Best Local Designers In Chicago
Lidia Wachowska
(314) 484-9352
www.evilkitty.net
Lidia Wachowska is the name and Chicago-based designer behind the internationally popular brand Evil Kitty. Lidia designs Evil Kitty for the sweet girl that's edgy around the corners (or vice versa) and is inspired by the punk movement. Her rebellious, yet feminine designs are bold and youthful. Recently, Lidia' skirt was featured in Macy's Glamorama and her pieces are consistently admired on blogs, at trunk shows, and are in store fronts everywhere including California, New York, Japan, and the United Kingdom.
Jenny Pfanenstiel
(773) 719-7307
www.formeonlineshop.com
If you're looking for a stand out hat or headband, Jenny Pfanenstiel is the perfect hat designer for you. Jenny's usage of feathers in her designs is like no other. Whether you're a bride looking for a hair accessory that gets as much warranted attention as your dress, a mother looking to keep your child's/baby's head stylishly warm, or are in need of a more casual, yet fashionable hat, Jenny offers an affordable variety from which to choose. She also offers workshops, teaching anyone how to make hats and headpieces just as admirable as her personal designs.
Ramon Lawrence
You may recognize his name and face from Project Runway, but this South Side born and raised fashion phenom is a force with which to be reckoned. Ra'mon carefully uses his fabrics and colors to design pieces that are runway and everyday ready. His collections vary from casual to couture, yet each garment demonstrates his meticulous infusion of sophistication, imagination, and flair.
Tameka Weathersby
(612) 910-3785
Facebook: SASSY'riez
Making a colorful splash onto the fashion scene in Chicago is Tameka Weathersby, designer behind the creative and flamboyant leather accessory line, SASSY'riez. Her brand, SASSY'riez, is designed for the woman who is not afraid to express her individuality and vivaciousness. You can view her fabulously eclectic designs at Fashionable Addictions located at 1211 S. Western, fashion events throughout Chicago, or contact her directly and she will bring SASSY'riez to you.
Anna Hovet
2150 South Canalport Avenue
Suite 4-2b
Chicago, IL 60608
(773) 504-6054
www.annahovet.com
Another young designer making a splash onto the fashion scene in Chicago is Anna Hovet. Her contemporary, fresh collection includes abstract designs, innovative artistry, and youthful charm. A notable fan of Anna Hovet is Chicago native Jennifer Hudson, a growing icon in fashion, who has sported Anna's designs. You can find her hip designs at the enormously popular Akira locations, where she used to be a staff stylist, and throughout the Midwest.
Lara Miller
931 West Cornelia, #1b
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 296-4442
www.laramiller.net
A major player in the fashion world, Lara Miller's designs offers captivating pieces and concepts for her wide-ranging admirers. Her subtle, yet attention grabbing designs are versatile, eco-friendly, and sustainable. You won't find anything trendy about Laura's designs, but you will find pieces that are everlasting.
Heidi Hess
210 North Halsted Street
Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 550-8070
www.heidihess.com
Heidi Hess designs comfortably chic sweaters sure to keep women in Chicago fashionably warm during the colder seasons. Her sweater designs are cut carefully, creating precise geometrically shaped garments, and her splendid blend of rich textures and saturated colors make for must have sweaters jackets, perfect for layering. Custom orders to add your creativity to her designs are available.
Shernett Swaby
1933 North Damen Avenue
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 276-7645
www.shernettswaby.com
Shernett Swaby considers herself a fashion artist, not a designer. And rightfully so. Originally, from Canada, Shernett moved her showroom to Chicago's Bucktown over a year ago, and brought with her an artistic sophistication. Shernett hand sews every item for her varying clientele and after appearing on Canada's Project Runway, her designs gained increased international attention. As a fashion artist, she often uses rich texture as her version of patterns, giving her designs a clean, refined look with an artistic edge.
Anna Fong
1564 North Damen
Suite 303
Chicago, IL 60644
(312) 952-0140
www.anna-fong.com
The romantic designs of Anna Fong are sensual with subtle sex appeal. She uses bohemian, ethnic, and vintage inspirations to create many of her designs. Anna's skillful usage of vibrant colors and well-picked fabrics make her designs stunning. Kimora Lee Simmons and Nadine Velasquez, Hollywood trendsetters, have both worn designs by Anna Fong.
Lauren Lein
208 West Kinzie Street
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 527-1714
www.laurenlein.com
Lauren Lein is best known for her figure flattering suits and precise craftsmanship. Her custom-made suites and gowns range from classic to unique, but they all exude elegance. She has designed for major political figures in Chicago, professional businesswomen, and high power attorneys who know the value of a polished image and refined style.
Renita S. Manley-Garrett is a Chicago and Chicago-land based Image/Wardrobe Consultant and the owner of Revamped Image Consulting. She specializes in personal shopping, styling, and offers a variety of image and wardrobe based services. Visit her website at www.revampedimageconsulting.com.
