Only a few short years ago, when Division Street was uncool and Bucktown was but a conglomeration of shabby two-flats, the words Chicago and fashion were never united as a phrase. Clothing was imported from New York and Los Angeles. Ann Taylor was considered edgy. And, hunting down a size 2 in town was about as likely as running into Oprah at Treasure Island. Fast forward to 2004. Thanks to pioneering retail shops including Helen Yi, Jolie, Jolie, P.45 and Krista K, Chicago has expanded its fashion frontier beyond the somewhat stodgy Gold Coast and has showcased local talent alongside fashion superstars such as Zac Posen and Stella McCartney. Drawing inspiration from art, music and the very same pop culture icons as their coastal counterparts, Chicago designers have a style to be reckoned with. Here are some of my favorites:
– Vatit Itthi: Simple, vintage-inspired silhouettes constructed from reconstituted T-shirts. T-Lab Tunic, $400, Mira Couture, 1 E. Delaware Pl.
– Maria Pinto: Streamlined and feminine = fabulous. Mia Blouse, Chantilly Lace, $575; and Giancarla Skirt, Duchess Satin, $415, at Ultimo, 114 E. Oak St.
– Eclectica: Soft, hand-woven silk ponchos are elegance personified, $260, at YUME, 1 E. Delaware Pl.
– Scarlet Designs: Retro-tailored jackets are fall must-haves. Velveteen Catherine jacket in rhubarb, $277; Cropped, tweed Suzie jacket in picadilly, $245, at www.scarletdesigns.com.
– Lana Unlimited: 14-karat gold flat jewelry is at once simple and sexy. Chime earrings, $387, at Neiman Marcus and Helen Yi, 1645 N. Damen Ave. J Kat: Sleek meets rocker fab with these sterling gems. Nine square sterling bracelet, $210; Large Square Ring, $84, at Marshall Field’s and www.jkatjewelry.com.