Chicago - December 23, 2005

New Year’s Toast

Mint Julep Opens

Soon we’ll say goodbye to 2005. (And one too many afterwork cocktails, cheese plates, and missed yoga classes.) And in its place we’ll find a clean slate.

It’s resolution time.

Getting a jump on a new and improved 2006 is Mint Julep, Armitage’s newest boutique for frocks, tees, and jeans. Owner Sarah Eshaghy retooled her popular store, Tribeca on the Avenue, over a few late nights in order to cater to a more sensible shopper. (You know, the one who likes style more than steep prices.)

With a trimmed-down permanent collection, Mint Julep’s lines are less about the name (Veronica M, Tulle, Glam) and more about the look. Over half the merchandise (including Aroma M and Cake Beauty apothecary goods) is priced under $100, which means you can afford to go another round.

As for the shop’s name, it was inspired by the five-year stint Eshaghy spent tending bar in New Orleans before moving north and setting up shop.

Talk about starting over.

Mint Julep, 1013 West Armitage Avenue, between Kenmore and Sheffield Avenues (773-296-2997).