Symphony Center hosted Fashion in Concert: The Red Thread, an immersive evening in which a fashion runway unfolded alongside a live orchestral performance. Inspired by the ancient legend of the red thread, the night traced themes of connection, destiny and cross-disciplinary collaboration across art forms, communities and generations. Drawing more than 700 guests, the evening—hosted by the Overture Council, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s young professionals network—was produced by OC member Kimi Ellwein. Ahead of the show, VIP guests gathered for a reception featuring culinary partner El Che Steakhouse & Bar. Musicians from the Civic Orchestra of Chicago performed under the direction of Stefano Sarzani as models moved through the hall, with dancers introducing a contemporary counterpoint set to electronic compositions. The runway featured collections from Kammarra B, AJOVANG, Mabrook by Dana Asady and Jason DaVell. The event doubled as a benefit fundraiser for the Negaunee Music Institute, raising nearly $50,000 in support of music education and access initiatives in Chicago and beyond.

Model wearing an intricate, beaded white gown with feather details on a runway.

Crina Vlasceanu modeled Mabrook by Dana Asady.

Photo by Sasha Pasechnik

Two stylishly dressed people posing indoors at an event with purple lighting and ornate wood paneling.

Ella McCann and Patrick Finn

Photo by Enrique Villalon

Two stylishly dressed men, one wearing sunglasses and a fur-trimmed coat, posing indoors at an event.

Prince Saint and Isaac Crawford

Photo by David Sabat

Woman DJ wearing headphones, performing with mixer in an elegant room with purple lighting.

Jamie Hayes served as the DJ for the evening.

Photo by Enrique Villalon

Man wearing patterned Louis Vuitton outfit and dark glasses, holding a designer dog plush toy in indoor setting.

Clint Ecker arrived in Louis Vuitton.

Photo by Enrique Villalon