In These Shoes
 
Spring can't come soon enough for our feet. This past month has had them simply itching to get of our fave stacked-heel boots, and make a debut in an adorable pair of wedges or thongs. 
 
Which is why we loved, loved, loved The Dressing Room Shoes in Lincoln Square. Just as fun and spunky as its apparel-driven predecessor, The Dressing Room, the store was stocked with more fab footwear than Le Carrie herself could shake a stiletto or two. A pair of bright yellow Nicole thongs immediately caught our eye, as did a pair of sassy Naughty Monkey flats. The Faryl Robin pumps with the sexy, (but subtle) snakeskin detail? Icing on the cake. Simple, pretty styles from Pretty Italian Shoemakers and the single most comfortable pair of ballets we've ever slipped into by Biviel made it official—we’d found ourselves in complete tootsie nirvana.
 
With relatively moderate prices, we’re willing to bet you’ll be able to stock up on a few pairs and have enough leftover for a new shoe’s best accessory… a pedi, of course!   
 
The Dressing Room Shoes
4657 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
773.728.0088
www.thedressingroomchicago.com

California Dreamin’   
 
One of our besties desperately wants to move to Cali, and we can’t say we blame her—Chi is home sweet home to us, but year-round sun? Surfers? Let’s just say we get it! 
 
In the meantime, however, we’re sending her to Bambu Boutique, an L.A. worthy find right here in Wicker Park. Boasting brands like celebrity staple Kitson, By Deep Los Angeles and Nelli, there are enough sundresses, party tops and tote bags in here to make us forget all about the Hollywood Hills. We were thrilled to discover our fave piece, a black and white print halter-dress number, was actually from a new local designer, Bissou Me (go Chi)! Carla Bejan lends more local flavor with her flirty earrings, while bags are covered by bigger names like Galady—we heart the ostrich-style white leather tote. With hardwood floors, thick-curtained dressing rooms, chandeliers, and a little sun peeking in the big windows, Bambu almost makes it possible to imagine we’re on Melrose instead of Damen—but quite honestly, we’re not sure we want to.  
 
There’s no place like Chi-town.   
 
Bambu Boutique
1937 N. Damen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.7877
www.bambu-boutique.com

Ruby Rehab
 
Due to recessionary woes. Flaky boys. Dramaz with some girlfriends. Long hours at work. Less sleep. Split ends. And not a New York minute to indulge in a mani or pedi from time to time—so we have checked ourselves into rehab.
 
It’s on account of “exhaustion.” We see no reason why those Hollywood suckers are the only ones to enjoy a little phony spa time. We have found our spa Mecca. Ruby Room isn’t ultra new to the scene, but it’s been growing and expanding. Fusing fashion, beauty, wellness, and art in a one-stop spa that quite possible will inspire a spiritual experience, Ruby Room is a joyous, warm, and inviting shop that cradles the senses. The first thing to note is the light and friendly atmosphere—and token mascot, Ruby the standard poodle. Next are the gorgeous collections of jewelry, when entering the elegant first salon—complete with chandeliers, brick walls, and hard wood floors. 
 
Ruby Room offers yoga and spiritual healing and growth classes, as well as boarding options. Lock us up, and throw away the key!
 
Ruby Room
1743-45 W. Division St.
Chicago, IL 60622
773.235.2323
www.rubyroom.com

Pop Candy

You know who you are; your love's as sweet as candy. I'll be forever yours; Love always, Mandy.
 
So baby come to us, and untangle our tresses with your ever-so-lovely CandyBand Accessories. We heart them almost as much as the millennial Ryan-Adams-marrying Mandy. We plan on popping in a chic turquoise bow and jammin’ to some saccharinely sweet pop this spring season, created by a duo out of Brooklyn, with major style savvy. It's fashion music to our ears.
 
www.candybandaccessories.com

From Brazil, With Love

Good things come Brazil. The essential wax. The (arguably) top supermodel of our time. Crack-like coffee. Beautiful beaches  Idyllic surfing conditions. And for all of us Chicagoans—Diego Rocha.

This self-taught designer had the itch and the vision to single-handedly create a line of gorgeous, detailed, and luxurious handbags inspired by the unusual wildlife from his home country. Rocha perfected his skills in New York, experimenting for six months before showcasing his gorgeous craft at Macy’s and other area boutiques.
 
www.diegorochadesigns.com

Goldilocks Says: It's Just Right
 
Hi, our name is Chicago Picks and we’re addicted to gold. Lately, we’ve been considering a career change: gold panning out west. Chicago, we have a problem.
 
One way to fuel our addiction? K. Amato jewelry. Not only is Kristen Amato a talented hostess with the mostess (Prez of the Chicago Fashion Foundation), but she’s also a well-respected designer in her own right, both locally and nationally. Check out her collection online and at area shops like Mint Julep, Tribeca, Hot Mama, and Veruca Salt.
 
www.k-amato.com

Miss Manners
  
We pay our bills online. We chat with friends via Facebook.  Um, the comp is kinda our bff. More reason to check out out local stationery designer Sacha Katz’s recently launched U Stationery. It’s a “design your own” photo card website. Perfect for announcements, save-the-dates, and more. Get 20% off purchases made in April (enter APRILSHOWERS in the discount code).
  
What: U Stationary Launch Sale
When: Through the month of April
Where: www.ustationery.com

Good Karma
 
Everyone deserves a pretty prom. Help Chicago high-school students who can’t afford prom attire by donating a gently used dress to le Dress, March 21–April 4. Donations go to The Glass Slipper Project, and all used dresses, jewelry, shoes, and unopened makeup will find a happy home. Shoppers who donate receive 20% off one full-price item at le Dress!
 
What: le Dress & The Glass Slipper Project Donation Drive
When: March 21–April 4
Call: 773.697.9899
Visit: www.ledresschicago.com