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  life + style in the Windy City
June 6th, 2008

We admit, we had no idea that the SATC movie was going to be that big. By the time we went to see it, we figured the hordes of girls in their heels, gold nameplate necklaces and terrycloth rompers would be SATC-satisfied and at home! Because truth be told, we're not fans of huge crowds and long lines.  
 
So when we showed up and it was still sold out, we were bummed. We were ready to embrace that fierce bunch of strong females—and check out their outfits. We had even watched SJP's reference to the SATC-like film before there ever was an SATC series ("An Unmarried Woman," totally Netflix-worthy). But seriously, what a phenom! SATC completely outshone Indy and the hotness of Shia. Which, at our age, sounds a little Cougar-ish to say, especially since our 14-year-old cousin calls him her "fiancé." But by the power of SATC, we’re not ashamed to announce that we're in love with Shia LaBoeuf.  

       
 

Chicago Picks:

 
  1

La Vita Isabella
 

We’ve retired our triple-insulated parka. The sun has been shining for more than ten minutes straight. We scooped through a pint of Rocky Road—just to cool down—no tears or breakup involved. Chicago summer is finally here. And with warm weather comes the shedding of bulky duds for clothing that’s just a little more dainty—and delectable. It’s time for Isabella Lingerie. 

Embarrassing but true: We spent more than one winter evening wearing oversized sweatpants, our boy du jour’s old college jersey and fuzzy slippers. Quirky? Perhaps. Sexy? No. We’re overdue for lace and silk, and Isabella delivers. Heck, just looking at Cosabella’s Sex and the City bra-and-panty sets makes us feel like Samantha on the prowl. The She and Me organic cami offers a refreshing option for eco-conscious shoppers, the plus-size line of Goddess bustiers is fabu, and the Birdie Jo colorblock bikini will have us showing off at Oak Street Beach every weekend.
 
Top it off with Mario Badescu skincare and a lingerie wash to keep our unmentionables mentionable, and Isabella’s our one-stop shop for feeling naughty and looking much, much more than nice. 
 
Isabella Fine Lingerie
840 West Armitage Ave.
Chicago, IL 60618
773.281.2352
www.shopisabella.com

       
  2

Fixed Right Up
 
So, you know that hostess—or guest—who always comes up with the ideal token of appreciation? The housewarming gift to beat all others, the “little something” for Big Boss’s birthday that will ensure last-minute vacations for years to come? That’s who we want to be. And we’re getting there—never mind the brief incident with the Venus flytrap.

Fixture is an indispensable boutique for reaching that goal. From the marvelously eclectic (pink cowgirl slippers) to the epitome of elegance (Sandy Comstock’s exquisitely crafted sterling cuffs), Fixture provides uniquely endearing gifts for any occasion. The items seem hand-picked for a variety of recipients: a Buddha board for our favorite philosopher; driftwood hurricane candleholders for the entertainer with a patio; a Hobo International clutch for the resident fashionista (although we snapped one up for ourselves first); even Uglydolls for the littlest members of our entourage. 

Fixture will have you smiling smugly to yourself as you leave laden with packages, and discreetly demurring when acquaintances clamor to know your gift-giving secrets. Hey, we can’t offer everything, now, can we? 
 
Fixture
2108 West Roscoe St.
Chicago, IL 60618
773.244.3100
www.shopfixture.com

 

       
  3

West End Girls

As girls on the go, we rely on trusty go-to's for all aspects of go-getter living. Swanky soiree? Go-Go-Gadget LBD! Bed-head battle? Go-Go-Gadget Chi!      

With spring fever in the air, we'd been antsy pantsy to find the go-to warm-weather watering hole. We searched far and wide, north and south, yet all signs pointed west. Westend Bar, specifically. They’re embarking on their first summer season and they're doing it up right. Ample sidewalk seating makes for a perfect Sunday Funday, loaded with people-watching and Bloody Marys galore. Inside you'll find 30 or so plasmas broadcasting America's favorite pastime, but if a "Hills" marathon is more your cup of tea, you can duck into one of the booths displaying private screens. And to complete its go-to requisites, the menu is chock full of delish dishes (our fave is the southwest steak and avocado salad).  
 
So back to those fancy TVs—did we mention they reel in herds of testosterone? Whether looking for an afternoon of eye candy or serious summer loving, Go-Go-Gadget Westend!                  

Westend Bar & Grill
1326 W Madison St 
Chicago, IL 60607 
312.981.7100
www.westendwestloop.com

 

       
  Chick Picks:  
  1

It’s In the Bag
 

There was a time when we would briefly pause prior to bagging our groceries and pose the question: Choke a fish, or kill a tree? But not anymore, thanks to the onslaught of reusable bags that now grace the market.

Our current fave? The eco-friendly fabric bags by JP Monkey. Sized like a typical paper grocery bag and made from durable upholstery weight fabrics, these bags are uber-stylish and destined to garner compliments next time we shop.

www.jpmonkey.com

       
  2

Kitschy-kitschy Cool
 
We often wile away the hours skimming our favorite flea market for out-of-the-ordinary finds. We’re just suckers for a little bit of kitsch, and that’s why we love The Curiosity Shoppe.

Loaded with crazy finds for occasions you never knew existed, this online retailer is successfully bucking the curve of conventionalism with their spot-on oddities. Cast-iron owl or mermaid bottle opener? Look no further! Curiosity has you covered.
 
www.curiosityshoppeonline.com

       
  3

Rethink Your Drink

The big brouhaha about the safety of plastic water bottles has made us extra cautious, that’s why we’re now happily chugging from the eco-cool bottles by SIGG.
 
Made from a single sheet of seamless aluminum, they’re leak-proof, virtually unbreakable, and lined with a protective coating that guarantees no yucky aftertastes or odors. Plus they’re available in a ton of hip designs, from flowers and skulls to Hello Kitty, making them earth-friendly and ultra-stylish.    
 
www.brightandbold.com

       
 

Hip Happenings:

 
  1

Domino for Design
 
Domino magazine is Gen X's guide to being a Martha. Except hipper, fresher and more artsy-funky.  And they're taking over an entire avenue in Lincoln Park for free classes, consultations, giveaways, and tours, with 40 stores offering 20% or more off original prices. Think: a flower-arrangement class at Jayson Home & Garden, wine tastings, a makeover at Benefit Cosmetics—plus, meet the editors!
 
What: The Domino Design District in Lincoln Park
When: June 7 & 8, 11 am–6 pm 
Where: Armitage Avenue .
Call:  212.286.5394  
Cost: Free
Visit: www.dominodesigndistrict.com

       
  2 To Millenium, and Beyond!
 
We are somewhat envious of those old ladies who do group exercise in the park. It looks like so much fun! Albeit a bit slower and not as intense as our fave kickboxing class. But we’ve found our niche: free classes in Millenium Park, beginning this June.  Try yoga, Pilates, dance, and tai chi. Kids' and family workouts also available.   
 
What: Workouts in the Park
When: June 7, 7 am, check the website for more dates
Where: Millenium Park, 201 E. Randolph St.
Call: 312.742.1168 
Cost: Free
Visit: www.millenniumpark.org
       
  3

That's So Sick!
 
We don't know about you, but our life is messy. Six car accidents by age 21. Dyed our hair once and it turned magenta. Moved to another state with a boyfriend and broke up shortly afterward. We relate to messiness and embarrassment. Another reason to check out this show, all about true stories of sexual disaster, digestive mayhem, and personal injury.     
 
What:  The Sickest F***ing Stories I Have Ever Heard 
When:  First Saturday of the month, 12 am 
Where:  The Playground Improv Theatre, 3209 Halsted St. 
Call: 773.871.3793
Cost: $10 
Visit: www.the-playground.com 

       
  Hope that the sizzle and excitement of summer has started working its magic on you, like it is on us! Sun-kissed faces and beautiful new Chicago places are upon us! Keep us in tune with what you are up to, and we'll happily commit to bringing you the best. Drop us a line anytime at picks@chicagopicks.com or feel free to hit reply to this email…let us know what’s new around you! 
   
       
 

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