As summer winds down and families begin preparing for a new school year, Newgate Mall is inviting its stores–and the community–to come together for a cause that’s both fashionable and philanthropic.

From August 3 to 9, Newgate Mall will host its first-ever Back-to-School Style Contest, a unique promotion that blends style, creativity, and community support. The event centers on a friendly competition among mall retailers, each of whom will design and display a back-to-school outfit using merchandise from their own store. The ensembles will be showcased on mannequins in the Dillard’s Court area, where shoppers can view and vote for their favorite look.

“We wanted to create a campaign that not only gives our retailers an exciting way to engage with shoppers, but also makes a meaningful impact in our community,” said Melissa Kloz, Newgate Mall’s Specialty Leasing and Marketing Coordinator. “This event does both. It puts the spotlight on our stores’ fashion offerings just in time for back-to-school season, and it helps local students in need start the year with confidence.”

Shoppers are encouraged to stop by the Dillard’s Court area during the contest week to browse the outfits and vote for their favorite. Each vote automatically enters the shopper into a drawing for a $250 Newgate Mall shopping spree, making the contest a win-win for everyone involved. The store that receives the most votes will win a celebratory pizza party for its staff, adding an extra layer of fun and team spirit to the promotion.

But beyond the fashion and fun, the heart of the event lies in its community giveback component. Participating stores are given the option to donate the outfit on display to a back-to-school drive in partnership with the United Way of Northern Utah (UWNU). These donated outfits will be distributed to local students who may be facing economic hardship.

Newgate Mall will also serve as drop-off location for UWNU’s “Stuff the Bus” campaign, which collects new backpacks and school supplies for underserved children. All collected donations will be distributed to schools and families in Northern Utah.

This initiative is a beautiful example of how business and community can come together for a greater cause. Something as simple as a new outfit or a backpack full of supplies can make a huge difference in how a child starts their school year.

“It’s a great opportunity for our stores to shine and for shoppers to discover what each retailer has to offer. We hope the whole community gets involved–whether by voting, donating, or just coming out to see the display,” said Melissa.

For shoppers, it’s a chance to enjoy some back-to-school inspiration, enter to win a shopping spree, and support a great cause. For local retailers, it’s a chance to showcase merchandise, drive traffic, and make a difference – one outfit at a time.

For more details, visit www.newgatemall.com or follow Newgate Mall on social media.