Jessica Herman

As of today, Wicker Park just might have tapped the male g-spot.

For the past five or so years, the Dutch denim line G Star, which features about 70 percent menswear, has been tantalizing denim lovers' taste buds by selling its goods in a handful of local boutiques and department stores. As of this month, Chicago becomes the keeper of the nation's fourth G Star boutique, closely following Los Angeles, New York and Boston.

Housed in an industrial-style space incorporating materials like oak, cement and warm leather, the self-described "authentic original" brand features looks that put a twist on traditional designs without being too trendy. Charging an average $140-$220 for a pair of jeans, the store features a selection of distressed, washed and dyed styles. However, G Star particularly prides itself on its raw line--treatment-free denim distinguished by its pure and malleable state.

"You create your own distressing by wearing it, by how you walk or where you put your wallet," says the Chicago store manager Shayni Rae. "It's very personal to your own body."

While G Star focuses on denim, it also features fashion-forward street wear ranging from wool and cotton twill coats to blazers and bags. The store will also sell limited-edition G Star products, beginning with a collection produced with designer Marc Newson.

G Star Chicago, 1525 North Milwaukee, (773)342-2623, g-star.com

(2005-08-16)

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