Fashion Group International
The Fashion Group International (FGI) is a global, non-profit, professional organization founded in 1930 in New York City to benefit the fashion industry. FGI currently has over 5000 members in the fashion industry including apparel, accessories, beauty and home. FGI is divided into chapters in cities all over the world (Canada, Colombia, England, México, Dominican Republic Seoul), with the major chapter in New York City.
History
FGI was founded informally by seventeen women, led by Vogue Editor-In-Chief Edna Woolman Chase, at a luncheon in New York City. The group was formed officially in 1930 in New York City. Founding and charter members included Elizabeth Arden, Julia Coburn, Eleanor Roosevelt, Helena Rubinstein, Lilly Daché, Edith Head, Mary Brooks Picken, Claire McCardell and Tobé Coller Davis.
FGI mission statement
The FGI mission is to be the pre-eminent authority on the business of fashion and design and to help its members become more effective in their careers. To do this, FGI provides insights on major trends in person, online and in print; access to business professionals and a gateway to the influence fashion plays in the marketplace.
FGI Goals
1. To advance professionalism in fashion and its related lifestyle industries. 2. To provide a public forum for examination of important, contemporary issues in the business of fashion. 3. To present timely information regarding national and global trends that have an effect on the fashion industries. 4. To attain greater recognition of men’s and women’s achievements in business. 5. To encourage men and women to seek career opportunities in fashion and related industries. 6. To provide activities and programs which enhance networking skills and encourage interpersonal contacts so as to further the professional, social and personal development of members.
FGI Archives
The Fashion Group's archives, spanning six decades of the fashion industry, are now housed at the New York Public Library.