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	October 17th, 2008 Last weekend was pretty eventful. Now we can say we are like one degree from Kevin Bacon. We saw la Lohan. LiLo. Loho. Lezlo. Whatever it is nowadays. She cruised right through to the head of the line with her posse. Guess that’s how it goes when you’re VIP (she really isn’t just like us). So weird how pop culture has infiltrated daily life—after years of reading trashy mags, we had the creepy sensation that we already knew her. It was quite surreal. And what about those Chicago marathoners? So amazing! They are certainly not just like us, as we prefer a short stint on the mildly difficult elliptical trainer. Then, to top off the weekend, we moseyed all around LP Zoo. Totally awed by JoJo, the silverback gorilla giganimal. But we think there should also be a “city animal” exhibit—a look at the trials and tribulations of the everyday pigeon or squirrel. Raccoons, even. They like shiny things, just like us. Oy, vey! Perhaps you like shiny things, or say… electric-neon things? Forward this email to 10 friends and cc picks@chicagopicks.com for your chance to win a set of Baggu bags (see below) in your chicest choice of colors!

	Chicago Picks:
	1	Dream On We used to wake up and immediately search our closet for the handbag or shoes we dreamed about the night before. It was always a disappointment, as slowly it dawned on us (no pun intended) that we dreamt about the shoes… we didn’t own them. But what about when your dreams become a reality? Like for Mandy, the owner of vfish—a very chic, very wearable line of contemporary clothing. Named for her saucy knockout of a grandma, Vera Fishbaugh, vfish has popped up in more than 350 boutiques nationwide, and finally found a homefront on Clark St. We loved the “Hayden Coat” (all pieces are named after Mandy’s pals) in 100% wool. It’s a classic “Jackie O” shape with cropped sleeves and belted waist, easily transitioning from workplace to nightlife. Or the “Dani Dress,” a chic garment that packs a whole lotta sass. Pair it with colored tights and boots and wear it all winter long! Mandy’s easy breezy pieces add moxie and quality to your wardrobe, at reasonable prices. Stop in and tell her Chicago Picks sent you! vfish 2937 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60657 312.423.7839 www.vfishdesigns.com

	2	Waiting to Exhale Life in a big city gets hectic. Between the beeps, honks and sirens, it’s crucial to take a breather every now and then and slow down. Not to get all hippie-dippy, but it’s so important to find that inner peace and calm. And we found ours—via Stephen at the newly opened Jonathan Breitung Salon. Upon arrival, we lounged by a fireplace in a cozy chair, and leafed through magazines in the contempo-cool surroundings (just hip enough). And then Stephen offered up his expertise through a deep-tissue massage. Soothing classical music filled the massage room, as all of our knots and kinks were set back in place, and through breathing techniques, we finally began to relax. We felt so at ease! The hour went by in the blink of an eye, and before we knew it we were floating out of the salon and back into the daily grind. With a silly smile pasted on our face, we couldn’t hide the fact that massage magic does indeed work. Ahhh, Zen achieved! Jonathan Breitung Salon & Luxury Spa 3226 N. Lincoln Ave Chicago, IL 60657 773.348.1800

	3	Just Like Falling in Love With winter fast approaching we're all yearning for that special someone to cuddle up next to and to help us stay warm. But even if you don't have a particular person in mind, you can still get that warm fuzzy feeling… from shopping! Who says you can't snuggle up with a to-die-for bag or those "it" shoes? We give you the green light to fall in love with accessories, and M2 Boutique in Lakeview supplies them. If you're looking for that perfect necklace or clutch to match your outfit, M2 is your one-stop shop. Here you will find an amazing selection of handbags, hats, and jewelry, and we were delighted to find bags by favorites Melie Bianco and Tano at affordable prices. With all the pretty merchandise we had to make a few laps just to make sure we didn't miss anything! After visiting this slice of heaven, we don't see how anyone could leave empty-handed (we certainly didn't want to). So pick out a feel-good accessory, and tell them Chicago Picks sent you! M2 Boutique 3527 N. Southport Chicago, IL 60657 773.248.9866 www.mboutiquechicago.com

	Chick Picks:
	1	Miss Green Thing We’re no earth angels. A few weeks ago, we grew green with envy over our editrix’s seemingly flawless green-meets-fashion knowability. True, she’s outta Portland, known for being the “greenest city” in the U.S. (Wiki.) Still, she’s been onto the Baggu bag trend for some time now. They’re bright, splashy, and can fit into teeny-tiny spaces. They’re very cute, and so very now. Pack a bunch of ’em up into your hybrid and look tres sexy while you shop for groceries—and green too! www.baggubag.com

	2	I Think I Love You It seems like every season there is a new “It” bag that we are just dying for. This fall, our bag crush is the large Morgan tote (in buttery soft Italian leather) from Elezar Handbags. We are fools for its clean lines and luscious functionality, as well as the wealth of pockets, both inside and out. Plus, with celebrity fans like Natalie Portman and Rachel Bilson, we are in good company in our love for these chic totes. www.elezar.com

	3	Bring on the Rain! Something we have become passionate about, besides rescuing animals and reusable grocery totes? Chic, weather-proof gear. Let’s face it girls, living in a city like Chicago, it’s worth it to invest in saucy weather resistant duds. If we're forced to head out in sleet, rain, and snow, we may as well look damn good doing it! These packable numbers are the hottest rain jackets we’ve ever seen. With a coat like this, it’s safe to welcome the weather in fashionably-covered arms. www.mackage.com

	Hip Happenings:
	1	Denim-licious Deals We’ve heard that despite the state of the economy, high-end denim sales are still thriving. Hmm, well for all of us regular folk, we’ll thrive at the bargain bins! For two days only, checkout L.A.’s largest premium denim sale, featuring designer jeans for men and women at up to 80% off! What: The Warehouse Sale's Designer Denim Sample Sale When: Oct. 17, 2–8 pm & Oct. 18, 10 am–4 pm Where: McCormick Place Chicago, 2301 S. Dr. Martin L King Dr., Lakeside Center, E353 (Park on Lot C) Cost: RSVP on the website for free admission, $5 at the door Visit: www.thewarehousesale.com

	2	Ooh La La We like to get pretty and gussied up. We also like to take the time to make sure everything is pretty and gussied up, 'cause ya just never know. Invest in some gorgeous underthings at one of the best brands in the biz. Save 10% off La Perla lingerie, a line that rarely sees a markdown! What: La Perla Sale When: Oct. 17–19 Where: 535 N. Michigan Ave. Call: 312.494.0400 Visit: www.laperla.com

	3	Score One for the Newbies Haven’t been to Havilah before? Well you’re in luck. It’s fun, young, and sexy-hip. Stop in to this hot pink and black haute spot to check out owner Rachel Kim’s happy playful collection of Marc Jacobs, Voom, Rebecca Taylor, Madison Marcus, Frye boots and more! New customers receive 20% off. What: New Customer Sale at Havilah When: Through Oct. 31 (excluding Oct. 12, 19, & 26) Where: 869 N. Larrabee St. Call: 312.202.0012 Visit: www.shophavilah.com

	4	The Fashionista's Fundraiser We love Heidi's quirky auf wiedersehen and Tim Gunn's ever-dramatic commentary on Project Runway. But to experience an organic PR moment for a good cause? We’re in! Support the Chicago chapter of Dress for Success as Steven Rosengard (from PR 4) emcees a fashion show featuring six local designers, plus hors d'oeuvres and cocktails from China Grill! What: Fall Fashion Show with Y.E.S! & Dress for Success! When: Oct. 23, 6:30–9:30 pm Where: Lumen, 839 W. Fulton Market Call: 312.451.7953 Cost: $30 each ($25 for Y.E.S! members) Visit: www.dressforsucces.org

	Just a couple more weeks 'til the spookiest of all holidays! We can't wait to zip up our Marie Antoinette getup again this year, and mimic Sofia's masquerade ball scene! We are looking for the hottest places to see and be seen on H-wizzle night. Any suggestions? And what will you be for Halloween, dear readers? Look for eerily cool tips on hot spots and finds in upcoming issues of Chicago Picks!


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