Columnist Muriel Stevens: Mall a trendy barometer

Wednesday, June 26, 2002 | 8:23 a.m.

Every week or so I head for the Fashion Show mall to check out the progress of the construction for the new Fashion Show. When completed the mall will have more than doubled in size and will include a selection of department stores, specialty shops and restaurants that reflect what a shopping and dining force Las Vegas has become.

The Fashion Show is, of course, open for business. Shoppers can self-park underground (via the Spring Mountain Road entrance) or use valet. Don't let the barriers alongside the entrance confuse you -- the entrance is open.

It's still not easy to navigate the construction areas, so I've never been able to completely circle the exterior. That changed recently when I was invited by Mari Landers, Saks Fifth Avenue general manager, to preview the gorgeous new free-standing store.

It was quite an adventure. With hard hats in tow we entered the construction zone. Mountains of dirt and debris were everywhere. My intrepid guide, perfectly groomed and beautifully attired, navigated her four-wheel drive as if it were a champion steed.

Undaunted by the rocky terrain, she drove with the passion of Mr. Toad, stopping only to give me a full view of the store's impressive facade. Reminiscent of the flagship New York Saks store, where I frequently shopped before moving to Las Vegas, it was a bit of nostalgia I had not expected.

Inside, crews of carpet installers, carpenters and painters were totally focused, although much of the work was nearing completion. Each department has its own character, design and decor, and there are many firsts she called to my attention.

Three "living rooms" with concierges will provide "the ultimate in pampering, comfort and service" for shoppers, Mari said. Each of the three living rooms will have its own pantry, kitchen area and beverage service.

Comfortable seating, fitting rooms and television will offer such comfort and ease that no one will mind waiting for slowpoke shoppers.

On the store's first level will be a fabulous home store (second in size only to the New York Saks Fifth Avenue), handbags and accessories, shoes, women's sportswear, petite sizes, fine and fashion jewelry, and a living room.

The spacious second floor will have a complete men's department (with its own living room) offering everything from casual attire to evening wear; women's fashions; and a fine selection of evening wear. Among the many fashion designers represented are Celine, Dolce and Gabbana and YSL, plus some designer clothing never before available in Las Vegas.

Also on the second level: a full-service Berger Christensen fur salon offering storage and redesigns, intimate apparel, children's clothing from newborn to toddler, girls' sizes 7 to 14 and Salon Z (plus sizes). This living room has been designed just for women. And, of course, living room service is open to all shoppers.

The original Saks store is still open and will remain so until late October.

A few days before opening to the public on Nov. 1, Saks Fifth Avenue will host a fund-raiser benefiting the Southern Nevada Make A Wish Foundation and the Las Vegas Philharmonic.

More updates, soon.