Chi-Town Chic

What makes Chicago’s fashion scene so different from other cosmopolitan cities such as New York or Los Angeles?  With its harsh winters and whipping winds, Chicagoans work hard to create a stylish look that’s practical for the city’s forever changing seasons. Cotton Candy style contributor Jessica Moazami unveils several secrets that’ll enable all of us to look Chi-town chic.

No. 1 The Fur Trend
Not surprisingly in such a cold climate, women in Chicago often wear fur, both faux and real. The trend is major in the Windy City.  The look is classic and sophisticated and continues to remain a staple in Chicago style.  Rather than opt for a new fur coat, try furs found in vintage shops across the city, since these items are made from old, discarded pieces.  There is also an endless stream of amazing faux furs strewn throughout popular boutiques.

No. 2 Topshop Style
Chicago is only the second U.S. city to be graced with Topshop, the latest style import from the United Kingdom.  The European-based boutique brings a bit of cool Britannia to the city’s streets, introducing fashion risks and a more cutting edge style to Chicagoans. Filled with runway-inspired designs and signature clothing, Topshop will soon be producing a line exclusively of 1930’s Art Deco heritage design.

No. 3 A Cool Attitude
Clothes are only one aspect of Chicago style.  A true Chicagoan’s attitude is cool and down to earth, which translates into personal style.  Chicago style is organic and authentic combining that Midwestern, small-town style with city chic. Rather than a disconnected mesh of trends and brands, Chicago style is about maintaining your individuality, with effortless simplicity.

No. 4 Vivid Color
Each year, explosive colors during Chicago’s white winters liven things up, matching the Midwesterner bright and cheerful attitude.  Adding a bold accessory to your outfit will give it a lift. Try flamboyant hues canary yellows, deep blues and fashion fuchsias.

No. 5 ikram
ikram – arguably the best-loved designer boutique in all of Chicago – has all the premier luxury and fashion-forward brands. Shopaholics drop thousands on a single shopping trip here. The owner ikram Goldman is most famous for styling Chicago native First Lady Michelle Obama.  Opened more than ten years ago, ikram has helped put Chicago on the fashion map, allowing Midwesterners access to influential designers including the likes of Alexander McQueen, Jason Wu and Rick Owens.

Written by: Jessica Moazami

After 15 years of living and working in London’s fashion industry, fashion stylist and journalist, Jessica Moazami has worked for The Times, The Telegraph, Tatler and Harvey Nichols Magazine. Now relocated back to the states in Chicago, she is currently with Artists by Timothy Priano .