1252 S. Halsted, (312)997-2411, gourmetclothing.com (2 votes, average: 3.5 out of 5)
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Goods: Men’s and women’s clothing. Designers: Salvage, Little Big, Heatherette, Meets the Wizard, Proper Tea, People’s Liberation, Monarchy, BB Dakota and Breathe. Owner: Jabari Jackson reinvented his former high-end women’s boutique, Breathe Clothing Lounge, into a more approachable shop that UIC students could afford—without losing a bit of style. Vibe: Staying true to its name, the store is actually decorated like a bistro, with cloth tables displaying tees and jeans. Furbished with stainless steel, the back room is “the kitchen,” where all high-end items are housed. Price Range: Moderate-Expensive.  The Look: In the heart of University Village, the store caters to the college crowd with a super trendy appeal. Embellished tees, premium denim and bold hoodies stock the shelves. Shopper’s Perks: Keep your eyes peeled for their “Gourmet Sampler” events, featuring live DJs, wine, cheese and sweet discounts.

The Gourmet Clothing Company

UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2008

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

1359 N. Milwaukee, (773)276-1450, futurgarb.com (No Ratings Yet)
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Goods: Men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. Designers: Division E, Chrome Bags, Goorin Brothers, Tankfarm, Hard 8, Salvage, Affliction and Drifter. Owners: Tim and Reggie McGuire opened Futurgarb in May of 2001. Vibe: The super-friendly McGuire family staffs Futurgarb, and its dim lighting and dark-shaded decor make the store seem like an inviting neighborhood bar. Price Range: Moderate. The Look: The t-shirt-and-jeans sort of guy and gal who want to make sure no one else at the party has their t-shirt. Or their jeans. Futurgarb is rife with unique but casual men’s and women’s wear. Shopper’s Perks: Futurgarb constantly has sales going on, so you’ll almost always be able to find a sweet deal.

Futurgarb

1837 W. North, (773)489-0818 (women’s flagship store), 1922 W. North, (312)423-6693 (men), 1849 W. North, (773)342-8684 (shoes), 2357 N. Clark, (773)404-5826; 122 S. State, (312)346-3034; 643 W. Diversey, (773)649-9257; akirachicago.com (1 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
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Goods: Women’s and men’s clothing, accessories and shoes. Designers: Rock & Republic, Citizens of Humanity, 7 for All Mankind, Max & Cleo, DKNY, Salvage, Gold Sign, Ben Sherman, Free People, Kensie, Kitchen Orange,Mieko Mellucci, French Connection, Serfontaine; dresses by BCBG, Anna Sui and Betsey Johnson; sunglasses by Alexander McQueen, Dolce & Gabbana and Just Cavalli; Monarchy, 7Diamonds, Tankfarm, Ben Sherman, Custo Barcelona and Scotch & Soda for men, shoes by Ted Baker, Creative Recreation, L.A.M.B., Chinese Laundry, Schutz, Adidas and Converse. Owners: College friends Eric Hsueh, Jon Cotay and Erikka Wang began their North Avenue domination with the Akira women’s store in 2002. Now Akira encompasses several different stores all over the city, and 20,000 square feet of retail space on a single street in Bucktown. Vibe: The atmosphere mimics the clothes—it’s young, poppy and vibrant. Clothing is organized by color and designer so you don’t have to mess around. Price Range: Inexpensive-Moderate. The Look: With so many designers, there are so many looks. But a youthful energy shines in feminine prints, bright colors, current trends and designer denim. You can score everything from denim-focused, kick-it gear to an ensemble perfect for sipping martinis at Enclave. Shopper’s Perks: The store’s personal shoppers expertly lead you through “one-stop shopping”—they’re happy to grab shoes or accessories from the other stores to completely finish your look. Stop by to pick out an outfit for a night out and receive complimentary club passes.

Akira Wicker Park

Akira

Akira Men

Akira (Men)

Akira Shoes

Akira (Shoes)

Akira Lakeview

Akira

Akira Lincoln Park

Akira

Akira Loop

Akira

UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2008