RETAIL THERAPIST: Portland's Fashion's Night Out

Mark your calendars. Following in New York City's footsteps, Portland's hosting its own Fashion's Night Out, an archipelago of fabulous fashion events throughout downtown meant to stimulate the retail economy. The free event's hub will be Director Park on Southwest Yamhill and Park Ave., where guests can watch fashion shows, enter raffles (proceeds benefit homeless youth), pick up goodie bags and catch free pedicabs to different retail stores and events throughout the downtown area. Parking will be free (it's like Christmas!) at the SW 10th and Yamhill Smart Park. And if you just can't get enough of the glamor and glitz, there's an after party at The Nines. Ooh la la.

GO: Fashion's Night Out takes place 4-9 pm Friday, Sept. 10. After Party at the Nines hotel, 525 SW Morrison St. 8-11 pm.