Boys Report
February 26-28, 2004 Las Vegas

The numbers are in: 90,000 visitors and some 3000 brands; old names and new, easily recognizable and pleasantly obscure, all were on hand. While some attendees felt that the surface of the show had shrunk over the years, others found that the variety and the new names on hand more than made up for any overall reduction in booths.

The merchandise on hand was primarily geared towards fall with the exception of the many womenswear manufacturers trying to cash in on a few more last minute spring and summer sales.

The Fall trends on the floor for men included utilitarian and retro looks as well as plenty of posh European styling while for women styles were crafty, sexy and retro as well. The push was on in the denim area with known brands and new tags finding an audience for their fashion pieces and for their basics with attitude. In the childrenswear area the looks were preppy and clean or embellished denims and cords steeped in crafty themes or ‘garage chic’. Baby gear was plentiful this time out as well with bright and bouncy looks offset by natural and grassroots fashions.