Michigan Avenue and River North: The Chicago Collection

The 900 Shops
900 N. Michigan Ave.
312.915.3916
Monday – Saturday 10 to 7, Sunday 12 to 6
shop900.com
The most up-market of Chicago’s high-rise malls, the shops at 900 N. Michigan, combine all the glamour of Michigan Avenue without the hustle and bustle of the strip. Cutting-edge design and distinctive architectural elements create an elegant setting for browsing an eclectic mix of fashion, home décor and accessories from more than 70 high-end retailers.
COUNT ON FINDING: Seven levels of sophisticated shopping, not to mention multiple restaurants, the Mario Tricoci Hair Salon and an Equinox Fitness Center. Find custom window treatments from the Silk Trading Co., European bedding at Scandia Down and adorable items to decorate a nursery at Preggers. The 900 Shops also offer a full-service concierge on levels one and six, free internet and beautifully designed and packaged gift cards.
WHAT'S NEW? At the first U.S. boutique for French homewares retailer Genevieve Lethu, boldly patterned dinnerware and bright tabletop items add a certain je ne sais quoi to the kitchen. If you find yourself hungry for more than just tasteful goods, nothing beats a cup of “only eight” frozen yogurt from King Cafe Gourmet & Co.

Bang & Olufsen
609 N. State St.
312.787.6006
Monday – Saturday 10 to 7, Sunday 11 to 5
bang-olufsen.com
For 80 years, groundbreaking aesthetics coupled with sci-fi features have set this Danish manufacturer apart from the electronics fray. Renowned for
its distinctive, high-end electronics, products are intended to reflect cutting-edge industrial design in appearance and function.
COUNT ON FINDING: Visually stunning, supremely distinctive products. The maker unveils only four or five new products each year, such as state-of-the-art speakers, touch-screen remote controls and a plasma-screen television so striking that customers joke they enjoy watching it when it’s off, too.
WHAT'S NEW? Electronics as art takes on new form with the recently launched BeoVision 8. Like most of the Danish company’s products, the jaw-dropping 32-inch flexible LCD television is almost impossibly sleek and modern, but also adds new functionality at an entry-level price point.

Bloomingdale’s
900 N. Michigan Ave.
312.440.4460
Monday – Saturday 10 to 8, Sunday 11 to 7
bloomingdales.com
Known as much for its signature “brown bag” as for its elegant Michigan Avenue address, Bloomingdale’s reigns as one of Chicago’s retail giants. With six stories
of glorious space, shoppers have plenty to sift through including a large selection of contemporary lines and designer labels.
COUNT ON FINDING: Anyone worth her stilettos will tell you that this store is the final word in fresh designer clothing and accessories. After ogling handbags by Lauren Merkin on the main floor, head upstairs for chic sportswear by Salvatore Ferragamo. On level five, younger fashion sybarites gravitate toward excellent selections of midpriced lines such as Marc by Marc Jacobs, Alice & Olivia, and Theory. Visitors to the city can receive information about the store and other local attractions, as well as a complimentary gift with purchase when they stop by the first floor Visitors desk.
WHAT'S NEW? Want to bag something different? First Edit, a new cutting-edge retail concept, brings the unique sensibilities of a specialty shop to the storied department store. The store will stock a roster of hard-to-find labels while also serving as a launch pad for up-and-coming designers.

Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Store
600 N. Wabash Ave.
312.324.7500
Monday – Saturday 10 to 8, Sunday 11 to 7
bloomingdales.com
The historic Medinah Temple provides an impressive, multistory residence for the exclusive specialty home and furniture store. Expect a wonderful mix of price points and styles as well as an “At Your Service” specialist offering complimentary personal shopping along with a comprehensive Bridal Registry department.
COUNT ON FINDING: Designer wares to outfit the home in the style to which you are accustomed. With a merchandise assortment that is in sync with the latest
seasonal trends, expect to find a sophisticated selection including an expansive collection of Wedgwood china and Waterford crystal.
WHAT'S NEW? Whether you are shopping for a wedding gift or simply looking to make your grill sizzle, the well-stocked store is brimming with attractive options. In addition to the array of fine housewares,
visitors to the city can receive information about the store and other local attractions as well as a complimentary gift with purchase when they stop by Customer Service on Level 2.

Christofle
900 N. Michigan Ave., Level 1
312.664.9700
Monday – Saturday 10 to 7, Sunday 12 to 6
christofle.com
Having been the preeminent supplier of fine sterling silver, crystal and china to the European aristocracy, Christofle continues to create a variety of
elegantly sophisticated products from gold and silver tableware and dining table accessories to decorative pieces of silver, crystal and porcelain.
COUNT ON FINDING: Ornate candelabrum gleam inside the softly lit space while entire sets of sterling silverware and delicate crystal pieces shine in display cases. Designs range from traditional to modern, detailed to simple, and all are painstakingly fashioned using centuries-old techniques.
WHAT'S NEW? Christofle is increasingly broadening its collection to include more gifts and decorative objects for all those occasions that call for a beautiful present. From desk, bar and smoke accessories to delicate cups and saucers for children to Adam Tihany-designed martini glasses, each is a sure treasure.

The Goldsmith Ltd.
900 N. Michigan Ave., Level 4
312.751.1986
Monday – Saturday 10 to 7, Sunday 12 to 6
thegoldsmithltd.com
Original and custom-designed jewelry incorporating gold and gemstones are crafted by talented artisans.
COUNT ON FINDING: Jewelry with undeniable richness and originality. From custom-designed engagement rings to one-of-a-kind creations made by award-winning owner and designer Sherry Bender, the
selection of exquisite jewelry and gemstones
is second to none.
WHAT'S NEW? Be it a designer creation in gold or platinum, each piece has its own story and is conceptualized and created with an artist’s precision and care. This summer, add an instant dose of chic with ethnic-inspired 22-karat gold jewelry including multistrand bracelets and necklaces.

Harry Winston
55 E Oak St.,
312. 705.1820
Monday – Saturday 10 to 5
harrywinston.com
If you’ve ogled the gorgeous diamonds worn by Hollywood starlets on the red carpet, here's your chance to try one on for size. Even if you’re not up for an Oscar, the sales staff is happy to help bathe you in priceless diamonds rubies and emeralds.
COUNT ON FINDING: Harry Winston remains one of the preeminent jewelers in the world: the destination of choice for both Hollywood and high society. At his exclusive Oak Street salon, rare, museum-quality gems in diamond-encrusted watches, five-carat engagement rings and princess necklaces float like fish in the vitrines.
WHAT'S NEW? This summer, celebrate the launch of Lauren Weisberger’s new novel, “Chasing Harry Winston” by discovering the storied beauty of pieces like Winston’s signature seven-diamond watch and diamond cushion-cut drop earrings.

Home Element
600 N. Michigan Ave., Level 3
312.787.3358
Monday – Friday 10 to 7,
Saturday 10 to 6,
Sunday 12 to 5
homeelementfurniture.com
Distinctive contemporary furnishings and well-crafted case goods share the spotlight with authentic Chinese antiques in stunning room-after-room
collections at this Michigan Avenue
showroom.
COUNT ON FINDING: A wide variety of modern, sleek furniture for the urban- living environment including living room, bedroom and dining room selections. Popular items include sectional sofas, customizable wall units and attractive storage units by makers like Natuzzi, Rossetto and Calligaris.
WHAT'S NEW? Design and function merge in innovative Italian-made wall- bed systems. The unique space-saving units make a handsome addition to a loft or modern apartment and provide an open space by day and a comfortable bed by night.

Lester Lampert
57 E. Oak St.
312.944.6888
Monday – Saturday 10 to 6
lesterlampert.com
For more than four generations, the Lampert name has been synonymous with impeccable craftsmanship, attention to detail and one-of-a-kind jewelry.
COUNT ON FINDING: In addition to one-of-a-kind creations, the glittering Oak Street salon is home to an array of estate jewels and timepieces as well as a meticulously crafted signature collection. If you don’t immediately fall in love with something in the case, keep in mind that Lampert is known for his award-winning custom-design work.
WHAT'S NEW? Who needs a suntan with a Pirouette necklace around your neck? The versatile ideal-cut diamond piece looks equally natural peaking out from behind a
collared blouse or set off by a little black dress. It’s the ultimate glow-getter.

Mary Mary
706 N. Dearborn St.
312.654.8100
Monday – Saturday 11 to 7, Sunday 12 to 5 and by appointment
marymarygifts.com
This inviting, slightly off-the-beaten-path shop is the type that inevitably has something delightful and not too expensive for the home or the closet (or the last-minute birthday). You’ll feel like you discovered a secret stash of frames, bags and quirky decorative items chosen especially for you.
COUNT ON FINDING: Exotic handblown glass perfume flaçons, shiny lacquered bowls, embroidered straw bags and mounted antiques from Asia. Kids will squeal over tiny tea sets, unique wooden toys and even a wigwam. At the high end, hand-carved armoires transform even the simplest abode into a castle.
WHAT'S NEW? Go green this summer with eco-friendly finds such as mango-tree bowls and wooden toys for the home. Cute and colorful watering cans will have you asking Mary Mary, how does your garden grow?

Mary Walter
33 W. Superior St.
312.266.1094
Monday – Friday 10 to 7, Saturday 10 to 6, Sunday 12 to 5
marywalter.net
Located just off the Magnificent Mile®, Mary Walter is a one-stop shop for the chic woman in search of stylish, sophisticated clothes. Suits, blouses, sweaters, blazers, bold accessories and jewelry all come together nicely here with a helpful staff that will take the time to put together a smart ensemble for work or play.
COUNT ON FINDING: Whether your office requires business or business-casual attire, Mary Walter has the seasonal options you want. From unique Indigo knitwear by Blue Willi’s to versatile workplace basics from Di Vita and People Like Frank, clothing is selected to emphasize construction, fit and design.
WHAT'S NEW? Are your basics looking tired? Freshen up your look with the new white shirt—a puff-sleeved feminine wrap blouse by Lafayette 148. Top off the look with a lightweight cropped jacket that works with everything from capris to a flirty frock.

P.O.S.H.
613 N. State St.
312.280.1602
Monday – Saturday 10 to 7, Sunday 11 to 5
poshchicago.com
A year-round European flea market in the heart of Chicago, P.O.S.H. offers the experience of wandering into a small storefront in Paris or Provence.
COUNT ON FINDING: Pieces for the kitchen and home with an evocative history: vintage hotel silver, restaurant china and flea-market picks such as vintage Swiss Army blankets and colorful seltzer bottles from Argentina. But there are also plenty of new treasures including cute breakfast plates adorned with pineapples and guidebooks to help you plan your own Grand Tour.
WHAT'S NEW? Local sports enthusiasts and history buffs will have their plates full with more than 2,000 pieces of vintage silver and china formerly belonging to the Chicago Athletic Association. Stamped with the social club’s distinctive emblem, it’s a not-to-be-missed opportunity to own a piece of the city’s unique and treasured past.

Pratesi Linens
67 E. Oak St.
312.943.8422
Monday – Saturday 10 to 6
pratesi.com
You’ll never know what you’ve been missing until you’ve spent the night on a bed fitted with Pratesi luxury. The Chicago store—the only U.S. location to be remodeled to reflect the classic elegance of the brand—offers some of the most beautiful cotton confections around in a soothing contemporary setting.
COUNT ON FINDING: Peerless linens that will keep you in bed. Known for superior thread count and softness, the Italian maker also offers lavish bathrobes, beachwear, wool and cashmere blankets and accessories.
WHAT'S NEW? A day at the beach becomes a luxury experience when you dry off with Pratesi’s famous collection of beach towels. Beach bags and accessories add to the experience. Exclusive items also include exceptional Egyptian linens in several new styles, colors and thread counts.

Thos. Moser
607 N. State St.
312.867.4900
Monday – Saturday 10 to 6, Sunday 11 to 5
thosmoser.com
Thos. Moser brings the lost art of fine woodworking to Chicago with clean-lined, distinctive handcrafted furniture that celebrates the natural beauty of hardwood. Appropriately housed in the historic Tree Studios, the showroom displays a broad selection of its award-winning designs, and a friendly and knowledgeable staff is on hand to assist in your selection every step of the way.
COUNT ON FINDING: Well-crafted furnishings that epitomize understated elegance made of American black cherry. Moser furniture ties the discipline of classic Japanese joinery to the functionality of other styles such as Arts & Crafts, American Shaker and German Bauhaus.
WHAT'S NEW? Summer brings new additions to Moser’s well-established Edo collection with pieces such as the Edo Rocker and Edo Cantilevered Side Table. Like what you see? The showroom’s exclusive “Take It Home” policy allows eager customers to purchase and carry away nearly every piece currently on the floor.

Whitney Abrams
9 E. Huron St.
312.337.6687
Tuesday – Saturday 11 to 6
whitneyabramsjewerly.com
More than a jewelry designer, Whitney Abrams is a goldsmith known for extraordinary gemstone pieces that reflect the rich aesthetic of Renaissance paintings. Everything is done on site and is personally, uniquely designed—something truly just for you.
COUNT ON FINDING: Classically inspired jewels of high-karat gold accented with intensely hued stones and pearls handcrafted by a talented group of artisans including Abrams herself. The warmth of this artist-owned atelier creates a unique Chicago shopping experience.
WHAT'S NEW? There’s always something new here, as each piece is a one-of-a-kind treasure.

Yolanda Lorente
900 N. Michigan Ave., Level 5
312. 867.0900
Monday – Saturday 10 to 7, Sunday 12 to 6
yolandalorente.com
Best known for her sumptuous hand-painted silk gowns, local designer Yolanda Lorente epitomizes glamour. With a dynamic line of daytime as well as signature eveningwear, her breathtaking pieces are made with uncompromising attention to detail and quality, giving the wearer an air of elegance and uncompromising taste.
COUNT ON FINDING: Dresses that embody what it means to be feminine in colors to match anyone’s taste. Not only are her unique, colorful pieces easy to wear, but they are designed to compliment almost any woman’s figure.
WHAT'S NEW? Got silk? Make a splash this summer in a breezy hand-painted silk chiffon tunic top. Simple yet sheer and sexy, the tropical colors brighten any wardrobe.

RIVER NORTH

River North and the Near West Side are sprawling districts just a short distance west of North Michigan Avenue, yet they are worlds away from the glossy high-rise glamour of the Magnificent Mile®. Instead of posh designer flagships and luxury malls, the area is peppered with chic but independent retail establishments, kitschy tourist attractions, new residential developments and acclaimed eateries.
The area is dominated by the Merchandise Mart, which is the world’s largest wholesale design center for residential and commercial furnishings. The Mart boasts hundreds of to-the-trade showrooms and an innovative 90,000-square-foot retail center on its first floor for high-end kitchen, bath and home building products, called LuxeHome.
Those in the market for engaging and singular home furnishings also will find nearby plenty of antiques dealers and retailers that provide a wide range of choices. Because shopping for furniture can be a pain, River North, with its densely packed stash of sources, is the perfect place to negotiate the task.

Champagne Furniture Gallery
65 W. Illinois St.
312.923.9800
Monday – Friday 10 to 6, Saturday 11 to 5
champagnefurniture.com
The upscale furniture gallery specializes in traditional-style furnishings. Its exclusive selection is often sought out by independent interior designers looking for magnificent European-style pieces such as library bookcases, large dining tables and sofas custom-made in silks, mohair and leather.
COUNT ON FINDING: A collection of handcrafted Italian furniture, namely Provasi, which is exclusive locally to the showroom. Offerings also include accessories from across the world in porcelain, bronze, crystal and rare varieties of stone.
WHAT'S NEW? New items are constantly arriving, and hot sellers for summer include a new collection of original Impressionistic oil paintings by a variety
of artists, and stunning porcelain and bronze accessories.

Design Inc.
1359 W. Grand Ave.,
312.243.4333
Wednesday and Friday 10 to 6, Thursday 10 to 9, Saturday and Sunday 11 to 6, or by appointment
designinchicago.com
Art lovers of all tastes are drawn to Bill Bruss’ near west side boutique for its eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary fine furniture, sculpture, art and creative home accessories. A force in residential and commercial interior design as the founder of BBD Design, Bruss’s talent for transforming dreams into reality is showcased via offerings that feature exotic upholstering, rich colors, and unique works of art in all mediums.
COUNT ON FINDING: Unique, artfully-designed pieces in an accessible, customer-centered retail environment. Art collides with function in a diverse stock that draws on design talent worldwide including multifunctional modular sofas, whimsical chaise lounges and sculptural wine racks.
WHAT'S NEW? Put a twist on the traditional interior with a unique sofa systems designed to be taken apart and put back together in a myriad of functional ways. As Bruss prepares to move into a larger storefront in the fall of 2008, he has expanded his range to include new estate lighting that can be customized to any size and shape.

Hydrology
435 N. LaSalle St.
312.832.9000
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9 to 5, Thursday 9 to 7, Saturday 10 to 4
hydrologychicago.com
As a preeminent interior design experience, Hydrology offers commercial and residential builders, designers, developers and architects creative kitchen and bath solutions. Located in Chicago’s esteemed interior design district in the River North neighborhood, its 6,000-square-foot showroom features mostly exclusive designs that complement the artful nature of water.
COUNT ON FINDING: Hydrology’s collection of inventive concepts including a diverse selection of kitchen and bath fixtures, faucets, sinks, bathtubs, showers and vanities that are pure, original and authentic. Many of the concepts originate from global designers from Belgium, Italy, Germany, Spain and other countries that exhibit the highest benchmarks of fine design.
WHAT'S NEW? Hydrology continues to make extraordinary discoveries each day. Clients will find unique designs that complement the urban living experience, no matter how they define it.

P.A. Larkin
118 W. Kinzie St.
312.527.1217
Monday – Saturday 10 to 5 or by appointment
palarkin.com
Sleek Asian furnishings of enduring design and detail are handcrafted here using authentic methods that have withstood the test of time. Owners Anne Larkin and Peggy Jones sell one-of-a-kind antiques and an expanding group of furniture collections in the store.
COUNT ON FINDING: High-end bedroom, living room and dining room furniture that include both antiques and new collections from contemporary Asian furniture designers. Each of the solid wood pieces are made using traditional tongue-and-groove methods and are available for customization in a number of finishes, sizes and different woods.
WHAT'S NEW? Bring the unique design elements of the Far East to your home and get picky with cabinets, tables and multimedia entertainment centers. The options don’t end there—after you’ve selected your piece, choose the size, wood and finish.

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