Barney’s is known as a fashionista’s mecca. If you’re a style hound, you already know this. Even if you’re not a style hound, you should know this. Unlike the fashion-forward collections, though, Chicago’s Barney’s location had always been a bit drab and outdated. Enter: the ultimate makeover.
The clothing’s not the only thing to ogle at this Rush Street location. While the new six-story space is engulfed by natural light gleaming in from the multitude of windows, what’s more impressive is the layout. Step in to the middle of the store (near the Balenciaga counter) and look up to discover layers of floors swirling to the ceiling. Each floor is much more simplified that its predecessor and entirely different from New York’s maze-like location.
Take the elevator or brave the slew of steps to the bottom floor and discover your favorite cosmetic and fragrance brands elegantly merchandised. Hit each level to discover your favorite Barney’s designers, but don’t look past the atmosphere. Like installation art, sculptures and unique displays that shoppers have grown to expect garnish the space adding a more gallery-like experience.
What’s most exciting about Barney’s new face is the top floor. Not only will the shopper be pleasantly surprised by the home-accessory retailer Chelsea’s Passage bird’s nest location, one will discover something Chicago previously never had: Fred’s—the infamous New York restaurant. Whether it’s for a delicious cocktail or a nibble break from all the browsing, Fred’s dining can be comparable to the Big Apple’s luxurious experience.
Think of it this way: You want to shop as if you’re in New York? The new Barney’s store is like vacationing in another city. You feel like you’ve just ducked off bustling Madison Avenue. Some even say Chicago’s fashion scene is New York’s baby brother. Then, if that’s the case, Chicago’s just grew up a bit more. (Byron Flitsch)
