Michigan Avenue - Niche Media - Michigan Avenue magazine is a luxury lifestyle magazine centered around Chicago’s finest people, events, fashion, health & beauty, fine dining & more!
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/94797
MEN'S REPORT THE NEED FOR SPEED Formula 1 racing inspires menswear guru Thom Browne's new collection for Moncler Gamme Bleu. Brunello Cucinelli brings Italian luxury to North Rush Street. warm welcome W BRUNELLO CUCINELLI BRINGS THE COZY FEEL OF SOLOMEO TO BUSTLING CHICAGO. hen Italian architect Luigi Fiorentino designed the new Brunello Cucinelli space on North Rush Street, his goal was to bring the essence of relaxed Italian luxury to the urbanity of Chicago. Founded in an idyllic village in northern Italy, the brand has become renowned for its sumptuous cashmere and leatherwork. The label's first store in the Midwest, the Chicago boutique boasts an inviting atmosphere that encourages customers to acquaint themselves with the brand and its rich heritage. The new space offers both men's and women's collections styled with vintage props from Cucinelli's hometown of Solomeo. Among these homespun touches you'll find knitwear and leather goods, as well as acces- sories and men's tailoring. When asked about the opening of the new boutique, Cucinelli noted, "The Chicago man may live here, but he is truly an international citizen. He is well traveled and sophisti- cated, often a connoisseur of exceptional design, beautiful architecture, good food. His lifestyle speaks to a need for dressing well, which is so important for the man whose day has to transition quickly from the office to dinner to week- end getaways." 939A N. Rush St., 312-266-6000; brunellocucinelli.com MA 92 MICHIGANAVEMAG.COM 900 N. Michigan Ave., 312-664-5504; gucci.com With so many collections under Thom Browne's belt this year, it was equal parts amusing and inspiring to see Formula 1's sleek racing aesthetic as the inspiration for his fall collection for Moncler Gamme Bleu. Sporty reds and yellows cropped up in quilted blazers and jackets, cut in the slim proportions that have gained Browne an eager following among Chicago's most stylish men. Both pragmatic and progressive, the dressy cuts are fabricated in materials like wool and down to keep men toasty during the winter months. These looks are definitely worth making a pit stop for on Oak Street. Try this look from the runway collection, which features a color-blocked blazer that looks fantastic when paired with denim and a great coat. 33 E. Oak St., 312-361-8573; moncler.com ditch the laces THIS SEASON'S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER SHOE BANISHES CLUTTER AND USHERS IN A REFINED STYLE. WHILE THE MONK STRAP isn't new to the menswear vernacular, this classic shoe is the most talked-about choice in footwear this season, thanks to its updated look. Traditionally designed with one strap, the double-strap iteration has been spotted on almost every Italian runway this season. Notably, Gucci's sleek version ($765) offers a sophisticated shape and polished exterior. This versa- tile shoe can be worn in more formal occasions but also is a great option for everything from dinner at the Pump Room to cocktails at Drumbar.