Background: This German native (and former professional dancer) studied at the School of Visual Arts, Parsons and Fashion Institute of Technology. She launched her first signature collection in 2002, and currently teaches in the Fashion Department at the School of the Art Institute.
The Pieces: Structural-yet-fluid women’s clothing that is simple, versatile and elegant. They combine intriguing cuts, high-quality materials, inventive techniques and total originality.
Designer inspirations: Vionnet, Halston, Geoffrey Beene, Jil Sander, Rick Owens, Maison Martin Margiela. “Here in Chicago, Shane Gabier and Calvin Tran are very interesting designers,” Schnabl says.
Chicago Inspirations: “There is a tension, visually, in core areas of Chicago, especially visible in modern architecture next to industrial structures, that I find very intriguing.”
Best part of being a designer in Chicago: The independence.
What to look for: A presentation at Chicago’s Fashion Focus 2008 in early October.
Where to find Katrin Schnabl designs: At Habit boutique and at habitchicago.com, studio-808.com. Find out more at katrinschnabl.com.
67 E. Oak, (312)943-8880, daisyshop.com 
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Goods: Women’s couture resale clothing and accessories. Designers: Carolina Herrera, Givenchy, Jil Sander, Yves Saint Laurent, Chanel, Hermes, Gucci, Prada; purses by Judith Leiber, Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo, Moschino and Bottega Veneta; vintage costume jewelry by Kramer, Weiss, Eisenberg and Schreiner. Owner: Barbara Nell founded the shop thirteen years ago. Vibe: Tucked away on the sixth floor of an Oak Street walkup, the store feels like a well-organized fashion archive; the knowledgeable staff acts like designer docents. Expect to find estate jewels, hats and handbags. Price Range: Moderate for couture, the prices are what the staff refers to as a “relative bargain.” Shopper’s Perks: Everything in stock is authenticated. Join the Daisy Fresh Pix club to receive flyers about newly arrived designer merchandise before it hits the Web.
