UPDATE: As of October 2009, Ciao Bella has closed.
3829 N. Southport, (773)388-2201, ciaobellachicago.com
Goods: Clothing and accessories for women. Designers: Lauren Vidal, Body, Odd Molly, Billy Blues, LinQ, Level 99, Iodice, Bailey 44, Matt & Nat, Sarah Pacini, Hard Tail Forever; bags by Hobo. Owner: Amy Lechelt-Basta combined past careers in retail, fashion, event-planning and as a flight attendant to open a boutique with her husband Jerry. Vibe: Modern comfort with a splash of subtle exoticism. Display suitcases inspire feelings of wanderlust, while a greeting from the friendly shop’s Maltipoo Vino makes you feel as though you’ve entered a cozily familiar place. Price Range: Moderate. The Look: First-class jetsetter. Many of the pieces carried here are wrinkle-free or travel-friendly (without losing an inch of style), so the Ciao Bella shopper turns heads when heading towards the gate, as well as when deplaning after a twenty-hour flight. Shopper’s Perks: Bring in an upcoming travel itinerary and you’ll receive ten percent off full-priced merchandise.
UPDATED May 2009
