On Thursday night, people from across the St. Louis area gathered at Plaza Frontenac to celebrate Fashion's Night Out, an annual event that celebrates fashion and charity.

"It's a way for businesses that are fashion-forward to donate to really good causes," said Alexis Weinstein, an attendee.

Stores across the country (and the world) held special events, with proceeds going to charities of their choosing. At Saks Fifth Avenue, donations were made to the Humane Society of Missouri. Across the shopping center at Neiman Marcus, money was raised for Gateway to Hope.

"We're very pleased to partner with Saks in helping to promote their wonderful store and their willingness to help raise money and support for the animals we care for," said Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri.

Attendees were very eager to take part in an event that combined fashion and charity.

"We love doggies," said Micaela Stoner.

"And we love fashion," added Jnev Stewart, a friend of Stoner's.

To officially kick off the fall fashion season, Neiman Marcus held a fashion show at 7 p.m. Before models strutted down the runway in various wine-based colors (an obvious fall trend for women and men), a dance group performed to the Beyonce-Lady Gaga song "Telephone." Cocktails and appetizers from various venues, including Robust Wine Bar in Webster Groves, were also served.

Saks also served cocktails and food from a few different places, including Brio Tuscan Grille and St. Louis Bread Company. The store played video of fall runway shows on the upper level, while music blared on the main level.

As guests entered and exited Saks on the Clayton Road side, they were able to take pictures with Chuck, an eight-year-old Anheuser-Busch clydesdale, and check out some superior automobiles from Exotic Motors.

Be sure to check out the video and browse through the photos for a closer look at the night's events.