Fashion Group International of Chicago Announces the 10th Rising Star Awards and Finalists

Chicago, IL – Fashion Group International (FGI) Chicago proudly announces the 10th FGI Chicago Rising Star Awards, set to take place on October 15, 2024, at the iconic Palmer House Hilton during Chicago Fashion Week®.
Celebrating Fashion Excellence: FGI Chicago, in collaboration with Neiman Marcus, will honor Mark Badgley and James Mischka of Badgley Mischka with the prestigious Fashion Icon Award, recognizing their significant contributions to the fashion industry.
Special Guest: FGI Chicago is thrilled to announce that Robin Harris, renowned Designer and CEO of Model Atelier, will emcee the event. Harris’ dynamic presence and deep industry knowledge will add a unique flair to the evening’s proceedings.
Event Highlights:
Date & Venue: October 15, 2024, at
Location: Palmer House Hilton, Chicago
6:00 PM: Cocktail reception with passed hors d’oeuvres and drinks.
7:00 PM: Award presentations
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Networking
Honorary Awards:
Technology Innovation Award: Awarded to Dana Todd, founder of Balodana, for her pioneering work in fashion technology, revolutionizing the accessibility of sustainable high-quality personalized clothing at affordable prices. This award will be presented by Traci Button, Luxury Manager at The RealReal.
Rising Star Award Finalists & Presenters:
Creative Innovation Award: Presented to Delphine Pontvieux, celebrated NYET Jewelry designer, for her outstanding contributions to fashion and design, using unconventional materials, such as her recent collection, “Caoutchouc,” which utilizes natural rubber. This award will be presented by Takara Beatheagudell, Owner and Jewelry Artist at Takara.
- Fashion Accessories:
- Finalists: ALLY Shoes, Coco + Peach Jewelry, Seres Footwear
- Presented by Shernett Swaby, past FGI Rising Star Award Winner, fashion artist and founder of Swaby.
- Fashion Apparel:
- Finalists: Anna Martz Designs, aSady, Ellie Day Sportswear
- Presented by Janet Mandell, founder of Janet Mandell: Luxury & Couture Designer Clothing Rental.
- Fashion Content Creator:
- Finalists: Melissa Carter (TheKlosetQween), Niki Southern (StreetStyleChicago), Theodora Krochman (TeddiLovesFashion)
- Presented by Candace Jordan, media personality, columnist, and founder of Candid Candace.
- Fashion Stylist:
- Finalists: Elizabeth Grace Kelly, Kimi Ellwein, Nasreen Hussain
- Presented by Rachel J Penca, founder of Rachel J Styling and adjunct professor at Columbia College.
FGI Chicago members will vote for the winners and will announce them during the event.
Purchase tickets at: https://FGIChicagoRisingStarAwards.eventbrite.com
Sponsorship Opportunities: Enhance your brand’s visibility by supporting the Rising Star Awards. For sponsorship details, visit: https://bit.ly/FGIChicagoRisingStar2024Sponsorship
Contact FGI Chicago at FGIChicago@gmail.com.
Join us in celebrating the future of fashion at the FGI Chicago 10th Rising Star Awards. Reserve your spot today!
About Fashion Group International (FGI): Founded in 1928, Fashion Group International is a global membership organization dedicated to advancing professionals in fashion and related industries. FGI fosters a community for discussion and connection across various sectors, providing resources and education for career development.


Mark Badgley and James Mischka, Recipients of FGI Chicago’s 2024 Fashion Icon Award, in collaboration with Neiman Marcus
Robin Harris, Emcee of FGI Chicago’s 2024 Rising Star Awards
Previous Award Ceremonies




Let’s make this event the talk of the city—see you there!




