If you’ve been keeping an eye on Chicago’s fashion scene this year, you know it’s been a whirlwind. From jaw-dropping runway shows to collaborations that brought new energy to the city’s style game, 2024 has been packed with standout moments. Narrowing down the top highlights wasn’t easy—there’s been so much to celebrate. But after careful thought (and a lot of tough choices), I’ve picked out the seven moments that truly define the year. These are the moments that made us stop, stare, and say, “That’s Chicago style at its finest.”
In 2024, Chicago Fashion Week made its highly anticipated debut, establishing the city as a major player in the global fashion scene. Running from October 9-20, the event featured over 50 runway shows, exhibits, and social gatherings, showcasing Chicago’s dynamic fashion landscape. Highlighting local talent, the week kicked off with a stunning runway show at the Chicago Cultural Center, featuring top designers who have dressed icons like Zendaya and Michelle Obama. Other major events included the Asian Fashion Show Chicago, the Rising Star Awards, and the unique Surround Sound of Fashion, blending fashion with live music. The week also celebrated diverse cultural influences, such as the Runway Latinx show and the Modern Vintage Chicago market, solidifying Chicago’s role as a hub for both established and emerging fashion talent. With a mix of education, exhibitions, and high-energy runway moments, Chicago Fashion Week 2024 set a new standard for the city's fashion future.
Chicago's Fashion Incubator, a program designed to support emerging talent, took a significant leap in 2024 with an expansion that included a brand-new mentorship wing, additional resources, and a larger space for designers to work. The initiative, which is part of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), now supports more designers, manufacturers, and fashion tech startups.
The new incubator space has already been home to several breakout designers who are starting to make waves on the national stage. For many in the Chicago fashion community, this expansion signals a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators. Local designers now have access to high-quality materials, production resources, and a community of like-minded creatives that can help propel them forward in their careers.
In March 2024, Chicago-based art director Ellen Ma partnered with the Chicago Bears to release a limited-edition merchandise collection celebrating Women’s History Month. The collection, featuring a floral-designed crewneck and a hoodie with a woman wearing a Bear-shaped helmet, was created by an all-female team, from design to marketing.
For Ma, this collaboration was a personal milestone. Raised in Hyde Park, she grew up admiring the Bears, and now, as a child of Chinese immigrants, she calls this her “American Dream” come true. The collection blends Ma’s streetwear expertise with themes of female empowerment and marks an exciting shift toward women’s apparel in her career.
The collaboration not only celebrates women in sports and fashion but also underscores Chicago’s growing influence in shaping inclusive, empowering fashion narratives.
On October 17, 2024, Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory hosted the annual FLEUROTICA fashion show, where local designers showcased outfits made entirely from flowers and natural materials. Among the standout designers was Mercedes Pickett, a Garfield Park native, whose sustainable design honored women and community using tree bark and dried plants.
Debuting at FLEUROTICA, Hailey Rodden, a Galewood-based art teacher, crafted a botanical ensemble from locally sourced flowers like celosia and dahlias. Meanwhile, Lisa Brown of Honey Street Flowers created a dress inspired by the Conservatory’s architecture, using plants from its different rooms. The event highlighted Chicago’s growing floral design scene and its deep connection to the city’s cultural landmarks.
2024 also marked a pivotal moment for Chicago as it began to establish itself as a leader in the intersection of fashion and technology. Fashion tech startups in Chicago are rapidly gaining attention for their innovation and use of artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and smart textiles.
One of the most exciting developments was the opening of the Chicago Fashion Tech Lab, a state-of-the-art incubator designed specifically for fashion and technology startups. Companies like TobiWear, which specializes in AI-powered clothing design, and ThreadShift, a company using 3D printing to create custom, on-demand fashion pieces, have begun to attract attention from investors worldwide. As these startups grow, Chicago is poised to become a key player in the global fashion-tech landscape.
In 2024, Chicago’s thrift and vintage fashion scene experienced a renaissance. With a growing interest in sustainability, millennials and Gen Zers have increasingly turned to local second-hand stores for unique and eco-friendly fashion finds. Iconic vintage shops like Karma and The Brown Elephant saw an influx of new customers, thanks to their curated collections of vintage designer pieces, rare items, and retro streetwear.
The Chicago Vintage Market, held annually, also saw record attendance this year, drawing in fashion enthusiasts from all over the country. The market’s popularity is a testament to Chicago’s thriving second-hand fashion culture, which continues to attract shoppers looking for exclusive, one-of-a-kind pieces at a fraction of the cost of new items.
In 2024, Chicago’s fashion education scene took a significant leap forward. The city’s top fashion institutions, such as The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) and Columbia College Chicago, have partnered with local fashion brands, startups, and tech companies to provide students with real-world experiences and cutting-edge industry knowledge.
The partnership between SAIC and local fashion tech companies led to the development of a Fashion Innovation Lab, where students can experiment with 3D design, digital fashion, and sustainable manufacturing techniques. This collaboration has not only elevated the city’s reputation as an educational center for future designers but has also ensured that Chicago’s next generation of fashion talent is prepared to lead the industry in the coming years.
In 2024, Angel Reese, star player for the Chicago Sky in the WNBA, became a fashion icon, making headlines with her bold and stylish outfits both on and off the court. Known for her Reebok collaboration and involvement in high-profile campaigns like Beats by Dre, Reese’s fashion moments, including her standout Draft Day fit and rookie threads, have captivated the sports and fashion worlds. As a trailblazer for athletes merging sports and style, Reese has inspired a new generation to embrace fashion as part of their personal brand, solidifying her place as one of 2024's top fashion milestones.
Law Roach, the celebrated stylist known for his long-standing partnership with Zendaya, has often spoken about how his Chicago roots shaped his approach to fashion. In a 2024 interview, Roach reflected on his upbringing on the South Side of Chicago, explaining how the city’s unique hustle and style culture were instrumental in forming his career. "Chicago has go-getters. If you have a goal, you set your mind to doing everything to achieve that goal," Roach shared, acknowledging the city's influence on his work.
As a leading figure in the fashion world, Roach continues to elevate the global fashion scene by styling high-profile clients, including Zendaya, whose unforgettable red carpet moments have cemented her as a fashion icon. Roach’s influence also underscores the growing prominence of Chicago as a fashion city in 2024, where homegrown talent and style continue to make a mark on the international stage.
This milestone is not just about Roach’s personal career but also speaks to the broader cultural impact Chicago has had on fashion. With a deep understanding of style vs. fashion—where style is inherent and personal, and fashion is about trends and business—Roach's work highlights the importance of individuality and confidence in creating truly iconic looks. His continued success is a testament to how Chicago's rich cultural fabric continues to nurture influential fashion figures who shape global trends.
In September 2024, the National Bridal Market Chicago returned to the iconic Merchandise Mart, reinforcing the city's position as a vital hub for fashion innovation. As the leading tradeshow for bridal and special occasion apparel, this bi-annual event showcased the latest trends and designs from over 300 global bridal brands. For more than 50 years, the fair has been a central gathering for bridal apparel manufacturers, retailers, and industry professionals to connect, share, and explore the future of wedding fashion.
Held from September 15-17, 2024, the market drew over 3,000 buyers from around the world, offering a comprehensive look at the newest collections in bridal fashion. From classic elegance to modern, avant-garde designs, the National Bridal Market allowed Chicago to demonstrate its ongoing influence in the fashion world, particularly in the niche of bridal wear. With its focus on business partnerships and industry growth, this event was a significant milestone in Chicago's 2024 fashion calendar, highlighting the city's pivotal role in shaping the future of bridal fashion.
In September 2024, "Chicago Style" brought the city’s Black fashion history to life, celebrating trends from the 1930s to the ‘80s. Created by AnnMarie Brown and Edvetté Jones, the event combined archival film with a live runway show, highlighting the South Side’s fashion heritage. Brown and Jones, through a collaboration with Illinois Humanities and the South Side Home Movie Project, explored how Black fashion was shaped by community and culture. The runway featured locally sourced, thrifted pieces along with original designs by Brown. The show honored the rich history of self-made clothing and the evolving style of Chicago's Black communities.
As we wrap up this look at 2024’s fashion highlights, it’s clear that Chicago is continuing to make its mark on the style map. From bold collaborations to fresh takes on classic looks, the city has shown it’s got a vibe all its own. And if this year is any indication, 2025 is going to be even bigger. Chicago’s fashion scene is evolving, and I’m excited to see what’s next. Keep an eye out—it’s only going to get more exciting from here.
—------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4. 5 Must-See Fashion Events in Chicago for 2025
As the fashion calendar for 2025 heats up, Chicago’s style scene is getting set to take center stage. With a mix of high-energy runway shows, exclusive designer showcases, and the chance to rub elbows with fashion insiders, the city is gearing up for a year packed with stylish spectacles. After carefully combing through the upcoming events, here’s a list of the five fashion happenings I’m most excited about this year—and trust me, you won’t want to miss these.
Date: Sunday, May 4, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Location: Chicago House
Book Now: Chicago House Event Page
A brunch and a fashion show? Yes, please. The Chicago House Spring Brunch & Fashion Show is shaping up to be one of the most stylish Sunday afternoons in 2025. This event combines high fashion with the laid-back elegance of a spring brunch, making it perfect for fashion lovers who appreciate great design—and delicious food. Designers will be showcasing their latest collections, and attendees will have the opportunity to mix and mingle with industry insiders. It’s one of those events where you can enjoy chic fashion while sipping on mimosas, and I wouldn’t want to miss it. Stay tuned for more details from Chicago House’s social media!
Date: Friday, June 27, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Location: 163 E Walton Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
Book Now: Eventbrite - Designers Showcase
For designers looking to make a splash, the Designers Showcase Your Collection event in June is where you’ll want to be. This one-day event offers a major opportunity to showcase your collection in front of Chicago’s most discerning fashion audience, including influencers, buyers, and trendsetters. Expect breathtaking runway shows and top-notch networking, with a VIP experience that will make you feel like a celebrity. Whether you're an emerging designer or a seasoned pro, it’s a chance to shine in one of the most fashion-forward cities in the country.
Date: Saturday, March 1, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Location: Water Tower Place, 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
Book Now: Eventbrite - Model Call
Models, it’s your time to shine. FashionBar is on the hunt for both fresh faces and seasoned pros for FashionBar The Shows, and they’re holding a casting call on March 1st. The event is for their major fashion week showcase in April, but the casting itself is an essential part of the process. If you’ve always dreamed of walking the runway during Fashion Week, here’s your chance. Plus, they’re offering a Model Walking Seminar for newcomers, so don’t worry if you’ve never strutted down a runway before. It’s all about getting those models in front of the camera and giving them the skills to rock the runway.
Date: Thursday, April 24 - Sunday, April 27, 2025
Location: Water Tower Place, 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
Book Now: Eventbrite - FashionBar The Shows
When it comes to high-end, full-on fashion immersion, FashionBar The Shows is Chicago’s biggest fashion event of the year. Running from April 24th to 27th, this event brings together the city’s best designers, models, and industry influencers for a four-day fashion extravaganza. From runway shows showcasing Fall/Winter 2025 collections to exclusive VIP experiences, this is the place to be for anyone who lives and breathes fashion. Expect some serious star power and a chance to connect with the best in the business. Whether you're attending as a fashion lover or professional, this event is the highlight of Chicago’s fashion calendar.
Date: Fall 2025
Location: Various venues across Chicago
Stay Tuned for Details
Although the exact dates are still TBD, Chicago Fashion Week 2025 is always a major draw for fashion lovers. This annual event brings together local designers, models, and industry professionals for a week of shows, pop-up shops, and exclusive networking events. Expect a mix of emerging talent and established designers, all coming together to showcase Chicago’s distinctive style. Whether you’re attending a runway show or hitting up a launch party, this is the perfect event to see the future of fashion unfold. Keep an eye on local fashion networks for more details and official dates.
Whether you're a designer looking to showcase your latest collection, a model hoping to walk the runway, or just a fashion enthusiast who wants to experience it all firsthand, 2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year in Chicago's fashion scene. The city is brimming with opportunities for creativity, innovation, and collaboration. From brunches to runway shows, these events offer a perfect mix of fashion, fun, and networking. So, mark your calendars, book your tickets, and get ready for a fashion-filled year in the Windy City.
For more details on each event, follow their social media pages and sign up for updates. Chicago’s fashion scene is ready to turn heads in 2025 don’t miss your chance to be a part of it!
