FGI Denver celecrated its 50th anniversary in the community! The Denver chapter of Fashion Group International was founded March 1958 by Gretchen Weber. Charter members were Florine Cates, Evelyn Peterson, Roberta Rineman, Jane Smith and Julia Tobias. Doray Gray Saddler also joined the chapter in 1958. The annual FGI Denver educational scholarship to CSU students bears her name.

Fashion Group International (FGI) is a non-profit association of professional executives worldwide, promoting the advancement of careers in the fashion and related lifestyle industries. FGI Denver organized its chapter in 1958. Of the 42 chapters around the world, Denver is an award-winning chapter that has been recognized yearly for its outstanding leadership in member support and special events.

As a non-profit organization, FGI Denver hosts events and programs that help the community at large, bringing together speakers and industry leaders to address the state of business in retailing, cosmetics, health and beauty, accessories, apparel, home décor, marketing / communications, publishing, international trade/ development as well as sociological trends. The group gives back to the community through events such as clothing drives that provide support to well-deserving community services.

FGI Denver’s educational focus serves members and the community through value added monthly programs. Moreover, our educational outreach assists curriculum programs devoted to the study of the fashion industry through scholarship awards. One of two signature events for FGI Denver, our biannual FACE (Fashion and Creative Enterprises) Business Symposium serves to expand the fashion industry in Colorado by bringing together resources and professionals. FACE also provides students enrolled in university fashion programs in Colorado exceptional information from renowned leaders in the fashion industry.

Denver’s second signature event, our biannual Rising Star Awards Gala, is modeled after that of its parent chapter in New York City. This glamorous event salutes outstanding new individuals in fashion, selecting among candidates who have been in business from two to seven years. Showcase and selection of winners is based upon creativity and originality, quality and construction, balance and timelessness in the collection, proven business success, marketing promotions and distribution channels.