Best Eyebrow Shaping

Only one woman in town can say she’s gotten Angelina Jolie, Julia Roberts, and Teri Hatcher on their backs: Cheryl Renella, Channing’s owner. She’ll study your bone structure before tweezing (not waxing!) a perfect arch. It’s $100 for the first shaping and $75 for maintenance. Not willing to wait for an appointment with the brow … Read more

Best Salon for Black Hair

Yes, Huetiful’s stylists are skilled, but what really makes Chicagoans rave is its NanoSmoothing treatment ($175). The hair-strengthening process eschews the usual harsh chemicals in favor of a protein supplement that’s infused into strands using steam. Ask for Tasheara Neshell, who’s styled the likes of Jennifer Hudson, Viola Davis, and Tika Sumpter.

Best High-End Mani-Pedi

This chain—which has Allure’s seal of approval and a rabid following among ladies who lunch—will keep your nails looking reliably flawless. But what separates it from the pack is the luxurious extras. A manicure that comes with hot neck rolls, a leisurely hand massage, and complimentary access to such amenities as a steam room and … Read more

Best Hair Color for the Money

Don’t expect to be pampered at this stark salon. Instead, come for veteran colorist Kim “K.P.” Peterson, who’s so in demand that you may have to call in sick for an appointment. She’s a whiz at highlighting (from $115) and will give you Kelly Osbourne lilac if you insist—but only if it’s possible to do … Read more

Best Baby Gear Store

Welcome to one-stop shopping for top-of-the-line stuff your baby will puke on. Service is exemplary: For example, employees will gladly assemble your new $1,100 Stokke Xplory stroller, a Norwegian marvel of infant-toting engineering, for free. They’ll even give you a loaner if it ever needs a tune-up. 

Best Haircut for the Money

It’s easy to see why the cool kids (Tavi Gevinson, Jeff Tweedy) favor this understated Logan Square salon: The chatty, funky stylists can pull off everything from chic low-maintenance styles to showy sculptural dos. Cuts are $75 for women and $65 for men—and when you walk in the door, you get your pick of a … Read more