UPDATE: As of January 31, 2010, Ultimo is closed.
116 E. Oak, (312)787-1171, ultimo.com [ratings]
Goods: Women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. Designers: Stella McCartney, Donna Karan, Michael Kors, Giambattista Valli, Roberto Cavalli, Peter Som and Herve Leger. Shoes? Entirely Manolo Blahnik. Owner: Sara Albrecht—artist, designer and arts patron—continues the thirty-year tradition of one of Chicago’s most established high-end boutiques, originally owned by Joan Weinstein. Vibe: From the rich colors to the plush carpets, the soft lighting to the metal sculptures, this store is lux-u-ri-ous. But don’t let the impeccably dressed staff fool you—they’re welcoming, attentive and willing to go the extra mile. Price Range: Luxury. The Look: The society pages. Flip through In Style and see your new shoes on the red carpet. Shopper’s Perks: Best selection of Manolos in the city. The boutique’s four hand-drawn sketches, made by Blahnik himself, demonstrate the close relationship Ultimo has with the designer.
UPDATED OCTOBER 2009
