1525 N. Milwaukee, (773)342-2623, g-star.com [ratings]
Goods: Menswear, womenswear and accessories. Designer: G-Star Raw Owner: New York-based Denimwall Inc. operates the New York, Boston, Miami and Chicago stores of this European brand. Vibe: The Chicago outpost of this leading Dutch denim label opened in 2005, riding the new wave of sophisticated denim wear. The store exudes coolness, with cutting-edge electronic music creating the perfect aural atmosphere for its carefully displayed denim and sportswear. Price Range: Moderate-Expensive The Look: Raw denim, natch, is a specialty, but the store features about thirty-odd styles, washes and cuts. Beyond jeans, their signature winter jackets are a best-seller in Chicago. Given the line’s commitment to design innovation over trendiness, it’s no surprise that an abundance of architects and graphic designers shop here. Shopper’s Perks: The Elwood, named for a Motocross star, is the first ergonomically designed jean, with contours to fit the body and reinforcement in physical stress points.
UPDATED OCTOBER 2009
