Kelly Aiglon

A slew of recently opened shops are all about apparel, but the latest addition to Lincoln Square's growing retail scene--a real gem--resurrects the dime store. Enjoy, 4727 N. Lincoln Ave.,...

Bulky diaper bags can make you feel as though you're toting around pounds of bricks, instead of a few Pampers. That's why Clarendon Hills couple Bill and Peggy Furlong, along...

Ah, Memory, that game of matching cards that drove us crazy as kids. Today, the game is enjoying an arty revival thanks to stationery designer Amy Carbone. Her Memory Cards...

Shoppers, looking for new stomping grounds? Check out these boutiques, all opened in the last two months. ESPACE, 1205 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-252-6994. Artist Jung Ee converted his Wicker Park...

Washburne Culinary Institute 7059 S. South Shore Drive 773-602-5487 or kennedyking.ccc.edu/washburne Setting the scene "We'll pair this with a lamb shank," said chef-instructor Gene Wrzesinski, holding up a piece of...

Think baby shopping is all diapers and formula? Think again. Here are some products you won't find in the Huggies aisle. The Babyplane, created by French designer Nicolas Trub, gets...

Can't get to a county fair? Enjoy these takes on a few fair favorites. Sno-Cones KIDDIELAND, 8400 W. North Ave., Melrose Park, 708-343-8000. The amusement park's "Snowie" is a close...

Once a butler for a Lake Forest family, Jason Loper, 30, now spends his days designing purses and messenger bags under the name Zola Jones Designs. His creations--such as "Rough...

Whether you're planning your wedding night or just want to act like a newlywed, these six hotels--from the ritzy Ritz to the affordable Hotel Orrington--have a room for you. For...

Gourmet 47 Market & Cafe 112 N. May St., 312-239-2873 or gourmet47.com 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Sun. Why it's worth a visit For many, grocery shopping is...