While fashion spreads its arms wide open to top designers, editors and super rich people, it still remains exclusive for those standing on the other side of the velvet rope, whose last resort is to stream runway shows on YouTube and marvel at the models on the glossy pages of a magazine. Luckily, Fashion’s Night Out takes place every year as the one and only night that brings everyone, and I mean everyone from Hawaiian-shirt-wearing dads to 6-year-old girls, together.

Structures & Style, Aug. 27: Everyone knows the famous Prada store on Rodeo Drive, but not many know of the numerous other architecturally beautiful fashion spaces lined up in West Hollywood. Thus came Structures & Style, an event created by the City of West Hollywood to make known some of these retail sites. On a sunny Saturday afternoon, we were able to explore the places we have never been to and learn all the secrets to making these places so special. From high-end brands like Phillip Lim and Alberta Ferretti to innovative boutiques like Church and Roseark, each retailer was housed in a unique space that embodied the essence of its contents. It was a great way of learning that architecture and interior design play vital roles in creating the image of fashion. Add to that the complimentary champagne and delicious snacks provided by Craig’s Restaurant, and you have yourself a VIP experience without a press pass.

Taste Fashion, Sept. 6: In life, an opportunity to pleasure all five senses at the same time doesn’t emerge very often. So when I got the invitation to Taste Fashion, a dining event that “pairs the latest in fashion and cuisine prepared exclusively,” I hit RSVP without a split second of hesitation and anxiously waited for September to come.

Fashion’s Night Out, Sept 8: And finally, here it is – the one night that every fashionista had been waiting for. After slipping into a breezy maxi skirt and comfortable flats, we headed to the Grove to see Lauren Conrad presenting her new collection from Paper Crown at Nordstrom. With the live DJ stage, complimentary drinks and snacks, mini makeover by M.A.C and the bustling crowd, the Grove has transformed into one big garden party.

Our next destination was Melrose, where the high-end designer brands and contemporary hipster boutiques were mingling. Fred Segal was definitely the hottest spot: trendsetters from all around town were socializing and strolling by the store’s wonderful displays, while some brave ones hopped on stage for a mini photo shoot by Smashbox. Other spaces such as Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs and Vivienne Westwood were also attracting their loyal customers to come in for a glass of bubbly.

We decided to end our night on Rodeo Drive. As one of the prime spots of FNO West Hollywood, the entire street was blocked off for a mini carnival. After filling our stomachs with delicious food from countless food trucks, we resumed our shopping festivities. On the other side of the street was the much-awaited carnival, complete with a Ferris Wheel, photo booth and mini makeovers. Gucci was drawing some attention for their customized Fiat, while children flocked to performances by flamethrowers and stilt walkers.

As the night slowly came to an end, excited shoppers made their way to the Skybar at Mondrian Hotel for an all-inclusive afterparty. Overall, Fashion’s Night Out was a huge success, drawing in a wide range of people from all over L.A. and providing an interactive shopping experience that everyone could be a part of. Who needs to fly all the way to New York when our own is just as amazing?