What do you get when you crowd over 3 thousand brands into the Las Vegas Convention Center and the Mandalay Bay Convention Center? The answer is Magic coinciding with Project and  a lot of fashion minded people looking for the next hot trend.

Last week was three days of Vegas fashion, don’t cringe, there was no glitter and rhinestones or strippers here. Just some of the biggest names in fashion and newest talent hitting the runways were represented in one of the largest forums to show fashion at its best.

There was so much to see between the exhibits, runway shows and the many vendors that I found every day at the convention to be a new adventure that was never dull. I met some amazingly passionate people that use fashion and their products as a way to raise awareness about various human rights issues and charities.

However, what surprised and saddened me a little is some of the vendors I approached had no clue what sustainable meant or where there material for their garments came from.  Even more shocking is one of the vendors said to me in frustration that it is impossible to source in the US.

Workroom

With that being said some of my favorite rooms to explore where Sourcing, Workroom, Project and PoolTradeShow Sourcing was a great educational experience  because I was able to learn where various countries sourced their fabrics and materials. The room was really easy to navigate and the people at the help desk were eager to answer any questions I might have.

Magic had just about any brand you could possibly imagine that included woman’s clothing, men’s wear, juniors, shoe and accessories.

S.L.A.T.E

I found PoolTradeShow to be the most laid back rooms with 225 art and design brands 50 of them where new brands that have never have been exhibited at Pool before. Some familiar brands were Betsey Johnson, American Apparel, Wewood and Sonas Denim. Plus they had a cash and carry section where you could purchase some unique finds.  What really made my day were two things, one was meeting Chris from Invisible Children who told me about his organization in addition to the documentary that was created by its founders about Uganda.  Another thing was receiving this cute Vampire Owl bag from Julie the creator of Freak-O-Bags.

Okay so maybe I’m being a little over dramatic with the above photo of the leaving Las Vegas sign but it honestly reflects how happy I was that the Magic Convention had finally come to an end. After three days of being on my feet meeting great people it had taken its toll on my feet and I have now sworn off wearing high heel shoes.

(Courtesy Image: Jodi Truglio)