Chicago Fashion Week is running from October 8 to 18, showcasing a wide range of talent in the city's fashion scene. Now in its third year, the event includes 11 days filled with activities, such as runway shows, pop-up markets, and educational programs.
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Among over 80 events, the Ambience runway show, presented by Thee Royale Collections on Friday, featured six emerging fashion designers. Their collections included jungle-inspired designs, crochet pieces, and high-end streetwear, complemented by a dance performance on West Howard Street near Evanston.
Karen Tracey, one of the featured designers, noted that Chicago’s fashion community has become more experimental over her 11 years in the industry but acknowledged that there is still progress to be made. She emphasized the importance of innovation in fashion, stating, "It shouldn’t all be following the trends. We should also make jumps and create something different."
Nonbinary runway model Danny Vogwill highlighted the inclusivity of the festival. They pointed out that while some view Chicago Fashion Week as exclusive, the diverse activities, including vending fairs and styling showcases, allow for broad participation across various neighborhoods, reflecting different cultural influences in fashion.
In addition to contemporary fashion events, a historical exhibition at the Evanston History Center, titled “Vive la Garçonne,” explores the evolution of women's fashion in Evanston after World War I. The exhibit examines the shift to shorter, more masculine styles that gained popularity around 1920 and runs through November 12.
Kathy Alonso, a docent at the Evanston History Center, remarked that the exhibit provides visitors with a tangible understanding of 1920s fashion, saying, "When you talk about the Roaring ’20s and the flappers and the very straight-line dresses, you’re able to actually get a good picture of what that means."