Kicking off the February show on Valentine’s Day from February 14-17, apparel buyers began to feel the MAGIC as they browsed the exhibit floors on Monday, February 14th. MAGIC, formerly known as the Men’s Apparel Guild in California, is held twice a year, in February and August, with an attendance of over 90,000 from over 80 countries. The Las Vegas Convention Center features 3,400 exhibitors, covering over 12 miles of exhibit space (Time to trade in your heels for a fashionable pair of trainers!)

From the women’s contemporary to the Streetwear floor featuring a diverse mix of emerging skate, surf and street designers, WWD MAGIC, hip-hop influenced streetwear to the punk and goth influences of The Edge – there really is something for everyone. Breakdancers, celebrities, marshmallow roasts and of course, fashion runway shows, were all part of this February’s show.

In an entertainment mecca such as Las Vegas, it only makes sense to supplement business with pleasure. On the evening of February 14th, Duran Duran treated 2,000 guests to a night of love, fashion and music at the Tower Ballroom inside the Bellagio Hotel & Casino. Sequins, pink and red martinis, buffet style cuisine and girls dancing in oversized bubbles set the mood. 80’s style prevailed with guests in white distressed blazers and skinny ties while Simon Le Bon’s “Rio” did not disappoint.

The second official MAGIC party featured invitation-only fashion shows and performances by Macy Gray and Black Eyed Peas at Rain inside the Palms Hotel & Casino. GhettoLine by Macy Gray, tailored pieces for the more voluptuous woman with funky details, such as rhinestone beaded buttons, was unveiled at MAGIC, as well as Black Eyed Peas member will.i.am’s i.am clothing line, a collection of luxe separates.

Besides the adrenaline rush from simply being in fashion’s ultimate element, an escalated buzz resonated throughout the exhibit halls from the multiple celebrity appearances.

Besides Macy Gray and will.i.am, there were a number of celebrities promoting their new lines: Jessica Simpson’s new junior line Sweet Kisses, Nicole Ritchie with fiancé DJ AM spending time in the BONGO booth, Nelly promoting both his men’s line Vokal and women’s Apple Bottoms, comedian Steve Harvey introduced a line of pimp daddy hats and zoot suits while Ryan Seacrest touted his t-shirts and cashmere sweaters. Other sightings included Beyonce with Jay-Z at Rocawear, Pam Anderson, Flava Flav and Justin Timberlake and Cameron Diaz were spotted hanging out late-night at the Hard Rock Hotel lobby.

Buyers and fashion editors worldwide will be expecting some retail MAGIC moments after seeing these hot looks! With the steady growth of exhibit offerings, attendance and celebrity collection launches, August can’t get here soon enough…For more information on attending MAGIC, please visit www.magiconline.com.