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Sex and the City 2: Toast on the Terrace

We have been anxiously awaiting this day since the first Sex and the City movie came out and now, ladies, it is finally here! The next chapter in the story of our favorite group of girlfriends lands in theaters May 27. Ok, we know, that still seems ages away. So, we pulled out some super sly moves a la Samantha (in the film, she manages to get the gals an all expenses paid trip to Abu Dhabi) and scored one lucky reader, plus three of her best friends, of course, tickets to the hottest SATC 2 pre-screening event in town- Toast on the Terrace!

Your favorite girlfriends are back and better than ever!

The event, co-hosted by the retailers of the Shops at Northbridge and the Conrad Hotel, will be the ultimate night of glamourous fun. You’ll relax on the outdoor terrace of the Conrad Hotel (psst- before it’s official opening) and enjoy complimentary appetizers and cocktails. Oh, and what SATC party would be complete without a fashion show? Retailers from the Shops at Northbridge have created a show full of Sex and the City inspired looks. But, before you try to sneak downstairs to purchase a few items for yourself, remember the piece de resistance- the private, sneak-peak screening of Sex and the City 2!

“Toast on the Terrace” at the Conrad Hotel :: Tuesday, May 25, 2010
5-6pm - Cocktail Reception
6pm - Fashion Show
7:30pm - Private screening of “Sex and the City 2″

This is a private, invite only event and one of the few pre-screenings in Chicago. To get your hands on this set of tickets, email us at Giveaway@PoorLittleRichGirls.com and tell us which of the SATC you and your three friends* resemble most and why. There will only be one winner!

*We mean the three friends you are planning on bringing. We know you have way more friends than that. Or not. Either way.

Originally published May 19, 2010.

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On Our Radar

We get so many emails and phone calls each day with information on new products, boutique sales, restaurant openings and everything in between, that we thought it would be a good idea to let you in on what the PLRG team is into lately. The Radar is your at-a-glance guide to what is oh-so-hot and so-right-now in the world of a PoorLittleRichGirl:

Check out District Bar’s Zip Car Member Party, this Wednesday, April 14. Members will receive a complimentary cocktail and half-price appetizers and Zip Car will be giving away reduced memberships and free driving credits! Although, we recommend leaving the zip car at home and taking public trans to this +21 event.

Spa Forever in Bucktown is offering some sweet deals on their spa services. Their Swedish Massages, Relaxation Massages and ALL Facials are just $59 on weekdays in April (regularly priced up to $115). You can also get 20% off all waxing services on weekdays!

Your favorite rooftop bar, Market, just finished a remodel and it’s just in time for spring/summer weather. Their rooftop now boasts two additional flat screen tvs (like there weren’t enough already!), seven white-linen draped cabanas and a new walk up bar. The enormous beer garden has also been tweaked with the addition of a retractable roof, so now you can party outdoors all year long. But, that doesn’t mean you have to celebrate summer by drinking your calories- the Lo-Cal Coco is a new feature cocktail which includes Ciroc Coconut Vodka and coconut water, for just 140 calories each!

You loved Battle of the Boutiques, so we know you’d love another fashion face-off. April 22, Style Wars 2010- An Avant Garde Affair, will challenge local STYLISTS to put together their most fashionable and unique ensembles, then duke it out on the runway. The event also coincides with Earth Day, helping to shine a light on sustainable issues through art and fashion. Tickets start at just $35, depending on the package.

Speaking of fashion, keep an eye out for the grand opening of Sofia Vintage’s new location at 72 East Oak Street (formerly on Clark). The Zisook sisters will once again combine their ecclectic fashion forces to bring you the creme of the crop when it comes to consigned and vintage pieces. The doors to the new location will be opening in later this month.

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Be a Budget Bride with These Tips from Chicago Experts

A few months back, on January 20th, over 50 guests enjoyed champagne cocktails, passed hors d’oeuvres and macaroons, while receiving coveted tips from a few Chicago wedding experts at whiteCHICAGO in River North. Sponsored by CS Brides, FIG Catering, Binny’s and Fritz Pastry, whiteCHICAGO owner Ursula Guyer emceed the seminar, which featured panelists answering bride’s questions on how to save money, how to plan a wedding in today’s economy and overall, how to be a resourceful, recessionista bride! For our Wedding Issue, we’d thought we’d share what we learned with our PLRGs who are planning weddings!

Expert Panelists (from l to r): whiteCHICAGO gown expert Kyra Fitzgerald, financial planner Stephanie Schranz, CS Brides editor Elise Hofer, emcee/whiteCHICAGO owner Ursula Guyer, wedding planner Anthony Navarro of Liven It Up events, DIY expert/blogger Danielle Perrino of Sugar & Spice Ink and personal stylist Erin Carpenter.

Expert Panelists (from l to r): whiteCHICAGO gown expert Kyra Fitzgerald, financial planner Stephanie Schranz, CS Brides editor Elise Hofer, emcee/whiteCHICAGO owner Ursula Guyer, wedding planner Anthony Navarro of Liven It Up events, DIY expert/blogger Danielle Perrino of Sugar & Spice Ink and personal stylist Erin Carpenter.

Our top 6 takeaway tips were:

Smoked Salmon on a Corn-Scallion Waffle with Maple Mascarpone courtesy of FIG catering.

1. Don’t feel like you have to buy a different dress for each “bride” event you go to. Restyle the same dress with different jewelry, hairstyles or shoes for the various showers and brunches. Use these restyling tips when purchasing your wedding gown as well. If you find a steal but don’t love everything about the dress, remember you can add lace, tulle, sleeves, brooches, the possibilities are endless.

2. If you want to save money in the flower department and buy silk flowers, the best way to showcase them is to submerge them in water. It’s free and a lot of times you can use the vases from the reception venue.

3. Although planners are an additional cost, they often times have negotiating power with the various vendors and can get you deals you wouldn’t otherwise have. Plus, a day of coordinator will take off the stress and that is invaluable on the big day!

The crowd enjoys the panelists tips for the Recessionista Bride.

4. If you want to be a “DIY” bride, don’t take on every aspect of the wedding. Pick one or two things that you want to DIY so it isn’t as overwhelming and make sure that you have a good team of workers and helpers behind you.

5. If you choose to use an iPod at your reception, music selection is key. Make sure that you leave room for some slow songs and play for the crowd that you invited.

6. Discuss finances before you start planning away. Find out what is most important to the two of you and then budget around that. Talking about how you are going to manage your money after the big day is also an important step to take earlier rather than later.

The advice that seemed to really float above everything else that was being discussed, especially when it came to figuring out how to stay within your means and still produce that perfect, magical evening, is to relax and enjoy yourself. If you look happy and content, everyone else will enjoy themselves that much more. All in all, remember that the day is really about the two of you becoming a couple and starting the rest of your lives together!

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Chicago Fashion Foundation Scholarship Award Benefit Spotlights Local Fashion Students & International Inspiration

Thursday night, the 7th floor of Macy’s on State Street was transformed into a high-fashion showcase for some of Chicago’s most talented fashion design students. The room was filled with people eager to get a sneak peak of what’s in store for the next generation of Chicago fashion, and PLRG is happy to say that this upcoming class did not disappoint.

The event was the 3rd Annual Chicago Fashion Foundation (CFF) Scholarship Benefit, with a new theme this year - “Chicago’s Sister Cities“. Chicago’s 28 “sisters” span the globe, and according to Mayor Daley, the program will strengthen our city’s economic and cultural ties with each one. From a fashion point of view, the theme was perfect for Chicago design considering how Chicago is really a city of immigrants and has been influenced by cultures from around the world.

Each of the ten student finalists created ensembles based on one of the cities and were judged by a panel that included Stacey Jones, Fashion Director for Chicago Magazine; Steven Rosengard, Project Runway Designer & Assistant Curator at the Museum of Science & Industry; Tracey Tarantino, Producer/Director for ZZAZZ Enterprises, Inc.; Erikka Wang, co-owner of AKIRA; and Andrea Schwarts, Director of Media Relations for Macy’s North & Midwest. At stake this year were three scholarship prizes - $500 for 3rd place, $1,000 for 2nd place and $5,000 for the first-place winner.

PLRG got the chance to talk to three of the finalists and get the inside scoop on the designers’ inspirations.

Michael Schellenbach, Illinois Institute of Art
Sister City: Moscow, Russia
Third Place Winner

Michael Schellenbach was one of two male designers in the competition, but the only designer to create a men’s wear look. Besides the fact that Schellenbach’s model was easy on the eyes, this was one of our favorite looks in the competition. Schellenbach designed and created the shirt (Italian cotton), jumpsuit (bottom weight cotton/poly blend with faux fur cuffs and collar) and belt (metal auto-inspired buckle).

PLRG: Why did you choose Moscow to be your sister city?
MS: When looking through pictures of Moscow, the architecture really just spoke to me.

PLRG: Tell us about the outfit - who might wear this or something like this today?
MS: The look is a combination - a marriage if you will - of Moscow’s heroes. Imagine - Russian cosmonaut meets modern business man. The look is meant to be worn in the fall, and definitely is not something for the average male. I would say a fashion-forward man would be the most likely person to wear this look in today’s world.

PLRG: Well, your model sure does wear it well ☺. Now, we don’t have many male readers on PLRG, but we’d love to know what your number one tip is for men’s fashion on a budget?
MS: It’s all about fit for men. If it fits well, no matter if it’s from H&M or your mom’s attic, you can create a look that’s better than any ill-fitting high-priced item.

Eunyoung Joo, International Academy of Design & Technology
Sister City: Moscow, Russia

First Place Winner

Eunyoung Joo was the winner of the first place $5,000 scholarship and was overjoyed with her victory. Joo also was inspired by Moscow, and created a women’s winter look made of wool and faux fur that she says is a contemporary take on a very traditional Russian look.

PLRG: Congratulations! So, first things first…why did you choose Moscow?
EJ: I chose Moscow because the relationship between Moscow and Chicago has recently been growing and it’s very interesting to me. You see lots of non-stop flights now being advertised heavily by American Airlines, so I think people are intrigued by this city. Also, the weather is similar to ours here in Chicago.

PLRG: Oh yes! We’ve seen those billboards for sure. Who do you imagine would wear your look in today’s world?
EJ: Any woman from her mid-teens to 30s, in winter cities. She would wear this outside, as it is wool and very warm.

PLRG: Warm is good these days for sure. Last question before you go celebrate - any tips for our readers on how you save money on fashion without compromising your style?
EJ: I think that basic designs will always be in style. Also - alterations are a key. It costs less to alter your looks than to buy new pieces. I don’t throw anything away because I always find new ways to alter and wear items by mixing them with other things.

Caitlin Lindell, International Academy of Design & Technology
Sister City: Prague, Czech Republic

Finalist

Although she didn’t place in the competition, Caitlin Lindell was definitely a crowd favorite at the show. Her ensemble made an impact as her model unwrapped the ultra suede beige cape lined with a rust-orange rayon lining, to reveal a chic dress made of antique satin and cotton/poly blend lace that she hand-dyed a dark brown color. The look was ready-to-wear and was surely sophisticated beyond Lindell’s 20 years.

PLRG: Caitlin, amazing job! We really loved your look. Tell us - why did you choose Prague?
CL: I’ve never been to Prague myself, but I was very inspired by many things about this city. In Prague there are many silk scarf vendors that sell scarves in beautiful colors. The scarves inspired the rusty orange color that lined the cape. Also, it’s very foggy and wet in Prague so the cape is for protection and would keep you warm. The dress was inspired by the architecture of the city - the common white buildings with rusty tops, I feel the city has uniformed chaos, lots of asymmetry, and an antique/textural feel.

PLRG: That sounds beautiful just in your description. So who do you picture wearing your look, and to what type of event?
CL: The woman who would wear this look might be going to a fashion event or silent auction…somewhere where the crowd is dressing to impress. I like to mix high-fashion couture with ready-to-wear looks, which this is. This entire outfit would retail for probably between $300-$400.

PLRG: Not bad! As a young student new to Chicago (CL hails from Des Moines, IA), how do you keep up your own fashion while staying on a budget?
CL: Outlet shopping! IADT is across the street from Nordstrom Rack which is nice. Also, patience. I will wait to buy things I love until the end of a season when they are marked down. I am on a tight budget since I’m a student so I make sure to find the best quality garment on the sale racks or after the season, and usually it’s not that hard if you take the time to look and wait for it to be marked down.
If these students are any indication of the future of Chicago fashion, then we are for sure excited. Here’s a look at all of the finalists’ competition looks from the show.

Stay chic, Chicago.

(Noelle Provencial)

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BOTB 2010: Thank You and Recap

It’s been a week since Battle of the Boutiques, the hangover has finally worn off and we’ve finally caught up on our sleep. The event was a huge success and we have lots of people to thank and lots of things to catch you up on. If you missed the show, check out this video for a little recap….

First, a big thank you goes out to Showbiz Shelly from B96 and our judges Jessica Sedgwick, Fashion Columnist for The Chicago Sun-TimesSteven Rosengard, former Project Runway Contestant and especially Marcia Callaghan and Lauren Hurley from Gen Art Chicago!

We’d also like to thank our sponsors, Honda on Grand, Hub 51, Ulta, Ultimate Vodka, PAMA Liqueur, Studio-808, Brynn Capella Handbags, Vavoom Pinups, The Chicago Bulls, Moxie, Red Ivy, Korbel and Lumen for all of their help getting this event of the ground.

Last, but not least we’d like to thank all of the boutiques who came out to compete and showed us that the local boutique scene has plenty to offer a PoorLittleRichGirl! And, of course, a special congrats goes out to our winning boutique, which swept the People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice categories, 2 Sisters Boutique (the real sisters behind the boutique are pictured above, collecting their prize). Check out our favorite look from 2 Sisters, along with our fave looks from the other boutiques, below:

WINNER!: 2 Sisters Boutique- Dress, Fumblin' Foe, $184

Hubba Hubba- Leggings, Sugarlips, $34.95; Top, Free People, $98.95

Re.Stock Shop- Dress, JLee Silver, $89; Vest, JLee Silver, $82

Le Dress- Dress, Frock by Tracy Reese, $175

Wolfbait & B-Girls- Hat, Squasht, $54; Tank, Bruiser, $56; Pants, Bruiser, $98

Dress Up Boutique- Dress, Lani, $49; Blazer, Lani, $79

Photos from the event are now posted in our Gallery, so check them for pics of you and all of your besties at the show or to see the all of the looks put out by each boutique.

And, for all of you savvy ladies who saved your programs, don’t forget about the special 20% discount off your purchase at select boutiques. Details are inside the program!

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Get “Whipped” Into Shape for Your Wedding at Equinox

So he finally popped the question. “He” being your BF, your BFF’s BF, your brother, the list goes on and on. According to the National Center for Health Statistics there were 2,733 marriages in Illinois in January of this year alone. So, we’re willing to bet that you or someone you know is getting married in the near future.

And, you know what that means- time to get your ass in shape. Whether you’re marching down the aisle or just know you’ll run into your ex at your friend’s reception, you absolutely want to look like the best version of yourself when the big day arrives.* But, you haven’t stepped foot in a gym in ages and you don’t even know where to start. We’re with ya, sister! So, we headed over to Equinox to check out two new classes that promise to jump start any workout routine.

Oh, please tell me he's the class instructor!

First on our list was Whipped!, a low impact approach to cardio fitness, which elicits high anaerobic intensity in quick bursts (30 seconds of performance, followed by 30 second of recovery). What does that mean, in English, you ask? It’s a butt-kicking 45 minute workout that gives you a stamina boost, so you’ll actually be able to keep up and finish the class, reaping maximum benefits.

The class is broken up into five stations, each targeting a specific area of the body. The ropes station was by far the toughest and is how the class got it’s name. Giant, heavy ropes are attached to the wall, while you stand at the end of the ropes and “whip” the ropes into various shape and directions. This apparently works areas of the body that are otherwise not targeted in a normal workout regime, which PLRG can attest to, as the next day we were sore in places of our arms and back that we didn’t know could be sore. Other stations include power lunges and squats, push up and plank variations and energetic jumps.

Overall we were big fans of this class. It really got our hearts pumping, but we were still able to keep up and finish our reps. There is a fun, almost playground feel to the set up, which makes it feel less like “work.” And, if you’re a bit self conscious it’s a great alternative to the traditional classes where everyone is lined up and staring at you/themselves in the mirror. In this class, everyone is working on different stations and moving around with the intervals, so the fear of the person behind you staring at your butt is eliminated.

The group fitness room at the LP Equinox.

The next class we tried out, Tabata, is so new to Equinox, that they haven’t even officially begun classes in Chicago (not to worry, they’ll be starting up Spring 2010). This method of working out has amazing health and fitness benefits. It’s basically interval training of 20 seconds of intense exercise moves combined with 10 seconds of rest and recovery, repeated 8 times for a a total of 4 minutes.

The class uses techniques and equipment you may already be familiar with (kettlebells, steps, stability balls) and works all areas of the body. But, by doing them in the 20 seconds on, 10 seconds off intervals, Tabata is scientifically proven to increase athletic performance and Vo2Max (your body’s ability to consume oxygen) and shed fat- in just weeks.

Tabata is also interesting, because you can use the theory behind it for any of your workouts. So, PLRGs don’t have to spend a fortune to experience its benefits. For example, when you’re on the treadmill run as fast as you can, like you’re running for your life, for 20 seconds. Then, step off to the sides for 10 seconds, then back to running as hard as you can for 20 seconds. Do this eight times and you’ve seriously amped up your cardio routine.

These are just two of the group classes offered at Equinox, but there are plenty of others to suit anyone’s fitness tastes, which is really what matters when it comes to getting into shape. No matter what gym you belong to, or even if you don’t belong to one at all, finding an activity that gets you moving, but is also fun is vital to staying committed to your fitness goals.

Best of luck to all of you soon-to-be buffed brides and sexy singles out there in wedding land!

*PLRG does not endorse crash diets, unhealthy exercise/eating habits or losing drastic amounts of weight before your wedding. It’s not good for you, your dress will need to be dramatically altered and let’s face it- the second you’re on that honeymoon you’ll start eating again and you’ll gain it all back and then some just a few months into your marriage. Trust us, we’ve seen this happen to alot of normally level-headed women. Oh, and if you’re losing drastic amounts of weight for someone else’s wedding, cut it out. What, are you trying to show up the bride!? ; )

(Lacey Brenly)

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This month we’ll be covering all things “Wedding.” Here’s to finding your Prince Charming, ladies!

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Face Time: Budget Make-Up Looks from Backstage at William Rast

For all you budget beauty buffs, this just in! A beautiful, sexy, fresh look walked the runway at this season’s William Rast fashion show in New York fashion week and PLRG was there to get the scoop from Charlotte Willer, key makeup artist for Maybelline backstage, herself! The look accompanied a collection of American biker meets rocker chic casual wear in leather, denim, cotton knits, furs and fringe. William Rast, as you may know, started as a denim line by co-creators Justin Timberlake and Trace Ayala.

The makeup was very clean with flawless skin, a strong brow and bold lash topped off with the perfect nude pout. Willer and the team at WR created the look inspired by both Bridgette Bardot and an idea of riding the open road. Walking down the runway it was so simple but so beautiful at the same time, and most importantly it was a look we can all do at home on a tight budget! All products used were Maybelline (and this is the truth! I witnessed it backstage!).

What you need:

Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse Foundation, $8.79, Drugstore.com

Colossal Volum Express Mascara in Glam Black, $5.99, Drugstore.com

Define-a-brow eyebrow pencil, $5.49, Drugstore.com in your shade or something slightly lighter than your eyebrow hairs

Color Sensational Lip Color in Nearly There*, $7.49, Drugstore.com

Mineral Power line of loose blush, $7.49, powder, $8.29 and illuminator, $10.99, Drugstore.com

How to get the look:

1) Apply the liquid foundation to clean skin using your hands to massage in the product as if it were a moisturizer, this, according to Willer, will give you the most flawless and seamless look.

2) Layer at least 5 or more layers of the mascara for a false, stuck-together lash look (think a new take on the 60’s lash minus the loads of eyeliner).

3) Fill brows using short strokes of the pencil and blend using an angled brush.

4) Use your finger to dab on the perfect nude lip defusing the edges creating a natural, not over-lipsticked look.

5) Finish using Maybelline’s Mineral Power loose powders of your choice, the illuminator makes a fabulous cheek highlight when added to the top of your cheekbones and the blush is wonderful for a light flushed and glowey look!

Take a look at the full collection and more photos of the William Rast Maybelline look at Style.com.

*This color was created by Willer for Maybelline especially for the show!  It is the perfect nude shade for those of you frustrated by the hunt for a perfect nude!

JP is a New York City freelance makeup artist working on everything from film and fashion to live performance. She moved out to NYC as a women’s footwear buyer and quickly realized her passion would always be in the art of makeup and transforming people. She left her desk job to pursue her dream and has never looked back! Even through the “tough times” following her passion makes everyday a pleasure. To contact her for work in anything beauty, character or hair… or for a guest blog, please email: jp.makeupdesign@gmail.com


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The Chicago Fashion Authority Takes On Sundance 2010

Meet Lauren Hurley & Marcia Callaghan. Together they are the powerhouses behind the fabulous events that make Gen Art Chicago, and now the authority when it comes to fashion at PLRG. From curating to directing, this dynamic duo sleuths for creative talent and inspiration in the city of neighborhoods. At the beginning of each month Lauren & Marcia will take us on a ride as they look back on the (always) eventful month they just had and narrate the highlights - where they went, what they wore and who they met…all with their personal commentary. We suggest you buckle up.

Sundance 2010

The Sundance Film Festival is the largest independent film festival in the United States where filmmakers from around the world come to showcase some of the best talent in cinema. Every year, Hollywood takes over the little mountain town of Park City, UT with lights, cameras, and of course - fashion. Sundance style= casual red carpet + film geek chic + lots of warm layers!

We returned to the festival this past January to join the Gen Art production team on a sleepless adventure of producing seven events in three days. Since we knew the only time that we would have with the photographers would be spent reviewing the event shot lists, we thought that we would take you PoorLittleRichGirls along on our Sundance shopping trip that we scheduled a week before takeoff.

THE EVENTS:
Gen Art Daytime Lounge (3)
7 Fresh Faces in Film presented by 7 for all Mankind
Kenneth Cole Vintage Black Party
K-Swiss Ping Pong Tournament
Entertainment Weekly Discussion Panel

THE CFA MISSION:
Bring our Chicago style to Sundance by shopping locally at two of our favorite boutiques.

THE BOUTIQUES:

Bonnie and Clyde’s

This is hands-down the most bad-ass boutique in Chicago. Lines are blurred between menswear and womenswear at this seriously hip Bucktown shop that has a take no prisoners approach to fashion. The statement pieces lured us in and the sale prices (that allowed us to score some unconventional staples at very reasonable prices) didn’t hurt either.

Lauren’s favorite purchase: The Tool Belt by Ivan Grundahl. Marcia and I are always fantasizing about fierce event production gear, so this tool belt caught my attention right away. Fashionable AND functional…talk about a statement piece!

Marcia’s favorite purchase: The black woven jacket by Kaylee Tankus is my new favorite blazer. The construction is perfection, but the embroidered jewels and chains on the right pocket make it absolutely irresistible.

Koros

Located in the West Loop, Koros is well worth the trip out west since it will leave you feeling as though you’ve stepped right into NYC’s meatpacking district. One of the best parts of visiting Koros was bumping into Chicago designer Tom Bynum of Bynum & Bang, who has partnered with Koros to launch his first women’s collection - after designing menswear for the last eight years. Owner Kristen Skordilis spent some one-on-one time with us during our styling appointment to show us the inaugural designs. On our way out we charmed the shy and modest Bynum into taking a photo with us. Later Skordilis whispered, “Tom is a true artist whose designs have become coveted by my clientele and have garnered a loyal following of fashion darlings from across the globe. Chicago should be very proud of him.”

Lauren’s favorite purchase: I love blouses that open in back because they can be seductive and demure at the same time. The gathered neckline on Bynum & Bang’s silk brocade Kate Top is sweet and innocent in front, but the satin ties are head-turning from behind. I rocked my Bynum with tight black skinny jeans and knee-high boots in Park City, but the look is killer with super high heels.

Marcia’s favorite purchase: Bynum & Bang’s silk charmeuse Sienna Dress captivated my attention immediately. The collection’s signature ant print looked especially stunning on the mustard-gold hue of the strappy bubble dress. The combination of the meaningful ant graphic on the tailored bubble-shaped hem made this garment an extra special item in my Sundance luggage.

SPOTTED AT SUNDANCE:
In Park City, our production pace was as high-speed as expected, but thanks to lots of double-dirty chai lattes and sugar-free Red bulls, we were sharp enough to notice some recurring trends.

Lauren: The challenge at Sundance is to be super cute without looking like you tried too hard… and to avoid freezing. Think fashionable details and interesting pieces mixed with casual-cool basics like plaid and denim. Statement coats are always a great choice because it might be all people see you wearing! I’m a fan of the thermals under ripped jeans that Kevin Zegers was sporting at our 7 Fresh Faces in Film event. Hot.

Marcia: Sundance is all about winter accessories. Whether it was hats, scarves or gloves, we saw knits everywhere. We spotted a lot of fingerless gloves along with statement scarves (that were also worn indoors). Interesting headwear was expectedly abundant on Main Street, but my favorite look was at our K-Swiss Ping Pong Tournament where our referee (and Gen Art family member), Matt Wise, sported a black fedora with his black and white striped jersey uniform.

OUR SUNDANCE STYLE:

Lauren: I like to travel with one color family, black or brown, to cut down on the number of matching pieces I have to bring. So a lot of my Sundance wardrobe revolved around black. I picked dark pieces with really interesting details - they aren’t loud and attention-seeking, but they show a TON of beautiful detail up close. I mixed dresses with layers of fishnets and tights, and finished all the looks with different styles of boots. And of course, I always top-off my serious production look with a walkie and blackberry holster.

Marcia: When I was inside the venue, I paired blazers with dresses for polished looks that were easily thrown together. I spent a lot of time outside of the venue at Check-In, so I also styled my dresses with layers upon layers of long sleeves, leggings, necklaces, sweaters and socks. My black Hunter Women’s “Lady N” boots were easily matched with everything (rule: there are no heels at Sundance.) I kept extra clothes in the production office so I could easily shift from indoors to outdoors at a moments notice. As long as I had my walkie, I was in business!

DISCOUNTS/DEALS: Follow us on Twitter! @Chicago_Fashion

SPECIAL THANKS: M.W. Krueger, Kristen Skordilis, Tom Bynum, Stephen Naparstek, Corey McCue, Alex Razzano, and Rebecca Gonzales.

Bon Voyage,

-Lauren & Marcia

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In Honor of BOTB 2010. Here’s Hoping Our Runway is Anything but Hazardous

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Hot This Month: July, 2010

Give back while throwing down with the Stimulus Social Club's July 7 event at Stanley's Kitchen & Tap in the West Loop. A $10 donation gets you your first drink and apps, plus all the proceeds will go to House of the Good Shepherd.
July 13 is National French Fry day, but soggy fries in a red paper carton aren't on the menu for you, PLRG! Stop by deca BAR at The Ritz-Carlton, spring for a cocktail and you'll score complimentary hand-cut french fries. Choose from truffle/duck fat fries with smoked sea salt or regular fries with lemon salt, fresh oregano and grated parmesan reggiano.
If you're celebrating Bastille Day, July 14, what better way to pay homage to our French friends than with gourmet food and wine? In Fine Spirits is serving up a four-course garden dinner and wine pairing, prepared by Chef Marianne Sundquist, for just $50. Make sure to call and RSVP by July 10.
Better Than Sample Sales