,” Tanya Neducsin of ReMix said. “The exposure of the stores is what makes this event really important for us.”

Francis Hilario and Hope Janelle Berninghausen are students of Temple University and produced this piece as part of Philadelphia Neighborhoods, a NewsWorks partner.