Designers in Residence Bio's: Taneasha Prunty

The Chicago Fashion Incubator at the Macy's on State serves as home to six highly talented and innovative designers.  With fall fashion season in full swing, it is only natural to give you an insider's look to the world of our blooming designers.  Today's show stopper is Taneasha Prunty: the creative mind behind her line, Gidi.
After studying finance at UIC, Taneasha decided to follow her passion and try her hand at designing elegant evening wear for the sophisticated woman.  Running with her idea  that every woman should invest in classic staples, Taneasha created a line that provides timeless beauty, or as she calls it "relaxed couture."  Aesthetically, she connects the subtle sophistication of vintage with the modern flair of the contemporary.  With such a striking appeal, the impression of her line is always unforgettable. Be sure to take a peek at the exciting new evening wear line, Gidi: www.gidionline.com.

Make Me a Model

Mario Tricoci is hosting it's second annual "Mario, Make Me A Model" Contest and CFI is excited to be partnering!

At the end of August six finalists were chosen and paired with our DIR.

Jacquelyn Davis with Ashley Zygmunt for Zamrie; Natalie Feliciano with Jess Audey for Audey; Jennifer Harrison with Cynthia Ryba; Veronica Kaczmarek with Catherine Furio for Furio; Cori Munro with Nora del Busto; and bringing back one of our DIR from the beginning of the year, Brian Kerwin with Alonzo Jackson for Fashion Geek. Plus one runner-up, Tatiana, was paired with our DIR Anna Hovet!

The models will spend six weeks preparing to walk the runway at the 2009 Fashion Focus fashion show in October wearing pieces created by our DIR. Our designers' collections will act as inspiration for the finalists' Mario Tricoci make-overs. The DIR will work with the finalists on a photo shoot for Chicago Magazine while meeting with them to fit and style their looks leading up to the show.

Stay tuned for our photo shoot!