Fashion shows at Fashion Show mall

Sometimes mannequin displays just aren't enough. 

That's why at the Fashion Show mall, shoppers can catch glamorous live fashion shows every weekend. Models wear clothes that are immediately available for purchase.

"While our weekly runway shows are typical of what might [be seen] at New York fashion week, the fashions on display feature styles that reflect the current season," explained Jim McMichael, senior marketing manager for the Fashion Show mall.

The mall's multimillion dollar event area features an 80-foot retractable runway, the only one in the world.

"The sight of watching the stage and runway magically rise out of the floor is truly a one of-a-kind experience," said McMichael. "What better way to enhance a visitor's shopping experience than to actually bring our fashions to life?"

Models strut the runway in apparel from bebe, Everything But Water and Macy's, to name a few. But sometimes, the fashion shows feature themes that are out of the ordinary.

"We just did a fabulous show commemorating Barbie's 50th anniversary show," said Olwen Zarlengo, in-house stylist for Fashion Show mall. "It was a collective show that hit across Barbie's signature looks throughout the ages. We even included a Bob Mackie Vegas showgirl with a feather headdress and a shirtless sailor Ken.

"Fashion Show's weekend runway shows are a big hit since no weekend is exactly alike," McMichael added. "The feedback we hear from our shoppers is extremely positive."

The models come from a variety of backgrounds and the show is always changing. "On any given weekend, you can see [TV] personalities, Chippendales dancers, singers and models who fly from New York and L.A. just to do our shows," said Zarlengo.

And of course, every show is bound to have its funny moments. "We've had models put outfits on the wrong way, not get completely zipped up or lose their footing and slip on the runway," McMichael said. "However, our team works diligently behind the scenes to make sure each model gets the proper attention and looks as polished as ever."

The models definitely get a workout as well. "The Fashion Show hosts over 1,000 runway shows each year," said McMichael, "During a typical weekend show, one model will walk more than two miles up and down the runway during the three-day show schedule. If a model worked every weekend for a full year, this would equal walking almost 100 miles along the Fashion Show catwalk."

The fashion shows run from Friday through Sunday, every hour on the hour, from noon to 6 p.m.

"We feel very fortunate to have such a unique venue," said Zarlengo. "[It's] a definite must-see while visiting Las Vegas."

-- Review by Jeannie Borbe