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August 15th, 2008
When we think of what it means to be “indie,” we think unique. We think of bands and films and shops that we respect and admire for adhering to a certain level of originality. We also think of “indie” as being local, authentic, and native. (Prime example: the vision Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou crafted for the Olympic Opening Ceremony, staying true to ancient Chinese culture that has set tongues wagging.) Is there a cost for being truly “independent?” Sure. But true ingenuity shouldn’t come with a price tag. Well, ok, maybe Yimou lucked out with what must have been a pretty fat paycheck… but you catch our drift! Which is why we are proud to announce that we are now the only independent source for fashion, fun, and lifestyle news in Chicago. Congratulations to Daily Candy on their recent acquisition by Comcast (honestly, what a coup!), and continue to stay tuned in to Chicago Picks for all things truly local and independent! |
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Chicago Picks: |
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| 1 | Extreme Makeover: Antarctic Edition Original Penguin |
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| 2 | Delicious Dishes We were lucky enough to chill at A Mano’s newly opened patio, sampling a selection of wine and antipasti. The menu is at once creative and time-honored; dinner features a selection of salumi (cured meats) and other appetizers, to be followed by choices like House Smoked Swordfish Carpaccio, a fennel sausage pizza or Two Finger Cavatelli. And we can heartily recommend—judging by our empty plates—the fritto misto, mortadella a la A Mano and the molé (salame with spices and chocolate—why didn’t we think of that?) Not only does A Mano meet our expectations, it sparks gustatory cravings we never knew we had. The only solution? Another visit. There is that five-dollar bar menu, and we never tried the gelato… A Mano |
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| 3 | Latin Flavor We’d love a little international shopping spree, but lately, between the price of flights and our depreciating Benjamins, our travel suitcases and closets are bare of global goodies. Short of loitering in our favorite airport Duty Free shop, we desperately need an alternative. Thankfully, we discovered Andina Buenos Aires, an intercontinental refuge where everything (including the owner) is imported straight from Argentina. Located on Division Street, this leather-goods store is classy, sophisticated, and colorful. Dozens of exotic handbags in brown, black, blanco, and rojo are neatly clustered on Andina B.A.’s soft yellow walls. We discovered stacks of gorgeous woven scarves in every shade of stylish (the perfect b-day present for mom) and we delighted in the rich Kolla llama hair throws, blankets, and shawls that support fair trade (we’re all about that). Even our man was tempted by the sleek Latin leather belts and wallets. No passport stamp required, we advise you to jet over to Andina for a bit of foreign fulfillment. Tell them Chicago Picks sent you and receive 10% off! Andina Buenos Aires |
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| Chick Picks: | |||
| 1 | So Many Babies, So Little Time We are celebrating the arrival of three—yes three—babies this week, and our heads are exploding. Between the showers and the hospital visits and the oohing and ahhing, we’re spent. But somehow buying baby clothes always leaves us happy. And Sofia Bean’s adorable array is always welcomed by new moms. We are stocking up on their gift boxes—you choose the items and how much you want to spend, from $25–$100. Happy baby, happy Auntie! |
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| 2 | As Luck Would Have It So when we found Potluck Fare, were ready to bring it back. Because what’s better than having old friends over? Having old friends over to covet your chic potteryware! In colors like ice, milk and pistachio, they’ll see how grown-up you’ve become. www.potluckstudios.com |
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| 3 | The End If we had to put that storybook on the shelf, we’d use these bookends by Netherlander Pakhuis Oost. Reminiscent of the books of old, and cheerfully decorated in an all-over print, this pair of squirrel-shaped bookends makes us believe our Once Upon A Time is still yet to come. |
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Hip Happenings: |
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| 1 | Air & H2O Chicagoans go nuts for the annual Air & Water show. Rooftops fill up, meals are packed into picnic baskets, and everyone crowds around to get a glimpse of the oldest and largest free show in the country. Don't miss Bill Murray jumping out of a plane with the Golden Knights parachute team! What: 50th Annual Chicago Air & Water Show |
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| 2 | Stacked on the Racks |
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| 3 | Robin in 'Da Hood |
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While you are out and about this summer, don’t forget to check out the places that spark your interest when you are reading Chicago Picks. Please stop into the businesses we mention, since our mission is to support them, and we’re counting on you to help us accomplish that! |
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