In Praise of George Greene, Chicago

[aportnoy]

I was in Chicago for the last few days on business and had the opportunity to spend a few hours with the fellas at George Greene. It was like going back in time and shopping at an establishment where the curators (and I use that word with purpose) take enormous pride and passion in their craft. This is not a shop where they bring in the whole line. Rather, they assemble a range of pieces that make sense as a whole. The store is stocked with a wonderfully diverse collection of wares that show a real point of view, something so rare for these days. There are wonderful knitwear pieces from Aida Barni, Avon Celli, Zanone, Inis Meain. Tailored clothing from the likes of Partenopea, Kiton, Boglioli and Thom Browne. Trousers from Valentini, Incotex and Barbera. Killer shirts from BOO, Barbera, Partenopea and Truzzi. And best of all was the outerwear from Belstaff, Arnys, Barbera and Allegri. We went through the shop's offerings in a relaxed, no-pressure style. There was much chat about people in the trade who were mutual friends and acquaintances as well. I left with a great mix of things which I had not seen at any of the standard NY destinations. Yes, I was spending retail but and I loved every minute of it. It took me back to when Louis was Louis. This really hit home when I later wandered into Barneys, Saks and Neiman's and had that sinking feeling that comes with seeing the exact same merchandise displayed in the same way. No point of view, no passion, just stuff. I count myself lucky to have stumbled across this oasis. Brave George Greene

 

[TheFoo]

Easily the most interesting men's shop in Chicago. They used to carry Lattanzi.