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CHICAGO PICKS™ |
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life + style
in the Windy City
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August 1st, 2008
When we grow up, we wanna be famous. Wanna be stars. We wanna be in movies…. That song has been bouncin' around our head lately. And yes, we kinda like it. Sometimes it makes us feel like yes, we should probably just quit our day job and pursue the limelight. We will become the next American icon, or perhaps pen a one-hit wonder. But it’s only a very slight wish. It usually lasts for about three seconds, or approximately the amount of time it takes to switch from an E! True Hollywood Story to something much smarter. Like “Living Lohan.” Sarcasm. Yes, it’s dripping.
But seriously, we’d prob make a dece D-list indie film actress or drummer in an electro-dance-pop band. Not that we’ve thought of that before. Or maybe we’ll just dance all day/night at Lolla this weekend, and hit the after-parties. Three seconds, yep. Done. You know what would be really cool though? Marine biology… yeah, marine biology… |
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Chicago Picks: |
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Design on a Dream
We may have entertained schoolgirl dreams of being sought-after fashion designers, complete with entourage and celebrity clientele (post-rehab, of course). But sadly, it turns out we can’t sketch worth a darn, sew only at gunpoint and tend to mismatch separates. So we leave the creativity to the professionals, and enjoy whatever they come up with. When we’re in the mood for sleek masterpieces from proven fashion virtuosos, we hit up Ikram Boutique.
With a selection as dizzying as Chrome Hearts, Lanvin and Yohji Yamamoto, we know that we won’t be disappointed. And hey, anyone that carries our personal fave Peter Soronen is a god in our book. Or, you know, at the very least a minor deity. Ikram’s style is informed by Middle Eastern and Moroccan elements and peppered with sharp, modern awareness of the latest trends. And every last item is chosen for its stop-us-in-our-tracks “wow” factor. Serpentine-heeled sandals, chunky, multi-hued gemstone rings, eye-popping yet elegant evening gowns.
Deservedly situated in the heart of the Gold Coast, Ikram demonstrates the enduring lure of the classics—and looks gorgeous doing so!
Ikram Boutique
873 North Rush St.
Chicago, IL 60611
312.587.1000
www.ikram.com |
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Come Correct
There's nothing we like more than being right. Well, okay, maybe cheesecake. But we really like to be right, so we're feeling pretty darn smug that we pegged Stellar26 as a winner from the start.
Stellar 26 rejects the stiffness of rarified couture and instead specializes in stylish wardrobe essentials that feel sublime on your skin. But don't be fooled—as comfortable as their clothes may feel, these aren't crunchy granola threads. Check out the deliciously darling red tank in alternating nautical stripes, or the crisp polos for the guy in your life. Choose between Genetic Denim and CC Bella, with sports swag from O'Neill thrown into the mix. This spot appeals to even the macho-est boy in your life, so put it on your short list of boutiques you can visit together after drinks and dessert in Lincoln Park.
So if you think about it, this is really a way to bring you closer to your BFF or bro. How many places can say they serve just about everyone in your life? To this versatile Pick we say: right on!
Stellar26
4164 North Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60618
773.388.2626
www.stellar26.com |
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Go Boy, Go!
Slowly but surely, we've shed the rebellious tendencies of our youth. Our hair is all one color (natural to boot!), the piercings have been removed and we've come to realize the ol' parents know a thing or two—heck, we even follow their advice! But all grown up, we still march to the beat of a different drummer. Sure we're nesting, but like Frank, we're doing it our way.
Cookie-cutter home goods aren't going to cut it so we turn to Homeboy for one-of-a-kind accessories and furnishings. After several years working the Merchandise Mart scene, owner Ripley Worthy opened the Lakeview shop to bring us handcrafted pieces from his fave Chicago artisans and designers. The growing list includes the likes of Circa Ceramics, SODA by Amy, Cursive Design, and Worthy's own line of salvaged and reupholstered furniture. The merch also ranges from dishware, pillows and paintings to candles, spices and mirrors.
It can get confusing living somewhere between rebel yell and bowing down to the man, but Homeboy makes that living space look gooood.
Homeboy
3327 N. Broadway
Chicago, IL 60657
773.472.0548
www.homeboychicago.com |
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Chick Picks: |
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D is for Design
We’ve received some very “special” gifts from a series of clueless sig nifs. A necklace made out of yarn. Pea-green mittens. A football jersey (we hate sports). A gift certificate. Yes, a gift certificate.
Maybe we’re a touch snobby. But we prefer to think we’re just classy ladies who know what we like. Why not specify the designer, cut and carat-size instead? Like Dana Rebecca from Chicago designer Dana Levy? We adore the Rochelle Jo flower earrings in a brilliant Tiffany Blue. (Hint, hint.)
www.danarebeccadesigns.com |
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A Very Colorful Place
When we go on vacation, our mind feels a little more free. Or maybe that’s what happens when you ingest a boatload of hot dogs and Summer Shandy? Perhaps it’s the blessing and the curse of good ole Midwestern relaxin’.
We were strolling the streets of an art fair when we noticed the vibrant designs of Kathleen Murphy Willer. Her paintings are inspired by the “awkward freedom” of children’s drawings, and her pieces would make chic conversation-piece gifts, or a bold statement in any room!
www.kathleenmurphywiller.com |
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Isle Hopping
A friend of ours used to visit Hawaii and torment us with multimedia messages of sandy beaches and Mai Tais. Now we’re turning the tables, gifting adorable Maui-themed bottle-cap magnets to remind her just how far from the islands she really is.
With more than 500 choices, Kate Grenier Designs has themes that fit any friend’s fridge or file cabinet. Democrat or Republican, baby or birthday, you’re sure to find a perfect match!
www.kategrenier.com |
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Hip Happenings: |
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We Like to Ride Our Bicycle
The Bicycle Film Festival was born out of the urban bike culture of New York City, and it’s about all styles of bikes and biking. What better way to celebrate these lifestyles than through art, film, music and performance? All aspects of bicycling are brought together to advocate its importance, but ultimately the Fest is about having a good time!
What: The Bicycle Film Festival
When: Aug. 6–10
Where: Beginning at Sonotheque at 9 pm, 1444 W. Chicago Ave. Check website for all dates and times
Call: 646.584.1236
Visit: www.bicyclefilmfestival.com |
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Summa Summa Summa Sales
Summer sales, great coffee spots, and cute eateries make up this fantastic event in the quaint area of Andersonville. Use the Andersonville Re-Bag, available at various shops in the neighborhood, to be entered into a raffle each time you spend at least $15. Prizes include $20 gift certificates to local shops. Stroll, shop, and save!
What: Andersonville Summer Sidewalk Sale
When: Aug. 1–3, starting at noon
Where: 5000-5800 N. Clark St.
Call: 773.728.2995
Cost: Free
Visit: www.andersonville.org |
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Late Night Lolla
We've scraped the coins out of our piggy bank to afford the 3-day pass to Lolla. We’ve planned our itinerary and might have a beer hookup. We’ve planned the right combination of indie and sexy duds for each day. Now—where to go after the show? How about the House of Blues for more late night dancin'?
What: Bloc Party, CSS and Does it Offend You, Yeah? After Party at the House of Blues
When: Saturday, Aug.2, 9:30 pm
Where: House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn
Call: 312.923.2000
Cost: $40
Visit: www.hob.com |
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Nobody ever said we were perfect. Heck, we have more than a few articles of clothing with bleach spots. But we do our best to do our best, and to help us give you the best we love hearing your tidbits on what's cool around town. Don't be shy, send us a note! We love hearing from you and are open to ideas and suggestions. Like, what exactly is color-safe bleach??? |
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