Fashion’s Night Out (FNO) is an unprecedented global initiative created to celebrate fashion, restore consumer confidence, boost the industry’s economy, and put the fun back in shopping. As you might guess, JADA is all in!
For one night last September, in New York City and twelve other cities around the world,(now including Grand Rapids) designers, celebrities, models, and fashion editors hosted exciting, one-of-a-kind events in stores open after-hours to the public. Shoppers were able to see Sarah Jessica Parker singing standards with Oscar de la Renta, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen tending bar, as well as Michael Kors, Justin Timberlake, Kate Hudson, Rihanna and Gwen Stefani (just to name a few) at various stores throughout NYC supporting the industry. Retailers saw a surge of new shoppers and increased sales, while customers relished the street-party atmosphere.
This year, the City of Grand Rapids in association with AK Rikk’s participated in Fashion’s Night Out. AK Rikk’s on behalf of the City of Grand Rapids was recognized as the official and exclusive organizer of Fashions Night Out September 10th 2010!
Last night, Jen and I attended this fabulous social event. Originally, our plans were to celebrate FNO in NYC! Sadly, because of some last minute events, our plans changed. Fortunately, thanks to AK Rikk’s we were still able to join in the celebration of FNO, Grand Rapids Style. This was Grand Rapids first FNO event and I must say it was a big success! Our last minute change of events caused a bit of disorganization on our part and unfortunately we were only able to visit a few stores and see some of the events. We were happy to have spent most of our time at AK Rikk’s store and A.K.A.@38. A.K.A.@38 is AK Rikk’s new pop-up store which featured window vignettes from Rag & Bone, as well as an installation by Billy Reid, GQ’s “2010 Best New Menswear Designer in America. I will have to say, AK Rikk’s did a fantastic job giving Grand Rapids the feeling of being in a miniature NYC. Shopping, fashion, cocktails, food, champagne, music, art and more shopping! What more could one ask for.
In the first photo, you will notice us next to an amazing ice sculpture bar with the FNO logo carved into it. On the top of the bar was another ice sculpture with a spout where the signature martini was pouring out of. Impressive. Speaking of impressive, the magnificent selection of unique and fantastic designer clothing at AK Rikk’s. With a selection including J Brand, Elizabeth and James, Rag & Bone and much more sought-after pieces, it’s no wonder I had a difficult time leaving.
The night ended with multiple blisters. Thankfully, we had band-aids so we could continue our journey to a delectable meal and great wine. Overall, we had a marvelous evening! The decision we now face for next year is will we attend FNOt in New York or Grand Rapids?



In the above photos, Jim Murray – AK Rikks General Manager, Matt Sova – AK Rikks, Jen Eichorst and Jen Meekhof – JADA Style Guide

