Joanna Topor

Chicago coiffure is getting a new slice of life under the expert hands of Erica Badke. The seasoned stylist has teamed up with her entrepreneurially inclined grade-school friend Mark Smaglinski to open the salon of her dreams.

Meet Salon Slice, a full-service hair salon flush with pampering perks like manicures, pedicures and custom-designed massages. Nestled deep in the heart of Wrigleyville, Slice is a den of comfort and expertise. Having worked and trained throughout the country, Badke knew exactly what she wanted when returned to her Midwest roots and set up shop.

Vaulted ceilings, exposed brick walls and crafty décor make clients feel like they're visiting a friend's cozy loft. Badke's distinctive color bar is another of her special touches. Determined to educate her clients about what's going on with their hair, she created the open kitchen-counter area for color mixing. The open space also facilitates easy conversation in her "little salon home."

Other special features include an inviting pedicure station and a warm, candlelit back room--a DIY wonder courtesy of Smaglinski---for waxing and custom-designed massages. "It's not about what kind of massage you're getting," says Badke of the personalized massages. "It's about getting the massage you need."

Badke's inviting smile has already become a staple in the community. "Everyone has been great welcoming us to the neighborhood," she says. "Hopefully I can make everyone feel the same way in return." To start "giving back" Slice has teamed with longtime Wrigleyville staple Uncommon Ground for Manicures and Martinis every Wednesday night. Not a bad way to say hello.

Salon Slice, 3757 North Racine, (773)244-4030

(2005-07-19)

Also by Joanna Topor

Free Wheelin'
Miles of scenic lakefront paths and bike lanes--nothing gets you to the store, the beach or the bar faster than a bike
(2005-06-28)

The Great Escape
Summer in Chicago is all about enjoying the great lazy outdoors
(2005-06-15)

Beach-blanket roulette
Unless you've made the ab-lounge a 9-to-5 priority, you're in the same camp as the rest of us now that swimsuit season is here
(2005-06-09)

Rhapsody in Blue
Buying jeans has always been a huge psychological battle, so I expected to get tested along my quest.
(2005-03-15)

The Denim Dance
(2005-03-15)

The Good Jean Pool
(2005-03-15)

The Beauty Bunch
(2005-01-04)

Stranger than fiction
(2004-10-06)

I want candy
(2004-06-02)

The glowing horse and carriage
(2004-02-11)

What's in a name
(2003-09-10)

A stab through the heart
(2003-04-09)

about Newcitychicago | about Newcity magazine | advertising | privacy policy | FAQ | employment