Driehaus Fashion Awards recognize future fashion leaders

One of Chicago’s longest running, independent fashion shows, The Driehaus Fashion Awards returned to the runway on May 21 at Hotel 55. Unlike any other fashion event in the country, this annual competition showcases the exceptional talent of students from Chicago’s fashion and design schools: Columbia College Chicago, Dominican University, and the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

The event was founded in 2002 by financier and philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus, whose passion for design inspired him to create an elevated, professional production to showcase students’ work in a competitive format.  After he passed away in 2021, it was revealed that he had ensured the continuation of the program through provisions in his will.

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Over 200 of the city’s most fashion-forward guests gathered to admire a wide range of collections from 18 designers, including ready-to-wear, eveningwear, outerwear, sportswear, and wearable art.  A judging panel of industry insiders scored the collections by taking a detailed look at the designs including intricate sewing, embroidery, or crocheting techniques, fabric selection and manipulation, design innovation, and the technical aspect of garment construction. 

This year, Peach Carr and Mark Roscoe returned to judge the Fashion Innovator Award, given to Jun Chen of School of the Art Institute; and the first ever Best in Construction Award trophy went to Emma Mendell of Dominican University.

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Michael Anderson, interim president of Chicago History Museum and its renowned Costume Collection- joined forces with Robin Harris, CEO of Confidence Apparel and Model Atelier- to award first, second and third place winners as follows:

First Place: another win for Emma Mendell, Dominican University

Second Place: Amaya Marjorie Lewicki, School of the Art Institute

Third Place: Manahel Al Mosleh, School of the Art Institute.

Wendy Krimins, Neiman Marcus Vice President and General Manager, Chicago Area, returned to recognize a “Distinguished Designer Award” for retail readiness. This year’s coveted award went to Allison Galvan, Dominican University.

Winners received cash prizes to help jumpstart their careers after graduation. The 501c3 non-profit organization that hosts the event, Driehaus Design Initiative, also awards the three schools substantial grants to help future students further their studies.

The fashion fête was emceed by Linda Yu and Ji Suk Yi, produced by Tracey Tarantino and her team at ZZAZZ Productions, in partnership with The Curio and Molise PR.  For more information visit www.DriehausDesign.org.