Viva La Glam

The past is present in this year’s fall collections, with designers tapping every decade from the thirties to the nineties for inspiration. But it’s the decade that gave us tight-rolled jeans, shoulder pads and loud geometric prints that provides the aesthetic for this year’s Glamorama, and with an A-list runway roster and a post-show, back-to-the-eighties shindig, the event is shaping up to be as memorable as a pair of Hammer pants.

“Eighties has always been on the table [as a possible theme],” says Jennifer Wilkins, producer of Glamorama. But when choosing the theme nearly a year in advance, the Glamorama team could hardly know just how applicable the eighties would be this season. “We just happen to…hit the nail on the head. Not only are we having a great retro theme, but we’re seeing a lot of eighties inspiration in fashion for this season.”

Now in its tenth year, Glamorama is Macy’s annual style extravaganza, with proceeds benefiting the Art Institute of Chicago. Since its inception the event has raised nearly $2.3 million for the museum and its programs. The event is entirely Midwest-focused, with shows in only Minneapolis and Chicago, and features a runway show, a party and a post-party, where the entire seventh floor of Macy’s is transformed into a theme-related wonderland. This year guests can expect a trip back in time.
“In the show, the eighties theme is a little more tongue-in-cheek. You’ll see some of the references with the special effects and entertainment, and with the styling of the designers. But the party is completely full-out eighties, with everything from eighties music, to great lounge areas featuring Pac-Man, Rubix Cube and Donkey Kong. Our visual and production teams transform the entire seventh floor. There’s no other retailer that throws a party like this,” Wilkins says.

Designers featured this year include Marc Jacobs, Ports 1961, Tibi, Tommy Hilfiger and Donna Karan Collection. Each designer was chosen specifically by the Glamorama producers based on the relevance of their fall collections to the theme at hand. Along with the runway show, guests will be treated to performances from eighties icons Cyndi Lauper and MC Hammer, who will walk the red carpet outside the Chicago Theatre with other eighties celebrities (and a few modern day stars, too).

Knowing that no two fashion-lovers have the same needs, Glamorama offers a versatile array of ticket options and prices. Show-only tickets begin at $75, and go up to $195 with the after-party addition. Prices increase up to $1,000 for the ultimate VIP ticket. (Molly Each)

Glamorama takes place on August 22 at 8pm at the Chicago Theatre, 175 North State. Tickets are still available through Ticketmaster. Call (312)781-5454 for more information.

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