Click Shoes and More
Cerulean I
Cynthia Rowley
Harry Winston
Malia Mills
Marc by Marc Jacobs
Nanette Lepore
Nau
Oprah Store
Pivot
SHE
Stellar 26
Tory Burch
Click Shoes and More
Who knew extremely affordable shoes would ever be found on the uber-chic Southport Corridor? Look no further than Click Shoes and More, located at 3729 N. Southport Ave. Click Shoes and More stocks trendy and VERY budget conscious favorites from Franco Sarto, Seychelles and Jessica Simpson. For comfy style, check out their selection of shoes and boots from Dr. Scholl’s and Aerosoles.
With many shoes are priced under $100, Click Shoes and More will help you amass a spectacular collection of shoes for all seasons without breaking your budget. Look for regular dot sales, where shoppers can save an extra 40-50% off already-reduced prices. To top it all off, the staff are amazingly friendly and quick to help you locate just the right shoe for every occasion. With great prices, great staff and great style, what more could you ask for?
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Trepanier. Publ. 08/07.
Cerulean I
Looking to perfect your casual weekend look? Stop by Cerulean I at 3657 N. Southport Ave, where pared-down comfy classics abound. Think Jennifer Aniston’s chic style when she’s not on set.
Formerly known as Shane, Cerulean I stocks much of the same casual brands, including tanks by Rebecca Beeson and many long and short sleeved options by Michael Stars. Look for premium denim offerings in the latest fits and styles, including wide leg trousers from Joe’s Jeans. For hip afternoon outings, carry one of Cerulean’s many purse options from Hobo International, all in colors that will seamlessly match your laid back ensemble. Men can step their unfussy urban chic with sweatshirts by Blue Marlin and Jake Agave.
While Cerulean I has got simple style covered, nothing will top your outfit like a beautiful necklace or earrings by local Chicago designers Myschief and Accessories to the Crime. From head to toe, you can count on Cerulean I to help you be the most fashionable person in sight, even if you’re just watching the game at the local pub!
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Trepanier. Publ. 08/07.
Cynthia Rowley
Although Barrington native Cynthia Rowley already has one store in Chicago (located on Armitage Ave. in Lincoln Park), she recently added another outpost for her signature feminine frocks and colorful accessories on hip Damen Avenue in Bucktown. This exquisite jewel box of a space is proof that sometimes the best things come in small packages – the boutique might be small, but it definitely packs quite a stylish punch.
Some recent popular items include jewel-toned satin cocktail dresses, many of which have unique quilted detailing, oversize patent leather handbags, Cynthia’s trademark glittery black opaque tights, and ladylike peep-toe pumps trimmed with shiny buckles and pony skin. The boutique also carries glamorous brocade coats and elegant hats, perfect for keeping warm in style during a Chicago winter.
The boutique also stocks Rowley’s newest book, “Slim, A Fantasy Memoir,” and a few pieces of whimsical china called Dirty Dishes. Altogether, dishy shopping for Chicago’s girly girls.
Cynthia Rowley
1653 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
773.276.9209
www.cynthiarowley.com
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 02/08.
Harry Winston
Jeweler of choice for celebrities, royalty, and aspiring showgirls (who can forget Marilyn Monroe crooning Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend), Harry Winston is a legendary name in hard rocks.
Recently, Chicago’s Gold Coast became home to the latest Harry Winston salon, a stunning 8000 square foot space devoted to the label’s fabulous jewels. Featuring exotic gemstones and sparkling diamonds, this elegant boutique is a place where dreams come true. And currently home to one of the largest diamonds in the world, a seventy-carat dazzler that definitely has to be seen to be believed.
If seventy carats of bling isn’t in the cards, Harry Winston also has lots of other amazing pieces. Of course this jewelry is as costly as it is beautiful.
However, the designs are classic and the quality is outstanding, so any precious piece is destined to be passed down for generations. For those who are not in the market for a glamorous rock or two but just want to browse the shop’s artful creations, the gracious environment is almost as memorable as the jewelry in the cases.
Harry WInston
55 E. Oak St.
Chicago, IL 60611
312.705.1820
www.harrywinston.com
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 03/08.
Malia Mills
Even the bravest woman tends to dread purchasing a new swimsuit; after all, it can be difficult to find a suit that both fits and flatters, and the standard cold dressing rooms and harsh lighting does no one any favors.
However, help is at hand at the new Malia Mills swimwear boutique on Halsted Street in Lincoln Park. Home to chic bikinis, sophisticated maillots, and a variety of cover-ups and accessories, this exquisite little shop takes the anxiety out of swimsuit shopping.
Along with an impressive array of colors and silhouettes, the Malia Mills swimwear collection boasts an impressive array of sizes; in fact, everything is sized according to bra and pant sizes from 30A to 40DD and 2 through 16, respectively, making it possible for every woman to choose the individual pieces that fit best. In addition, any of their styles can be customized – a bespoke order only takes two weeks.
Last but not least, their fitting rooms are exceptional spaces featuring soft lighting, cozy fleece benches, and elegant ivory drapes that provide a flattering backdrop for the merchandise.
Malia Mills Chicago
2050 N. Halsted St.
Chicago, IL 60614
773.404.0467
www.maliamills.com
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 02/08.
Marc by Marc Jacobs
The year is still young but one of Chicago’s most anticipated store openings has already occurred – the Marc by Marc Jacobs boutique finally opened its doors in Bucktown, to the delight of hip Chicagoans and stylish visitors alike.
Located on trendy Damen Avenue in a stark, minimalist space, the shop carries everything from canvas totes and kitschy bubble rings to the luxury items that Marc Jacobs is known for, including the cult favorite Stam bag and the “mouse” ballet flats.
In addition to these signature pieces, the boutique stocks a wide variety of affordable merchandise, including tons of logo t-shirts (many benefiting Marc’s favorite charities), quilted leather wallets and cosmetics bags, and a local exclusive: black and white rubber rain boots with the word Chicago splashed across the sides. Also showcased is his trademark Stinky Rat line of men’s polo shirts, lots of cozy thermals and cute casual dresses, and the entire collection of Marc Jacobs fragrances.
Longtime fans will find plenty to like – and purchase, whether they are ready to splurge on a new handbag or just want to take home a cheap and chic piece of jewelry endorsed by one of their favorite designers.
Marc by Marc Jacobs
1714 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL
773.276.2998
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 02/08.
Nanette Lepore
Nanette Lepore’s unapologetically girly designs have long been coveted by Chicago fashionistas, and now locals and visitors alike can indulge their passion for her feminine creations at her charming Bucktown boutique.
This light, airy space with just the right amount of girly pink provides an excellent showcase for the crisply tailored jackets, the demurely chic suits, and the beaded and lacy little frocks that the designer is known for. Also on display is the designer’s relatively new line of footwear and handbags.
Although most pieces are on the expensive side, Nanette Lepore’s collections typically contain many classic pieces that will remain stylish for years to come, so this is definitely a place to invest in that perfect little suit or cocktail dress. The boutique also carries many darling jackets with flattering nipped-in waists and a variety of evening separates that can be mixed and matched for the best possible fit.
Overall, this is an excellent shopping destination for anyone who simply enjoys being a girl – and wants to dress like it.
Nanette Lepore
1623 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL
773.489.4500
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 02/08.
Nau
Want made-to-last casual separates that are also good for the environment? Get your fill of earth-friendly fashion at Nau’s newly opened Chicago location. Situated at 2118 N. Halsted St., Nau (meaning Welcome in Polynesian) is a Portland, Oregon based company which features top to bottom fashion made from sustainable sources.
To qualify as “sustainable,” clothing must be made from materials that can be grown or reused – think soft cotton pullovers and streamlined windbreakers made from recycled plastic bottles. The craftsmanship is evident in the quality fabrics and stitching, so you can forget about anything falling apart in the first washing. Most items are meant to last for at least fifteen years, and with classic shapes and styles, you can count on your purchase to be in style for that long, too!
Look for earth tones like rust, sea and olive that will make your wardrobe perfect for all seasons. Whether you’re an environmentalist, or just on the lookout for quality-made threads, Nau’s natural apparel offerings will satisfy.
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Trepanier. Publ. 08/07.
The Oprah Store
A visit to Harpo Studios is often the highlight of a trip to Chicago, and now visitors can pick up an Oprah-approved souvenir or two before they leave at her new store, located right around the corner from the West Loop studio complex.
Stocked with logo-emblazoned separates for fans of all ages, this sunshine-filled space also features an assortment of Oprah’s favorite books (including titles by Maya Angelou, fitness guru Bob Greene, and relationship expert Robin Smith) and handcrafted items from South Africa, the home of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls.
Some recent picks include adorable baby gear, brightly colored sweats and robes, and exotic beaded bowls and other decorative objects evoking Oprah’s passions.
While the merchandise in the store may change with the season, everything has to pass muster with Ms. Winfrey herself before it reaches the store’s shelves.
Visitors can even try on – and purchase - select items from Oprah’s closet, including eveningwear and designer shoes. Shoppers picking up a few new favorite things need not feel guilty about splurging either, because all the store proceeds go directly to Oprah’s Angel Network.
The Oprah Store
37 N. Carpenter St., Chicago
312.633.2100
www.oprah.com
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 02/08.
Pivot
Embracing all that is environmentally conscious is certainly a huge trend these days, and thanks to Pivot, Chicago’s first completely “green” boutique, it is incredibly simple to be simultaneously eco-friendly and fashionable. The clothing and accessories are all completely organic and sustainable, as well as utterly chic and highly wearable, even for those who are more fashionista than tree-hugger.
Located in the Fulton Market District in the West Loop, Pivot carries both men’s and women’s clothing from labels such as Linda Loudermilk, Sans, Loyale, and Ciel. The focus is on classic basics and ultra-softs crafted from materials like hemp, soy, bamboo, and organic cotton. Moreover, eco-devotees can purchase handbags constructed with their own built-in power sources – Noon handbags’ solar panels can actually charge cell phones and Blackberries. There are even green underpinnings in the form of silky Lenpur lingerie and textured tights.
The space itself is also 100% green. The shop’s interior, designed by local artist Joshua Height of Brickermade, is also filled with furniture built with recycled materials (some of which can be purchased). Saving the planet has never been so stylish!
Pivot
1101 W. Fulton Mkt.
Chicago, IL 60607
312.243.4754
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 03/08.
SHE
SHE Boutique, an acronym for She Has Everything, is a complete understatement for this new apparel store at 1024 W. Armitage. SHE Boutique is fashion central, covering the gamut from bold print dresses by Alisha Levine all the way to tanks you can literally live in by Enzo Costa. The store’s cool, casual atmosphere with large plasma screens ensures shopping with your significant other will be a painless excursion for both of you. The staff is more than willing to answer questions, and will be happy to share their opinion on how to mix and match each and every uber-trendy piece.
For chillier weather, SHE has an extensive collection of buttery-soft leather jackets by designers Stella and Jamie and S.W.O.R.D. Try one of the motorcycle jackets, a great style investment and surefire way to toughen up your fall wardrobe. Get comfy in sweats by Bilingual and dressy in a sexy vintage-inspired tunic by Rory Beca. Make SHE your go-to shop to build a wardrobe that will have everyone asking where you shop. Take a cue from the boutique’s name and don’t stop shopping at SHE until YOU have everything!
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Trepanier. Publ. 08/07.
Stellar 26
Urban bohemian meets casual beach town chic. That’s exactly what you will think when you walk into the new North Center casual boutique, Stellar 26.
The casual seaside aesthetic makes this shop stand out, with vintage furniture serving as merchandise fixtures. Look for stylish cotton dresses and comfy waffle knit tees from Free People. What beach chick wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without jeans and shorts from the popular surf style brands, Roxy and Quiksilver. Both men and women can enjoy casual items from Original Penguin and comfy shoes from Reef, perfect for late summer walks by the lake. With most prices under $100, you will be happy to know that your budget won’t wash away with the tide. Close your eyes and you will hear the surf long after summer has faded away.
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Trepanier. Publ. 08/07.
Tory Burch
Mix equal parts all-American chic and bohemian flair, and the result is Tory Burch’s modern classics.
While the designer’s collections have been available at Chicago department stores and boutiques for some time, her new Gold Coast boutique is her first stand-alone shop in the Windy City. The preppy green and orange space is filled with timeless basics, including tailored trench coats, cashmere sweaters, and her cult classic ballet flats embellished with her signature “T” logo. However, the boutique also stocks more daring pieces, like sequined mini dresses and exotic print shifts.
Despite her new store’s relatively recent opening, Tory Burch is no stranger to Chicago; her modern classics have even been endorsed by Oprah, In fact, it was the New York socialite’s appearance on Oprah’s show that brought her national attention, and Chicago women (as well as visitors in the know) have been fans of her distinctive creations and enduring style ever since.
Tory Burch
66 E. Walton St.
Chicago, IL 60611
312.280.0010
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – J. Zenn. Publ. 03/08.
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