Just opened
Photograph by Martha Williams

TRADING UP Home-decor store The Silk Trading Co. has locations in plenty of other cities (New York, L.A. and Dallas, for example), but the Chicago outpost is the first to launch Drapery by Design ($133 and up). The new program lets customers shop for ready-made drapes, but also gives them the ability to choose details such as headers, trims and colors. The store also stocks lamp shades ($29–$55), rods and hardware ($24–$78), and sofas ($1,969 and up). While other big home-furnishing showrooms have more of a warehouse feel, this 6,500-square-foot “boutique” ups the style ante with silk-cocooned chandeliers and a swanky pillow display—letting shoppers feel at home while they shop for their home. 900 N Michigan Ave between Walton and Delaware Pls (312-664-7600).—Kevin Aeh
SNIP ’N’ SIP Paying equal attention to art on the body and art on the walls, the salon-cum-gallery Strange Beauty Show includes two hair stations, a makeup counter and a wall that showcases new artists’ work every month. Just as the salon’s name pays homage to a Rolling Stones song, sibling owners Audrey and Virginia Olenick aim more for rock & roll than a day at the Ritz; customers enjoy free rein over the record player and complimentary drinks such as the cheeky Barbicide, a blend of blue pucker, vodka and lemonade. Cuts for men and women average $25 and $45, respectively, and the ladies are ringing in their grand opening with a special discount. Until Sunday 10, customers who donate $10 to Around the Coyote receive a snip for the same cost. Now that’s cutting a deal. 1261 N Paulina Ave at Wicker Park Ave (773-252-9522).—Jessica Herman




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