Runway for a Cause: DJ Akib and Zzazz Productions Shine at Glitz & Glamour 2026
The Grand Ballroom of The Peninsula Chicago was transformed into a sanctuary of style and philanthropy on Friday, March 6, 2026, for the annual Glitz & Glamour fashion show. This signature event, hosted by A Silver Lining Foundation (ASLF), brought together Chicago’s elite for an afternoon of high fashion, luxury, and a shared commitment to breast health. With the legendary Tracey Tarantino of Zzazz Productions at the helm of production and DJ Akib providing the high-octane soundtrack, the event was a masterclass in how fashion can drive meaningful change.
| Event Name | Glitz & Glamour 2026 |
| Organization | A Silver Lining Foundation |
| Date | March 6, 2026 |
| Venue | The Peninsula Chicago |
| Producer | Tracey Tarantino (Zzazz Productions) |
| Music | DJ Akib |
A Masterclass in Fashion Production by Zzazz Productions
When it comes to fashion show production in Chicago, the name Tracey Tarantino is synonymous with excellence. As the founder of Zzazz Productions, Tracey has spent decades crafting some of the most visually stunning and seamless runway experiences in the country. For Glitz & Glamour 2026, Zzazz Productions curated a breathtaking showcase featuring a "who's who" of celebrated designers, including Maria Pinto, Contessa Bottega, Menotti Couture, Confidence Apparel, Sylwia Designs, Tamara Ellingson, Peach Carr, Elda de la Rosa Couture, and Mira Couture. The choreography and styling reflected Tracey’s signature touch—elegant, bold, and perfectly paced to keep the audience captivated from the first walk to the final bow.
The Pulse of the Runway: DJ Akib’s Sonic Signature
A high-end fashion show lives and breathes through its music, and DJ Akib was the heartbeat of Glitz & Glamour 2026. Known for his international reputation and 15-year career, Akib brought a sophisticated blend of genres that perfectly complemented the luxury designs on the runway. His ability to synchronize beats with the models' strides and the overall energy of the room is why he remains the top choice for Tracey Tarantino and Zzazz Productions. Whether it was the upbeat energy of the cocktail hour or the dramatic crescendos of the main show, DJ Akib’s performance ensured that the atmosphere remained electric.
"Fashion is about movement and emotion. My goal is always to create a soundscape that elevates the designer's vision and keeps the energy of the room at its peak." — DJ Akib
Fashion for Philanthropy: Raising $67,000 for Breast Health
Beyond the stunning designs and the impeccable production, the true star of the afternoon was the mission of A Silver Lining Foundation. Founded by Dr. Sandy Goldberg, the foundation works tirelessly to provide cost-free breast health testing to those in need. This year’s Glitz & Glamour was a resounding success, raising an incredible $67,000. These funds go directly toward screening mammograms, biopsies, and other life-saving tests, ensuring that "a silver lining" is available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
Featured Designers and Highlights
The runway featured an eclectic mix of custom couture and elegant jewelry, creating a comprehensive look at the 2026 fashion landscape.
*Couture Excellence:** Designs from Contessa Bottega, Menotti Couture, and Sylwia Designs showcased the diversity of Chicago’s fashion talent.
*Luxury Accents:** The models were adorned with exquisite pieces from A. Marek Fine Jewelry, adding an extra layer of "glitz" to the afternoon.
*Expert Emceeing:** The event was expertly guided by emcee Lisa Aprati, whose professional delivery kept the program on track and the audience engaged.
For those who missed the live event, you can catch highlights and behind-the-scenes footage of DJ Akib’s set and Zzazz Productions’ work on their respective social media channels. If you are looking to bring this level of professional production and musical expertise to your next event, visit www.djakib.com (https://www.djakib.com) for booking inquiries.
Support the Cause:
A Silver Lining Foundation continues to accept donations to support their life-saving programs. To learn more or to contribute, visit [asilverliningfoundation.org](https://asilverliningfoundation.org).
