Hip to be Tragic 
 
We cringe every time we hear anything described as “hip” (cut to mental image of mom wearing a high-waisted pantsuit with shoulder pads).

But Tragically Hip is a whole different story. Unlike the many of the “tragically cheap” stores on Belmont, Lakeview boutique Tragically Hip offers fabulous, unique, and reasonably priced merchandise that won’t fall apart the day after you wear it. The sweet steals include everything from chic shift dresses to funky hats, sassy bags, quirky compacts, fabulous flats, and an amazing selection of jewelry. Artfully displayed earrings, necklaces, and bracelets include handmade pieces by women who work at the store (like the stylish, friendly, and incredibly helpful owner, Adrian.) Be sure to check out the super-glam cuff bracelets created by jewelry designer Marianna, whose fans include Pink and the Olsen Twins.
 
Moral of the story: stop in to Tragically Hip while you still have the sense to avoid anything else that’s “hip!” 

Tragically Hip
914 W. Belmont
Chicago, IL 60657
773.549.1500

Nailed It
 
We love a cheap mani-pedi as much as the next Sally, but the last time we got a bargain on our nails we paid the price. Our pretty digits had chipped nails by the next day! What’s a thrifty gal with a love of pretty (and inexpensive) nail care to do? 
 
Problem solved. Paint Nail Boutique, located just below the Diversey brown line, serves up reasonably priced nail and skincare services in a clean and utterly adorable environment. Exposed brick walls and a unique layout create a wonderful space for the fabulous spa services. The front area is primarily for manicures and chit-chattery, and the rest of the space is composed of quiet, relaxing rooms. This peaceful haven creates the perfect atmosphere for pedicures, (amazing) facials, and waxing. (Peaceful waxing?) Anyhoo, the staffers are friendly and great at what they do, and are kind and patient to boot (it usually takes us several minutes to chose le perfect color)! 
 
Be sure to check out $35 mani-pedis every day through the end of February. If only an adorable, lovely guy was this easy to find.
 
Paint Nail Boutique
930 W. Diversey
Chicago, IL 60614
773-868-6400
www.paintnailboutique.com

Collegiate Charm 
 
We remember our college days like they were yesterday—the all-nighters, the harsh professors, the part-time jobs we worked for peanuts. Make no mistake—the "best four years of our life" were also rather rough! So we're always willing to help a student out in any way we can.
 
Enter Shop Columbia. Opened in October, the store stays true to its surroundings with a funky dorm feel, and houses tees, photos, paintings, candles and artistic cards—all designed by current students or recent grads. The students receive 75% of the profit and you get to enjoy art at a lower price since they aren't, quote-unquote, "established artists." It's a win-win! Grab a bag for a mere $16 or a cool painting to fill your space for around $120. Need school supplies? You'll have the most creative notebooks in the class with the mini-leather bound journals and colorful paper pads. 
 
We personally liked the cute heart stitch plaid button-up by J. Grygiel—very post-college hipster.   

Shop Columbia
623 S. Wabash
Chicago, IL 60605
312.369.8616

Shershow Showstoppin'
 
Beyond following trends. Beyond following the what’s what of New York Fashion Week. We strongly believe you must remain celebratory in your own style, using your own sense (examples: La Moss, Olsen twinkies, Diane Kruger).
 
To us, that means collecting artful jewelry. And metalsmith and jewelry designer extraordinaire, Leslie Shershow, has a collection we are literally saving our pennies for.  Our at least a chunk of our tax return! Be sure to enter our contest for your chance to win her antler piece!

leslieshershow

Delice Elise
 
In high school, there was a girl that made us green with envy. Her hair was hot and so was her bod. She was dance team captain and president of NHS. Student council. Spanish club. Prom Queen. Meanwhile, we were getting compared to Daria Morgandorffer. 
 
We think Elise Bergman is kinda like that chick. She not only majored in English Lit, but is a photographer an illustrator. Now, her fashion designs have earned acclaim—perhaps even a spot on an upcoming Bravo Show! Hey, jealousy.
  
www.elisebergman.com

Little Girl, Big Dreams
 
Little girl dreams of dresses. She dreams of pretty dresses and shoes and hair and eyelashes. She dreams of gold lame. Of lace. She gets older; she dreams of vintage.
 
Our dearie friend Monica (of The MidWasteland fame) not only rules the local fashion scene but runs a very snappy Etsy shop as well, smartly called “Elegantly Wasted.” She has also recently teamed up with Pivot Boutique to bring shoppers a hot vintage playground. Do not miss!
 
Elegantly Wasted

Fashion in the White City

We’re putting our money where our mouth is. Our Editor is on the judging panel for this Chicago Fashion Foundation show to select a $5000 scholarship winner from five local designers! We too believe that “events are a vital conduit in advancing Chicago’s fashion culture” and would love to see all our Chicago Picks readers at this event! Enjoy drinks, apps, goodies bags, a dj, and silent auction.

What: Fashion in the White City:
a tribute to the Chicago World’s Fair
When: Wednesday, March 4, 6-8 pm
Where: Macy’s on State St., 7th floor-Narcissus Room
Cost: $25 for Chicago Picks readers (mention us when you purchase your tix!)
Visit: www.chicagofashionfoundation.com

Of “Rose and Rime”
 
Sometimes we want escapism. Other times, erm, we want a fairytale we can relate to.  Such as this one: a fairytale in which a young girl sets out to rid her small Midwestern town of a winter-inducing curse. When she tracks down the offending witch, she discovers that there are two sides to magic! 

What: “Rose and Rime”
When: Through April 11
Where: Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St.
Call: 773.251.2195
Cost: $25–$29
Visit: www.thehousetheatre.com

Bromantic Art
 
In French playwright Yasmina Reza's Tony Award-winning drama, a group of friends explore relationships and creativity after falling out over a work of modern art consisting of a blank canvas. Intrigue and comedy reign in this fabulous must-see about the ins and outs of male friendships and relationships.
 
What: “Art”
When: Through June 7, check website for details
Where: Steppenwolf Theatre Company, 1650 N. Halsted St.
Call: 312.335.1650
Cost: $60 
Visit: www.steppenwolf.org