The Stylist Symposium 2026

The 3rd annual Stylist Symposium will take place on Friday, October 9, during the opening weekend of Chicago Fashion Week, at the iconic Chicago Cultural Center for an afternoon created to inspire, educate and connect the styling community.

Presented by Rachel J Styling, the Stylist Symposium welcomes Stylists across every specialty and every stage of their career - from aspiring and emerging Stylists to seasoned, accomplished professionals. Personal. Commercial. Editorial. Celebrity. Luxury Styling. Image Consulting. E-commerce. Entrepreneurship and beyond - whatever your lane, this is the room to be in.

This year’s theme, “The Past. The Present. The Future. The Evolution of Styling,” explores how the industry has grown, creating more opportunities for Stylists than ever before and what’s in store for the future. Hear firsthand from professionals who have built dynamic careers, navigated pivots and created their own paths. Leave with new ideas, industry insight and meaningful connections.

Our panel features Stacey Lynn Emerson, Brandon Frein and Christine Matsunaga, three accomplished Chicago Stylists bringing decades of experience and distinct perspectives from across the industry.

We're adding even more value to the Symposium by spotlighting select Stylist Growth Partners whose platforms help Stylists work smarter, streamline their businesses and increase their earning potential.

We’re excited to welcome our Presenting Partners, Hue & Stripe and myGemma, to the stage to share how their platforms are supporting and advancing the work of today’s Stylist.

Following the panel and Presenting Partner conversations, guests will move into the G.A.R. Rotunda for our new Stylist Partner Showcase - an opportunity to connect one-on-one with participating designers and brands that are actively growing their Stylist networks and investing in meaningful Stylist partnerships. Learn about their Stylist programs and discover collaboration opportunities!

EVENT SCHEDULE

1:00 PM
Doors open, reception + portraits by BELAMATRIX

1:30 PM
Stylist Panel Discussion
Claudia Cassidy Theater

Featuring:

• Stacey Lynn Emerson of S & L Style Studio
• Brandon Frein
• Christine Matsunaga of tristinstyling, Inc.

2:30 PM
Presenting Stylist Growth Partners

• Craig Nordstrom, Co-Founder of Hue & Stripe
• Leah Goldblatt, CRO of myGemma

3:00 PM
Designer Partner Showcase
G.A.R. Rotunda

Full list of participating designers and brands with Stylist programs coming soon. Connect while enjoying light bites and non-alcoholic beverage flights by Naked Life.

4:30 PM
Event concludes

TICKET INFO
$50 General Admission, September 17–October 9
$60 At the Door
$10 College Students with current college ID. IDs will be checked at door.

Follow @thestylistsymposium on Instagram for updates.

Watch the 2024 Stylist Symposium recap video here:
https://www.lifemadestill.com/blog/2024/11/14/recap-video-for-the-stylist-symposium-chicago

Ths Stylist Symposium is presented in partnership with Chicago Fashion Vanguard and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.