'Fashion's Night Out' Takes Over NYC, With Deals And Celebrity Sightings Galore

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- What do Miss Piggy, Cindy Lauper, and Michael Kors have in common? They were special guests for one of the biggest nights of fashion.

But, as CBS 2's Dave Carlin found out, celebrity sightings are just half of the fun.

"Fashion's Night Out" was underway Thursday night with all the glamor and celebrity sightings we've come to expect from this event. In the Meatpacking District and across the city it was see and be seen and shop 'til you drop.

"The energy is great. It's a fun night. Everyone is out on the street partying," one shopper said.

EXTRA: Fashion's Night Out 2012: Top 8 Spots For Celeb Sightings, Food And Freebies

More than 700 New York City stores were open late Thursday, rolling out special deals, serving up free food and drinks and showing off a slew of VIP guests – from musicians and actors to sports stars and supermodels.

"You see a little bit of everything and you can access everything," model Ines Rivero said. "It's a good way for people to see what's around and they'll come back. I did some shopping tonight, so go figure."

"We walk up and down to the vendors in and out of the stores," one shopper said.

"We like to see everything. Everybody has their best out tonight," another added.

Some of the parties are way too packed for anyone to get any actual shopping done. So people browse, they get inspired and merchants expect they'll come back later.

"I think people here are ready to shop and see what the next big thing is," said Kate Lohmuller of Target Stores.

It's a win-win for retailers -- extra exposure and sales.

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