Jessica Herman

Barely a week old, Jade (1557 North Milwaukee) exudes that minty-fresh aroma, with the scent of lilies wafting across the shiny wood floors, between the walls of jade green paint. While owner Laura Haberman, owning up to her lack of "green fingers," admits that silky look-alikes will soon replace the live stems in her store, the new looks and labels that define her collection of garments are a mainstay.

The style of clothing at Jade doesn't stray far from boutiques that focus on classy, relatively simple designs enhanced with a hint of funk. However, rather than contribute to the inundation of Juicy Couture and Seven Jeans, Haberman traveled to London, New York and Los Angeles to find lesser-known designers.

Offering a satisfying selection of casual clothing, Jade carries jeans by Salt, Live and Hudson and cotton tees by Saint Grace. Work-appropriate and cocktail-party clothes include Diane von Furstenberg-esque wrap dresses by Issa, sequin-embellished tanks by Joyaan, Lu Lu Lame cotton shirt-dresses, Alice and Trixie pants and glitzy blouses with shirring and metallic silver detailing. By pairing items like tricolor-waisted cropped pants or a silk emerald skirt with her wide range of basic tops, Haberman shows shoppers a classic way to wear all of her separate pieces. To top it off, she carries lace and silk Betsey Johnson thongs.

If you have cash to spend, Jade is worth a visit for the accessories alone: handmade in Mexico, the rhinestone-and-icon-adorned belt buckles by Virgins, Saints & Angels land on the trendier end of Jade's spectrum while Orca's slouchy weekend-getaway bag in pink, green or earth-toned leather is a timeless though costly catch. Jewelry highlights include Soixante Neuf's delicate rose gold chandelier earrings and chunky bracelets by The Branch in wood embellished with silver. Reminiscent of your mother's now-vintage garb, Haberman's collection of turquoise, coral and bone-colored bangles come in varying widths and will keep you on top of your spring season game.

Jade is having a grand opening celebration at 1557 N. Milwaukee on February 24 from 6-9pm with treats from Hot Chocolate's Mindy Segal and ten dollars off your first purchase.

(2005-02-22)

Also by Jessica Herman

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