Columnist Muriel Stevens: Music world weighs in at Macy’s

Wednesday, July 30, 2003 | 8:14 a.m.

Macy's gets starstruck with clothes designed by companies featuring such entertaining fashionistas as J.Lo, P. Diddy's Sean John line, Carlos Santana Shoes, Eminem, Baby Phat and Phat Farm (Russell Simmons), RocaWear (Jay-Z) and more. Most of these fashion-minded celebs are involved with the creative side of their clothing designs. Prices are moderate and the look is cool.

Macy's Las Vegas stores debuted the fall collections just in time for back-to-school shopping.

All Macy's Las Vegas stores will be partnering with Wherehouse Music for a special promotion from Saturday through Aug. 24. In-store fashion events, special celebrity appearances and redemption coupons are part of the fun.

Bring a pair of still-wearable jeans to your favorite Macy's and receive a discount coupon for a new pair (select brands). Macy's at Meadows mall will host a back-to-school fashion show at 2 p.m. Aug. 24. Featured will be duds by the celeb and other designers who know what tween and teen customers want to wear.

Call 731-5111 for a schedule of events.

Mervyn's tempts youngsters with back-to-school fashions that rock: Following the latest cargo craze are utility pants by Dickies Kids and I.e.i. (kids and junior departments); cargo and military-inspired handbags and wallets by I.e.i and Mudd are available in the accessories department. Those who favor the lighter side of young fashions will find Grumpy, Mickey Mouse and Tinkerbell tees by Disney and athletic wear by Passion (P. Miller) in the junior department.

Slumber party types can rest easy with such essentials as bedding featuring Strawberry Shortcake, Care Bears or the Hulk (home department) or classic Disney or Looney Toons characters emblazoned on novelty sleepwear (intimates department). Shop early for the best selection.

College & Beyond: Bed Bath & Beyond is appealing to college kids with a complete list of items that can turn a colorless dorm room into a comfort zone. A high-tech design computer work station is a good value at $49.99. The current mailer includes a $5 off coupon.

Harvest Festival face lift: The venerable Harvest Festival arts and crafts show will present a fresh new entrance, food court and stage areas during its stop at Cashman Center Sept. 5 through Sept. 7. Harvest Festival has been attracting crowds for 30 years. A record turnout is expected. This once-tiny show has blossomed into a major arts and crafts festival.

"We are bringing an exciting new look to the shows that we know will enliven customers and exhibitors," Harvest Festival Vice President Mark White said.

Among the many exhibits are fine handmade American arts and crafts, woodcarvings, jewelry, ceramics and pottery, hand-painted clothing, fiber art, leather wear, hand-blown glassware, wooden toys, a variety of sculptures, hand-turned furniture and lithographs.

Eats of all kinds plus homemade gourmet food gifts and hand-crafted kitchen utensils as well as entertainment will be showcased. For ticket info call 386-7100.