Had a shockingly bad experience at Optimo maybe it was an off day for them but looking at the…read morenegative reviews around the internet lined up with my experience exactly. I walk by Optimo fairly regularly and I had looked up their website and loved what I saw. With a rare day off from work with no other commitments I was excited to see the store and hear the hat lore. And buy a hat for myself and a gift for my dad. Unfortunately the person at Optimo was not as excited about me. As soon as I walked in the vibe was off she barely looked up from whatever it was she was doing to give me a lukewarm welcome and immediately go back to ignoring me. I asked about the store and the hats getting information was like pulling teeth. Then another customer walked in who she immediately began helping to ignore me. That was my cue to leave and idk if I will ever have a cue to come back. Which is fine because there are other custom hat makers contrary to what Optimo would have you believe. The hats were nice but at that price point I am expecting top notch service and Optimo is in the basement.

What a treat today walking into Optimo hat makers at 51 West Jackson. I thought I had stepped back…read morein time and by the time I had a hat on my head, it was both a perfect fit, and a perfect style. A few months ago I noticed a sharp looking guy with the perfect fedora on in a Naperville Starbucks. Being a career retailer who has always fantasized about being able to pull off such a look, but never finding the right combination, I commented to him how sharp it looked. Ironically that man turned out to be Graham Thompson, one of the world's best hat makers and the founder of Optimo. Getting a quick tour today from his apprentice was even more impressive, seeing the molds and hearing their process to match hat, fabric, and brim style to head shape and desired look. It didn't surprise me after a few minutes of discussion, the first hat he put on my head was perfection. It's another one of those retail experiences you never forget, and one that could never be duplicated online.

What a lovely boutique of (authentic?) African wares! It was Bronzeville Nights, so there was wine…read moreto drink while I browsed. It's not a large place but they fit SOO much stuff in there. I was reigning in my spending, but I saw some nice jewelry sets that called out to me. My party bought a hand held fan with gorgeous colorful patterns. The prices were fairly reasonable. It was a nice crowd, the only thing that keeps me from moving towards 4 stars was the check out process. I waited for my party to check out, and it seemed like a little disorganized. Maybe the internet was slow, and the line was long? I'd probably go back during a weekday or week night when it is a little less busy (if there is such a time!).

I got introduced to this talented designer by way of being invited to an open house a few years…read moreago. Was impressed with what I saw. Beautifully tailored clothing and uniquely handmade jewelry. Went back in August, 2016 to look for some earrings for my sister for her b-day. She did not disappoint. Found earrings for her and a pair of earrings and a beautiful summer dress for myself. What I love is that these are original clothing designs so they are one of a kind. As I get older, I'm loving more of the boutique concept where I am not in a store looking at tons of clothing packed together that aren't as high of quality. I felt so good coming here. The music playing was so calming and inspirational which was lovely since it was my day off and a nice day outside. The associate was extremely friendly and I enjoyed her great customer service. Looking very forward to returning again to treat myself to something BEAUTIFUL! Thank you Sarah!

Over the years I have had the pleasure of using Contessa Helena eau de parfum. Wherever I go, I…read more hear comments about the beautiful scent in the area This is an exclusive Chicago product which makes Contessa Bottega a special shopping destination. Christopher is a gallant gentleman who greets visitors with knowledgeable respect for their couture shopping.

Best women's couture ! Unique, limited pieces. Chgo standard. Superb collection every season.read more

Guys, let's keep things simple, if you need custom clothing for any occasion, Katie and Jodi at…read moreNicholas Joseph are unmatched. Stop considering anyone else. I recently had my wedding on 3/21. I ran a marathon for time on 1/11. I gave them the ridiculous task of making me 2 customs jackets when I would be 15 pounds heavier in March than all the months before. They nailed it even though they had to guesstimate my measurements. We didn't even need an adjustment. Years ago, before I knew about them, Balani made me the shittiest, most wrinkle prone shirt I've ever owned. Then I found Nicholas Joseph, who gave me the level of quality I was looking for, all at an extremely reasonable price. I have no doubts you'll get the same result.

Katie was absolutely wonderful to work with throughout the entire process of getting my wedding tux…read moreand two suits handled. She made everything easy, stress-free, and enjoyable from start to finish. Her attention to detail, communication, and professionalism were outstanding, and everything turned out perfectly. The fit and overall experience exceeded my expectations. Highly recommend working with Katie if you want someone who genuinely cares and goes above and beyond. She's earned a client for life.

I have been a customer at Naaz Studio since the day it opened, and every visit has been a wonderful…read moreexperience. Over the years, I have purchased many outfits from the store and have also had several pieces customized. The outfits I received was absolutely stunning -- the craftsmanship, fabric, and detailing were beautiful and even better than I expected. What truly stood out was the Huriya's dedication to making sure I loved my outfit. She went above and beyond to help with every detail and made the whole process feel so personal and special. You can really tell how much she cares about her customers and her work. Highly recommend if you're looking for something unique, elegant, and a wonderful shopping experience!

I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon Naaz studio and to meet Huriya and her mom! I walked into her…read morestore, a little overwhelmed on Devon and down to the wire, looking last minute for a trendy outfit for a Hindu mendhi. Huriya was so accommodating and so wonderful to work with. She found a beautiful outfit for me. I received so many compliments on my outfit at the mendhi and I felt beautiful in it! I'm so glad I stopped in and got to work with her. I highly recommend visiting Naaz studio!!

Ms Ella has taken care of my mom since my father passed away....her shop is immaculate. Takes care…read moreof my mom she definitely can take care of you and yours if you like that style. Totally professional..

Great little boutique! Ella the owner is wonderful. She is passionate about her clothing and…read moreaccessories and designs many of her own clothes. Ella truly cares about her customers. If you are a church lady or a red hatter, you must shop here. She has limited hours but easily accommodates appointments. Fun place to shop on the south side!

Skyscraper Heels specializes in custom made women's shoes and boots! They create custom designed…read moreshoes to the specific taste and request of the buyers. They say they can create from just about any material, heel shape and height. Heels range from 3" to 8" and from sizes 5-17 (W and WW). They also carry ankle, knee and thigh high boots. I actually went here for a different reason. I needed a corset and I heard this was the place to go. Diane, the owner (I think), explained about corset training and was very helpful. I had a fitting and ended up buying a pair of black patent leather stilettos too. Note that corset fitting are by appointment only. They also carry a verity of full fashioned '50s style back seam hosiery, Cuban heel hosiery, garter belts, girdles, and waist cinchers. I was happy with my purchase and my husband had a very difficult time walking out of the store. So, stop by or call (866) SKY-HEELS or (773) 477-8495. Either Diane or Gary will be happy to discuss your needs and make sure you walk out looking like a million bucks. They are open Monday from 11:00am - 5:00pm, Tuesday - Saturday from 11:00am - 8:00pm but closed on Sundays.

Looking for that size 15C plexi-glass purple pump for an upcoming special occasion? Or how about…read morethigh-high stilletto boots for some real street walkin'? Skyscraper Heels is THE place to shop for not only a crazy array of high heel shoes, platforms and boots, but also corsets and stockings to compliment your stunning outfit! www.skyscraperheels.com Owner Gary Page is the High Priest of high-heels and sells oodles of custom-made shoes from some of the last shoe manufacturers still located in the US. You can also bring in fabric of your own and Gary will have the shoes made to order. At Gary's prompting and because I couldn't say 'no' to such a nice fella', I tried on a pair of 3 3/4" open-toed mules, and I must say they were pretty darned comfortable! And that's coming from a gal who lives in sneakers, flip-flops, and Danskos! Apartenly it's all in the engineering!

I love Kimyh Design Boutique clothing!!!! I received my first outfit (wearing in photo) quickly and…read moreit fits so perfectly!!!! Her clothes have such an amazing unique style, I loved this outfit so much I ordered a second one of the same today as well as the Go with the Flow Hoodie Pant set. I will definitely be ordering more!