Slideshow: SAIC Presents Fashion 2011

We’re always on the lookout for fresh fashion talent, and when it comes to our local scene, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s (SAIC) fashion department is one of the best in the country. Known for their high concept approach to design, the school boasts an impressive alumni list that includes: Halston, Cynthia Rowley, Maria Pinto, Gary Graham, Matthew Ames, and Lawrence Steele. And when we sat down to their 77th Annual Fashion Show in Millennium Park, gazing at the 250+ looks that walked the runway was like witnessing an endless parade of wearable art.

SAIC sophomores each showed one garment that was made of cotton and that could only be dyed through the gray-scale. Juniors showed a 3-piece collection and seniors showed five looks. All students worked from a concept of their choosing.Precious prizes were also on hand: After Sally Singer (fashion editor of T: The New York Times Style Magazine) honored Ikram Goldman with the fashion department’s Legend of Fashion award, one-year internships with Proenza Schouler and Jenna Lyons were awarded to seniors Jacqueline Kim and Erin Pianetto. Obviously, we know Chicago houses some seriously amazing fashion talent, but don’t just take our word for it: Click through for our favorite looks from the show.