1706 N. Wells, (312)751-2929, handlewithcarechicago.com [ratings]
Goods: Women’s clothing, accessories, perfume, candles and cards. Designers: J Brand, Gold Hawk, Three Dots, Nanette Lepore, Theory, Shoshanna, Rebecca Taylor, Hudson, Rozae Nichols, Trina Turk, Diane von Furstenberg, House of Harlow, Citrine By the Stones and Tibi. Owner: Brinton Coxe recently took over this 25-year-old boutique. Vibe: The rooms are bright and elegant, with delicate chandeliers and exposed brick walls. The sales staff is dressed adorably and an upbeat mood prevails with eighties and nineties hits in the background. Price Range: Moderate-Luxury. The Look: Each room increases in price and dressiness, so there’s something for any occasion. Wear to drinks on a friend’s patio, your college roommate’s wedding or dinner at NoMi. Shopper’s Perks: Client books kept by the staff remind them to alert you when your favorite designers come in. A classy handwritten note thanks customers for purchases.
UPDATED OCTOBER 2009