Chicago’s very first fashion week is finally here! Starting on October 9 and running through the 20th, the city will illuminate with luxury vogue, amped-up runway shows and one-of-a-kind markets with stunning vintage, hand-made and high-quality accessories. Though the 11-day festivities include expensive taste, many of them are free to enjoy. From meet and greets with designers to thrifting events, here are all the free excursions to check out at Chicago’s fashion week this October. Note that most of these events are RSVP only and that this list includes events that aren’t sold out already.
Friday, October 11
On Friday, the College of DuPage’s Fashion Studies program will host a one-day exhibition of student fashion designs, photography and videos. The event will be held from 6-8pm at the Oakbrook Shopping Center in Oak Brook, IL.
After the exhibit, you can hop on over to Chicago Fashion Coalition‘s house music fashion week afterparty at Fulton Market, where DJs will blast bumping electronic beats from 10pm-2am, bringing back the nostalgia of raving club culture. The event aims to showcase the “unique blend of house beats and street style”, honoring the legacy of house music icons.
Sunday, October 13
Maison Mogul Consulting currently has around 70 seats left for its “VIRTUES: Art & Fashion Exhibition Opening Ceremony” event from 6pm-12am. The showcase will highlight various visual artists and fashion designers like Andrew Jin, Barbara Bates, Tuan Jones and more.
From 6-8pm, SuitShop will welcome guests to a night of fancy d’oeuvres while taking home styling tips for those who enjoy wearing tuxedos and suits. New trends from the shoe brand Marc Nolan and Tie Bar will also be presented. Guests must be 21+ to attend.
Tuesday, October 15
The prestigious University of Chicago in Hyde Park encourages both students and outside community members to wear upcycled, thrifted or second-hand outfits when attending their “Renewal by MODA” fashion show and clothing swap. Doors open at 6pm and the night begins at 6:30 pm.
Wednesday, October 16
Hump day boasts a lot of fun events both during the day and in the evening for those working a 9-5. If you’re working downtown, you can stop by Michigan Avenue from 12-3pm to meet the designers behind Badgley Mischka, who have tailored outfits for celebrities like Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez. RSVP is required for this event, so secure your spot soon!
If you’re not located in the heart of the city, consider stopping by Evanston for a behind-the-scenes discussion on how to repurpose clothing hosted by Josh Chernoff, the founder of Suitable Fabrications and Maribel Melanson from Me’Lanson Patterns. They’ll host guests from 6:30-8pm.
Thursday, October 17
From 6-8pm, Kameo Vintage and Laughlin Gallery will launch an exclusive opening of their collection of vintage garments with a modern touch. These outfits and other artwork will be on display through October 19.
Interested in the future of fashion? Make sure to attend Cisco’s Tech Couture networking event with fellow designers while getting a deeper look into how AI is making its way into fashion. The event will open with a marketplace and close with a cocktail happy hour.
For a more in-depth experience at global cultures and their fashion, you can stop by LOVE DOT and LIMBA GAL’s fashion pop-up show from 5-7pm highlighting African fashion and its influence on international designs. A discussion surrounding the influence of African culture and a food tasting will also take place at this exciting event.
Saturday, October 19
To close Chicago Fashion Week, there are two free events during the day. Wulkfa, a Chicago-based size-inclusive and sustainable brand, will host a small gathering from 12-6pm where attendees can ecoprint their own bandanas at Wulfka’s personal dye garden. Beautiful flowers will be used for their natural dyes and plants are available for purchase as a donation to support Chicago’s unhoused community.
Once you’re done dying your bandanas, you can check out Studio 302’s designer open house, which runs from 11am-5pm. Guests can indulge in free refreshments, professional photos, music and shopping. Clothing brands ALL WE REMEMBER, The Checkroom and Literally Outside will showcase their luxury aesthetics too.
Aside from these free excursions, there are a plethora of fashion shows, workshops and showcasing events from, $25-$200+. If you are interested in what is available, find more information on Chicago Fashion Week’s online schedule of events.
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