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The shop opened quietly in late September. Why no big par-tay? The brand likes to feel part of a neighborhood, and—even upon opening—give off the vibe that it's always been there. Photos: Barry Brecheisen for Racked
The small-but-airy space has light wood floors, exposed brick walls, and—we'll get to this—plenty of stylish gear for men and women.
Men's shirts from the in-house label are folded neatly in compartments along the back wall. The compartments are labeled with style names such as "collegiate" and "single needle." And, that little basket in the seating area holds cozy, thick blankets.
According to store manager Drew Allison, these shoes are hot sellers on the East Coast. They're made by Boston-based brand Artemis Design Co., and crafted out of antique Kilim carpets from Istanbul.
There are also women's heels and ankle boots from brands such as Acne. And, that Shiola bike in the window is for sale, too.
Women's clothing is grouped toward the front left corner of the store. Accessories include these roomy, Steven Alan clutches made from Italian leather.
At the cash wrap, rustic jewelry from the likes of Lila Rice and Jerry Grant. Also at the cash wrap: an array of unisex fragrances.
Allison described the store's inventory as "great, urban basics" and pointed out that pretty much everything is logo-free.
Men's merchandise—including cashmere beanies—fills the back right corner of the store.
Shinola watches are made in Detroit and have an American-made leather strap.
A back shelf holds bags and fun odds and ends including a coffee-table book on India and jams from Shady Acres Farm.
It was April. We heard a rumor. We hoped it was true. We waited and waited, and—six treacherous months later— the wait is finally over. It's official: Chicago has its very own Steven Alan boutique. And we've got pictures to prove it.
In the former riley. space in Bucktown, the new, storefront space is small but mighty. It stocks clothing for men and women from the in-house label and other designers; there are shoes, ties, rhubarbs, and one made-in-Detroit bike. Racked stopped by on Friday for a little photo action, and we have snaps from every corner of the wonderland for stylish, urban basics with a made-in-the-U.S.A. bent. Won't you take a walkthrough with us?