Chicago Fashion Incubator Pops Up at 900 Shops

Short-Term Showcase
Since 2006, the Chicago Fashion Incubator at Macy’s has helped local designers launch their careers in fashion through workshops, workspaces, and other kinds of support for one year at a time.

New Local Line of Handbags Surfaces

Give Yourself Some Skin
Annie Handbags (6263 N. McCormick Blvd., Ste. 160; 312-498-3933) launched last year, bringing women a fresh batch of luxurious yet practical purses, totes, and messenger bags.

West Loop Salon Expands

Inflationary Pressure
While many shops and spas seem to be at a standstill these days, some locally owned businesses, such as Solo Salon (1065 W. Madison St.; 312-491-9771, solo-salon.com), continue to thrive.

New Designer on the Scene

Made-To-Measure
Shortly after graduating from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Michelle Barone was asked to create an exclusive clothing line for the opening reception of the museum’s Modern Wing in May 2009.

Revision Home Opens Its Doors

Three Days Only
Growing up in New Orleans, Katie Ernst traveled to various junk and antique stores with her grandma, mom, and aunts with an eye for deals on great finds. In October 2009, Ernst opened Revision Home (2132 W. Fulton St.; 312-226-2221, revisionchicago.com), which sells vintage and antique pieces online and by appointment.

Bucktown’s New Green Salon

Cutting Her Own Path
After 15 years in corporate salons, the hair colorist Karen Marie Vanoni wanted a more creative work environment. But shortly into her search, she realized she wanted to open her own salon.

West Elm Opens in Lincoln Park

Eco-Friendly Finds

Another Williams-Sonoma affiliate, west elm (1000 W. North Ave.; 312-867-1770, westelm.com) opens in Lincoln Park tomorrow, February 3rd, joining its nearby sister stores Pottery Barn (1000 W. North Ave.; 312-587-9837, potterybarn.com) and the combined PBteen-Pottery Barn Kids (2111 N. Clybourn Ave., 773-525-8349, pbteen.com, potterybarnkids.com).

New Custom Jeweler in Lake View

Black Tie to Tank Top
At 10, Erin Estell started making jewelry using only floss and beads. Two decades later, her years of practice paid off.