Attendee Checklist for ILOE Studios: What Every Retailer Needs to Know

Attending ILOE Studios 2025 in Rosemont, Chicago, March 23-25, is your chance to connect with the world’s top luxury outerwear, women’s apparel, and accessories brands. To make the most of this premier event, we’ve put together a comprehensive checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared to maximize your time and opportunities at the show.

1. Registration Confirmation

Before heading out, make sure your registration is confirmed. Keep the email confirmation or digital ticket handy for easy check-in at the venue. Pro tip: screenshot your registration info for offline access.

  • Must-have: Confirmation email or digital ticket
  • Pro tip: Sign up to our newsletter, for easy event access and schedule updates.

2. Show Map & Schedule

ILOE Studios is a boutique event in a convention center setting, so familiarizing yourself with the venue layout and the daily schedule is key. Review the list of exhibitors and mark which booths you want to visit. Knowing your “must-see” brands ahead of time will save you energy and help you make the most of your experience.

  • Must-have: Download our show schedule and map when it's released to easily access your favorite and upcoming brands.
  • Pro tip: Highlight the brands or categories that align with your retail needs—whether it’s luxury outerwear, accessories, or apparel.

3. Business Cards & Digital Contacts

Networking is one of the biggest benefits of attending a trade show like ILOE. Come equipped with plenty of business cards or, better yet, a digital business card app for seamless exchange. Ensure you’ve updated your contact details to reflect your current business.

  • Must-have: Business cards (physical or digital)
  • Pro tip: Prepare a short elevator pitch about your store, what you’re looking for, and how partnerships can benefit you and the exhibitor.

4. Buyer Credentials

ILOE Studios is an order writing show for the trade only so be sure to bring proper buyer credentials such as a resale license, business ID, or company letterhead. This ensures you’re able to gain access to the show and be prepared for wholesale transactions and can strike deals with exhibitors.

  • Must-have: Buyer credentials (resale license, business ID, etc.)
  • Pro tip: Many brands appreciate retailers who are ready to place orders on the spot—bring a plan for the orders you want to make!

5. Tech Gear (Charged and Ready!)

ILOE Studios 2025 is a digital-friendly event, so come prepared with all the tech you’ll need. Whether it’s a tablet, smartphone, or laptop, make sure it’s fully charged and bring a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day. Taking notes, capturing photos of key pieces, or live-updating your team back home will be easier with the right tech on hand.

  • Must-have: Phone, tablet, laptop, portable chargers
  • Pro tip: Use your device’s camera to snap photos of booth numbers or product details to revisit later.

6. Comfortable Shoes & Professional Attire

While fashion is the focus at ILOE, comfort is key. You’ll be walking a lot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes while maintaining a professional appearance. Plan to layer, as the Chicago weather in March can be unpredictable.

  • Must-have: Comfortable, business-appropriate attire
  • Pro tip: Bring a stylish yet functional tote or backpack to carry brochures, samples, and other materials you collect throughout the day.

7. Your Store’s Lookbook or Mood Board

Come prepared with your store’s lookbook or digital mood board to showcase your vision when talking with exhibitors. This will help exhibitors better understand your brand and guide you toward collections that align with your aesthetic.

  • Must-have: Digital or physical lookbook/mood board
  • Pro tip: Create a Pinterest board for visual inspiration and show it to exhibitors when discussing product fits for your store.

8. Social Media Game Plan

ILOE Studios is a great opportunity to capture content for your store’s social media channels. Take behind-the-scenes footage, snap photos of new collections, and tag the brands you love. Use the show’s official hashtags to engage with other attendees and create buzz around your brand.

  • Must-have: Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn accounts ready to post
  • Pro tip: Follow ILOE Studios and exhibitors ahead of time, and engage with them before and during the event.

9. Budget Plan & Order Forms

With so many incredible brands in one place, it’s easy to get carried away. Be sure to come with a budget in mind and order forms ready to go. Set spending limits based on your store’s seasonal needs and stock gaps.

  • Must-have: Pre-determined budget and store inventory lists
  • Pro tip: Don’t forget to ask about show specials or discounts that may be available for orders placed during the event.

10. Hotel, Travel, and COVID Safety Essentials

If you’re traveling from out of town, make sure your travel plans and accommodations are in order. ILOE Studios has made special accomodations with our parnter hotel and airline partners to ensure an easy and cost-effective trip to the show.

  • Must-have: Hotel reservation, travel itinerary
  • Pro tip:  ILOE Studios often offers show-related raffles for accommodations—make sure you’re entered for a chance to win free hotel stays!

Additional Tips for a Successful ILOE Studios 2025:

  • Join the Conversation: Use the official show hashtag #ILOE2025 to stay connected and share your journey with other attendees.
  • Follow Up: After the show, be sure to follow up with the connections you made to solidify partnerships and deals.

We Can’t Wait to See You at ILOE Studios 2025!

ILOE Studios is more than just a trade show—it’s a premier platform to grow your business, discover new collections, and connect with global industry leaders. By following this checklist, you’ll ensure that you’re ready to make the most out of your ILOE Studios experience. See you in Rosemont!

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