[PHOTOS] Leather lovers show there’s nothing to hide at IML

The International Mr. Leather convention returned to the Windy City from May 23-27, 2024, drawing people from around the world. Activities surrounding the popular exposition included a major competition, various dance parties, and a leather market held at the Congress Plaza Hotel in Downtown Chicago.

Leather enthusiasts had nothing to hide as they wore a wide range of fashion items as they explored three floors of products and services offered by vendors each afternoon. 

Guests could partake in libations from remote bars throughout the venue and, if they were Bootblack fans, possibly enjoy a shoeshine.  

It wasn’t just fun and games, though. There were also supportive opportunities scheduled over the weekend, such as multiple recovery meetings, religious gatherings, and Howard Brown Health at a table within the market to assist with health resource information. The planned programming began Thursday at the Leather Archives & Museum for a kinky history lesson that rolled into the official IML opening ceremony at the host hotel at night. 

Related

PHOTOS: Off Sunset Festival gives LA Leather Pride a happy ending
We rounded up some Off Sunset Festival photos that’ll make you squeal, “Thank you, sir, may we have another?!”

Informative classes and fetish groups were sprinkled throughout the calendar found in the official guidebook. 

On Sunday, the official contest took place at the McCormick Place Skyline Ballroom, and the IML Victory Celebration had folks grooving to DJs at the Concord Music Hall in Bucktown. 

On Monday, the winners of IML met with premium package holders at a private reception, and a Black and Blue Ball at Chop Shop in Wicker Park finished the holiday festivities with a bang. 

Of course, GayCities was at the expo to take photos. Check out the slideshow for some of the best looks.