Chicago - November 15, 2006

She Makes You Feel Sew Young

Elise Bergman Designs

Sometimes, spicing things up doesn’t play out the way you want it to.

Grandma’s ill-fated affair with the pool boy made quite the unpleasant splash, for instance.

But in the case of Elise Bergman, a young, new designer who reworks vintage fabrics with a modern twist, a little spice is what makes things work.

Scouring estate sales, her dad’s closet, interiors showrooms, and other resources for her materials, the 22-year-old up-and-comer can transform some old guy’s argyle into your most flattering halter dress or a stripey piece of upholstery fabric into a cheeky mini. Tailored vests, embellished wraps, and skirts a plenty round out her collection.

And to think: It started when, at age 8, Bergman learned to stitch nighties with her nana.

If only all our grannies could leave us with such pleasant memories.

Available at Entendré Couture, 1022 West Armitage Avenue, between Kenmore and Sheffield Avenues (773-248-1022). To see styles, go to elisebergman.com.