FGI Chicago Virtual Networking Page
We’re so excited to have you join us for the New Year Networking Celebration & Annual Meeting. To help you make the most of this event, we’ve created this Virtual Networking Page to showcase the incredible professionals in attendance.
This page is designed to:
Help you connect with fellow attendees.
Provide easy access to information about your peers' businesses, skills, and projects.
Facilitate meaningful connections during and after the event.
How to Use This Page:
Browse the attendee profiles below.
Click on links to visit websites, LinkedIn profiles, or email someone directly.
Use this page as an ongoing resource to follow up and build professional relationships.
We encourage you to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the amazing talents in our FGI Chicago community!
Thank you for being part of this special event, and happy networking!
Warm regards,
Jess Crane
Regional Director
Fashion Group International of Chicago
FGI Chicago Virtual Networking Page
Style by Kimi
Stylist & Event Planner
Jess Crane Design
FGI Chicago Regional Director, Managing Board Member at AIBI Chicago, Multidisciplinary Artist, Fashion Professional, Business & Nonprofit Consultant, Historic Preservationist
Katie DeLuna
Sr. Business Analyst - Renewal by Andersen
https://www.instagram.com/stylingbydeluna
https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-d-aa768761/
Katie is a freelance fashion stylist specializing in editorial shoots. She thrives on collaborating with local designers, HMUAs, and photographers to create dynamic visuals. Katie .
Ariana West
Fashion Journalist, PR Professional, Curio Team Member - The Curio
Sophie Pirkey
Personal Stylist - Pirkritude Personal Styling
www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-pirkey-567b2b128
https://www.instagram.com/pirkritude/
https://www.pinterest.com/pirkritude/
https://www.tiktok.com/@pirkritude?_t=ZT-8stzjLeI5Gg&_r=1
https://www.youtube.com/@pirkritude
Sophie Pirkey is a Personal Stylist who specializes in cultivating authentic personal style, and sourcing vintage fashion for her clients. Her unique approach to styling focuses on the emotional barriers that keep us from expressing our true selves. Sustainability, authenticity, and elevation are the core principles of Pirkritude Personal Styling. Available for seminars, collaborations, styling, and more!
Eve Voci
Assistant Merchandise Manager - Barnes & Noble and Paper Source
Pamela Dittmer McKuen
Independent Journalist
http://www.allthewriteplaces.com
https://www.facebook.com/pamela.mckuen
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamelamckuen/
https://www.instagram.com/pamelamckuen
Freelance journalist focusing on home, design and travel; travel columnist for Loop North News
Dr. Gabriel Martinez Diaz
CEO, Founder and Director - MD Aesthetics and Dermatology
http://www.mdaestheticsderm.com
www.linkedin.com/in/gabrieljmd
https://www.instagram.com/drgabimd
Dr. Gabriel J. Martinez-Diaz is an innovator and disruptor in the field of dermatology and aesthetics. Educated at Stanford University, he has built and directed one of the top and most boutique dermatology practices in the West Loop of Chicago. Intrigued by the intersection of luxury, wellness, and fashion, he provides an unique expertise to his patients and those corporations that seek his unicorn perspective on things.
Arshiya Naz Shariff
Business Analyst
Emma Healy
Associate Marketing Manager
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmakhealy/
https://www.instagram.com/emmakhealy/
My name is Emma, and I am a young creative with a passion for making an impact in the fashion industry. I hold a bachelor's degree in Apparel Merchandising from Indiana University and currently work in Marketing in Chicago. Through FGI, I look forward to connecting with like-minded individuals who share my enthusiasm for fashion!
Shirl Lynn Jackson
Custom Womenswear Designer - SL Designs
http://www.instagram.com/sldesigns2/
https://www.facebook.com/shirllynn.jackson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirl-lynn-jackson-13407120/
Shirl Lynn, founder of SL Designs, has been crafting custom women’s wear since the 1980s. Based in Chicago, she specializes in creating bespoke garments for weddings, proms, and special events. With a client-first philosophy, Shirl Lynn lives by the motto: "I will design with you in mind," ensuring every piece is uniquely tailored to perfection.
Ambar Campos
Executive Director - Apparel Industry Board, Inc.
https://www.facebook.com/aibichicago
https://www.linkedin.com/company/apparel-industry-board-inc
https://www.instagram.com/aibichicago/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCra5XPoczI-4TWM_JEpv9OA
Ambar Campos, Executive Director of AIBI, drives its mission to empower Chicagoland's sewn products industry. With expertise in business development and community engagement, she leads initiatives providing resources, mentorship, and education, fostering growth for emerging and established fashion professionals. Ambar’s strategic vision has solidified AIBI’s role in supporting the region’s vibrant fashion community.
Maancy Mehta
Designer and Founder - Maancy, Jewelry and Objects
Our heirloom-quality modernist jewelry and objects are designed for everyday use and wear. Transcending beyond generations and trends each piece combines minimalism and surrealism with thoughtful design and balanced aesthetics. Many of our pieces are designed to be convertible, offering multiple ways to wear and style them, thus further enhancing their versatility and timeless appeal.
Linda Carallis
Fashion Content Creator - Lindas Got Style
https://www.instagram.com/lindasgotstyle
https://www.instagram.com/lindasgotstyle?igsh=aThzOWYzYm90d2gz&utm_source=qr
Since starting my journey a year ago as a fashion content creator I have pivoted into showcasing mainly the Chicago fashion scene. I am passionate about using my platform in the fashion industry to not only showcase style and trends but also to support important causes and give back to my community. A Master's degree in education and an ABA certificate in paralegal studies have allowed me to not only find success in various industries but also make a positive impact in the world. Through my work with organizations like PAWS Chicago, Ladies of Philoptochos, and Wings, an organization that helps victims of domestic violence I can make a difference. My philosophy of using fashion as a tool for self-discovery and acceptance allows me to connect with and uplift people from various backgrounds. I strongly believe that fashion has the ability to celebrate diversity and encourage inclusivity. My ultimate goal is to inspire others to embrace their unique identities and express themselves through fashion, regardless of age or societal expectations.
Rahela Tanase
Art Director | Graphic Designer | Stylist - Rahela Designs
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahela-tanase-76b56714a/
https://www.instagram.com/rahelalalala/
Rahela Tanase is formally educated in graphic design and is reaching greater heights alongside her talents in art direction, styling, and photography. With her studies completed at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Central Saint Martins in London, she has learned that the only way to truly live is by following what makes her come alive. She has elegantly crafted prestigious campaigns for various luxury clients and is always looking for a challenge, and desires to create timeless, breathtaking work that exudes authenticity and embraces the true aura of whomever she is working with. Inspired by fashion brands such as Simone Rocha and Alexander McQueen, 1960 French new wave films, and Wes Anderson's infamous use of color and quirk, Rahela is constantly curious and passionate to learn and understand. Dedicated to fall in love with something every day, she is eternally looking to the odd, peculiar, and imperfect things in daily life to create something new and unique.
Mel Jordan
Content Creator - Glitterboger
https://glitterboger720.wixsite.com/glitterboger
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mel-jordan-a86745267/
https://www.instagram.com/glitterboger
I am an inspiring motivational speaker and content creator. Fashion is also a way to send messages of hope and inspiration. I am a resilient soul and I want to spread the message of strength, happiness, and overcoming darkness.
PRINCESS CRUMPTON
Founder - Princess Crumpton Studio
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pscrumpton
https://www.instagram.com/princesssynette
Princess Crumpton is a seasoned designer with over 10 years of expertise in design, pattern making, merchandising, and production in NYC. With a background enriched by her roles in prominent private label brands like Bloomingdale’s AQUA, Princess is committed to empowering apparel designers and brands by providing tailored resources to streamline the sample through production journey.
JoLinda Rhodes
Director of Merchandising - Curits
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolindarhodes/
With 9 years of experience in the retail and fashion industry, I’ve worked at Macy’s, Ross (specializing in handbags), and an optical startup. Currently building a merchandising department in the emergency responder sector, I’m passionate about fashion and eager to explore new opportunities while working towards launching my own business.
Kathryn Spitznagle
owner, leadership coach - Mentoring Women Millennials, LLC
https://mentoringwomenmillennials.com
https://www.instagram.com/RockStarMillennials
Omar O.
Creative Director - Haus of Ramo
https://www.instagram.com/Theeomaro
I am looking to step fully into my Creative Director in 2025. I am currently scouting for social and business marketing strategist's, video and photo editors, as well as art directors and Co-creatives.
Alexandria Alston
CEO - Kristian Kouture
kristiankouture.help@gmail.com
http://www.kristiankouture.com
www.linkedin.com/in/alexandriaalston
https://www.instagram.com/kristiankouture
https://www.instagram.com/Akalstonembroidery
https://www.instagram.com/kristiankouture_shop
With a family legacy in tailoring and seamstress work, I grew up traveling the U.S. with my father at fashion shows, fostering my passion for design. I earned a Fashion Design degree from Columbia College Chicago and now offer custom garments, ready-to-wear, streetwear, accessories, and sewing lessons. My brand embraces all ages, offering stylish, comfortable fashion for everyone.
