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CHICAGO PICKS™ |
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life + style to you in the Windy City
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April 18th, 2008
Lately, we've had a case of the grumpies. We're sick of this wacky weather. Tired of getting caught in the rain. Tired of our hair turning insta-poodle. And while we're talking poodles, we feel more “standard” than “teacup” these days. Plus, we just did our taxes. And we actually owe the government this year. And “taxes” just sounds wrong when you say it. Taxes. Taxes. Toxic. Toxes.
What will bring us out of this slump? Sunny days? Yes. A one-piece swimsuit complete with full-coverage and a granny skirt. Well, yes and no. The crack of the bat and smell of fresh hot dogs certainly helps. Our alma mater winning the national championship doesn't hurt either (yeahhh, Jayhawks!). 'Cause any way you look at it, it was just a long, hard winter (one of only seven seasons to reach or exceed 60 inches of snow) and baby needs a new pair of shoes. And a new outlook. Perhaps a new handbag will help.
Speaking of new handbags, forward this issue of Chicago Picks to as many friends as you can and CC picks@chicagopicks.com – you could win a free Brynn Capella bag! Yep, you heard us. See below for more info on le Brynn and get to forwarding, 'lil doggie! |
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Chicago Picks: |
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Modern Love
When we say we have an affinity for the finer things in life, well, that’s because we do. We don't beat around the bush, people. We're determined to dress with a little je ne sais quoi. Of course, there are days when we don't roll out of bed all mussed up and sexy. And those are very limited and rare. Obviously. So to take the world by storm, we hit up Tula Boutique.
Tula dances on the cutting edge, keeping an inventory that’s so current it’s almost post-modern. From the streamlined, severely tailored S.W.O.R.D. leather jackets to bold, flowing prints by Vena Cava, this shop has our craving for creativity covered. Check out the grass-green Vera Wang shirted trench, just in time for April showers. And the dangerously sexy snakeskin clutch is the perfect accessory for a bloodthirsty business meeting or the jungle scene of a martini bar.
At Tula, we’re assured that we won’t be mirrored elsewhere. Instead, we’re outfitted like the one-of-a-kind finds that we are. Humililty never looked good on us, anyway.
Tula Boutique
3738 N. Southport Ave.
Chicago, IL 60613
773.549.2876
www.tulaboutique.com |
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Impossible to Imitate
We were a quintessential ’80s child. We teased our hair. Strutted in purple sparkly jelly shoes. And we were in love with Ferris Bueller. Not only did the hottie truant show us around Chicago, he also taught us that life moves fast and that if we don't stop and look around, we might just miss it. Amen, brother!
Ferris's advice rang particularly true as we serendipitously stumbled upon the hidden gem Eclectica. Tucked away in a garden-level space, it's easy to miss the cozy boutique in the hustle of Lincoln Park. But to do so would be tragic. The jackpot of designs from Vika Brown—owner, designer, and 2006 winner of the Macy's Distinction in Design award—are TDF. Her Vika line was previously sold in select retailers, but Eclectica is the first one-stop-shop to carry all of her couture-quality collections. Elegant dresses and blouses share the spotlight with duds from Orlando Espinoza, handbags by Diego Rocha, and accessories from Juliet Jewelry.
Lesson learned—with our mane a bit more tame and our shoes a lot less plastic, we never forget to stop, look, and shop!
Eclectica
1006 W. Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
773.697.9929
www.eclectica.com |
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A Whole New Healthy
We try to eat healthy, we really do. We diligently mix our yogurt and high-protein granola in the morn’ and try to block out thoughts of double-fudge muffins (A.K.A. cupcakes) from Milk & Honey. And while our homemade granola parfait isn’t awful, we’ve always stuck to the mix out of duty rather than delight.
Until now. Say hello to Starfruit, our new favorite entry into the frozen yogurt craze. The shop opened on Tuesday and from the first taste, we were hooked on the healthy treats. Backed by the folks at Lifeway Foods, Starfruit uses Lifeway’s line of kefir products as its base for all its offerings, whether you prefer frozen yogurt sundaes or parfait style dishes. FYI, kefir is a milk product akin to yogurt but packed with extra good-for-you bacteria.
The setup is deliciously simple: choose your kefir base—flavors range from pomegranate to cappuccino—then add toppings, for which options include cereals, cakes, sprinkles, and a whole spread of fresh fruit choices. Who knew healthy could be so yum?
Starfruit
1745 W. Division St.
Chicago, IL 60622
773.328.2900
www.starfruitcafe.com |
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Chick Picks: |
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All Things Nice
Although we’re known to sport skull hoodies and thick gold chains on occasion, most days we adore all things girly-girl.
Look no further than Sugar Mama Bath & Body. Owner Kimberley pours her own girly goodness and passion into all her products, which include lotions, soaps, body washes and scrubs. We love the “Frisky” scent, a perfect blend of floral, apple and citrus, and we can’t get enough of the peppermint bath soak to refresh us on weekends.
www.sugarmamaproducts.com
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Little Piece, Big Impact
Do you ever go to a dinner party and think blah blah blah this is boring. And you're like blah blah pass the butter blah blah yes I'll have more wine.
Well guess what? We found a great conversation piece for you in Littleput Pendants, made from reclaimed Scrabble tiles and fine papers. Yes, your gold hoops are sexy. And yes, your silver studs are classy. But we're talking interesting. Put out the vibe that says you're not only thrifty (only $15 per piece), but stylish, cool, and forward-thinking.
www.littleputbooks.etsy.com |
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Ah! Capella
We like Brynn Capella. Not only for her keen eye for chic handbag design, but for her ability to make her mark as well. Some dream and some do, and Miss Brynn is a doer.
This Caifornia girl has made Chicago her home, yet keeps a certain coastal influence when it comes to her utilitarian yet fanciful bags. Clean lines, generous size, and polished as can be, these are functional and fashionable. Well-made and cute? You can't go wrong.
Brynn's new spring collection is available online!
www.brynnhandbags.com |
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Hip Happenings: |
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Dance Dance Revolution
We love watching dance in action, but we don’t like sticking to one genre more than another. That’s why we can’t wait to see spankin’ new dance company NoMi LaMad this weekend. NoMi features the hippest up-and-coming dancers showcasing it all, from modern dance to ballet, from pointe work to ballroom sexiness, and everything in between.
What: NoMi LaMad Dance’s inaugural concert
When: Friday, April 18, & Saturday, April 19, 8 pm
Where: Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St.
Call: 312.337.6543 for tickets ($20)
Visit:www.nomilamaddance.com |
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Latin Love
We like to shake it. Drink it. And eat it. And we're pretty sure you do too. Don't miss the Opening Night of Chicago's first Latin American Art Fair. Join Chicago Culinary Adventures and the Streeterville Chamber of Commerce for a spicy adventure in Latin art, cuisine, dance, drinks, fashion, and more! Purchase your tickets today!
What: Arteahora! A Celebration of Latin Art, Cuisine, Drinks, Music, Dance & More
When: Thursday, April 24, 5:30 pm–9 pm
Where: River East Art Center, 465 E. Illinois St.
Call: 312.321.1001
Visit: arteahorachgoculadv.eventbrite.com |
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Ultimate Girls' Night
Three hours of wine, champagne, Rain martinis, and cocktails plus manicures, massages, makeovers, waxing and shopping all adds up to one heckuva girl's night out! Gather up your girls, tickets are only $25, and all proceeds go to ICODA non-profit organization.
What: Ultimate Girls' Night Out
When: Tonight! Friday, April 18, 7–10 pm
Where: Le Passage & The Drawing Room, 937 N. Rush St.
Call: 312.255.0022
Visit: www.shequechicago.com |
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We're gaining ground, gang. At breakneck speed! Thanks for your great tips and sweet leads. With your help, we can seize Chicago one shop at a time. And keep you in the know, of course! Keep spreadin' the word and contact us for advertising needs at picks@chicagopicks.com. |
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