Chicago Fashion Week is back for its second edition this weekend, following a successful launch in 2024. The sprawling celebration will bring more than 50 runway shows, pop-ups, and exhibitions to the Windy City from October 9-19.
Here’s your guide to all the best events and everything to know before you go.
What is Chicago Fashion Week?
Chicago Fashion Week is the city’s largest fashion festival, featuring ticketed and open-access events spotlighting works from dozens of emerging local fashion designers.
This year’s schedule features a wide variety of events exploring Chicago’s fashion history and future, and paying tribute to our city’s unique cultural landscape.
What events are on the schedule?
Each Chicago Fashion Week event will highlight varying styles, cultures, and themes. Guests can expect to see everything from the latest haute couture to cutting-edge streetwear and everything in between.
Here are a few of the event highlights you won’t want to miss:
- City of Confidence Fashion Experience – 10/12/2025 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Navy Pier, Polk Bros Park, 600 E Grand Ave.
- This high-energy fashion show at Navy Pier will combine bold, modern streetwear designs with live music and interactive activations.
- Mayan Textiles: Art, Tradition, and Technique – 10/10/2025 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W 19th St
- This interactive cultural workshop will take guests on a journey through the history of Mayan embroidery and textile art. Held at the National Museum of Mexican Art, guests will learn traditional techniques for creating their own hand-woven masterpieces.
- SWABY “Braided Opulence” Fashion Show – 10/11/2025 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM | 2221 W North Ave.
- An intimate fashion showcase, SWABY Braided Opulence marks the couture debut for the eponymous clothing line. The collection explores braiding as both a fashion technique and cultural symbol. This runway show will include a cocktail reception and exclusive attendee gifts.
- The Chicago Streetwear Expo: Street Art Edition – 10/12/2025 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Xoco House Gallery – 2317 W 18th St, Chicago, IL
- Presented by A.M. KOLLABZ!, this special exhibition will feature streetwear and art vendors from Chicago and around the country buying, selling, and trading all the hottest looks of today. It’s the perfect opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to shop, network, and enjoy some live music and refreshments.
- Vintage Clothing Pop-Up – 10/11/2025 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | 329 W 18th St., Chicago, IL
- Design at 329, Chicago’s largest vintage fashion collective, invites guests to a fun-filled pop-up event featuring seven floors of clothing vendors. Guests can expect a host of vintage styles with something for everyone on the racks.
Where will Chicago Fashion Week take place?
Chicago Fashion Week is a citywide event, spanning dozens of venues throughout Chicago proper and the suburbs. From small galleries to large exhibition spaces, there’s plenty of room for all!
How much are tickets?
Admission varies for each individual event. Some events are free and open to the public, others require RSVPs, and some require ticket purchases.
Click here to view the full lineup of events, snag tickets, and learn more information.