Akira – Erikka Wang, Jon Cotay, Eric Hsueh

2002 marked the opening of the first Akira store, a women’s boutique, on North Avenue in Bucktown. Just five years later the company has expanded into six locations and includes full-lines of womenswear, menswear, footwear, and accessories. The pieces are fashion forward and trendy, bringing fresh clothing and accessories to Chicago. Customers can find something for every occasion from casual daywear to elegant eveningwear, plus find some shoes and accessories to go with it. Even better, everything is budget-friendly, perfect for its core audience of 20-35 urbanites.

The three owners have meant to keep Akira a local institution, showcasing local designers and highlighting Chicago as a fashion capital. The owners love meeting new people and take pride in their customers’ support. The stores’ growth has proven Akira to be a success. The company also sponsors local events and fundraisers, and puts on fashion shows featuring their pieces.

Menswear, Footwear, and Accessories boutiques can be found near the womenwear location along North Avenue in Bucktown. There is a shoe store on State Street downtown and women’s store in Lincoln Park.

1814 W. North Ave. (women’s)
Chicago, IL 60622
773-489-0818

www.akirachicago.com

Evlove Intimates - Jenny Dombroski

Evolve Intimates match lingerie's allure with the comfort every woman deserves. These pieces can be bought online or designed directly by the consumer, allowing her to create a completely unique look. Made with high-quality fabrics and trimmings, Evlove Intimates combine luxury with comfort and style. Women can go online to the design studio or have a home party to create their signature piece of lingerie.

From corporate consultant to lingerie designer, Jenny Dombroski calls herself a “lingerie enthusiast.” After teaching herself what she could about the industry, Jenny began Evolve Intimates in 2004. She felt that women had the right to create lingerie that was truly intimate, something no one else had. Her passion for the industry and belief in her products has put Jenny on the path to success. Recently, Jenny revealed the world’s largest thong (20-feet wide) at her company debut fashion show.

Evolve Intimates are available online. Home parties are also available. Please see the website for details.

www.evloveintimates.com

Jane Hamill Boutique - Jane Hamill

Jane Hamill integrates a warm and friendly atmosphere into her boutique and in her designs. Jane strives to give her customers an inviting and comfortable experience at her shop, providing new pieces and individualized service. Featured in her boutique, her clothing designs are simple, feminine and cheerful. She believes in great customer service, leaving her customers craving to come back and shop again.

Born in Chicago, Jane grew up designing and sewing clothes for herself and her family. She studied fashion design at Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and at the Esmod School of Design in Paris. A true entrepreneur at heart, Jane opened her boutique at the age of 25. Since then, she has acquired much success and has been featured in publications such as InStyle Magazine, Women’s Wear Daily and the Chicago Tribune. With everything cut, sewn and manufactured in Chicago, Jane Hamill designs and boutique are truly Chicago-made.

Jane Hamill clients are sophisticated yet fun-loving females with a knack for easy, flawless looks. Shop her boutique for cocktail attire, bridesmaid dresses, accessories and everyday wear.

Jane Hamill Boutique
1117 W. Armitage
Chicago, IL, 60614
773-665-1102

www.janehamill.com