Jul 28, 2026 - Culture

Chicago teens show off designs learned at library

Chicago Public Library is giving teens a chance to express themselves through fashion. The young designers will showcase their work this week.

The big picture: Local designers teach fashion design, sewing and business skills to teens at CPL's Radical Fit program.

Chicago fashion designers Sky Cubacub of Rebirth Garments and Vieve of Vulpinic served as this year's Radical Fit mentors.

Driving the news: Participants will show off their designs at the Queer Radical Fair on Thursday at Ping Tom Park.

What to expect: A fashion show, live music, a photobooth, arts and crafts and free ice cream from The Original Rainbow Cone.

State of play: Teens who participate in Radical Fit receive up to $150 in supplies and are paid $16.60 an hour.

The program accepts Chicago students ages 13 to 19, who must submit up to 10 original works and an artist statement to be considered.

If you go: Queer Radical Fair takes place 4-8pm Thursday at Ping Tom Memorial Park.

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