Jessica Herman

In the age of Blackberries and iPods, in which convenience and efficiency are the most valuable commodities on the market, Guise (2217 North Halsted), is merely keeping up with the times. Shrouded in a look of minimalism with concrete and steel décor, the Lincoln Park men's store maximizes the definition of one-stop-shopping.

"I felt the process of shopping wasn't conducive to guys who don't like shopping," says owner Brad Habansky, adding that, unlike your typical salon or boutique, the shop is open early seven days a week to cater to shoppers' busy schedules.

Begging the inevitable comparison with "Queer Eye for the Straight Guy," the shop's concept involves the creation of a complete look with the help of resident hair stylists and fashion consultants working at the retail end in back. However, unlike the TV show's legendary "ambush" approach, Habansky emphasizes that his employees are available to offer advice only upon the client's request.

Besides the flat-screen TVs stationed in front of every hairdresser's chair, the front of the shop riffs off the concept of the old-time barbershop by offering head-to-toe service: Behind the shoeshine station perched by the window, the stylists offer $45 haircuts, $65 coloring and a 45-minute Art of Shaving-equipped shave for $38. Clientele can take a breather at the island in Guise's center, a literal nail bar, where complimentary beer, nuts and Direct TV sports-watching accompany the manicure experience. He also plans to offer pampering parties for groomsmen similar to women's bridesmaid get-togethers.

The back half of the store houses the retail. Flanked by frosty mannequin torsos suspended from the ceiling, the clothing hangs at the base of steel frames. Habansky says he picked clothing that is both subtle and versatile, suitable for work and play. The moderate to high-end brands include both trendy and relatively conservative suits, shirts and slacks by Steven Alan, Theory, J Lindeberg, James Perse, Greige, jeans by Yanuk and Salt Works and Jack Spade accessories.

(2005-02-15)

Also by Jessica Herman

The Sensuous Woman
Pushing past the big black gate that guards the Old Town courtyard on a winter wonderland day, stepping into Wildflowers (1407 North Wells) feels like stumbling upon a gingerbread house in the woods
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Fit to Print
Eleven years ago, Yoshi Kawasaki turned passion for art into a profession, becoming the unofficial publicist for any fine artist whose work he wanted to see on T-shirts
(2005-01-18)

Stone roses
Good things don't always land at your front door, or even in your city. Oak Park's new jewelry store, Gem: A Jewelry Boutique, is a diamond in the rough
(2005-01-11)

Dancing with myself
Tracing an unpredictable path along the dance floor with her feet, a lithe dancer gyrates to a rapid beat
(2005-01-04)

Flower power
(2005-01-04)

Skin spun
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Black Violin
(2004-12-21)

Dziner clothes
(2004-12-21)

No sweatshop
(2004-12-07)

Designs for living
(2004-12-07)

India chic
(2004-11-30)

The craft of giving
(2004-11-22)

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