Summer, rooftop and networking were the ingredients of the August Fashion Industry Mixer. Could it be the nice weather that drew the crowd or our events are gaining in popularity, as we’ve had an even bigger crowd this time.

The event took place on August 2, 2011on the rooftop patio of the Citizen Bar located in River North. The venue provided a perfect laid back atmosphere, their made from scratch hors d’oeuvres and wine.

Fashion Industry Mixer is a social networking event for fashion industry professionals and those who aspire to be in the industry. Its goal is to help fashion designers, photographer, models, bloggers to connect, build relationships and find opportunities for collaboration.

To make it easier to navigate the crowd, everyone’s nametags are color coded. Fashion designer get light blue, photographers – darker green, models – yellow, and hairstylists, makeup artists, stylists and bloggers all get their own color. When looking for someone in particular the name tags make it easy to spot the right people. Altogether there are 8 industry categories.

While there were many new faces attending the Fashion Industry Mixer, there were quite a few that are becoming regulars at our events. And that brings us to our next tip of how to get the most benefit from networking.

How does one turn an acquaintance intro a trusted associate? Consistency and continuity are the keys to successful networking. Just like Rome wasn’t build in one day, a strong business connection doesn’t just happen. Always network, attend events, make sure you’re seen and not forgotten. Follow up with people you’ve met at fashion industry events. And be sure to chat with them at the next one.

If you had missed the last Fashion Industry Mixer or would like to come back to strengthen those relationships, there is another one coming up next month. Mark your calendars for September 13 and join us for an evening of fashion and networking at the Old Town Social.

Event photography by Nadine Sebai.