Posts Tagged ‘Chicago Fashion’
Fashion Happenings
Friday, August 13th, 2010
EVENTS
Macy’s Glamorama 2010 at the Chicago Theater (175 and 111 N State Street)
On Friday beginning at 8pm, Macy Gray and Eric Hutchinson help kick off Macy’s annual fashion soiree at the Chicago Theater. The fashion presentation is followed by an after-party at Macy’s on State Street. Proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities.
Lana Trunk Show at Krista K Boutique (3458 N Southport Avenue)
Krista K invites you to be one of the first to view Lana’s two new collections on Friday from 10am to 7pm. Attendees will receive exclusive discounts on the merchandise.
SALES
The Denim Lounge’s Jean-Swap (43 E Oak Street; 2004 W Roscoe Street)
Friday is the last day for The Denim Lounge jean-swap event. Trade in your old jeans and get $40 to put toward a pair of new ones. Previously worn jeans will be donated to the Association House of Chicago.
Nika Anniversary Sale at Nika le Butik (143 N Northwest Highway – Park Ridge)
On Saturday, Nika will have a huge sale in celebration of their anniversary. From 9am to 6pm, customers can take 30% to 75% off all items including new fall merchandise. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
Erin Gallagher Summer Sale (1013 W Webster Avenue)
Erin Gallagher will hold her big summer sale on Saturday (11am to 5pm) and Sunday (12 to 5pm). All non-custom jewelry will be 30% to 70% off.
Gamma Player Tax Holiday Sale (2035 W Division Street)
Sunday is the last day for the Gamma Player 2010 Tax Holiday Sale. Enjoy special markdowns and reduced taxes on items under $100.
Dress Up Summer Blowout Sale (1937 N Damen Avenue)
Now through the end of August, Dress Up Boutique invites you to shop their Summer Blowout Sale. Enjoy up to 90% off new and already-marked-down styles.
11 Years of LILL (904 W Armitage Avenue)
LILL celebrates 11 years of business through the month of August and is having a sale to celebrate. Take 11% off everything in-store, online and at LILL on Location handbag parties. Some restrictions apply.
Image courtesy of Lana Jewelry
Tags: 1154 LILL Studio, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Shopping, Dress Up Boutique, Erin Gallagher, Gamma Player, Glamorama 2010, Krista K, Lana, Macy's Glamorama, Macy's on State Street, Nika, The Denim Lounge
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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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Fashion This Weekend
Friday, August 6th, 2010
SALES
Boutique Super Sale (2215 N Halsted Street – the old Abercrombie space)
On Friday (1 to 5pm) and Saturday (10am to 3pm), four Chicago boutiques hold a super sale in one location. Belly Dance Maternity, Cerato Boutique, Perchance Boutique and Tangerine will offer heavily discounted merchandise.
11 Years of LILL (904 W Armitage Avenue)
LILL celebrates its 11 years of business through the end of August. Take 11% off everything in-store, online and at LILL on Location handbag parties. Some restrictions apply.
Gamma Player Tax Holiday Sale (2035 W Division Street)
Now through August 15, join Gamma Player for their 2010 Tax Holiday Sale. Enjoy special markdowns and reduced taxes on items under $100.
Sarca Summer Sale (710 N Wabash Street)
Now through the end of August, stop by Sarca and take advantage of the exclusive summer sale. The Gold Coast boutique offers all summer merchandise at discounted prices starting at 50% off.
Summer Blowout Sale at Dress Up Boutique (1937 N Damen Avenue)
Now through the end of August, Dress Up Boutique invites you to shop their Summer Blowout Sale and enjoy up to 90% off new and already marked down styles.
Sunday Brunch, Sunday Fix at Fix and the Publican (1101 and 837 W Fulton Market, respectively)
This is the last Sunday to celebrate summer and Sundays with this special discount opportunity. Make a Sunday purchase at Fix Boutique and receive 15% off Sunday brunch at the Publican; grab Sunday brunch at the Publican and get 15% off your Sunday purchase at Fix.
Image courtesy of Sarca
Tags: 1154 LILL Studio, Belly Dance Maternity, Cerato Boutique, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Shopping, Dress Up Boutique, Fix Boutique, Gamma Player, Perchance Boutique, Sarca, Tangerine
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Trading Spaces
Wednesday, August 4th, 2010
Last night I made a long-overdue trip to a new boutique I’ve been dying to check out for months. space 519 in The 900 Shops is the latest brainchild of Lance Lawson and Jim Wetzel, the former owners of the infamous Jake boutique in the Gold Coast. After Jake’s highly publicized and messy closing, the two opted for a slight change in retail concept. space 519, named after its spot in the mall, took the art, design and fashion worlds and bundled them under one roof.
I shopped the mixture of well-curated books, apothecary, clothing, nail polish, furniture, house wares, jewelry and more, while chatting with Jim as he showed me some of his favorite goods. As we walked around sniffing luxurious candles, fondling cashmere dresses and ooh-ah-ing over a supple leather clutch (that will be mine when it arrives in black!). He described the boutique as “our version of a general store.” It’s definitely a general store for the style-conscious only—those seeking wardrobe and home additions that add a little oomph to their life or someone else’s (the gift ideas are amazing). From the retro-inspired furniture and décor to the J Park drawstring dress, the selection makes this shop anything but ordinary.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of space 519
Tags: Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, J Park, Jake Boutique, Jim Wetzel, Lance Lawson, space 519, The 900 Shops
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Simply Fabulous: Mara Hoffman Mini Dress
Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Mara Hoffman’s mini dress in Pow Wow Grey ($392; available for preorder at She Boutique) not only has a dazzling print but its drapery adds even more interest to the stand-out garment.
Tags: Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, dress, Mara Hoffman, She Boutique
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The Weekend Fashion Lineup
Friday, July 30th, 2010
SALES
Blake Standard In-studio Sample Sale (4140 N Sheridan Road)
Blake Standard hosts its first in-studio sample sale from this Saturday through next Friday, August 6. A variety of tees and tops are only $10; dresses and hoodies for $20; and jackets, sweaters and zip-ups for just $30.
Habit Boutique Closing (1951 W Division Street)
Habit will close its doors for good this Saturday. Till then, take 15-50% off everything in the store.
Vintage Heaven Sale at Heaven Gallery (1550 N Milwaukee Avenue)
On Saturday and Sunday, stop by Heaven Gallery during Wicker Park Fest and shop some of the best local vintage sellers at one convenient location.
Isabella’s Mid-summer Sale at Isabella Fine Lingerie (840 W Armitage Avenue)
This weekend, Isabella Fine Lingerie is offering 20% off all bras and underwear in-store and online (enter code: JULY).
Lipstick Dinosaur Pop-up Accessories Shop at GAVIN Boutique (1939 Central Street – Evanston)
Lipstick Dinosaur continues its ongoing Pop-up Accessories Shop through the end of July at GAVIN in Evanston. Stop by to view the collection and take advantage of exclusive discounts.
Sarca Summer Sale (710 N Wabash Street)
Now through the end of August, stop by Sarca and take advantage of the exclusive summer sale. The Gold Coast boutique offers all summer merchandise at discounted prices starting at 40% off.
Summer Blowout Sale at Dress Up Boutique (1937 N Damen Avenue)
Now through the end of August, Dress Up Boutique invites you to shop their Summer Blowout Sale and enjoy up to 90% off new and already-marked down styles.
Sunday Brunch, Sunday Fix at Fix and the Publican (1101 and 837 W Fulton Market, respectively)
There are only two Sundays left to celebrate summer and Sundays with this special discount opportunity. Make a Sunday purchase at Fix Boutique and receive 15% off Sunday brunch at the Publican; grab Sunday brunch at the Publican and get 15% off your Sunday purchase at Fix.
Image courtesy of Blake Standard
Tags: Blake Standard, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Sales, Chicago Shopping, Dress Up Boutique, Fix Boutique, GAVIN boutique, Habit, Isabella Fine Lingerie, Lipstick Dinosaur, Sarca, Vintage Heaven
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Dell x Threadless
Tuesday, July 13th, 2010
Now joining the likes of OPI and (Product) Red, a Chicago fashion company has partnered with Dell’s Design Studio. Threadless, the local shops that print artwork on basic tees, has created 11 skins for Dell users. Featuring 11 laptop outfits by various artists, the $85 skins range from minimalist to graphic to watercolor designs that suit a variety of personal styles. The chosen technology accessory is added to the surface of a new Dell computer, literally allowing web surfers to browse in style. This particular collaboration not only provides a way to jazz-ify that drab laptop shell, it also gives exposure to established and emerging artists.
Now all you need is the matching t-shirt.
By Meghan Turner
Image courtesy of Dell
Tags: Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Fashion, Dell, OPI, Threadless
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To Dye For: Grown Up Tie Dye
Monday, July 12th, 2010
With summer underway, music festivals are in full swing. Whether you’re seeing Gaga at Lolla or counting down the days until North Coast, one trend remains ubiquitous throughout: tie dye. However, this is not your parents’ Technicolor tie dye from Woodstock. This year’s reinterpretation calls for both sleek and slouchy silhouettes in monochromatic schemes.
While many may think tie dye should have died with Hanes t-shirt experiments at summer camp, the current looks have a level of sophistication that prove this retro trend might have some staying power. With styles ranging from Gryphon’s traditional tie dye to Helmut Lang’s marbled splatters, these pieces run the gamut from funky fun to abstract art. To make the trend work for you, complement the below statement items with solid colors and fitted denim. For the more adventurous types, keep the rest of your ensemble equally daring. Think chunky heels, Lucite accessories and layered patterns.
Get Psychedelic with these looks:
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Gryphon knot dress ($250; Saks Fifth Avenue). AVersatile crew neck dress. Add some edge to with a black wedge heel.
2. “Mimi” clutch ($129; Club Monaco). A wooden handle makes this clutch especially relevant this season.
3. Vince oversized tee ($128; Intermix). This shirt’s slouchy shape is a cool silhouette on hot summer nights.
4. Rebecca Minkoff “The Clutch” ($350; Shopbop.com). During the day, wear this bag as a messenger. Come nightfall, hide the chain for a chic clutch.
5. Helmut Lang silk wrap skirt ($207; Krista K). A grown-up shape meets a playful print.
6. Elizabeth and James silk button-up shirt ($144; Nordstrom). A light and airy silk chemise: grungy yet glam.
By Leslie Garry
Images courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue, Club Monaco, Intermix, Krista K, shopbop.com and Nordstrom
Tags: Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Club Monaco, Elizabeth and James, Festivals, Gryphon, Helmut Lang, Intermix, Krista K, Nordstrom, Rebecca Minkoff, Saks Fifth Avenue, shopbop.com, Tie Dye, Trends, Vince
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Chicago Designer Spotlight: Winifred Grace
Thursday, July 8th, 2010
I first met Winifred Grace Gundeck a little more than two years ago. At the time, I was writing a feature on her jewelry line, Winifred Grace, for a local magazine. I arrived at her small, sunlit studio for the interview and was greeted by a petite and welcoming Winni, as she is commonly called. We chatted on the lone sofa in the box-shaped studio before she showed me the work station. The table was covered in bits and pieces of metal, rhinestones and chains soon to be transformed into accessories rooted in her distinct aesthetic. After learning how that aesthetic materializes and seeing the finished product, I realized what Winifred was fashioning was a sparkling future in jewelry design.
Fast forward to present day and the Winifred Grace line has continued to blossom. Though it seemed impossible back then, the Spring 2010 collection is even more spectacular than the one I fondled during the interview. The season’s introduction of graphic brass elements adds a complementary contrast to the oxidized silver and light-catching Swarovski crystals. “I was inspired by vintage textiles and ancient tribal jewelry,” Winifred says. “[The brass] gives a unique vintage quality to the modern designs.”
Top image from left to right: Rhinestone and oxidized silver necklace (shown in the model’s hair), $185, with the oxidized chain and rhinestone bracelet, $275. Brass and jet drop earring, $115. Above image from left to right: Tiered rhinestone and brass necklace, $345, with the oxidized chain and rhinestone bracelet, $275. Cut crystal and brass charms necklace, $195.
As with every season, the spring collection includes necklaces, bracelets and earrings that together feel well-edited and perfectly cohesive. Along with the craftsmanship, what distinguishes Winifred’s designs is how she harmonizes a raw edginess with feminine flare. The quality is obvious and exceptional, the vision unique and breathtaking. Each piece is made to order and handcrafted here in Chicago by the Winifred Grace team. This includes the oxidation of metals—one of her signature techniques.
By mixing and distressing various metals, chains and embellishments, each piece embodies a versatility that can be dressed up or down. They can also easily be layered with other Winifred Grace items or with your own jewelry. Whether your look is trendy, classic or understated, the line filters beautifully into any given wardrobe. “The collection is a mix of casual, sophisticated elegance,” she says. “I’m most happy in flip-flops and a tunic but welcome the chance to put on my party shoes! I think the collection speaks to both sides of my personality.”
Tiered rhinestone and brass necklace, $548, with the cut crystal and brass charms bracelet, $460.
Just as each Winifred Grace collection is a small treasure trove of gold, silver and crystal, the label’s future promises to be just as dazzling. Soon, Winifred will introduce one-of-a-kind couture pieces available only on her e-shop and a few stores. But that’s just the beginning. “I also have some top secret plans for expanding the Winifred Grace brand into the lifestyle arena,” she says. “Stay tuned!”
We certainly will!
Written and produced by Meghan Turner
Photography by Ace Ujimori
Model: Brittney Jo
Makeup: Jennifer Hanwright
Hair: Kelly Tracy
Special thanks to Kaitlyn Groth and Maia McGinley
Tags: Accessories, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Designers, Jewelry, Winifred Grace, Winifred Grace Gundeck
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Chicago Fashion Events
Friday, June 18th, 2010
Children’s Heart Foundation Fashion Show at Citizen Bar (364 W Erie Street)
On Saturday from 6:30-9:30pm, view Chicago labels Bazar and P&L and support the Children’s Heart Foundation. Tickets are on sale right now and include a two-hour cocktail reception and admission to the runway show.
Randolph Street Market Festival (entrances on 1340 W Washington and 1350 W Randolph Streets)
On Saturday (10am to 5pm) and Sunday (10am to 4pm), the Randolph Street Market Festival will feature 200 dealers of furnishings, housewares, antiques, vintage clothing, jewelry and much more.
Indie Designer Market at Plumber’s Hall (1350 W Washington Street)
On Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 10am to 4pm, the Indie Designer Market will feature vintage dealers from around the country, who sell clothing, accessories, jewelry, handbags and more.
JLee Silver Trunk Show at RE.STOCK (901 W Madison Street)
On Saturday from 12pm to 5pm, shoppers can meet the designer and check out the new Spring 2010 Collection, which will be marked down for the event.
Lipstick Dinosaur at The Inconvenience (3036 N Lincoln Avenue)
On Friday from 9am to 2pm, Jacob Holland and Maggie Dibardno present the launch of their new fashion collective at Lipstick Dinosaur. Guests will enjoy an exclusive look at the debut collection and the opportunity to buy clothes directly off of the models.
Image courtesy of the Randolph Street Market
Tags: Bazar, Chicago Events, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Indie Designer Market, Jacob Holland, JLee Silver, Lipstick Dinosaur, Maggie Dibardno, P&L, Randolph Street Market Festival, RE.STOCK Shop
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