Chicago’s expansive young fashion empire, Akira, officially opens its Lakeview store tonight (July 31) with a “Girls Night Out” celebration. In addition to 15 percent off all purchases during the event (5pm-10pm), look for the usual Akira circus:

Makeup consultations and gifts from Stila Cosmetics
Hair styling and consultations, as well as massages by Zazu Salon
Complimentary manicures provided by Nailbar
Threading by The Spot
Hors d’oeuvres catered by Moe’s Cantina and sushi by Kamehachi
Chocolate fountain fondue by The Melting Pot
Summer vodka cocktails and FUZE drinks
A striptease and pole dancing fitness class
Live auction of Chicago Machine lacrosse players

Of course, the merch itself will be the main attraction in this, the largest (6,000 square feet) Akira store so far. Look for the following lines: Betsey Johnson, Greyhound, Salvage, Meiko Mellucci, Nellie, BCBG Max Azria, Citizens of Humanity and Hudson.

643 West Diversey, (773)649-9257

1706 N. Wells, (312)751-2929 (No Ratings Yet)
 Loading ...
Goods: Women’s clothing, accessories, lingerie, perfume, candles, cards, baby blankets, toys and clothes. Designers: Three Dots, Nanette Lepore, Theory, Hoss, Rozae Nichols, Trina Turk, Diane Von Furstenberg. Owner: John Liberty opened this Old Town mainstay twenty-five years ago; today, the shop continues to expand. Vibe: The rooms are bright and elegant, with delicate chandeliers and exposed brick walls. The sales staff is dressed adorably and an upbeat mood prevails with eighties and nineties hits in the background. Price Range: Moderate-Luxury. The Look: Each room increases in price and dressiness, so there’s something for any occasion. Wear to drinks on a friend’s patio, your college roommate’s wedding or dinner at NoMi. Shopper’s Perks: Client books kept by the staff remind them to alert you when your favorite designers come in. A classy handwritten note thanks customers for purchases. The Thing for Spring: Wide-leg denim by Hudson, brightly colored Catherine Malandrino dresses.

Handle With Care

1659 N. Damen, (773)489-0101 (No Ratings Yet)
 Loading ...
Goods: Clothing and accessories for women and men. Designers: Jet Lag, Industry, Michael Stars, Flux, Ichabod, jeans by Hudson. Owner: Stephanie Riley, who’s been in retail since she was 13 years old, and named her boutique after her journalist father. Vibe: Calm, neutral hues and hardwood floors let an uncluttered vibe prevail despite a wall covered in newspapers and scripts from Stephanie’s father. Price Range: Moderate. The Look: Modern classics and easy separates are perfect for warm Friday night happy hours on the bar patio. Shopper’s Perks: New merchandise arrives every week, so shopping’s always a surprise. The back wall showcases one of every t-shirt Riley stocks, making it easy to find and try on the perfect shirt. The Thing for Spring: Men’s denim from Joe’s Jeans and brightly colored clothing for the ladies.

Riley