Glamorama 2013: Chicago dresses up for the most decadent fashion fête of the season

Anyone living in Chicago these past fifteen years will understand this: there is a noticeable joie de vivre that casts an auspicious glow over city-dwellers in early August.

Glamorama 2013

Fashion in a New Light

This year, it might have something to do with a loveable Grammy winner (ahem…Sheryl Crow) or a spectacular Canadian circus troupe (Cirque du Soleil, yep), but the countdown to what is perhaps the single greatest stars-and-fashion-galore event of the summer can be summed up in a single word: Glamorama.

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Crooner Sheryl Crow

Kerry Shorr caught up with three of the űberglam women helming what has been declared one of the most spectacular nights Chicago has ever seen.

Andrea Schwartz
Vice President, Media Relations and Cause Marketing
Macy's

How many Glamorama(s) have you attended?
If you combine those I've attended in Chicago and Minneapolis (both Macy's markets), it's a grand total of 30. I've worked and attended Glamorama every year in both Chicago and Minneapolis since 1998. I remember comedian Ellen DeGeneres opened the show in Chicago in 1998 and witnessed the most outstanding fashions set against a fantastic show-stopping backdrop.

What aspect of Glamorama are most anticipating this year?
There is never just one aspect, but three: fashion, entertainment and the after-party. The show and party are pure spectacle and fun. This year Cirque du Soleil will perform segments from its "Mystere" production in Las Vegas at Treasure Island. Maison Jules, Macy's new Parisian inspired fashion line, is making its debut. I'm looking forward to the after party, getting photos taken, enjoying signature cocktails, and dancing with the beautiful crowd.

Which Sheryl Crow song do you hope she performs?
“If It Makes You Happy" is one of my favorites.

Why is Glamorama such an important event to attend?
The best part about Macy's Glamorama is that it raises money for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Every ticket the charity sells goes directly to the House, whose focus is making families as comfortable as possible during a difficult time.

What are you planning to wear?
A sleeveless, ruffled orange Max Mara dress.

Christina Thomas
(pictured right, with Candace Jordan)
Director of Events
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI)

What is your favorite part of Glamorama?
It’s such a high-energy show and I absolutely love the excitement when the dancers come out on stage.

Ronald McDonald House Charities inspires so many people. How can more Chicagoans get involved?
We are always looking for new friends to help donate their time, talents and treasures. Our four local Houses have a “Meals From the Heart” program where volunteers can come prepare a home-cooked meal for our families. We can always use help with day-to-day House duties, from stocking our family pantries, to replenishing the movies in our family living spaces.

Glamorama has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to RMHC-CNI. How does the organization put the monies to use?
2013 marks over a million dollars raised for our four local Ronald McDonald Houses. Monies provide a ‘home away from home’ for families of children with complex medical needs. Our Houses offer comfort, compassion and a sense of community to families going through the most difficult time of their lives. It’s critical to keep families together during this time of healing and recovery.

What are you planning to wear to Glamorama?
I am leaning towards a look that is bold, edgy, and colorful. A bright lipstick is also a must.

To learn more about RMHC-CNI and volunteer opportunities, click HERE.

Candace Jordan
Host, “Candid Candace Chicago”
Watch312.com

Define Glamorama in 3 words.
Fashion. Stars. Music.

Each year, Glamorama helps to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for Ronald McDonald House Charities. RMHC-CNI's Ken Norgan personally asked you to take part. Why is this charity so close to your heart?
It means more to me than I can put into words. When I saw the level of love and hope that Ronald McDonald House Charities instills in families, I was a goner. I also had the opportunity to get to know the Herrick family and little Max Herrick who told me how much he loved the Houses because they kept his family close and made him feel safe. I'm honored to help bring this wonderful message of hope to life for everyone.

What are you planning to wear to Glamorama?
Last year I wore fashions by Bar III, which was a new line at Macy's. I hope to repeat last year's success with my outfit this year!