In 1934, Chicago was one of the first regions added to the FGI organization. Our first Regional Director was Mrs. Ford Carter. Our region has a history of hosting our own Rising Stars Awards, Night of Stars and Retail Symposiums. Today, our members enjoy programming in all fashion / beauty / interiors segments, including networking events, trend events, symposiums, workshops, panels, dinners, and virtual events.

• FGI Chicago’s 10th Rising Star Awards at Palmer House Hilton Chicago in October of 2024. This event featured 4 Rising Star Award categories, 2 Innovation Honorary Awards, and the Fashion Icon Award presented to Badgley Mischka in collaboration with Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue.
• Converge: Elevating Fashion & Retail with Technology at WeWork River North in June of 2018. This was an award-winning event featuring a panel discussion about the impact of technology on today’s product development and retail fashion industries.
• The Age of Collaboration: A Retail Symposium at Columbia College Chicago in February of 2018. Speakers shared how the industry is interacting in unique, unexpected, and surprising ways to master the modern retail experience.
• The 9^th Rising Stars Awards at The James Hotel in September of 2014 which honored nominees for their innovation, creativity & accomplishments in Accessories, Beauty, Interiors/Home, Men’s, Retail & Women’s Apparel.