The bad economy has taken a bite out of a lot of things over the past year. Some summer festivals cut entire days or cut back on the big-name talent they were able to attract, so we weren't surprised to see that this year's Chicago Fashion Week is now a four-day affair.
Whether it's a sign of the times isn't completely clear, but the organizers behind Fashion Focus Chicago (Oct. 22 - 25), will surely insist that the shortened days will allow them to -- ahem -- focus more clearly on the city's style front.
Here's the headlining fashion shows not to be missed:
Macy's presents the Designers of Chicago
Oct. 22, 7:30 p.m., Millennium Park Chase Promenade North (201 E Randolph St). RSVP closed
Up-and-coming designers will be featured in this runway show, including some of the designers in residence in the Fashion Incubator program. The show will feature Spring 2010 collections, which may help get your mind off the cold outside.
Dress Code
Oct. 23, 7:30 p.m., Millennium Park Chase Promenade North (201 E Randolph St). RSVP closed
Who's got next? Find out in this fashion show that features student works from Columbia College Chicago, The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago, Academy Chicago and the School of the Art Institute Chicago.
Gen Art's Fresh Faces in Fashion
Oct. 24, 8 p.m., Chase Promenade North. Tickets $65-$110
Gen Art's Fresh Faces show always brings down the house, and this year should be no exception as they take top billing on the Saturday night program. The labels you see on this runway could very well be the next big thing. Can you say Zac Posen?
Green Fashion
Oct. 25, 7 p.m., Chicago Cultural Center (77 E Randolph). Tickets $25-$100
"An Evening of Fabulous Eco-Fashion and Environmental Responsibility" is all about green lifestyle and fashion. This runway show spotlights the best in Chicago eco-fashion for the Spring 2010 season. Many of the pieces in the show will be available for purchase on site.
Independent Retail Week (Oct. 19-25) is also being held in conjunction with Fashion Focus Chicago, so look for a number of trunk shows, shopping events and smaller fashion shows all over the city. Many of the events are free to attend.
