1539-41 N. Milwaukee, (773)772-1983, fluevog.com
Goods: Men’s and women’s shoes Designer: John Fluevog Owner: The Vancouver-based designer John Fluevog has a handful of stores in North America. Vibe: The store exudes excitement, set in a spacious old movie theater that allows plenty of room to explore the shoes at your own pace. The committed staff is funky, yet friendly and accessible. Fluevog’s shoes garner a passionate following that transcends designer obsession and the store’s charm offers easy entrée into that realm. Price Range: Moderate-Expensive The Look: Timeless, not trendy, often with classic elements given a contemporary spin. Anything from sturdy boots that look like Doc Martens’ sophisticated older brother to towering pumps that could be worn by Drew Barrymore or Betty Grable. Fluevog wearers tend to be fashionable but also fiercely independent, which is why the shoes are favored by so many rock stars and Hollywood’s most individualistic actors. Shopper’s Perks: The store tends to attract Fluevog fans to its staff who are artists and musicians as well, lending a feel of an artistic hub to the space, which is enhanced by frequent events and art openings.
UPDATED OCTOBER 2009