#1 Fashion & Retail Event
Held each season at the Mart, the event is billed as the Midwest’s largest apparel and accessories trade show. In 2016, the show had new features including an easier-to-navigate layout, new categories and brands, and added amenities such as daily lunches and cocktail parties. The show is for industry only. Next: January 28-30, 2018
#2 Fashion & Retail Event
The charitable fashion show raises money to help fulfill the Children’s Service Board’s $1.5 million pledge to support the hospital’s programming. Held at Revel Fulton Market, the 2017 event featured bites from local restaurants and a fashion presentation from Neiman Marcus. The event has been running for 62 years. Next: Fall 2018
#3 Fashion & Retail Event
The country’s longest continuously running charitable fashion show celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2016. Held at the United Club at Soldier Field, the evening drew nearly 800 guests, and raised more than $500,000. Next: November 3, 2017
#4 Fashion & Retail Event
The student fashion show took place at a new venue, the Spertus Institute, this year. The event included a fashion show that drew 500 guests and showcased the edgy work of 20 student designers. Next: Spring 2018
#5 Fashion & Retail Event
Eleven-year-old Princess Tess, a former St. Jude patient, was the guest of honor at the 2016 event. Once again held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, the event drew some 1,375 guests and raised $425,000. Next: November 19, 2017
#6 Fashion & Retail Event
The fund-raiser for the Driehaus Design Initiative centers on a runway show that features designs from local students. The runway show is judged by industry pros; the winner receives cash and a garment display at Neiman Marcus. This year’s function drew 400 guests and raised $140,000. Next: Spring 2018
