Re.Stock Shop was a contender in the 2010 Battle of the Boutiques.

June marks the first anniversary of Re.Stock Shop, Chicago’s only traveling designer sample sale, and they have pulled out all the stops to celebrate and thank their customers!

And what better way to show their appreciation than to put on killer sales every weekend in June. We’re talking up to 80% off designers like Ted Baker, JLee Silver and Serpico (to name a few). Check out their website for more detailed information on times and dates of the sales.

There are also a ton of special events ging on for their customers this month:

• H2O Warehouse Sale, June 12- Located across the street from the RE.STOCK Shop Sale! Savvy shoppers can stock up on great summer clothing and great skincare products and save up to 80% off!
• The JLee Silver Trunk Show, June 19- Shoppers can meet the designer and check out their new Spring 2010 Collection all specially priced. 12-5pm.
• Taste of Randolph, June 18-20- This is a chance for people to indulge their taste for great food & great fashion. They’re located just steps away from the street fair.

You remember Red Ivy, don’t you? The bar/restaurant where we held our kick-ass “Party Hard, Speak Easy” party last year? If you do, it should be no surprise to you that, once again, they’re pulling out all the stops for their 4th Annual “Week of Red Ivy.” October 25-31, each day they’ll be offering super cheap drinks specials and hosting unique events (like turtle races, musical performances and even a “Suite Trip” to see the Blackhawks play. Click here for the full schedule.

Here at PLRG we’re especially excited about the FRESHMIX event on October 28th, which will determine Red Ivy’s “top tender”. Sponsored by Skyy Vodka, the event will feature three bartenders “competing” against each other for the best mixed cocktail with Skyy flavored vodkas and fresh fruit. Attendees will sip on FREE samples of “competition drinks” (we’re talking full-sized samples here). If they like them, you can order your favorite for just $3 each the rest of the night. The winning drink (voted on by you, the attendee) will become a featured “PoorLittleRichGirls” drink on their new menu!

For our Anniversary Issue, you voted on your favorite places to shop ’til you drop. Below are the winners from our “Fashion” category. We pride ourselves on “never paying retail” and now you can too!

Best Place to Shop for Vintage Digs
Vintage Underground (1834 W. North Ave.)
We first heard about Vintage Underground from Noelle. She came to one of our meetings raving about a store that was filled to the brim with vintage clothing and accessories. We had to check it out for ourselves and now we know why Noelle (and all of our readers) turn into giddy schoolgirls just talking about this store. You are almost always sure to find adorable boxy jackets a la Jackie O, frilly party dresses and chunky cocktail rings- classic looks that never go out of style. The best part of shopping here is that you’ll never experience that embarrassing moment at the party when you realize two other chicks have on the same dress as you!

Best Place to Buy and Sell Clothes
Sharin’ Unlimited (1510 Old Deerfield Rd. #106, Highland Park)
When Sharin’ Unlimited won as your pick for best consignment shop, we were a bit hesitant to list it. Sharin’ Unlimited is by far one the best resale shops we’ve ever stepped foot in and we weren’t sure we wanted to share our secret. But, how could we deprive our PoorLittleRichGirls of the chance to score $10 Michael Stars tee’s and ridiculously discounted designer denim? Located in Highland Park in a warehouse of sorts, Sharin’ carries everything from Three Dots, to Gucci, to Betsy Johnson (brought to you courtesy of wealthy HP women who often consign clothing with the tags still on and local boutiques with clearance or overstock). The owner takes great pride in her store, making sure to greet each and every customer and keeping her racks organized so hunting for your bargain is a breeze (unlike most consignment shops). They’re only open on Fridays and Saturdays, so plan ahead for a trip to the burbs with the gals- totally worth the gas money!

Best Chain or Big Box Store
Forever 21 (Flagship Store at 835 N. Michigan Ave.)
Words cannot express how much we love Forever 21. Sure, the store on the Mag Mile is overwhelming, and a bit unorganized, but their super low prices make all that sifting and hunting worth it. For “going out” tops, dresses and accessories there is no better place to shop. We also love them for their designer knock-offs. I scored the bright colored, flower print, strapless dress that I wore out for my birthday for just $19.99! Take that Intermix! They also carry men’s and plus size clothing, so no one is left out of the savings!

Best Place to Buy Jeans
Nordstrom (24 N. State St.)
Nordstrom is the only place we would shop if we had the money. Their selection is unbeatable and the personal service is unmatched. We think this is why you chose it as your favorite place to buy the most essential item in your wardrobe- jeans. Sure, you might end up paying full price (though lately their sale racks are filled with some great deals) but if you start breaking down cost per wear, it’s always worth it to splurge a little on jeans, especially when they make you’re ass look this good! They carry all the top brands like Seven, Citizens of Humanity, and Rock & Republic and the sales people are more than happy to keep bringing you sizes and styles until you find just the right pair. You’ll feel like you’ve died and gone to denim heaven.

Best Place to Buy Shoes
DSW (3131 N. Clark St.)
Sure, we dream of the day when we can buy those coveted red-soled heels, but for now DSW is our fave place to score a discount on designer footwear. They carry brands like Prada, Marc Jacobs and Celine at prices up to 60% off retail (think $199 instead of $560!). If that still sounds out of your price range, not to worry. They carry less exotic designer brands too like BCBG, Charles David and BEBE, all at the same discounted prices (think $59 instead of $100). Make sure you don’t overlook the clearance rack, where I once scored $30, black, white and grey Via Spiga heels that I wear almost every weekend- they paid for themselves long ago. They’ve also got a great selection of handbags, so you can complete your look in one stop.

Best Place to Shop for Accessories
Francesca’s Collections (click here for locations)
It’s no surprise that this would be PLRGs fave spot for accessory shopping. From necklaces and earrings to belts and scarves almost all of their accessories cost under $30. If it’s a handbag you’re in the market for, we can almost promise you won’t spend more than $50. You won’t really find any big brand names here, but you will find a ton of designer look-a-likes, so you can get the same look as the runways for less. And, they’ve got three downtown Chicago locations, so no matter where you are you can always accessorize with the best. This is also one of PLRG’s favorite places to buy a gift, because what girl doesn’t love to get jewelry?!

Best Boutique Overall
Borrow a Dress Couture (3221 N. Sheffield Ave.)
Borrow a Dress Couture (BADC) has the most unique boutique concept we’ve ever come across. Ever wish you could just rent a party dress the way your man rents a tux? Well, BADC has you covered. Instead of spending a fortune on a gown you will most likely wear once, you can rent it for three days from BADC for just a fraction of the retail cost. And, these aren’t just any dresses! Designers they carry include Badgley Mischka, Herve Leger and Alexander McQueen. Many of their dresses retail for upwards of $600, but you can rock the designer duds for anywhere between $50-$300. So, go ahead, rsvp for that fundraiser/wedding/girls night out. You’ll be the best (and most expensively) dressed gal there!

(Lacey Brenly)

For our Anniversary Issue, you voted on your favorite spots to chow down in Chicago. Below are the winners from our “Restaurants” category. Eat, drink and save money!

Best for Dinner with the Girls
Cafe Iberico (739 N. LaSalle)
The perfect place to dine with a large group, this authentic Spanish tapas restauarnt was the clear winner in our “Dinner with the Girls” category. The small plates are great for sharing (two plates per person is more than enough to fill you up) and since each dish runs between $2-$7 your wallet will thank you later. And, what girls’ night out would be complete without fruity drinks? Cafe Iberico serves white and red sangria by the glass, half or full pitcher- it’s up to you and the gals to decide how much “fun” you want to have.

Best When Your Parents/Date/Friend That Just Got Promoted is Buying
Sunda (110 W. Illinois)
Sunda is the perfect spot for celebrating a very special occasion or if you’re looking to impress someone (or they’re looking to impress you). By that we mean it’s pricey, but worth every penny. The menu is “new asian,” so you’ll find some of your favorite asian dishes, but with a contemporary spin. Some of the flavor combinations may sound strange, but we promise that if you’re not shy and take some chances with the menu you won’t be disappointed. The Roasted Duck Hash Salad (glazed duck, daikon cake, frisee, crispy egg, unagi glaze) is absolutely to die for. You’ll also want to order one (or three) of their tasty cocktails- we recommend the Lychee Martini.

Best Place for Chips and Margs
Uncle Julios (855 W. North Ave.)
We know there are plenty of Mexican joints in the Chi, ranging from hole in the wall to fine dining, so we were a little surprised that this chain made the top of your list. Well…we take that back. We do know why you love it so much. The paper thin chips with just the right amount of salt served in “bottomless” bowls are highly addictive. Plus, the perfectly sweet and spicy salsa isn’t the only thing you can dip your chips into. Their guacamole and chile con queso are also high up on the list. Then there’s the “Swirl” margarita- a giant mug of frozen margarita laced with a fruity swirl. Yum! This is also one of PLRG’s fave hangover helpers.

Best Place to Eat When You’re On a Diet
Uncommon Ground (3800 N. Clark & 1401 W. Devon)
In addition to being one of Chicago’s greenest restaurants, Uncommon Ground is also a great place for healthy eats. We especially love this spot for weekend lunches and brunches with the girls. The Hummus and Granola Pancakes are some of our absolute faves, and the Veggie Chili and Melon Salad are not to be missed. The menu is made up of organic and locally produced foods. And we mean local-many of the fruits and veggies used in the recipes are grown right upstairs on their rooftop garden. Either of their two location is the perfect place for a healthy and delicious meal.

Best Late Night Eats
Hub 51 (51 W. Hubbard)
Hub 51 has lived up to it’s name, becoming the center of social life right now in Chicago. Whether it’s dinner before a big night out or after work drinks in the bar, it has become the hot spot for good food in a casual setting. Luckily for PLRG party girls, Hub serves up some of your favorite grub late-night (until last call, which means 3am on Saturdays). The late-night menu is a bit smaller than the regular menu, but no less tasty. The Chicken Nachos are so worth writing home over (letter’s in the mail now) and the Really Good Ahi Tuna Burger is, well, really good. Hub has spoiled us so much with their late-night treats, that eating anywhere else just seems like a waste of calories.

Best Place for Meat Lovers
Tango Sur (3763 N. Southport)
You could probably tell just by walking by this place that it’s a Chicago favorite since it is always packed. But, that’s no surprise when you’re a BYOB serving up delicious steaks as big as your head at reasonable prices. They don’t take reservations, but if you’re prepared for the wait you will be greatly rewarded. Make sure to bring along a few extra bottles of wine, as they will give you a cork so you can have a glass while you wait. Once you’ve finally got your table, be prepared for a feast of authentic Argentinian food. Empanadas ($1.75 each), Matambre (veal, rolled and cooked with veggies,$5.90) and Grilled Steaks with Chimichurri ($11-$16) will leave you and your wallet filled to the brim.

Best Food Before Noon
Southport Grocery (3552 N. Southport)
We were late in discovering this little jewel of a cafe and market on Southport, but as they say, better late than never! Rather than focusing on fancy imported food, here they focus on domestic foodstuffs and local ingredients, meaning the menu in the cafe is constantly changing based on the season. If you stop in for breakfast you’ll notice at least one Steak and Eggs order at each table (served with chips and salsa) and also a Grown Up Pop Tart or two (warm pastry filled with berry preserves, marscapone cheese and roasted vanilla walnuts, yum!). For lunch, we like the Grilled Brie or Grilled Turkey sandwich, but it’s also fun to share some apps. Many of the snacks and salads (Hummus and Apple Manchego Salad to name a few) come in a regular or “tasting” portion ($5) so you can order a starter without feeling guilty about wasting food or your money.

(Lacey Brenly)

For our Anniversary Issue, you voted on your favorite spots for partying it up in Chicago. Below are the winners from our “Bars & Drinks” category. For your own safety though, we don’t recommend hitting them up all in one night!

Best Place for $1 Beers
Kincade’s (950 W. Armitage)
Every Wednesday is $1 beer night at Kincade’s and you’ve named it your favorite! Anyone’s who’s been will tell you that the crowd skews a bit young and the three-level bar gets super packed, but the cheap drinks and karaoke make it all worth it. They also serve up $5 well cocktails on hump-day, so no matter what your poison, Kincade’s is sure to get you through the week for super cheap

Best Place to Drink & Dance
The Hangge Uppe (14 W. Elm St.)
We are assuming our readers are the type who only dance when they are drunk (really drunk), since they chose this place as their fave spot to boogy down and booze it up. Don’t get us wrong, this is our favorite too, but the fact that it’s a flaming hot mess, and not at all pretentious, is what makes us love it so much. There’s two levels, with oldies tunes playing in the basement and top 40 playing upstairs, so everyone from co-eds to mom and dad can dance to the music they grew up with (though we highly recommend NOT taking your parents there, especially not after 12am). Best of all, it’s within stumbling distance of Chicago’s best neighborhood bar (named by you), Butch McGuire’s.

Best Neighborhood Bar
Butch McGuire’s (20 W. Division St.)
Eryn has her own name for Division Street- “Drunk as a Skunk Street.” So, it’s only fitting that you think Chicago’s best neighborhood bar resides there. Sure it gets packed with inebriated tourists late-night, but before 11pm this is truly a neighborhood spot. Most days and evenings the crowd is made up of neighbors, regulars even families enjoying Butch’s tasty brunch, lunch and dinner menus. And, if you don’t make it to Butch’s any other time, be sure to stop by around the holidays when they put up an outrageous Christmas display (alone, it’s worth the trip!).

Best for Dressing Up & Drinking Grown-Up Cocktails
Vertigo Sky Lounge (660 N. State)
Perched atop the Dana Hotel, this lounge is one of Chicago’s newest hot spots. Whether you feel like having a sophisticated after-work drink or want to see and be seen late-night, Vertigo has something for everyone. Designed to feel like your ultra trendy (and ultra rich) friend’s apartment, Vertigo has the market cornered on cocktailing in comfort. To further this effort, they skipped over building an actual bar and went with waitresses manning drink carts instead, so no need to worry about losing your seat by the fire-pit to get yourself a drink. If only we really had friends with pads like this!

(Lacey Brenly)

Hanging out after Battle of the Boutiques

As PoorLittleRichGirls.com approaches it’s first anniversary I can’t seem to get that Tony Toni Tone song out of my head (ha!). I’m not sure why because, unlike the song, much of the last year for the PLRG team has been anything but smooth and romantic.

Though we launched the site on September 10, 2008, that date was six months in the making. The hard work we put in then was nothing compared to the 12 months that followed. For our team, late-night meetings and endless brainstorming sessions took the place of bar hopping and Sunday brunch more often than not. But, I know I speak for the entire team when I say, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

This website is our baby. Our fun, sexy, hot-pink baby that we can’t get enough of. We hope you feel the same way about PLRG and we thank you all for continuing to support us.

Posing with Sister at the Nuns 4 Fun show

And, as much fun as we’ve had the past year here at PoorLittleRichGirls, the next year promises to be even better! We’ll be running exclusive giveaways each month, hosting even more events and adding new columns and contributors.

To kick things off, we’re featuring the best of the best in Chicago for our Anniversary Issue. Remember that voting is still going on in some categories, so be sure to vote for your favorite before it’s too late.

Happy anniversary everyone!

Lacey Brenly

Editor in Chief

PLRG isn’t the only one celebrating an anniversary. One of our all time fave mags, InStyle, is turning 15 this month! Not only do they have a mammoth issue on newstands now, but they’re also offering up a special promotion to all of their readers.

InStyle is inviting all of the PoorLittleRichGirls out there to check out 15 for Fall where you’ll find exclusive deals and special offers from from a host of hot fall collections (27 to be exact). A complimentary facial and make-up application from Shiseido, $15 off a purchase at Express and free shipping from Zappos are just a few of the perks you can score.

But, InStyle knows some of you are feeling the economic pinch these days (what PLRG isn’t?) so they’re also inviting readers to enter daily to win one of four “15 for Fall” $1,000 shopping sprees!

If you win the shopping spree, or just feel like treating yourself, we recommend checking out the Editor’s Picks for tips on what you’ll need to update you wardrobe this fall and how to wear it. Be sure to download the iPhone app too, so you can access all the “15 for Fall” info wherever you go.

(Lacey Brenly)

For our Anniversary Issue this month we’ll be cluing you in to the best of what the city has to offer. But, we don’t want to just sit here in our ivory towers telling you what you will like best. We think it makes more sense for you to tell us.

They say “pain is beauty,” but if you know where to go the pain will come from the ripping off a strip of wax and not from abusing your budget. We’ve pulled together all of our fave spots for everything from getting your yoga on to getting your hair did. Now you pick the winners!

Can you believe how time flies? As of September 2009, PoorLittleRichGirls will celebrate it’s first birthday! It has been an absolutely fabulous year of style and savings and we want to celebrate the occasion with something special. So, for our first Anniversary Issue, we’ll be bringing you the best of the best (and affordable) the city has to offer.

Well, technically you’ll be bringing it. We want all you PoorLittleRichGirls out there to tell us your fave places to score a deal on everything from purses to pizza. Over the next few weeks we’ll be asking you to vote for your picks in various categories, but first we want to add your nominees to our list!

Below is a listing of all the categories up for voting in our inaugural Anniversary Issue. We are looking for places where the average PLRG can get a real bang for her buck. So, even though that boutique carries the hottest new clothes…if a cotton tank top costs $88, we’d rather leave it of this list if you catch our drift.

To nominate a restaurant/salon/boutique/etc. please send an email to info@poorlittlerichgirls.com with the subject line “Anniversary Issue.” You can nominate in as many or as few of the categories as you like, we just want to get your input!

Fashion- Voting has already begun for this category. CLICK HERE TO VOTE!

• Best boutique overall
• Best place to shop for vintage digs
• Best place to sell and buy clothes (consignment shops)
• Best Chain or Big Box store
• Best place to buy jeans
• Best place for shoes
• Best place to shop for accessories

Nightlife

Restaurants- Voting is now closed

• Best place for a dinner with the girls
• Best place when he/your parents/your friend who just got a promotion is buying
• Best place for chips and margaritas
• Best place to eat when you’re on a diet
• Best place for meat lovers
• Best late night eats
• Best food before noon

Bars & Drinks- Voting is now closed

• Best place for $1 beers
• Best excuse to get dressed up and drink “grown up” cocktails
• Best place to drink and dance
• Best bar where “everyone know your name” (best neighborhood bar)

Beauty & Fitness

• Best place to get a Mani/Pedi
• Best place to get your hair did
• Best place to get a rub down (massage that is)
• Best place to get your unwanted hair ripped out or lasered off
• Best place to get a fake tan
• Best place to work on your downward dog (yoga)
• Best place to workout indoors

Home & Entertaining

• Best place to shop for “gently used” home furnishings and accessories
• Best place to shop for new home furnishings and accessories
• Best place to grocery shop
• Best place to buy flowers
• Best farmer’s market

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is right up there with Spanx and vodka on our list of favorite things ever. As the legend has it, back in the 1960’s Nordstrom needed a way to boost sales in the “dog days” of summer.* So, rather than mark down this seasons’ merchandise, Nordstrom did something revolutionary. Each summer they marked down their brand new Fall and Winter merchandise before the season, allowing customers to stock up on in season cold weather essentials at prices almost 50% off!

The tradition continues Friday, July 17- Monday, August 3. But, for those in the know you can also shop the Pre-Sale and guarantee your purchases (and size, color choice, etc.) prior Friday. They’ll just hold your items, run your credit card Friday morning and you can pick up your stuff after work.

If you do wait until Friday to actually shop the sale get there early. REALLY early. Women have been known to actually camp out in line and wait for the store to open. But, with such sweet deals on winter staples, do you blame them?

*The sale actually began at Best Apparel in the 1940’s. Nordstrom, which was just a shoe store at that time later acquired Best Apparel and expanded the sale. It was this aquisition that put Nordstrom on the path to it’s present day “department store” status.

(Lacey Brenly)