We then headed a few blocks East to Lissa on Maxwell, where owner Lissa Shilpley shared her experience owning one of the best boutiques in Chicago.  Another hidden gem that we uncovered is on CanalPort at the studio of Kate Boggiano.  Although not open to the public, Kate opened her studio and let us in on the creative process involved in crafting her custom shirts and dresses.

Last but certainly not least was Wolfbait & B-girls in Logan Square.  The ladies met with co-owner Shirley Kienitz and got the inside scoop on this boutique, which only features Chicago designers and artists.

The ladies ended the day with tasty treats from Swirlz cupcakes.  A perfect ending to a perfect day of learning, shopping and fun!

Check out the video link below of the Inside Design Studio Tour:

http://animoto.com/play/1u3xbz0MOTN0fwtQYvfsyA

Erin Gallagher is the perfect place for men struggling to create an original piece for their special someone, gals in the know who want to showcase their personal style with a one-of-a-kind gem, and of course, brides who want to create the perfect look for their bridal party.  With accessories ranging from $50 to $1000, Erin Gallagher accommodates a great look for any check book.  The entire EG Team is so very helpful they are great reminders as to why it is great to shop local and support local artists.

Erin Gallagher is also available for jewelry parties!  Host one at home, at the office, or bring 10 girlfriends to her store after hours to create your own masterpiece from their over 25 styles and hundreds of gems.  Or if you’re active in a charity, host a Robin Hood event where a portion of the proceeds goes towards that charity.

Erin was inspired to create beautiful things at a young age by her mother, an interior designer.  Together they started designing jewelry and within a year had pieces at Bloomingdales and were celebrating a wonderful, dynamic partnership.  Erin then tragically lost her mother to cancer but was motivated to continue designing by the memory of her mother and the values instilled by her.

Just recently Erin moved her first retail location from the West Loop to Lincoln Park where she and her team are anxiously awaiting their grand opening on Webster Street – scheduled for April 1^st!

Celebrate your unique femininity in Erin’s fun, fabulous space that does her family proud.

Erin Gallager

1013 W. Webster

866-582-6709

www.egjewelry.com and http://eringallagher.wordpress.com/

Grab your girlfriends for a create-your-own lingerie party with EvLove Intimates! Everything from luxury panties, camis and lounge-wear can be customized to fit your personal style.

Owner, Jenny Dombrowski, will take you through her extensive line of sensual lingeire then you can let your inner designer shine through.  There are thousands of options to choose from so there is something for everyone.  Nothing in the line is over $100 so you won’t break the bank either!

If you’re looking for an exciting and new way to celebrate your bachelorette party, or a girls night out, book your party with EvLove Intimates now.

For more information click on the video link: EvLove Intimates

Here are a few things that we have in store for you:

• A new, more interactive website, featuring top Chicago designers and boutiques
• VIP Discounts to some of the best shopping in Chicago
• Shopping events and tours for the savvy fashionista
• Ability to join our exclusive Boutique of the Week club

We look forward to these exciting changes and we can’t wait for you to take the journey with us!

Jan Bacigalupo's Fabulous Designs

Earlier this week I had an opportunity to do a few of my favorite things.  Spend time with friends, sip wine and shop the wonderful designs of Jan Bacigalupo of Voyageur Trade Goods.

Jan’s designs were on display at a private jewelry showing and I have to admit that I didn’t leave empty handed!  Jan’s unique mix of metals and hard-to-find gem stones are truly amazing.  Her designs can be worn with a pair of jeans or dressed up for a night out on the town.

Jan’s pieces can be purchased at several local boutiques or through private showings.  If you have a chance to purchase her designs, either for yourself or as  a holiday gift, you can’t go wrong.

Happy Shopping!

Who doesn’t love fashion and most of all who doesn’t love the fashion sported by the celebs on Gossip Girls!

On Monday, September 14,  You Just Shop and writer extraordinaire Jen Luby will host an exciting launch party for the new site, You Know You Love Fashion–A witty Gossip Girl fashion blog.

This is more than just a party!  This event will feature a fashion show, yummy appetizers and drinks plus we’ll watch the premiere of Gossip Girl.

If you’re a fan of Gossip Girl, join in on the fun and fashion!

Who: Fashion and Gossip Girl fans
What: Launch Party for You Know You Love Fashion
Where: Red Canary 695 N. Milwaukee, Chicago, IL
When: September 14, 2009 @ 7:30; $15 advance, $20 at door
Why: Fun, Fashion and Gossip Girl!

Savy shopper looks great in Orlando's design

The ladies had an opportunity to meet 1:1 with Orlando for style advice and try on his stylish collection of dresses.  Everyone had a great time and it was hard to leave empty handed!  I know I didn’t (smile)!

Stay tuned for more exciting excursions and events featuring Chicago designers and studios!

We’ll sip tasty wines, savor delectable chocolates from Katherine Anne Confections and shop Orlando’s fabulous dress collection.  This event is not be be missed!

What: Wine & Design
Where: Orlando Espinoza Studio @ 1922 S Halsted, Chicago, Il
Why: Who needs a reason to eat truffles and shop?

Please RSVP at info@youjustshop.com or 312-523-9500