Columnist Muriel Stevens: Vegas mall scene still thriving

Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2002 | 8:30 a.m.

How are other major malls faring now that the Fashion Show has opened?

At the Forum Shops at Caesars Friday there was the usual activity, which means the place was jumping. It took awhile to get waited on at The Museum Shop, and the other stores I visited were also busy.

Shoppers were everywhere and from the number of bags many were toting, there was some serious shopping going on.

The Palm Restaurant was busy, and at Spago the cafe was packed and so was the bar (a private dinner was taking place in the dining room). The entrance to Spago was filled with people waiting for a cafe table.

According to Forum Shops Marketing Director Maureen Crampton, "We have found that the opening of each new retail complex, such as the shopping promenade at Bellagio, Desert Passage at Aladdin and the Canal Shoppes at The Venetian has only strengthened our retail market position. This year it was the Fashion Show, yet our numbers remain as strong as ever.

"More people are shopping the higher-end stores and we expect this trend to continue when our new expansion is completed in mid-2005. We anticipate breaking ground early in 2003. There will be as many as 30 new stores and more restaurants. Many have never before had outlets in Las Vegas. In some areas we're going vertical adding two or three levels. Architectural designs have already been reviewed and they're absolutely stunning."

It took me awhile to find a parking spot at Boulevard mall. That's always a good sign, especially since I arrived not too long after the mall opened. The marketing department at the Boulevard did not respond to my phone calls before deadline, so I was not able to elicit any comments about the effects of the Fashion Show on business.

Also, the Galleria in Henderson was not included in this very unscientific account, but will be included in future updates.

Perfect fit jeans: Jean experts from the relatively new mavi jean company will be on hand Sunday at Dillard's Fashion Show to ensure that customers get the right fit. Mavi designs and produces denim products for young men and women. While waiting to be fitted customers can register to win a mavi wardrobe and get a gift with purchase (while supplies last).

Mavi was founded in 1991 and is now sold around the world. Among the fans of mavi are Michael McGrath, Mandy Moore and Melissa Joan Hart.

Canal Shoppes festivities: Grand Canal Shoppes General Manager Fred T. Walters says, "The holidays are a special time for everyone," so he's promising guests everything from "Las Vegas-style elves," to all sorts of free musical entertainment. Have your photo taken with the elves.

Festivities begin Nov. 29 through Dec. 25.

Complimentary Winter Passaporto's that include shopping and dining incentives will be available to visitors and locals 18 years and older. Passaporto's are available at Emporio D'Gondola. Mall valet is open 24 hours; Canal Shoppes' hours (10 a.m. to 11 p.m.) will be extended during weekends and holidays.