Ouest

Citysearch Editorial Review

by Emilie Zanger at Citysearch

Although named for its original location in the West Loop, this luxurious, French-inspired women's clothing shop is just as much at home on this boutique-heavy strip of Division Street in the Ukrainian Village. Label-loving fashionistas with timeless tastes and high credit limits can score show-stopping special occasion cocktail dresses and wardrobe staples from the likes of Sonia Rykiel, Rozae Nichols and Missoni. Wide-legged jeans from Habitual are both soiree-ready and weekend-friendly. The shop's interior, with marble floors, a crystal chandelier and gold accents, successfully balances opulence and tasteful understatement--just like its wares.

03/27/08

Ouest hits every time.

by chicagoRedness at Citysearch

I had driven past this boutique so many times and always noted the beautiful window displays. I decided to stop in for a quick visit after a day of unsuccessful shopping to see if this could be the store to supply me with THE OUTFIT for the evening. I walked in, explained my situation to the very friendly staff (who turned out to be the owner) and was handed the perfect top. Then, because she thought that I would look great in green (which happens to be my color), she handed me another perfect top. Then, she handed me the perfect skinny jeans in the perfect size and gave me a pair of perfect heels to complete the outfit I was modeling. Hands down the best experience at any boutique in the city. They are dead on with their knowledge of what will look good on who. Don't be surprised that the prices aren't Forever 21-esque and more in the p.45 range, but the pieces are worth it and will stay in your closet and your wardrobe rotation for years to come. Plus, I had to split the bill onto two credit cards, (let's face it, we all have to do that from time to time) and the owner could not have been more accommodating. Finally, a boutique that nails it in the West Loop. Never go away. Please.

• Pros: friendly, knowledgeable staff; amazing inventory; beautiful decor
• Cons: parking can be troublesome