A Fashion Adventure in the Windy City: My First Experience at the Chicago Collective Women’s Edition
Imagine stepping into a world where the latest trends in fashion collide with the vibrant energy of the Windy City. That’s exactly what happened when I attended the Chicago Collective Women’s Edition for the first time as a buyer for Baseline Social. Katy went by herself last year and this year I was able to join her! If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to explore a major trade show, you’re in for a treat.
From reconnecting with some of our favorite brands to discovering new gems that might just become your next obsession, this experience was everything I hoped for—and more. The moment I arrived in Chicago, I knew I was in for something special. The city’s energy is infectious, with its bustling streets and stunning skyline setting the perfect backdrop for a fashion extravaganza. After settling in, Katy and I went for an early dinner at The Kitchen at the beautiful Waldorf Astoria Hotel. It was the perfect opportunity to catch up as friends, sharing laughs and stories, but also to strategize for the big day ahead. Over delicious food, we laid out our game plan for navigating the Chicago Collective, eager to make the most of our time there.
Walking into the venue felt like entering a fashion wonderland. Booths upon booths of beautifully displayed collections greeted us, each one offering a unique perspective on what Spring 2025 has in store. The atmosphere was a mix of excitement and anticipation, with buyers, designers, and fashion enthusiasts all eager to discover the next big thing. One of the highlights of the trip was reconnecting with some of our current brands. It was fascinating to see how they’ve evolved and what new pieces they’re introducing for Spring 2025. Rhone, for instance, has taken their signature style to new heights with a collection that blends classic elegance with modern flair. Their use of bold colors and innovative fabrics had me imagining all the ways these pieces could be styled at Baseline Social. But it wasn’t just about the familiar faces; the event was also an opportunity to discover new collections that could become future staples in our store. One brand that caught my eye was J. Pritchard, which offered a fresh take on pickleball attire. Their line, designed with active women and men in mind, featured versatile pieces perfect for every pickleball match to casual outings. The combination of comfort, style, and functionality was exactly what our customers would love. And their logo is both tasteful and thoughtful, perfectly reflecting the brand's identity, while the story behind it is incredibly cool and adds a unique depth to the brand's appeal. As a first-time buyer, I quickly realized that this role is as exhilarating as it is challenging. The day started early, with a packed schedule of appointments and meetings. Each brand had something different to offer, and it was our job to evaluate which pieces would resonate with our clientele. We spent hours examining fabrics, discussing trends with designers, and envisioning how each item would fit into Baseline’s aesthetic.
But it wasn’t all work and no play! Chicago is a city full of life, and we made sure to take advantage of everything it has to offer. After the show, we had a great time unwinding with a glass of wine at RPM Seafood, enjoying the view of the Chicago River and watching the boats drift by—it was a fun evening, but we definitely missed Kristyn, who must absolutely join us next year. Attending the Chicago Collective Women’s Edition was an unforgettable experience. The event was a perfect blend of business and pleasure, offering the chance to discover new brands, reconnect with familiar ones, and explore one of the most vibrant cities in the world. I walked away not only with a wealth of knowledge about upcoming trends and new collections, but also with a renewed excitement for what’s to come for Baseline Social.
