UPDATE: As of April 2009, Gray has closed its Chicago store.
1361 N. Wells, (312)573-0750, Grayboutique.com [ratings]
Goods: Women’s clothing and accessories. Designers: Jewelry by 2SisterDesigns; jeans from Serfontaine, Anlo, J Brand; women’s clothing from Hale Bob, Cynthia Steffe, Lily McNeal, Julie Brown and Poleci. Owner: Laura Schoch, an English-composition major (she’s writing an e-book on the store’s Web site!) and owner of Gray’s two suburban locations. Vibe: Decor is sophisticated and subtle. The walls are splashed in the store’s signature hue and spruced up with arched mirrors and modern light fixtures dangle from the ceilings. The Look: Contemporary and right-on-trend. Laura says that Gray strikes the ideal balance between urban and suburban chic. Shopper’s Perks: Preferred customers are privy to bonuses like private sales.