3740 N. Southport, (773)929-5253, 939 N. Rush, (312)664-5553, shopjake.com (1 votes, average: 4 out of 5)
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Goods: Clothing and accessories for men and women. Designers: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Barbara Bui and Erin Fetherston for women; Band of Outsiders and Tim Hamilton for men. Owners: Lance Lawson, an attorney, keeps the business pegs in place while Jim Wetzel applies his merchandising background to the biz. Vibe: Clean and chic with a lodge-in-Aspen edge—small antlers decorate the walls and a cowhide rug rests on the wood floors. The staff doesn’t do the snooty thing, and they know all the regulars by name. Price Range: Expensive-Luxury. The Look: A tasteful, impeccably pulled-together look that blends megawatt and off-the-beaten path designers. Outfits for uber-exclusive cocktail parties or for sipping wine in your Nate Berkus-decorated living room. Shopper’s Perks: All the salespeople have a background in luxury retail. On-site trunk shows offer shoppers the chance to mingle and sip champagne with fashion-world stars. The Thing for Spring: The vibrant colors in Chris Benz’s women’s line.

Lakeview Store

Jake

Gold Coast Store

Jake

1643 N. Damen, (773)862-4523, p45.com (No Ratings Yet)
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Goods: Clothing and accessories for women. Designers: Clothing by Elijah, Michelle Mason, Marlova, Inhabit, Rebecca Taylor, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Deener Jeans and Lara Miller; jewelry by Toki Collection and Sarah McGuire. Owners: Original owners Tricia Tunstall and Jessica Darrow opened p.45 in 1997; the shop was one of the first boutiques on Damen Avenue. When Jessica left to pursue a life in nonprofit endeavors, Judy Yin became Tricia’s partner. Vibe: Exposed brick walls, recycled rubber floors and steel table frames set a tranquil stage. The sales staff is personable, polite and never overbearing. Price Range: Expensive. The Look: T-strap shoes, adorable hats and bits of lace dress a lady for a downtown tea party. More subdued pieces in the p.45 collection let her rule the workplace in city-sleek, sophisticated gear. Shopper’s Perks: Onsite events range from book readings to trunk shows. The Thing for Spring: A recent remodel has given p.45 a more urban, modern face, perfect for showcasing some of the industry’s best designers.

p.45

1804 N. Damen, (773)395-2999 (No Ratings Yet)
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Goods: Clothing and accessories for men. Designers: Clothing by 3.1 Phillip Lim, Earnest Sewn, Rogan, Kicking Mule Workshop, Etro, Dries Van Noten, Unity, Band of Outsiders and Inhabit; accessories by Jack Spade and Martin Margiela. Owners: Inspired by the lack of men’s stores in the Bucktown area, sisters Sarah and Amy Blessing set up this dude-friendly shop in 2001. They’ve since added stores in LA. Vibe: The small, tidy store is immaculately organized; the help is relaxed, friendly and knowledgeable. Nature-inspired window displays include twisted logs or flowers. Price Range: Expensive. The Look: Clean, polished and designer-driven. Shopper’s Perks: Basic alterations and wardrobe consultations.

apartment number 9

UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2008