What a great job title! I wonder how Melissa Turner’s parents felt after giving up her legal career to accept the position of Department of Cultural Affairs Director of Fashion Arts and Events, or as she is also referred to “Chicago’s Shopping Ambassador.”
Melissa Turner has called Chicago home for the past 10 years. An attorney by trade but fashionista at heart, she realized she wanted to fuse her legal experience with her passion for fashion.
Returning to school for yet another undergraduate degree -– this time, in fashion marketing and management from the Illinois Institute of Art -– Melissa found a new case to make: launching Chicago into the international fashion limelight. Melissa currently serves as the Department of Cultural Affairs director of fashion arts and events.
With her finger on the pulse of the hottest new trends, hometown designers and local artist synergies, Melissa is turning Chicago’s sidewalks into see-and-be-seen catwalks.
A die-hard Chicago shopper, Melissa can be found pounding the pavement in search of new trends, designers and deals at shops around the city. From large department stores to one-off neighbourhood boutiques, Melissa seamlessly marries the two offerings in the annual event, Fashion Focus Chicago, which takes place each fall.
Selecting from the over 200 local designers running the gamut from luxe Michigan Ave, to trendy “where the hell am I?” hidden outlets, Melissa will help you: Find IT, Buy IT, Wear IT and Love IT!
For more about Melissa and a free downloadable 15-minuteChicago Shopping podcast, go to: www.gochicago.com/mychicago/ and download the podcast for a piping hot serving of Melissa’s favourite spots!
Best Breakfast
The Bongo Room, 1470 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Favorite Threads
Michelle Tan Design Inc., 1872 N. Damen Ave.
Best Stroll
Lake Michigan at North Avenue Beach, 1603 N. Lake Shore Dr.
Pampered Retreat
Honey Child Salon and Spa, 735 N. LaSalle St.
VIP Nightlife
Le Passage, 937 N. Rush St.
For more about Melissa and a free downloadable-15 minuteChicago Shopping podcast go to: www.gochicago.com/mychicago/.
By Vagablond’s Token Redhead.