Fashion Group International of Chicago

08/19/2026

FGI Chicago is proud to announce Sharaun Brown as the 2026 FGI Chicago Trailblazer Award Honoree! ✨

An international supermodel, television host, speaker, media personality, and Founder & CEO of The Model Tribe, Sharaun has built a dynamic career spanning fashion, television, live entertainment, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

From America’s Next Top Model and international runways to serving as the Official Trophy Model Presenter at the 2025 and 2026 Grammy Awards and the 2026 Disney Legends Awards at D23, Sharaun continues to forge new paths in the industry while creating opportunities and inspiring the next generation of models and creatives.

We are thrilled to honor Sharaun with the FGI Chicago Trailblazer Award—recognizing her innovation, leadership, influence, and impact on the fashion industry.

And there’s more: Sharaun will also serve as Master of Ceremonies for FGI Chicago’s 11th Rising Star Awards!

Join us during Chicago Fashion Week as we celebrate Sharaun and the emerging professionals shaping what’s next across Chicagoland fashion and its related industries.

📅 Saturday, October 10, 2026
📍 Public Works Gallery | Chicago
🥂 Grazing Brunch • Professional Networking • Finalist Exhibits • Awards • Post-Awards Networking

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now at FGI.org/Chicago

Sharaun
Model Tribe
Chicago Fashion Week®
Public Works

08/16/2026

Today is the day! Sunday August 16 2pm-4pm

FGI Chicago & PROVENANCE by Diana Michelle and welcome guests into the world of niche luxury living through an immersive experience featuring bespoke clothing, rare fragrances from luxury craftsmanship from Europe and around the world. 

Designed for both men and women, the afternoon offers an introduction to the PROVENANCE philosophy, interactive product discovery, and an insider’s perspective on the art of personal style, refinement, and intentional living.

08/13/2026

FGI Chicago Members — check your inbox! 📩⭐

Nominations for the 2026 FGI Chicago 11th Rising Star Awards close August 16, and we want to hear from you!

We’ve sent members an email with nomination details, eligibility information, and potential award categories. Help us identify the emerging professionals making an impact across Chicago’s fashion and related industries.

Nominees do not need to be FGI members, and members may nominate themselves.

Have someone in mind? Check your email and send us your nominations—we look forward to seeing who you nominate!

08/06/2026

It was a great evening at the FGI Chicago Golden Hour event ! Thank you to our sponsors …

John Leyden of for sponsoring event venue

Thanks to Fabric da Vinci for presenting resort fashion looks -
and thank you to the photographers that captured our fashionable moments …
NakroMedia
Alex Callejo
Jmarkproductions Inc

08/04/2026

07/29/2026

Tomorrow, we gather!

Join FGI Chicago for one of our favorite traditions—an evening of fashion, conversation, and meaningful connections with Chicago’s creative community.

Whether you’re catching up with familiar faces or making new connections, Golden Hour is all about bringing great people together.

✨ Resort chic encouraged
🥂 Drinks & light bites provided
📍 Public Works Gallery
🗓 Thursday, July 30 | 6–9 PM

There’s still time to join us. Reserve your spot through the link in our bio or buytickets.at/fgichicago

07/28/2026

✨ Discover Public Works Gallery at Golden Hour

A special thank you to John Leydon of Chicago Fashion Week for sponsoring our venue!

Every memorable event begins with the right setting, and we’re excited to welcome you to Public Works Gallery for Golden Hour: FGI Chicago Member Mixer & Resort Fashion.

Located in Chicago’s vibrant West Town neighborhood, Public Works Gallery is a contemporary art gallery and creative event space dedicated to showcasing emerging and established artists while fostering collaboration across Chicago’s creative community. With its expansive industrial architecture, rotating exhibitions, and inspiring atmosphere, it’s the perfect backdrop for an evening where fashion, art, and professional networking come together.

Golden Hour also offers guests an exclusive first look at the venue that will host the 2026 FGI Chicago Rising Star Awards this October, making this summer gathering an exciting preview of one of FGI Chicago’s signature events.

Join us on Thursday, July 30 for an evening of industry connections, resort-inspired style, drinks, light bites, and a celebration of Chicago’s creative community.

🎟 Reserve your spot today: https://buytickets.at/fgichicago

Resort chic encouraged.

07/27/2026

FGI Member Spotlight
Luz Maria Diaz

We’re excited to introduce Luz, a valued member of the FGI Chicago community!

Luz Maria Diaz is a distinguished fashion designer who owns and serves as the artistic director of Lu-Dia Couture Designs. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in fashion design from the International Academy of Merchandising and Design in Chicago. Diaz’s collections are recognized for their exclusivity and are designed for clients seeking distinctive fashion statements. Her work demonstrates a commitment to creativity and avant-garde aesthetics. In addition to exclusive pieces, her portfolio encompasses military-inspired coats, tailored wool suits, sweaters, velvet gowns, taffeta skirts, and silk dresses. Diaz exhibits a comprehensive understanding of the female form, emphasizing specific body contours to create refined hourglass silhouettes. Her designs are both unique and versatile, suitable for a variety of occasions. Lu-Dia Couture Designs offers options ranging from statement pieces to essential wardrobe staples.

What inspired you to join FGI Chicago?
I joined FGI Chicago to collaborate and network with the fashion community. I also wanted to learn from other designers and what they are doing to help build a stronger fashion scene in Chicago.

How has being part of FGI Chicago impacted your career?
Being part of FGI Chicago has expanded my network and opened valuable opportunities for growth. I’ve connected with designers, retailers, stylists, and educators at events like panels, mixers, and symposiums. Membership also helps you stand out in the industry, with opportunities for recognition at the annual Rising Star Awards. The seasonal FGI Communiqué keeps members informed about global designer collections and market trends, so everyone can stay current and competitive.

To join FGI Chicago go to the link in our bio !