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There is a saying that if you wore it the first time around, you won’t wear it when it comes back in style. Not true at American Apparel, a Flashdance throw back with updated fabrics. Knee-high striped socks never looked or felt so good with a jersey tunic and soft, terry cloth wrist bands. They also carry a “Sustainable Edition” – a line made with organic cotton.
Aroma Workshop Walking into this garden-level shop is like walking into a virtual playground for scent-savvy adults. A mixologist greets you from behind the “scent bar” with beakers of essential oils and perfumes to combine in any way you choose. On the bar lay rows of vials marked with familiar names – lavender, geranium, and jasmine. But then you see neroli, myrrh and African vanilla and it becomes exciting to pull up a stool, open lids and discover new aromas. Then, with the staff’s assistance, you can combine a few to create your own signature scent to wear or use for aromatherapy in your home. The wall opposite the bar is lined with neutral bath products, from lotions and bath gels to shampoo and massage oil – all which be enhanced with your custom-blended scent. This is a favorite place for local massage therapists and yoga teachers who want to create memorable experiences for their clients and students.
Londo Mondo If there was a contest to see how much uber-cool active wear one can display in a boutique store front, Londo Mondo’s Lincoln Park location may take the lead. What began as a shop to showcase fitness clothing for the aerobics trend 17 years ago has turned into Chicago’s favorite place for swimwear, inline skates and yoga wear. They have recently expanded to include street wear in their line of merchandise to dress you from sunning or yoga on the beach to dinner in the city.
Various locations The Vancouver-born store for the athletically hip has a spacious location in the heart of Lincoln Park. The store’s mission has remained grass-roots even as it has grown worldwide: local yoga teachers test clothing and products and give feedback when new lines are introduced. When you move through a sun salutation, you want pants that won’t slide down your waist (but you also want them to have enough give to allow you to breathe deep). Lululemon arranges their yoga pants accordingly. Each rack is lined with a different style – and each style has a unique fit. Of course, they have several flavors of cropped pants as well. Their shirts are equally smart, with bright colors and modish lines. Gym bags are reinvented here with design geared toward multi-faceted athletics. There may be a zippered pocket along the bottom for a wet swimsuit and a carrying device for your yoga mat in the same bag.
2021 W. Division St A neighborhood yoga studio with a boutique storefront may seem materialistic, but this space has so much soul it is truly a sanctuary. The clothing is chosen with the same eco-conscious care as the biodegradable yoga mats. Lounging in the boutique is encouraged – and with house-brewed tea piping daily and a library of books to browse or buy, it is a common practice for locals to sit a while before or after class. Their famous tea, blended by owner Yvon Bignet, is sold alongside arm and leg warmers by local designer Gina Panijan. Paintings by Chicago artists are rotated every month or so and are also for sale.
Ruby Room What began as a small studio for energy work has turned into a two-story overnight spa, yoga studio, salon and boutique – complete with Zen garden. The boutique offers little touches like jewelry designed by local artist Nakoma and the perfume line by L’Artisan Parfumeur from Paris (otherwise only found in Chicago at Barney’s). For their spa facials, they use Arcona with the full line of high-profile skin care available at the “Beauty Bar”. You can also find a range of organic skin care products by Red Flower. These well-packaged creams, oils and cleansers lure day-spa trippers to try them; the quality buys their loyalty. Peruse Hobo handbags, Aveda products for skin and hair and i.d. Bare Minerals make-up are also available. When you’re done shopping, round the corner and sit a moment near a fountain in the garden – a lovely getaway tucked behind the building.
SeeMore Shopping Contributing Writer – M. Raynes. We recommend checking with stores for product availability. Suggested prices may change without notice. SeeMore Shopping strives for accuracy, but is not responsible for errors or omissions. Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. SeeMoreShopping incurs all expenses associated with reviews. Publ. 08/07. |
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