Chicago - February 08, 2005

Where It's At

BocUe Spring 2005 purses

When carrying the season’s It bag, you must also shoulder a paradox.

You start off feeling great. But, once you begin seeing your prized possession (and all of its knockoffs) slung over the shoulders of every Jen, Deb, and Jamie, triumph turns to defeat.

If you’d rather stand out then blend in, bocUe has got it in the bag. The spring line features punchy colors like bronze, dandelion-yellow, blue, coral, and violet. But the best things about bocUe have remained the same: The leather bags aren’t gussied up with unnecessary hardware (no scary chains, grommets, or clips). They’re subtly luxe, with handmade stitching and details like suede art-deco inspired wildflowers and metallic leathers, making each purse — and its owner — feel like a one of a kind.

Which is what being “It” should be all about.

Available at Spare Parts, 2947 North Broadway between Oakdale and Wellington Avenues (773-525-4242); bocUe’s trunk show will be held there on February 10, 5 p.m-8p.m.