Shopping: But wait, there’s more

Manolo Blahnik
The shoemaker who became a household name thanks to the ladies of Sex and the City makes a rare Chicago appearance when he stops by Neiman Marcus next month. He’ll be meeting fans and showing off his fall collection. Who knows, if you really impress, maybe he’ll name a pair of shoes after you just as he did for SJP. 737 N Michigan Ave (312-642-5900). Sept 19.

Gen Art’s Fresh Faces fashion show
The runway show (part of the city-sponsored Fashion Focus Chicago) is mixing things up this year with a local celeb. In addition to featuring up-and-coming Chicago designers, the Millennium Park show will include an appearance by guyliner aficionado Pete Wentz and the runway debut of his line, Clandestine Industries. Chase Promenade on Randolph St between Michigan Ave and Columbus Dr. Oct 1. $80–$140, available at genart.org.

Cusp
The trendy Neiman Marcus offshoot is opening its second Chicagoland location. While the first is in Northbrook, the second will be within city limits, at Water Tower Place. The women’s shop stocks the latest fashions from designers such as Diane von Furstenberg, Tory Burch and Nanette Lepore. 835 N Michigan Ave. Opening date TBD.

Comme des Garçons at H&M
This affordable chain’s tradition of bringing in high-end guest designers to create a collection for any budget continues with avant-garde–meets-mainstream Japanese brand Comme de Garçons. Following in the footsteps of Viktor & Rolf and Roberto Cavalli, the line will feature colorful fall clothes for men, women and children. Accessories and a unisex fragrance will also be included in the collection. Locations citywide, hm.com. Early November.

Michael Kors
The always-tan Project Runway judge is going to make it work in Chicago when he opens two new stores at the 900 Shops on North Michigan Avenue. One will feature his less-expensive line, Michael Kors Lifestyle, while duds from the designer’s high-end line will be in a separate boutique set to open next year. 900 N Michigan Ave. November.

Read more in our 2008 Fall Preview.

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Check out the other sections in our 2008 Fall Preview:

ART | BOOKS | CLUBS | COMEDY | DANCE | FILM | GAY & LESBIAN | KIDS | MUSEUMS & CULTURE | MUSIC | OPERA & CLASSICAL | RESTAURANTS & BARS | SHOPPING | SPORTS & REC | THEATER | TV & DVD