Places We Love: WFLP

As my husband and I headed to his alma mater a couple of years ago to watch a college basketball game he turned to me and said "we're headed to the promised land” (there was no religious connotation – he was trying to be humorous). I knew he was a little crazy about college basketball, but I wondered how anyone could feel so strongly about such a random place. Since I wasn’t a fan, I felt pretty disconnected. After experiencing the energy in the stadium and witnessing his excitement, I began to understand where he was coming from. Still, I wanted to experience those emotions for a place that was special to me.

This year I found that place. I’m genuinely excited every time I walk in and smell the aroma of fresh organic produce mixed with the earthy scent of coffee and natural sundries. That place is the new Whole Foods in Lincoln Park (or WFLP). I know … Whole Foods? Get out much? However, this is not your average Whole Foods. It’s a monster, three story Whole Foods – closer to the size of an Ikea than a grocery store.

The Lincoln Park Whole Foods popped up earlier this year in a formerly industrial no-man’s land, directly across from a strip-club (whose business may have declined since WF placed its checkout lines directly across from its front door). It’s the third largest Whole Foods in the world behind the Kensington, London and Austin flagship locations. In addition to aisles and aisles of fresh food and an amazing premium body-care section there is a beer garden, wine bar, taqueria, pizzeria, sandwich shop, diner, gelateria, cookie bar, coffee shop, barbeque stand, Asian noodle/sushi bar and bakery.

I'm pretty sure I know what my husband was talking about now.

Chicago's Newest Landmark

Am I Missing Something?

During my past few visits to boutiques in New York and Chicago, a strange thing has happened. There wasn’t really anything to buy. In the literal sense, there was plenty for sale. But it seems that many boutiques, even at the high-end, aren’t carrying items all that distinctive from the department stores. Looking at the window displays on Oak Street or in Soho, I can’t help but wonder if I would even notice the same clothing if it were hanging on the rack at a discount store. There are some cute items available, but the majority isn't very exciting. At the same time, I’m increasingly finding items I love at some of the much less expensive retailers, like Akira and even American Apparel. The clothing at these stores is by no means a replacement for high fashion, which can be inspirational; with people drawn to the uniqueness and exclusivity. On the other hand, if you can purchase short-term alternatives at a fraction of the cost, why wouldn't you? Lower sales at boutiques are obviously related to the down economy, but there also seems to be a shortage of great options.

In my opinion, there are definitely items that are worth spending more on. Jackets, dresses and nice winter boots all fall in that category. Nice workout clothes can also be worth the extra money. If I know I will wear something for two or more seasons, I tend to make an investment in quality. What I won’t pay a lot of money for are tops, which are especially seasonal. For the most part, I also spend less on shoes. I understand the argument for investing in quality shoes but, regardless of the cost, my shoes always seem to last the same amount of time. Plus, there are lots of terrific low-cost shoe options that are as fashionable as higher-end brands.

In the past, while shopping at boutiques, I have sometimes forgotten to ask myself two simple questions: “Does this actually look cute?” and “Is it worth it?” Sometimes, the answer is yes.