Rock & Republic at Encore
The fanny pack has traditionally represented fashion kryptonite for Las Vegas. But, one brand has managed to make this tourist staple cool, even luxury.
Rock & Republic's new and only flagship store in the Esplanade at Encore sells a $6,800 alligator skin fanny pack -- or, "hip bag" as Andrea Bernholtz, president of Rock & Republic, likes to call it. And, like all things Encore, it's exclusive to the Vegas store, with only six manufactured.
"It really is for the ultimate shopper," Bernholtz says. "It lets you have your arms free so you can get to everything you need."
If Rock & Republic has its way, you'll need a lot more than just arm space. Sunglasses beckon you from one wall, pumps lure you from another. Hot-off-the-runway gowns, cocktail dresses that garner more than just free cocktails, buttery soft leather jackets, a complete cosmetics line and -- oh, yes, the sought-after denim the brand built its name on -- all wave hello and blow kisses from their respective racks and counters. And that's just the women's merchandise.
The menswear is just as appealing. Steve Wynn himself sports a pair of Rock & Republic denim in the Encore commercial he famously risked his life for again.
"With this store we're showing that we're a global lifestyle brand," Bernholtz says, "not just a denim company from L.A." Point taken.
