akins station chicago

Akins News Chicago Akins station

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Historic Theater Announces Major Renovation

CHICAGO, IL – The landmark Chicago Theatre on State Street announced a $30 million renovation plan Wednesday. The project will restore the venue’s ornate interiors, upgrade backstage facilities, and improve accessibility. The theatre will remain open during the multi-year renovation, which begins this fall.

Massive Warehouse Fire in Cicero

CHICAGO, IL – A massive, six-alarm fire engulfed a furniture warehouse in Cicero early Wednesday morning, sending plumes of smoke visible for miles. Over 150 firefighters battled the blaze for hours before bringing it under control. No injuries were reported, but the structure is a total loss. The cause is under investigation.

Protests Erupt Over University Investments

CHICAGO, IL – Pro-Palestinian protesters established an encampment at the University of Chicago’s main quad on Tuesday, demanding the university divest from companies linked to Israel. The demonstration remained largely peaceful as of Thursday, with university officials stating they are monitoring the situation and prioritizing campus safety.

New Tech CenterBreaks Ground in Fulton Market

CHICAGO, IL – A 20-story tech hub and innovation center officially broke ground in the Fulton Market District on Thursday. The project, backed by a coalition of venture firms, aims to create a central campus for startups and will feature labs, co-working space, and a venture capital fund headquarters upon completion in 2026.

CTA Announces New 'Rapid Bus' Lines

CHICAGO, IL – The Chicago Transit Authority unveiled plans Thursday for two new "Rapid Bus" lines on Ashland and Western Avenues. The service will feature dedicated lanes, off-board fare collection, and traffic signal priority to dramatically speed up crosstown trips. Pilot service is slated to begin in 2025.

Union Workers Ratify New Contract at O'Hare

CHICAGO, IL – Over 2,000 cabin cleaners, janitors, and baggage handlers at O’Hare International Airport ratified a new three-year contract on Monday. The agreement, negotiated by SEIU Local 1, includes significant wage increases, improved healthcare benefits, and a ratification bonus, averting a potential strike.

Chicago Business Shows Growth

New economic released on January 5 indicates the Chicago Business has entered the year with surprising strength. Local manufacturing orders and service sector activity outperformed early-year projections, signaling resilient business confidence despite global trade shifts. Economists note that Chicago’s diversified economy is helping it weather national volatility, particularly in the logistics and professional services sectors which remain the city's strongest job drivers.

LaSalle Street "Canyon"

On January 4, a major zoning application was filed to go forward with the South LaSalle into 140 residential apartments. This project is a key component of the "LaSalle Street Reimagined" initiative, which aims to transform the city’s financial heart into a 24/7 residential neighborhood. The shift from commercial to residential real estate is seen as a vital strategy for maintaining property values in the downtown core.

Logistics in North Aurora

Commercial real estate firm Transwestern Development announced a new industrial project in the Chicago metro area on January 5. The development aims to capitalize on the region’s status as a global logistics leader, adding significant warehouse capacity to meet the demands of e-commerce. Local officials expect the project to bring hundreds of construction and permanent operational jobs to the area, further stabilizing the industrial market.

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Chicago Blues Festival – , June 6-9

Printers Row Lit Fest – Printers Row, June 8-9

Street Art Festival – Old Town, June 8-9

Puerto Rican Festival – June 14-16

Windy City Smokeout – United Center parking lot, July 11-14

Taste of Chicago – , July 11-14

Chicago Air and Water Show – North Avenue Beach, August 10-11

Lollapalooza – August 1-4

Chicago Auto Show – McCormick , July 13-21

Brookfield Zoo Summer Nights – Brookfield, Select Saturdays in July

Chicago Fire FC vs. LAFC – Soldier Field, June 19

Architectural Artifacts Warehouse Sale – Ravenswood, June 15-16

Chicago Business Barometer Rebounds to Start Year

On January 5, the Chicago Business Barometer (the "Chicago PMI") reported a surprising seven-point jump to 43.5. While the index remains in contraction territory (below 50), the increase ended an 18-month low hit in late 2025. Economists attribute the rebound to a surge in new manufacturing orders and production backlogs, signaling that Chicago’s industrial sector may be finding its footing as 2026 begins.

$1.50 Congestion Surcharge Takes Effect

A new economic policy aimed at curbing gridlock went live on January 6. All ride-share trips (Uber, Lyft) involving a pickup or drop-off in designated "Congestion Zones"—spanning much of the Loop and Near North Side—now carry an additional $1.50 surcharge. The city projects this will generate over $40 million annually, which has been earmarked for CTA infrastructure improvements and budget gap closure.

First-of-its-Kind Social Media Data Tax Launches

As of January 1, Chicago began enforcing a "Social Media Amusement Tax" on large tech platforms. The tax levies $0.50 per month for every Chicago user over a 100,000-subscriber threshold. This innovative digital tax is being closely monitored by national economists as a potential new revenue model for cities looking to monetize the "data economy" without taxing physical goods or property.

Office-to-Residential Incentives Expand

Economic development officials moved forward this week with new landmark designations for historic office towers in the "Financial Canyon" on LaSalle Street. The move, finalized on January 4, unlocks millions in historic tax credits for developers. This strategy is central to the city’s plan to pivot away from a commercial-heavy downtown toward a high-density residential model to stabilize the central business district's tax base.

Small Business "Checkout Bag Tax" Increases

Chicago shoppers began paying a higher premium for convenience on January 1, as the city’s checkout bag tax rose to $0.15 per bag. Under the new economic rules, retailers are permitted to retain $0.01 per bag to offset administrative costs, while the remainder supports city environmental and sanitation programs. Local business groups have noted that this increase is driving a measurable shift toward reusable bag adoption in neighborhood grocery stores.

W Loop Refinancing Signals Credit Confidence

Investment firm Northmarq facilitated a $27 million refinance for a major luxury apartment community in the West Loop on January 2. The deal is being cited by real estate economists as a sign of continued lender confidence in Chicago’s high-end rental market. Despite elevated interest rates, the successful refinancing suggests that "Class A" properties in trendy corridors remain a safe haven for institutional capital.

Commercial Real Estate "Pent-Up Potential" Forecast

A report released on January 5 by REJournals highlights that Chicago’s industrial real estate market is entering 2026 with significant "pent-up potential." While 2025 was marked by high vacancies in older warehouses, the last five days have seen a flurry of new zoning applications for "shallow bay" industrial spaces near O'Hare. Analysts predict these smaller, flexible logistics hubs will drive the city’s real estate growth throughout the first quarter.

Chicago’s "Alternative" 2026 Budget Officially Takes Effect

On January 1, Chicago’s $16.6 billion budget officially became law. The plan is a historic "alternative" package drafted by the City Council rather than the Mayor’s office. After Mayor Brandon Johnson declined to veto the proposal in late December, the city entered the new fiscal year under a plan that rejects a corporate head tax and instead relies on debt collection and a variety of smaller tax hikes to close a nearly $1 billion gap.

Mayor Johnson Issues Executive Orders on Debt and Overtime

Immediately following the budget's enactment, Mayor Brandon Johnson issued two executive orders on January 1 to "safeguard" city operations. The first sets strict new standards for debt collection to prevent predatory practices by the private agencies now authorized to collect city fines. The second requires the Chicago Police Department to seek explicit City Council authorization for any overtime spending that exceeds the newly allotted budget, aiming for tighter fiscal oversight.

Public Safety Committee Moves to Expand Curfew Powers

On January 5, a key City Council panel prepared to vote on a proposal to expand the Chicago Police Department’s curfew enforcement. The measure would allow Superintendent Larry Snelling to declare "pre-emptive" curfews with 12 hours' notice in specific zones during planned large gatherings. While supporters argue it is a necessary tool for downtown safety, the Mayor’s allies have voiced concerns about its constitutionality and potential for abuse.

Search for New CHA Chief Executive Hits Another Snag

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) saw a major setback on January 6 as top candidate Jillian Baldwin withdrew from consideration for the CEO role. The vacancy, which has persisted since 2024, remains a point of political tension. Mayor Johnson’s preferred choice, former Alderman Walter Burnett Jr., continues to face eligibility questions from federal housing officials due to his ownership of properties that accept housing vouchers.

Social Media Crackdown Proposal Targets "Unlawful Gatherings"

A new ordinance aimed at social media platforms was introduced for a committee vote on January 5. The proposal would require companies like TikTok and Instagram to remove posts advertising "unlawful teen gatherings" within six hours of a city notification or face fines of up to $50,000. The move signals a more aggressive political stance by city leadership toward digital platforms in the wake of recent downtown disturbances.

Illinois General Assembly Prepares for 2026 meetings

Legislators in Springfield began final preparations this week for the start of the 2026 General Assembly meetings, scheduled for January 14. Chicago’s legislative delegation is expected to push for a new transit funding formula to address the CTA’s looming "fiscal cliff." Democratic leaders, led by Speaker, have hinted that a graduated income tax push remains off the table for now, focusing instead on balancing the books with existing revenue.

New Immigrant Rights Protections Take Effect

As of January 1, several new state laws signed by Governor JB Pritzker are now in effect, directly impacting Chicago’s political landscape regarding migration. One key law prohibits schools from discouraging student participation based on immigration status. This legislative reinforcement comes as Chicago continues to navigate the political and financial challenges of its status as a sanctuary city amid shifting federal immigration policies.

Chicago Board of Education Faces $500 Million shortfall

The newly seated hybrid Board of Education spent the first days of January grappling with a $500 million structural shortfall. While the board recently approved a property tax increase, political tension remains high as the district prepares to search for a new CEO to replace Pedro Martinez. Activists and board members are currently debating how to balance the budget without cutting essential student services or clashing further with the Teachers Union.

Cook County Clerk Launches High School Voting Initiative

In a move to bolster youth civic engagement, the Cook County Clerk’s office partnered with the Chicago Bears on January 6 to launch a high school early voting program. The initiative allows students to serve as poll workers and participate in mobile voting events. This political outreach targets the upcoming March 17 primary, hoping to increase turnout among first-time voters in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

Opposition Gains Ground in "Corporate Caucus

The successful passage of the Council-led budget has solidified a new power bloc within City Hall, often referred to as the "Corporate Caucus." This coalition of 30 alderpeople has signaled they will continue to act as an independent legislative body throughout 2026. Their ability to force a budget through without the Mayor’s signature marks a significant shift in the traditional "rubber stamp" relationship between the City Council and the Mayor's office.

Chicago Theatre Week Tickets Officially Go on Sale

On January 6, the League of Chicago Theatres officially opened ticket sales for the highly anticipated Chicago Theatre Week 2026. Thousands of residents logged on to secure $15 and $30 tickets for over 100 productions across the city. Running from February 5–15, the event features major houses like The Second City, Steppenwolf, and Broadway In Chicago, serving as a vital mid-winter economic driver for the local performing arts industry.

Buddy Guy Begins Final Month of Iconic Residency

Legendary bluesman Buddy Guy took the stage at his South Loop club, Buddy Guy’s Legends, on January 3 to begin his annual January residency. This year’s performance run has drawn international fans, as the 89-year-old icon has hinted that 2026 may be his final year of month-long performance stints. The residency is a cornerstone of Chicago’s winter music scene, consistently selling out and boosting foot traffic for South Loop hospitality businesses.

Tomorrow Never Knows Indie Festival Launches 20th Year

The Tomorrow Never Knows (TNK) festival kicked off its 20th-anniversary edition on January 4, spanning iconic venues like Lincoln Hall, Schubas, and Sleeping . This year’s lineup features indie heavyweights like Perfume Genius and Cassandra Jenkins alongside emerging Chicago talent. As the city’s premier winter music festival, TNK provides a critical platform for independent artists and drives significant bar and venue revenue during the post-holiday lull.

Steppenwolf Extends "Amadeus" After Record-Breaking Start

Following a critically acclaimed debut during the first week of January, Steppenwolf Theatre Company announced on January 5 that its production of Amadeus will be extended through January 25. Directed by Tony Award-winner Robert Falls, the play is a centerpiece of the company's 50th-anniversary season. The production’s commercial success is being viewed as a sign of robust recovery for Chicago’s legendary non-profit theater sector.

Disney On Ice Brings "Inside Out 2" Characters to United Center

The United Center transformed into a winter wonderland on January 2 as Disney On Ice: Jump In! launched its Chicago residency. This year's production is notable for being the first to feature live skating characters from Inside Out 2 and Moana 2. The event is a major draw for family tourism, with local hotels reporting increased bookings from suburban families staying downtown for the multi-day spectacle.

Young Playwrights Festival Edition

On January 1, the Chicago Dramatists officially launched the 39th Annual Young Playwrights Festival. The month-long event showcases original one-act plays written by Chicago high school students, professionally produced and performed. The festival is a vital pipeline for the city’s creative economy, mentoring the next generation of writers and providing professional opportunities for local actors and stage technicians.

MCA Chicago Previews Major Yoko Ono Retrospective

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago held a final series of private previews this week for "Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind," which opens fully to the public this month. The exhibition is the largest-ever U.S. retrospective of Ono’s work, featuring conceptual art and musical scores. Arts analysts expect the show to be a primary driver of international cultural tourism for the city throughout the first quarter of 2026.

Thalia Announces Bill Murray Musical Collaboration

In a surprise announcement on January 4, Pilsen’s Thalia Hall revealed a special two-night residency for "Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers," scheduled for later this week. The show features the Chicago-born actor performing classic rock and blues covers alongside guitarists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia. Tickets for the intimate 800-capacity venue sold out within minutes, highlighting the continued demand for unique, star-driven live entertainment.

Garfield Park Conservatory Closes "Winter Flower Show"

The Garfield Park Conservatory concluded its annual Winter Flower Show on January 4, reporting record attendance for the holiday season. The show, which serves as a major indoor escape during the "January chill," featured thousands of colorful blooms under the conservatory’s historic glass domes. The high turnout has encouraged city officials to explore expanded year-round evening programming for the West Side botanical landmark.

Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival (Jan 21 – Feb 1): Over 100 performances from global puppeteers across various city venues.

Chicago Theatre Week (Feb 5–15): Discounted tickets ($15–$30) for over 100 productions; tickets officially went on sale today, Jan 6.

Amadeus at Steppenwolf (Now – Jan 25): The 50th-anniversary season production directed by Robert Falls.

The Phantom of the Opera (Now – Feb 1): The long-running classic continues its residency in the Loop.

Eureka Day (Jan 13 – Feb 22): A sharp comedy presented by Broadway In Chicago at the Broadway Playhouse.

Business & Real Estate

Keeping It Real Estate Meetup (Jan 13): A networking event focused on tax season success strategies at Navigator Taproom.

Real Estate & Fashion Networking (Jan 14): A joint event at Grapes & Grains Piano Bar for professionals in both industries.

Chicago Real Estate Funding Masterclass (Jan 24): An intensive session on investment and business funding on Cermak Rd.

First-Time Homebuyer Class (Jan 20): A free educational seminar led by Home Collective™ on Elston Ave.

Real Estate Networking @ Clark Street Ale House (Jan 22): A popular monthly gathering for developers and brokers in River North.

Culinary & Lifestyle

First Bites Bash (Jan 22): The official kick-off for Restaurant Week, hosted at the Field Museum.

19th Annual Chicago Restaurant Week (Jan 23 – Feb 8): Over 500 restaurants offering prix fixe menus ($30–$60).

The Banchet Awards (Jan 25): Often called the "Oscars of Chicago Dining," celebrating culinary excellence at Venue .

Pilates at The Auditorium (Jan 17): A wellness event held inside the historic Auditorium Theatre.

Rooftop Paint and Sip (Jan 22): A winter-themed art event at Offshore Rooftop, the world’s largest rooftop bar.

Automotive

Chicago Auto Show (Feb 7–16): The nation’s largest auto show returns to McCormick with the new "Chi-Town Alley" exhibit.

First Look for Charity (Feb 6): The black-tie gala at McCormick featuring luxury vehicle raffles.

Chicago Collective – Men’s Edition (Jan 31 – Feb 3): A premier menswear trade show at the Merchandise Mart (THE MART).

Chicago Architecture Biennial (Now – Feb 28): The final weeks of the city-wide "SHIFT" exhibition exploring radical change in architecture.

Paris Haute Couture Week Announces Chicago Designer

CHICAGO, IL – The Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture announced Tuesday that Chicago-based designer Evan Smith of the label Esme has been invited to present his collection at Paris Haute Couture Week in July. He is the first Midwestern American designer to receive a solo show invitation in over a decade.

Luxury Retailer Opens Flagship on Oak Street

CHICAGO, IL – Italian luxury house Bottega Veneta celebrated the opening of its new, two-story flagship store on Oak Street on Thursday. The 8,000-square-foot space, designed by their creative director, features a dedicated salon for made-to-order items and a curation focused on leather goods and ready-to-wear.

Major Thrift Chain Announces City-Wide Closures

CHICAGO, IL – National thrift retailer Buffalo Exchange announced it will close all three of its Chicago locations by the end of August, citing changing retail economics and a strategic shift away from the Midwest market. The stores in Wicker Park, Lakeview, and Andersonville have been local staples for over 20 years.

Chicago Fashion Incubator Names New Designer-in-Residence

CHICAGO, IL – The Chicago Fashion Incubator (CFI) at Macy’s on State Street announced Marisol Garcia, a designer specializing in zero-waste pattern making and sustainable textiles, as its 2024-2025 Designer-in-Residence on Monday. She will receive a stipend, mentorship, and retail space to develop her brand.

Vintage Furrier Rebrands as Vegan Luxury Line

CHICAGO, IL – Historic furrier Berman’s, in business on the Near North Side since 1936, officially rebranded on Friday as Berman Atelier, a luxury outerwear line using only innovative vegan materials. The move reflects a third-generation family decision to align with modern ethical standards.

Chicago Apparel Manufacturer Wins Defense Contract

CHICAGO, IL – A family-owned, South Side apparel manufacturer, Great Lakes Stitch Co., has won a $4.2 million Department of Defense contract to produce specialized uniform components, Governor Pritzker’s office announced. The deal will create 50 new jobs and modernize the facility’s sewing equipment.

Chicago Style' Exhibition Opens at History Museum

CHICAGO, IL – “The Chicago Look: Fashion from Street to Style,” a new exhibition exploring the city’s practical and influential fashion identity, opened at the Chicago History Museum on Saturday. It features garments from Claude Montana’s leather to a chance’s jersey, tracing local style from the stockyards to the runway.

Denim Repair Pop-Up Gains Permanent Home

CHICAGO, IL – The popular denim repair and customization service Patch & Stitch, which began as a Logan Square pop-up, has signed a lease for a permanent brick-and-mortar location on Milwaukee Avenue. The shop will offer repairs, alterations, and custom embroidery starting in September.

MCA Receives $25 Million Gift for New Wing

CHICAGO, IL – The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago announced a transformative $25 million gift from philanthropist Michele Brown on Tuesday. The donation will fund a new wing dedicated to digital and time-based media, slated to break ground in 2026, significantly expanding the museum’s exhibition capabilities.

Historic South Side Gallery Abruptly Closes

CHICAGO, IL – The Bridgeport Art Center Gallery, a key exhibition space for emerging Chicago artists for 15 years, announced its immediate closure on Sunday. Management cited unsustainable operating costs and the end of its lease. The final show will be taken down this weekend.

Artist's Mosaic Vandalized in Pilsen, Community Restores It

CHICAGO, IL – A beloved community mosaic wall by artist Hector

Duarte in Pilsen was extensively vandalized with spray paint late Tuesday. By Thursday, a volunteer group organized by local nonprofits had fully restored the mural, demonstrating the neighborhood’s strong commitment to its public art.

Art Institute Announces Major van Gogh Acquisition

CHICAGO, IL – The Art Institute of Chicago revealed on Wednesday that it has acquired an early Vincent van Gogh drawing, “Crouching Boy with Sickle,” from 1882. The rare, pre-Paris period work was purchased from a private European collection for an undisclosed sum and will go on view this fall.

Controversial Statue Removed from Park After Decades

CHICAGO, IL – The city’s Department of Cultural Affairs removed the controversial "The Victor" statue from a Humboldt Park grove on Friday. The 19th-century statue, long criticized for its colonialist themes, will be d in storage pending a public discussion about its future, a city spokesperson said.

Renowned Photographer's Archive Donated to Newberry Library

CHICAGO, IL – The estate of celebrated Chicago street photographer Vivian Maier has donated her complete archive of negatives, prints, and personal effects to the Newberry Library, officials confirmed Monday. The extensive collection will be cataloged and made available for public research and future exhibitions.

New "Congestion Surcharge" for Ride-Shares Begins

Chicago’s 2026 fiscal strategy hit the streets on January 6 as new congestion zone surcharges took effect for all transportation network providers. Single rides involving pickups or drop-offs in newly defined "Congestion Zones" now carry a $1.50 surcharge. This economic policy aims to generate millions in new city revenue while encouraging the use of public transit, marking a significant shift in the cost of urban mobility for commuters.

Social Media Tax Officially Implemented

Starting January 1, Chicago became the first major U.S. city to implement a "Social Media Amusement Tax" on large tech firms. The tax targets businesses collecting on more than 100,000 local consumers, charging $0.50 per user per month. This innovative revenue stream is being watched closely by economists nationwide as a potential model for taxing the digital economy and funding municipal infrastructure without raising traditional property taxes.

Chicago Auto Show Debuts "Chi-Town Alley"

Organizers for the 2026 Chicago Auto Show announced a brand-new "Chi-Town Alley" exhibit on January 5. Designed to celebrate the city’s local car culture, the immersive space at McCormick will showcase custom builds and performance vehicles from Chicago-based enthusiasts. The debut reflects a strategic shift in the automotive industry toward experiential marketing to attract a younger demographic of buyers and boost winter tourism revenue.

LaSalle Street Apartment Conversion Gains Momentum

A major zoning application was filed on January 4 to move forward with the residential conversion of 19 South LaSalle Street. The project aims to transform the historic 16-story office tower into 160 modern apartments. Part of the "LaSalle Street Reimagined" initiative, this development represents a significant shift in downtown real estate, repurposing aging commercial stock to meet the rising demand for urban residential living.

Boeing’s Former West Loop HQ Sells for $22 Million

In one of the first major real estate deals of 2026, the former Boeing headquarters at 100 N. Riverside Plaza was sold this week for $22 million. The sale price reflects the ongoing recalibration of office values in the West Loop. The new ownership group is expected to unveil plans for a modern office-and-retail hybrid, signaling continued investor interest in high-visibility properties along the Chicago River.

Restaurant Week Finalizes Record-Breaking List

The 2026 Chicago Restaurant Week lineup was officially completed on January 5, featuring a record 500 participating establishments. The 17-day culinary event is a cornerstone of the city’s winter economy, projected to generate over $100 million in spending. With new entries from Fulton Market and the South Side, the event highlights the continued expansion of Chicago’s dining industry as a primary engine for local employment and tourism

Chicago Business Barometer Shows New Year Strength

Economic released on January 5 indicates that the Chicago Business Barometer has entered 2026 with unexpected resilience. Local manufacturing and service sectors reported a surge in new orders, outperforming early-year forecasts. Analysts suggest this growth is driven by stabilized supply chains and a localized hiring spree in the logistics sector, providing a positive outlook for the city’s industrial economy heading into the first quarter.

Symphony Meets Couture: "The Red Thread" Previewed

On January 6, final preparations were unveiled for the "Red Thread Fashion Show," set to transform the Chicago Symphony Center into a high-fashion runway later this month. The event features four visionary Chicago designers whose collections will be scored live by musicians from the Civic Orchestra. This intersection of classical music and avant-garde style aims to showcase the city's sophisticated art-to-wear movement to an international audience.

Uniqlo Announces Landmark Return

Japanese retail giant Uniqlo confirmed its return to the Magnificent Mile this week, securing a new flagship location at 600 N. Michigan Avenue. After closing its previous store four years ago, the brand’s comeback is a key indicator of renewed institutional confidence in Chicago's premier shopping district. The new 20,000-square-foot space will feature local collaborations and the brand’s signature RE.UNIQLO sustainability and repair station.

L’AGENCE Opens First Chicago Flagship

Luxury lifestyle brand L’AGENCE officially debuted its first Chicago boutique at the 900 North Michigan Shops this week. The 1,510-square-foot space blends West Coast effortless chic with Parisian refinement. Featuring European oak floors and red marble accents, the flagship offers exclusive personalized styling services and wardrobe consultations, marking a significant expansion of high-end, contemporary women's fashion in the city's Gold Coast neighborhood.

FashionBar Unveils "The Headquarters" at Water Tower

FashionBar Chicago launched its new 16,000-square-foot "Headquarters" at Water Tower on January 5. The massive facility serves as a fashion incubator, housing departments for design, manufacturing, and runway execution. The launch included the announcement of an "Open House" series for 2026, aimed at helping local designers take their brands from concept to market, further cementing the Magnificent Mile as a hub for fashion entrepreneurship.

20-Year-Old Designer Kayla Perkins Makes Waves

Young Chicago designer Kayla Perkins was spotlighted in a new industry report this week as a rising leader in the South Side fashion scene. At just 20, Perkins has integrated AI-driven textile development into her brand, Cre8 Space. Her work represents a growing trend of "tech-fashion" in Chicago, where local youth are leveraging digital tools to create sustainable, ethically made streetwear that competes on a national scale.

Spring/Summer 2026 Trend Forecast Released

Fashion Group International (FGI) Chicago released its Spring/Summer 2026 Trend Forecast this week during a private industry event. Key trends for the Chicago market include "Industrial Elegance"—a nod to the city’s architectural roots—and a resurgence of ethical hosiery. Local boutiques like Leg Appeal are already reporting a surge in pre-orders for these styles, indicating a strong consumer appetite for high-quality, ethically produced accessories.

Chicago Fashion Week 2026 Dates Confirmed

Following a record-breaking 2025 season, the organizers of Chicago Fashion Week announced the 2026 dates on January 4. The 11-day citywide celebration will take from October 8 to 18, featuring over 60 events across various venues. Mayor Brandon Johnson praised the announcement, noting that the event has become a primary driver of the city’s creative economy, supporting hundreds of local makers and independent retailers.

Retail Shift: South LaSalle Impacts Luxury Footprint

The move to convert South LaSalle into luxury residential units, which advanced with new filings on January 4, is reshaping the "Canyon" corridor's retail landscape. As office space is repurposed, ground-floor retail is being re-imagined for luxury lifestyle and boutique fashion tenants. This shift is attracting high-end designers who are looking for more intimate, neighborhood-focused retail environments away from the massive traditional storefronts of Michigan Avenue.

The Curio Announces "Winter Fashion Social"

Chicago-based fashion platform The Curio announced its upcoming "Winter Fashion Social" on January 5, designed to "Beat the January Blues." The event, scheduled for later this month, will bring together the city’s most prominent stylists, designers, and influencers to celebrate local craftsmanship. It serves as a vital networking hub for the independent fashion community, fostering collaborations that define the city's unique aesthetic for the coming year.