CHICAGO, Ill. — Elizabeth Herwaldt returns to the runway for Sustainable Fashion Week Chicago (SFWC) for Fall Winter 2026 (FW26).
Herwaldt, a student designer, first enrolled in sewing class when she was in the 8th grade. She fell in love with the process. When asked what she likes most, she said, “the right clothes bring confidence and joy to others.”
This inspired Herwaldt to study fashion design at College of DuPage. “I love the whole process of designing but not the industry pitfalls,” she said. “I decided I want to be part of the change.”
After graduating from College of DuPage, Herwaldt decided to continue her education. Currently, she is finishing her degree in social entrepreneurship and ethical leadership at North Central College, while designing and creating sustainable fashion looks.
The degree supports her goals of fashion design and entrepreneurship as she is scaling her own business.
When asked about the fashion company she’s starting that helps small business owners make ethical and inclusive clothes, Herwaldt said, “the best way to make the industry a better place is to work together just like Sustainable Fashion Week Chicago does.”
Herwaldt first debuted with SFWC for the Blue Paradox Sustainable Fashion Show. This season, Herwaldt prepares to launch a collection inspired by her personal grief journey.
Next show: Elizabeth Herwaldt will participate in the Fall Winter 2026 fashion show hosted by Sustainable Fashion Week Chicago on Saturday, September 26 at 4 pm.
Purchase a ticket to view this season’s collection and meet the designer.
