Chicago - September 18, 2006

The West Bling

Alexis Drake Designs

Save the occasional shootout, the Wild West would’ve been a pretty cool place to live.

For entertainment, you hit Buffalo Bill’s bronco shows. For relaxation, a visit to the medicine man. For nightlife, the saloon.

But for fashion, we prefer the modern-day West — specifically, Alexis Drake jewelry. Designer Alexis Drake Garrett is a Chicagoan by way of Wyoming, and much of her work is inspired by her native state. She gracefully combines natural materials (leather, sterling silver, and turquoise) to create dainty earrings, bracelets, cuff links, and necklaces.

Stock up on her singlet bracelets (trust us, you won’t be able to stop at one), featuring sterling silver links on skinny leather lacing. They come in myriad colors — pink, brown, terra-cotta, and more — so feel free to stack them on your wrist to excess.

Garrett’s other signature piece, the tag necklace, is a simple, sterling silver chain accented by small, round tag. They’re eye-catching but unfussy.

Just the way you fashion-conscious outlaws like it.

Available at Mint Boutique, 2150 North Seminary Avenue, at Webster Street (773-322-2944); City Soles, 3432 North Southport Avenue, at Newport Street (773-665-4233); online at alexisdrake.com.

  Designer Clothing, Euro, Neighborhood Gem