Chicago native Robin Richman made her name spotlighting rising designers. After 20 years running her namesake Bucktown boutique, Richman still has the only shop in the city carrying Marc Le Bihan ballerina dresses and Detaj bandage rings. As she celebrates two decades in business, she reflects on her must-haves.
Best Chicago meal
The grain bowl, baked feta, and Bloody Mary at Lula Cafe. I’ve watched that restaurant evolve.
Local haunt
Danny’s, across the street from my shop. They play records, and you can dance.
Workout
Pilates at Balance Health + Wellness has done wonders for my bad back.
Self-care essential
Jaime Lewis runs a spa called Skin Studio out of her home on North Avenue. Her facials make me dewy, and I’m 60.
Store where I spend the most money
My friend Elizabeth Cronin owns Asrai Garden. It’s a teeny-weeny object store that does amazing, slightly gothic Edwardian flower arrangements.
Fashion staple
I must have 20 pairs of Guidi boots. I’m a tomboy, but I’m feminine, too, and they’re both.
On my nightstand
David Sedaris’s When You Are Engulfed in Flames. I quit smoking recently, which has been hard, and the last chapter is about that.
Last splurge
I just bought two pieces of art—framed dust buffers—by Juan Angel Chavez.
Hair care
Sheba at Sparrow manages my curls.