Haute Shop: Gallery Aesthete

As a native of Chicago, I love to showcase new and exciting menswear developments from the city. Shop owner Stephen Naparstek, formerly of Bonnie and Clyde’s, has opened a new high concept, very high-end retail store in the Gold Coast. With this store, Gallery Aesthete, he has decided to forgo womenswear and focus exclusively on menswear (women should take note though, Christmas is coming). The shop carries luxe labels Rick Owens, Raf Simons, Comme Des Garcons and many more.

As a bonus the shop will also carry art books, fragrances and visual art by a selection of rotating artists. With a name like Gallery Aesthete, you know they have help for guys who lack in the aesthetic department; they offer styling services and art seminars as well. This whole concept is cool, so if you drag your girlfriend/wife (who’d have ever thought men would be dragging women shopping) to the store, she can look at art while you go into a style coma shopping your favorite brands.

For anyone who may not be familiar with labels like Ann Demeulemeester and Rick Owens, you may be in for an initial shock. While they’re not totally over the top avant garde, the silhouettes are very untraditional. But I promise if you give it a chance, you will love it. Get out of your comfort zone for a while and enjoy creating a brand new look. For those who are already familiar and love this type of clothing, you are in for a treat because they have some incredible pieces for sale. I have picked out a couple of my favorite items, which will give you an idea of the types of clothes they carry. This holiday season head to the fourth floor of 46 E. Oak St. and prepare for your mind to be blown.