The Destination

Wolfbait & B-girls, 3131 West Logan Boulevard; 312-698-8685

The Owner
Shirley Novak, 25, and Jenny Stadler, 29, peddle their respective labels, Bruiser and Brazen Judy, but their overall aim is to offer an inviting selection of clothing and accessories by some 20 local artists. “We are making it easier for designers with small runs to get their work out there,” says Novak.

The Vibe
Furnished with an assemblage of lovingly collected or donated thrift finds, the space functions as both a sunny storefront and working studio. Behind a large worktop, scissors, patterns, tape measures, and other tools of the trade hang from salvaged hooks; vintage wooden ironing boards double as display tables; and recycled doors create a spacious fitting room.

The Goods
In addition to Novak’s Bruiser line of denim trousers ($125) and shimmery vests ($52) and Stadler’s floral-printed tops (from $32), the shop houses Catbird Baby tees ($25) and blankies ($28), which are adorable for kids. Accessories include Veronica Riley Marten’s hand-felted dangle earrings (from $40) and vintage handbags ($125) newly painted with Theda Baraish glamour by Danielle Dietz for her design company, Double D. Sheena Kim’s irreverent line of Nightlife Press greeting cards ($4.50) and invitations ($8.50/four) will make shoppers smile-and reach for their wallets. A series of workshops beginning with four fabric printing classes (call for prices) tap the inner artist.

The Verdict
Stop in for an introduction to local indie design.