Arcade meets fashion: PRESS START this Wednesday

What if getting dressed had a character select screen?

That's the energy we're bringing to Emporium this Wednesday.

PRESS START turns the arcade into an arena where style meets competition.

Event Snapshot

🎮 PRESS START

WHEN: Wednesday, January 7, 2026 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

WHERE: Emporium Wicker Park 1366 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

MUSIC: DJ Vic Lloyd

VIBE: Tekken + Street Fighter aesthetics Fashion combat. Arcade games. Neon lights.

PRIZE: Best-dressed takes the crown 👑

The Concept

You dress for the gala.

You dress for the runway.

Why not the arcade?

PRESS START is about bringing intentionality to everyday moments. Think: the outfit you'd wear if your life had character selection screens.

What to Expect

The Arena

• Arcade games and neon lights at Emporium

• DJ Vic Lloyd controlling the soundtrack

• Photography stations for your character select moment

The Dress Code

• Tekken-inspired energy

• Street Fighter aesthetics

• Maximum effort required

• Think: Jin Kazama's structured black leather, Chun-Li's blue and gold, Nina Williams' tactical purple

🏆 The Competition

• Best-dressed wins the round

• Recognition and prizes for top fits

• Your crew = your roster

Who's Behind This

Presented by Homecoming Chicago × Chicago Fashion Coalition

Bringing together Chicago's designers, models, stylists, photographers, and fashion lovers who dress with intention.

Outfit Inspiration Section

Need style guidance?

Here's your character select:

Tekken Energy:

• Jin Kazama: Sleek black leather, structured silhouettes

• Nina Williams: Lilac/purple tones, tactical details

• Kazuya: Dark tones, sharp tailoring

• Lili: Elegant high-fashion with edge

Street Fighter Vibes:

• Chun-Li: Blue + gold accents, athletic luxury

• Ryu: White minimalist streetwear

• Cammy: Green + camo, utilitarian fits

• Juri: Purple + black, avant-garde edge

The goal: Recognizable energy, not costume.

Round 1 starts Wednesday.

Press Start.

CFC & Homecoming Chicago Team