Every Spectacular Look from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago Fashion Show 2016

Covering the School of the Art Institute’s fashion show each year is always such a joy. There’s so much talent and incredible design, no wonder why it’s one of the most highly anticipated runway shows of the year.

The SAIC 2016 show did not disappoint. Evolving from concept to creation in just two semesters, 230 innovative looks pushing the traditional boundaries of style were on display, created by 96 sophomores, juniors and seniors. And this year the school enlisted the wonderful Garfield Conservatory on Chicago’s West Side as the show’s and the exhibit’s backdrop — a brilliant move for even better collections.

The exhibition was free and open to the public  and attendees  enjoyed a front-row look into the world of avant-garde fashion, as they get up close to the embellishments, embroidery and expertly crafted fashion designs that were exhibited throughout the gardens.

This year’s concept, Reflexion, was inspired by the Garfield Park Conservatory’s beautiful botanical setting, and seeked to evoke a personal and global reflection about both concept and material use. Among other themes, Reflexion explored the future of fashion in a sustainable world.

“The School of the Art Institute of Chicago plays a critical role in shaping the fashion legacy that exists in our city and in the Midwest today,” said Anke Loh, Sage Foundation Chair of SAIC’s Fashion Design department. “Away from the fashion epicenters of the world, we have the freedom to explore and innovate without limits, and this flexibility is evident in the designs produced by our talented students, many of whom will go on to influence the industry with their work.”

So without further ado, click through our gallery below and see each spectacular look from this years SAIC 2016 fashion show.