‘Features’
A Foundation for Fashion Growth
Wednesday, March 9th, 2011
When charity and fashion merge, they offer the promise of inspiration and entertainment. Every year at the Chicago Fashion Foundation’s Annual Scholarship Benefit, the organization awards local fashion students with scholarship money based on their one-of-a-kind ensembles. This year’s inspiration was Chicago’s music scene, and with the community’s support, CFF was able to give away a whopping $6,500 to three lucky winners.
This was CFF’s fourth benefit to date. It was held last Thursday at The Chicago History Museum and was hosted by “Project Runway” contestant (a Chicago native) Peach Carr. About 200 attendees and CFF members mingled under twinkling chandeliers while the Ravinia Jazz Scholars serenaded its audience of fashionable guests. A cocktail reception with gourmet hors d’oeuvres, from grapes rolled in goat cheese to Crumbs cupcakes, completed the pre-show entertainment.
While the who’s who took their seats, the impressive panel of judges were introduced: Candace Jordan, a Chicago fashion enthusiast and blogger; Catie Keogh, the host of NBC’s 24/7; Amanda Monteiro of Georgio Armani; and Lara Miller, the adored Chicago eco-designer. They watched as nine students showcased their designs on the runway, competing for one of the scholarships: $500, $1,000 and $5,000. Before the final judgment, Peach Carr presented her own spring line of tennis separates inspired by the ’70s.
The third place award went to Rebecca Lopez of Columbia College for her design inspired by the Maxwell Street Blues, consisting of a weaved graphic skirt and white-trimmed blouse. Second was K’Lynn Kennedy from The International Academy of Design and Technology. Her tuxedo-inspired suit with skinny trousers, cummerbund and sharp-lapelled blazer reflected music with a classical edge. The winner was Ana Leon from The School of The Art Institute. Her original design inspired by Chicago’s jazz scene was a silky gray-blue bustier and pencil skirt. The lady-like silhouette could have stepped right out of the ’20s and was impressively constructed.
Although not everyone went home a winner, all the students left knowing they have the support of a growing community of local-fashion lovers. As Chicago’s scene evolves, it’s imperative we cultivate it with fresh ideas, new talent and a double dose of local patronage. Through opportunities and events like this, our city continues on its way to fostering a more habitable place for fashion to thrive and for dreams to become reality.
Well done student designers and CFF!
By Maia McGinley
Photography by Tutto Bene Photography
Tags: Amanda Monteiro, Ana Leon, Candace Jordan, Catie Keogh, Columbia College, K'Lynn Kennedy, Lara Miller, Rebecca Lopez, The International Academy of Design and Technology, The School of The Art Institute
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On Point
Tuesday, February 15th, 2011
I never thought I’d support a revival of the pointy-toe shoe, but after years of round shapes and months of clunky boots, this classic style couldn’t be more refreshing. Unlike most footwear trends that rotate out of the closet after a season or two, the right pair of pumps are an investment that will reemerge for decades. Why? They’re timeless, versatile and loved by woman of all ages.
Basically, pointy-toe pumps equip us shoe collectors with all the practical reasons to justify coming home with another box of Manolos. Pointy toes transition from season to season, and more importantly for modern ladies, from day to night. There’re an array of styles–from d’Orsay stilettos to unconventional straps to kitten heels–that suit every occasion and taste. Whether your style is classic, edgy, glam or preppy, and you’re headed to work, date or cocktail reception, you’ll delight in all the pointy styles available for spring.
Practicality aside, though, there’s another reason these shoes are a must have: attitude. Ladylike yet fierce, these heels have a way of saying, “I’m sweet and classy, but get the hell out of my way.” Ranging from conservative ‘50s styles to full-out mod, pointy toes can tone down or amp up a look with their leg-lengthening silhouette, eye-catching embellishments, austere cuts and slew of delicious colors.
Simply choose one (or two, or three…) of the hundreds styles and pair it with cocktail dresses, pencil skirts, tapered trousers, boyfriend jeans, miniskirts, et al. One can’t deny the resurgence of this timeless trend is one chic, fashionably versatile move that allows us to accent just about any outfit with pointy toes. This spring, I think you’ll all join me by saying, “Welcome back, pointy-toe pumps!”
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Schutz lavender suede pump ($214; shopbop.com). The chicest pump for spring. Understated enough for work, pretty enough for tea and fierce enough for drinks.
2. Kate Spade “Licorice” pump ($285; Shirise; 341 Park Avenue, Glencoe, IL). Basic, black and just plain sexy.
3. Valentino studded lace ankle wrap pump ($995; Neiman Marcus). Edgy and fearless. This shoe is not what you would expect from a comfortable and surprisingly versatile shoe.
4. Blue pointed pump ($90; Zara). There’s a reason Elvis wrote a song about blue suede shoes. Colorful, fun and a perfect pick-me-up to cure the winter doldrums.
5. Giuseppe Zanotti red patent leather “V” strap pump ($550; Saks Fifth Avenue). Va-va-voom! Femme fatale at its best.
6. Christian Louboutin “Pigalili 120 mm” ($3,545; Christian Louboutin). The power to stop ‘em dead in their tracks. Literally.
7. Messeca “Jesenia” pump ($110; Pump Shoes and Accessories; 1659 W Division Street). Add some swing to your swagger with these show-stoppers.
8. Topshop “Glitz Bow Point Court Shoe” ($125; Topshop). Conservative for the office, but fashion-forward for the weekend.
By Maia McGinley
Images courtesy of shopbop.com, Kate Spade, Neiman Marcus, Zara, Saks Fifth Avenue, Christian Louboutin, Pump Shoes and Accessories, and Topshop
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Heels, Kate Spade, Messeca, Neiman Marcus, Pump Shoes and Accessories, Saks Fifth Avenue, Schultz, Shoes, shopbop.com, Topshop, Trends, Valentino, Zara
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Blogger Profile: Chicago Looks Street Style
Tuesday, December 28th, 2010
As a regular contributor to Style Admirer’s StyleHunter department, Chicago Look‘s Isa Giallorenzo (shown upper left) has her camera on the city’s burgeoning fashion scene. The street style blogger focuses on locals with a distinct sense of fashion: Midwestern sensibilities and high style. Whether it be full-on trend or straight-up unique, Isa searches for looks to create interesting snapshots that mix things up as often as fashion itself.
Isa comes to Chicago by way of São Paulo, Brazil, where she studied journalism–a natural beginning for an avid photographer, analyst and documenter. After moving here two years ago, she launched Chicago Looks, which caught our eye for its perspective and dynamic content. She updates the blog several times a week to peak her readers’ interest and keep her finger on the city’s fashion pulse.
We caught up with Isa to get a deeper understanding of how and why she does what she does. Here’s what she had to say:
SA: Why did you start street-style blogging?
IG: I’ve always liked fashion and photographing people, so taking street-style pics was just natural. I used to do the same thing for a popular Brazilian fashion blog, so when I got here, I felt like continuing my work.
SA: What do you look for when taking your snapshots?
IG: It’s kinda hard to point out what I’m looking for. I honestly don’t know. Whenever I look at a person and it clicks, I know I need a picture. I guess I’m looking for people who have a great sense of their personal style, who are really genuine and smart about their sartorial choices. What I really don’t care about is labels.
SA: Who are your readers?
IG: Fashion lovers, for sure. Nosy folks like me, who like to check people out! But more specifically, they’re mostly from the US, even though I have plenty of hits from Europe, Asia and South America.
SA: What inspires you?
IG: Genuine style. Cool people.
SA: What do you love about Chicago street style?
IG: It’s totally cool, wearable. It’s not over the top.
SA: Do you blog exclusively for Chicago Looks?
IG: Here in the States, I also keep my Vintage Heaven blog, and I’m about to start one that will be a bit like my visual diary. I’ll keep you posted!
SA: When did you start blogging?
IG: I started blogging…2004? 2003? A long time ago. I started it with a friend to just basically rant about everything and everyone. I launched Chicago Looks in April 2009.
SA: Where do you tend to take the most photos?
IG: Definitely Wicker Park…the two reasons being: It’s still where you can find the most stylish people in town and also because that’s right on my way home. Unfortunately, I don’t have a special time to just shoot. I do it on my way to places.
SA: Why do you think style blogging is so huge in fashion?
IG: Blogging nowadays is a very easy way for people to express themselves, and that’s a very basic human need. I’m so thrilled we live in an age where anyone can have their own space to say whatever they want! And be heard! If the content is good, you will certainly be heard. That’s the beauty of it.
SA: When and how did you become interested in fashion?
IG: I know exactly the day. I was in fourth grade, and it was a no-uniform day at school. That’s when I came to that very common…and sad…conclusion that I had nothing to wear and started my quest for the perfect outfit.
SA: What are your favorite blogs?
IG: Facehunter is for sure my all-time favorite. I have a list of my favorite street style blogs on the right side bar of my blog.
SA: Do you have a favorite Chicago boutique?
IG: I’m not a boutique lover. I like shopping at places where shopping attendants give no attention to me whatsoever! But if you’re talking about a local place to shop, I’d certainly recommend Vintage Heaven. I’m not saying it just because I organize it! It’s really good!
SA: Who is your favorite designer, both international and local?
IG: Local…Alma Wieser. I love her hats! International…Since we’re in a Lanvin craze right now, I’ll say Alber Elbaz.
SA: How do think our street style is different from the fashion capitals?
IG: I think we don’t have as many fashion victims here. People are more authentic.
SA: Do you have advice for other local street style bloggers?
IG: I’d just tell them to do their thing…not to worry about being popular. Just post looks you love, and your identity will certainly show.
Photography by Chicago Looks
By Meghan Turner
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An Exclusive Interview with Supermodel Adriana Lima
Wednesday, December 15th, 2010
Last Wednesday night, I trekked out to Woodfield Mall for a chat with the one and only Adriana Lima. The Brazilian supermodel’s visit outshown even the $2 million fantasy bra she had in tow. The dazzling undergarment, adorned with more than 3,000 precious stones, was created for her comeback performance in the annual Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show last month, a year after giving birth to her baby girl. Upon her arrival in Schaumburg, the massive crowd–which had been gathering for hours–screamed and even shed tears at the mere sight of her. I immediately realized the magnitude of my encounter with the beauty: this model is a freakin’ rock star. Luckily the angel took a break from the runway, photo shoots and motherhood to visit Chicagoland and answer a few questions for us.
Here’s what the angel had to say:
SA: So how does it feel to wear the bra?
AL: It’s amazing. I love diamonds, and I love jewelry. It’s my second year wearing the fantasy bra. It’s designed by Damiani, and so far it’s the most beautiful diamond bra that Victoria’s Secret has done. It’s my favorite. It’s very elegant. It’s very sophisticated, the design, the colors–diamonds, sapphires, and topaz.
SA: Is it heavy?
AL: You know you would think it is; but it is very comfortable. They work so many hours to make sure it’s comfortable. But you know what, even if it was heavy, whatever. Cold, heavy, it feels great!
SA: What is your favorite thing you wore down the VS runway?
AL: This year I liked my first outfit. It was red…you know, like a Spanish, rock and roll feeling. I loved the fantasy bra too.
SA: Are you a rock and roll kind of girl?
AL: You know what…I’m kind of everything. I’m a Gemini, so you know there’s many, many, many people in me. I’d describe me as an angel, rock-and-roll, elegant, sophisticated. I’m everything. I’m a mom, an athlete you name it.
SA: What would you say has been the best experience VS has given you after all these years?
AL: The year that I did the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in Cannes. It was amazing. Also, when they did the fashion show with Justin Timberlake (gasps)…it was my favorite. It was ahhh-mazing. And what else? There’s so many… When they started doing the Victoria’s Secret commercials with Michael Bay. I mean, to work with somebody like that, at that level… It’s a pleasure. You know, all the books and some of the pictures you see (pointing to the black and white photographs in the store). Sometimes we do limited edition books and some are photographed by Russell James. I think it’s such beautiful work, and something that even later in life I’m going to have, for me, forever.
SA: And for your daughter.
AL: Uh yea, (laughing). I don’t know how Valentina is going to react, but we’ll see, we’ll see. I’m happy.
By Maia McGinley
Tags: Adriana Lima, Chicago Fashion Events, Victoria's Secret, Woodfield Mall
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Fall Fashion to Welcome
Monday, November 15th, 2010
Welcome to fall in Chicago. The air holds a brisk chill and the trees are aglow with shades of yellow, orange and red. Signaling an adieu to summer and a hesitant hello to yet another winter, this change in season isn’t just a transition in weather. It’s a transition in wardrobe. As fashion’s favorite time of year, local designers and boutiques give shoppers an abundance of breathtaking clothing and accessories for Fall/Winter 2010. With both must-have trends and classic garments that cater to Midwestern style sensibilities, the city’s shopping scene offers rich variety and irresistible flair.
Set in the oasis-like Park at Lakeshore East, surrounded with high-rise condominiums, Millennium Park and Michigan Avenue, we at Style Admirer captured a piece of Chicago’s fall. These five looks, set against an expansive canvas, display the season’s hottest trends and incorporate pieces that can be treasured for seasons to come. With a focus on rich textures, tailored shapes, opulent embellishments and luxe fabrics–all by Chicago designers and boutiques–we pay homage to autumn.
First image: Velvet dress by C/FAN ($380; Cerato Boutique; 3451 N Southport Avenue), Allison Schiller ring ($449; Krista K; 3458 N Southport Avenue), Osanna Visconti double spiral cuff ($320; Sarca; 710 N Wabash Avenue), Hue lace tights ($18; Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue) and Charles by Charles David “Nightlife” lace booties ($114; Lori’s Shoes). Above image: Agga B dress with gold beaded sleeves ($550), Melinda Maria “Baby Jane” earrings ($575; Sarca) and Hue tights ($18; Lori’s Shoes)
Agga B vintage fur vest ($760) and linen blouse with Swarovski crystals ($160), high-waisted jeans (the stylist’s own)
Smythe blazer ($595; Fix Boutique; 1101 W Fulton Market), Twelfth St by Cynthia Vincent patterned tank ($256; Fix Boutique), Rag & Bone wool mini skirt ($230; Fix Boutique), leg warmers (stylist’s own) and Sam Edelman black lace-up boot ($212; Lori’s Shoes)
Leather coat with fur lining by C/FAN ($1,118; Sofia Vintage; 72 E Oat Street), Allison Schiller stone ring ($398; Krista K), The Branch oversized silver cage ring ($160; Sarca); Maui silver antique heart necklace ($570; Sarca), Helmut Lang stretch leather leggings ($690; Krista K) and Josie satin tank ($128; Krista K)
Creative director and writer: Meghan Turner
Photographer: Ace Ujimori
Stylist: Maia McGinley with Meghan Turner
Model: Shanna Vincent
Hair and makeup: Emily Cumings
Special thanks to Kaitlyn Groth
Tags: Agga B., Allison Schiller, C/FAN, Charles by Charles David, Fix Boutique, Helmut Lang, Hue, Josie, Krista K, Lori's Shoes, Rag & Bone, Sam Edelman, Sarca, Smythe, Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent
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CFI Presents at Fashion Focus
Sunday, October 24th, 2010
From left: designs by C/FAN, Audey and Miriam Cecilia
Fashion Focus Chicago kicked off Tuesday night in Millennium Park with its first 2010 runway show. The evening belonged to the Chicago Fashion Incubator’s talented resident designers, who, as usual, didn’t disappoint. Before the show, a line of the city’s fashion advocates—stretching to the corner of Randolph and Michigan—waited anxiously to get a look at CFI’s latest creations. Inside we found a tent bursting at the seams with fashion insiders and fashion lovers, all thrilled to be a part of the electric festivities. After taking our seats, the show soon began with a warm welcome from designer and Executive Director of CFI Lara Miller and Andrea Schwartz, the VP of Media Relations from Macy’s, the show’s host. Then, the lights dimmed and DJ Sye provided the energetic musical accompaniment to the designs of 13 residents from this year and previous years.
From left: designs by Kristin Hassan and Evil Kitty
Kristin Hassan was the first to present, once again proving her knack for very feminine womenswear. We saw lots of polka dots and girly accents like lace and tulle on elaborate dresses and gowns. From where we sat, the construction looked fantastic, creating form-fitting and interestingly detailed designs. She topped off each look with accents such as tulle flower brooches and a new pom-pom approach to the giant floral headwear we remember from last year.
Next up were Kate Boggiano’s California girls. Donning oversized sunglasses and a daisy behind one ear, models sported summery separates, dresses and jackets. The silhouettes were simple and often structural, balanced with lavish details like draped and ruffle collars. A colorful palette appeared on solids and a few prints. Overall, it was a collection for a serious woman looking to bring out her sunnier disposition.
We know and love Evil Kitty for her punk-chic aesthetic, and that’s exactly what she showed us. Using soft fabrics with hard details, she created pieces like a flowy, silk tank dress anchored with a studded leather belt. We saw a black lace cocktail dress with royal blue lining and a very chic, Audrey Hepburn-ish pale blue mini dress. Other designs included a hot pink bolero with large spikes protruding from the back.
From left: designs by Anna Hovet and Kate Boggiano
Agga B. is one of our favorite Chicago designers. Her designs are chic, artistic and relevant, making them highly desirable to stylish urban-estas who are no strangers to high fashion. This collection fused the sophisticate and the femme fatale with pieces such as a tulip skirt with a fan of protruding wings around the backside. Agga’s color of choice is black, though hints of pale pink lighted the tone a bit. To cap off the collection, we saw a to-die-for sleeveless fur coat and a magnificent black LBD with gold beaded sleeves and fur trim on the shoulders.
Anna Hovet stuck with the basics for her latest collection. However, she put a casual 80s spin on the designs. Always pretty and girly, we saw a pastel blue skort with an asymmetrical skirt, barely there hemlines and loose-fitting cotton tanks. There were flowy trapeze dresses and a form-fitting black jumper with open slits on the back. Overall, we saw references to decades past that are definitely still au courant.
Woven design elements was the universal theme for Nora del Bursto. Mostly solids, there were a few odd prints thrown in for variety’s sake–many of which didn’t feel particularly reverent to current times. However, we did love the clean lines and attention to detail. A simple white sleeveless cocktail dress stood out with a single geometric, crisscross shoulder. The same was true of a black haulter dress with a crisscross neckline. Another black number had woven detail that ran down the torso, seemingly requiring a surgeon’s steady hand and patience to produce.
From left: designs by Agga B. and Nora del Busto
For a few minutes, Audey took us frolicking through Millennium Park. First, we saw an empire dress with a green floral print and sunshine yellow tulle underlay. Later, the same print appeared on a floor-length maxi that was positively delightful. Her lightheartedness continued onto other tops and dresses that displayed animal and bird prints.
Though we often take notice of C/FAN’s work, she pleasantly surprised us with this particular presentation. She’s known for her luxe basics in solid hues, but she’s obviously expanding beyond that. Pieces we expected were cropped silk tops with plunging necklines and tapered trousers with lovely draping at the hips. The unexpected came from sheer silk dresses—both body con and billowy—displaying a sunset and lone tree print.
Killian Gui made it clear he loves his men’s dress shirts. One after the other, button-ups paraded down the runway, presenting white ones, white ones with black sleeves, plaid ones, two-toned ones and others. So, I’m sad to say, nothing we haven’t seen before…many times. We could see Killian has serious construction talent, but we’d love to see a tad more variety.
From left: designs by Nonnie and Killian Gui
Next was Alidade, who left us with thoughts of summer in Nantucket. From khaki skirts to sky blue shorts to gray cardigans, the designs were simple and preppy. The fit looked fantastic, but we couldn’t help but wish for a little more detail than trim on some sleeves and oversized pockets. There were a few designs that had us craving a little more oomph, but others were right on mark.
From Nantucket prep to 30s pin-up, Dottie’s Delights immediately cranked up the heat. Her vintage-inspired lingerie was both sexy and glamorous, with waist clinchers and garters, thigh-high hose and haulter bras. There was flair that included French lace, velvet and hot pink sequins. These are definitely underthings that are meant to be seen.
From left: designs by Dottie’s Delights and Alidade
After Dottie’s lingerie glued men’s eyes glued to the runway, CFI gave them one final menswear presentation: Nonnie. Appealing to manly men and metros alike, this collection gave us basics and vision that fused the past and present. He nodded to the 50s army cadet with browns and taupes and the latest trends with details like skinny ties. All in all, the dress shirts, button-up vests and slim pants provided something for every urban male.
Last but not least, we saw the ethereal sophistication and glamour of Miriam Cecilia. Soft, flowy garments balanced body con, structural designs, producing dresses, gowns and tops we loved. For embellishment, she added metallic leaves on the bodice, neckline and skirt of multiple frocks, as well as pouf shoulders and ruching on several cocktail dresses and gowns. The detail was impressive and so was her ability to make the ladies swoon.
By Meghan Turner
Photography by Deal Paul
Tags: Agga B., Alidade, Anna Hovet, Audey, C/FAN, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Incubator, Chicago Fashion Shows, Chicago Runway Shows, Dottie's Delights, Evil Kitty, Fashion Focus Chicago, Kate Boggiano, Killian Gui, Kristin Hassan, Macy's, Miriam Cecilia, Nonnie, Nora del Busto
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Trending: Medallian Necklaces
Wednesday, September 29th, 2010
I may not be drawn to jewelry like most women, but I still feel the need to invest in at least one accessory that carries me through the season. With fall comes the desire to tweak one’s wardrobe, and since I have worn my chunky statement rings to the bone, I’m taking a new appraoch to accessorizing. Enter: the long-chain, medallion necklace.
This belly-grazing accessory claims the spotlight for fall. The abundance of styles can cause one’s indecisiveness to surface, but whether you choose a vintage medallion, whimsical charm or a bold pendant, you can literally do no wrong in the selection and styling. Use it to dress up a t-shirt and jeans, update a little black dress or add some glam to a chunky fall knit.
Go for a sophisticated, 70′s look by combining a vintage-inspired necklace with wide-leg jeans and a silk blouse; or try piling on multiple chains for a gypsy feel. If you’re an 80’s gal, mimic Madonna with the comeback of Rosary-inspired cross. Get adventurous and even try wearing the strand backwards with a backless top or dress.
Accessories complete a look—they’re the icing on the cake, and these long-chain, medallion necklaces make it easy to add interest to both statement-making and simplistic ensembles. This versatile piece has maintained its staying power by resurfacing for decades. Though these trinkets are housed in nearly every closet, there’s always room for expansion. Here’s some of our favorite medallion necklaces for Fall 2010.
From left to right:
1. Jennifer Tuton gold rings necklace ($196; Perchance Boutique; 3512 N Southport Avenue)
2. Whistle necklace ($140; Cynthia Rowley; 1653 N Damen Avenue)
3. Jules “Bijoux Pegasus Ox” layer necklace ($175; shopjules.com)
4. Alexis Bittar starburst pendant necklace ($295; shopbop.com)
5. AK Vintage “Isle of Earth Necklace” ($104; tobi.com)
6. Guitar necklace ($5; Forever 21)
Images courtesy of Perchance, Cynthia Rowley, Jules, shopbop.com, tobi.com and Forever 21
Tags: Accessories, AK Vintage, Alexis Bittar, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Cynthia Rowley, Fall 2010, Forever 21, Jennifer Tuton, Jules, Necklaces, Perchance Boutique, shopbop.com, Tobi.com
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Chicago Boutique Profile: Pump
Wednesday, August 11th, 2010
Everyone has his/her favorite neighborhood joint. Maybe it’s the corner bar, the local deli or the coffee shop that has your latte ready before you order. Well, my favorite spot serves a different kind of deliciousness altogether. Pump Shoes and Accessories (1659 W Division Street) is a retail wonderland where I find respite in a tempting selection of footwear and the promise of unsurpassed customer service.
Upon entering, it’s apparent that though the shoes are perched like mini pieces of art, the boutique is unpretentious and cozy. A gigantic, plush ottoman sits beneath a twinkling chandelier, beaconing shoppers to plop down and try on a pair (or two or three…). The boutique carries styles ranging from casual to formal by labels including Dolce Vita, Hunter, Calvin Klein, Jeffrey Campbell (“a bestseller,” according to owner Maureen Longua Bueltmann) and many more. In addition to the impressive shoe collection, Pump sells accessories galore: handbags, jewelry and hats worthy of the Kentucky Derby.
Pump has provided fabulous accessories to Wicker Park’s shoe addicts since 2004. When asked why she only sells shoes and accessories Maureen replies, “You never have to suck in your gut to wear them.” Unlike trying on clothes, shoes come without consequence and the need to lose five pounds. Guaranteed happiness!
Besides the irresistible selection, much of the shop’s 6-year success is rooted in Maureen’s commitment to her clientele. “As cliché as it may sound, they come here for the experience, and we come to work for the same reason,” she says. “I love what I do because of the customers.” As a cult follower I agree, and weirdly enough, my boyfriend does too. While on an agonizing search for my birthday gift, he wandered into Pump. In 10 minutes, the staff helped him find the best present I’ve ever received. They knew my name, knew my wish list and, craziest of all, knew my shoe size. The result was a luscious pair of over-the-knee brown leather Jeffrey Campbell boots.
Maureen’s impeccable taste—as my birthday present proves—and enthusiasm for shoes is contagious. “The Pump customer agrees the process of trying on shoes is as much fun as wearing them for the first time,” she says. In a city as diverse as Chicago, it’s easy to find a store where you can enjoy trying on amazing shoes. But, few stores have Pump’s abundant selection, fair price tags and outstanding customer service—the service that builds relationships with shoppers. It’s hard to find a shop where you feel at home, not swindled into a sale or snubbed. Though you won’t be handed a non-fat vanilla latte when walking through the door, you’ll be greeted with something with far more lasting power: an exceptional experience while perusing delcious shoes and accessories.
Images courtesy of Pump
Tags: Calvin Klein, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Jeffrey Campbell, Maureen Longua Bueltmann, Pump Boutique, Pump Shoes and Accessories Boutique, Shoes
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Chicago Bridal Hotspots
Thursday, August 5th, 2010
If your summer was anything like mine, wedding season took its toll. Friends and family tied the knot, basking in the “happiest day of their life.” In all the merriment, my attention always focuses on the sartorial centerpiece: the wedding gown. So, I’ve taken it upon myself to search for some of the best bridal shops in Chicago. After all, with the exception of the bride and groom themselves, isn’t the dress the crown jewel of the festivities? Oh, I DO believe so!
VWIDON
Carla Hwang and Kenneth Park, the husband and wife team behind VWIDON (360 W Superior Street, 1st Floor; 312-654-9078), have been dressing Chicago brides for 10 years. The gown label and River North boutique designs a 40-piece collection annually but offers a selection of about 80 dresses total. VWIDON’s 3,200-square-foot showroom is filled with one-of-a-kind wedding gowns rooted in detail and comfort. You’ll shop VWIDON originals—from minimalist to elaborate—with prices ranging from $2,500 to $3,900.
Belle Vie Bridal Couture
Belle Vie Bridal Couture (34 E Oak Street; 312-751-2222) prides itself on treating each bride as a personal guest. Each client is paired with her own personal stylist to help select the perfect gown. Amidst the chic French ambiance, peruse dresses by Anne Barge, Christian Lacroix, Reem Acra and more that start at $2,800 and go up to $20,000. During the first appointment, scan lookbooks for styles that grab you, and then the stylist will give you some dresses that best flatter your figure. According to Belle Vie Bridal Couture, the process of finding, receiving and altering a gown takes about a year. So, brides-to-be should start looking ASAP.
Ultimate Bride
The Gold Coast’s Ultimate Bride (106 E Oak Street; 312-337-6300) set out to compile the world’s best designer gowns under one roof. The high fashion labels include Oscar de la Renta, Carolina Herrera, Monique Lhuillier and Angel Sanchez. By offering a multitude of designers through its inventory and trunk shows, the boutique gives brides their choice of the amazing gowns. Ultimate Bride offers other services as well, including helping with final dress arrangement for the big day, to ensure the bride’s needs are taken care of.
House of Brides Couture
With multiple locations in the Chicagoland area, this bridal hotspot is convenient for brides in the city and the suburbs. At House of Brides (730 N Franklin Street, Suite 300; 312-475-0500), expect to find a vast selection of gowns including couture designs and plus sizes. You can also find various accessories, from bras and shapers to shoes and headwear. House of Brides’ e-boutique also gives busy brides the option to shop on the net. Even with online orders, this shop ensures all bridal purchases will arrive on time.
The Left Bank
Once you’ve found the perfect gown, you’ll need the perfect accessories. The Left Bank (1155 W Webster Avenue; 773-929-7422) has everything for just that. With shoes, veils, bridal jewelry and brooches, the Lincoln Park boutique completes the bridal ensemble—it’s the icing on the cake. Appointments aren’t necessary, as it promotes casual browsing. Also keep an eye out for designer-attended trunk shows at this French inspired shop.
By Danielle Parker
Image courtesy of VWIDON and Belle Vie Bridal Couture, respectively
Tags: Angel Sanchez, Anne Barge, Belle Vie Bridal Couture, Carla Hwang, Carolina Herrera, Christian Lacroix, House of Brides Couture, Kenneth Park, Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta, Reem Acra, The Left Bank, Ultimate Bride, VWIDON
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The Swimsuit Pursuit
Friday, July 16th, 2010
With temperatures hovering in the 90s, we might just have a steady stream of summer weather hanging around Chicago. That said, swimsuit season is officially in full swing. For hot days appropriately spent at the pool, beach, or on a boat, a fabulous suit is the key component to lounging lazily by the water. When considering a new one- or two-piece, the right fit, proportion, cut and pattern always come into play. However, also think about how to incorporate some of the season’s biggest trends into your swimwear. The season’s extensive variety of suits makes experimenting with new styles and patterns an exciting part of the swimsuit pursuit. Take a fashion-forward approach to that itsy bitsy teeny weeny and confront the summer sun in style. H20 optional.
All images from left to right:
1. Floral bow bandeau bikini ($140; emobi)
2. “Lorena” bikini in “Vintage Red Spat” ($114; Diane von Furstenburg)
3. Asymmetrical one-piece ($78; Calvin Klein)
4. Marc by Marc Jacobs one-shoulder, fish belt one-piece ($95; Neiman Marcus)
5. “Cha Cha” ruffle top bikini ($162; Letarte)
6. Indah ruffle bikini ($55; Nika Butik; 143 N Northwest Highway, Park Ridge)
7. Missoni “Amalfi” cut-out woven one-piece ($580; net-a-porter.com)
8. Cynthia Rowley for Roxy “Tanlines Monokini” ($48; Roxy)
9. Neon yellow twist bandeau top with double string bottom ($37; Victoria’s Secret)
10. Mara Hoffman ruched bottom bikini in “Kaleidoscope Pink” ($168; shopsheboutique.com)
11. Loeffler Randall zipper one-piece ($158; Fix Boutique; 1101 W Fulton Market)
12. Undrest strapless zigzag knitted one-piece ($210; net-a-porter.com)
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of emobi, Diane von Furstenberg, Calvin Klein, Neiman Marcus, Letarte, Nika Butik, net-a-porter.com, Roxy, Victoria’s Secret, She Boutique, and Loeffler Randall
Tags: Calvin Klein, Chicago Shopping, Cynthia Rowley, Diane Von Furstenberg, emobi, Fix Boutique, Indah, Letarte, Loeffler Randall, Mara Hoffman, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Missoni, Neiman Marcus, net-a-porter.com, Nika Butik, Roxy, She Boutique, swimwear, Trends, Undrest, Victoria's Secret
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