​Chicago Fashion Summit 2026

​More than a Conference. One day. One room.

​The people shaping what’s next in fashion.

​The Chicago Fashion Summit 2026 brings together leading designers, industry executives, innovators, educators, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals for a full day of insight, access, and meaningful industry connection.

​Designed for professionals building careers and businesses in fashion, the Summit goes beyond inspiration. Attendees gain direct access to accomplished leaders across design, couture, sustainability, technology, cultural institutions, manufacturing, and fashion preservation—with conversations focused on where the industry is going and how to build within it.

​Tickets

​Your $225 ticket includes full-day Summit access, all speaker sessions and panels, networking opportunities, breakfast, and lunch.

​Featured Speakers & Sessions

​The Long Game: Designing the Past, Present & Future of American Style

​Jeffrey Banks — Award-Winning NYC Men’s Fashion Designer

​A rare opportunity to hear from one of American fashion’s most accomplished designers and gain perspective from a career spanning design, business, branding, and the evolution of the industry.

​Built to Last: The Hidden Architecture of Fashion Preservation & Performance

​Ellie Cotay — The Joffrey Ballet
Jessica Pushor — Chicago History Museum
Kim Buetzow — Lyric Opera of Chicago

​An inside look at the highly specialized work behind preserving, maintaining, and producing garments for some of Chicago’s most important cultural institutions.

​The Intelligent Edge: How Fashion Professionals Can Use AI to Work Smarter

​Maya Leeb — Founder, Carmeleon

​Practical insight into how AI is changing the way fashion professionals create, operate, market, and grow.

​The Sustainable Shift: Innovation, Materials & the Future of Fashion

​Cecile Chazot — Northwestern University
Jamie Hayes — Production Mode
Melissa Stock — Freedom Business Alliance

​A forward-looking conversation on materials, responsible production, manufacturing, technology, and the business opportunities emerging from fashion’s transition toward a more sustainable future.

​The Art of Couture: Why Craftsmanship Will Always Define Luxury

​CD Greene — NYC Couture Designer

​An exploration of couture, craftsmanship, and the enduring value of exceptional construction in an increasingly fast and technology-driven industry.

​*Additional speakers and sessions will be announced.

​Chicago Fashion Summit is designed to strengthen the relationships that move careers, businesses, and the industry forward.

​Come for the knowledge. Leave with new relationships, new ideas, and a stronger connection to Chicago’s growing fashion ecosystem. We look forward to seeing you!