Chicago - January 23, 2008

Keep It Clean

Practically Necessary Custom Aprons

Certain women’s fashions — corsets, bloomers — have come and gone (hallelujah).

But some never die. Aprons, for instance, will thrive until the day someone invents full-body kitchen armor.

And even if they do (or have), chances are those getups won’t be half as cute as Kerry Vitali’s Practically Necessary aprons.

An Oak Park resident, Vitali is a graphic designer and mother by day and seamstress by night. Don’t ask how she finds the time; just be grateful she does. In addition to her limited-edition stock, Vitali creates custom aprons that incorporate your old collectibles into fresh, updated looks.

Using anything from vintage fabrics and tablecloths to Grandma’s embroidered gingham, Vitali whips up aprons made especially for you. She’ll even let you pick from her vintage stash if you’re running low.

You may never cook like Julia Child.

But you can certainly look the part.

Available by e-mail order (info@practicallynecessary.com). To see styles, go to practicallynecessary.com.