If you live in Chicago, you know this name and that you may find more of these than any other fashion retailer in the city of Chicago.  Naturally, it was only a matter of weeks till I’d have to cut my credit card in half before setting foot in one of their many stores. I should have, but I didn’t. Closer to home, the Water Tower place store at Michigan avenue was my first pick.

Although this is a local store, it definitely doesn’t feel like one. First of all, it takes up just as much space as a big retailer would (large). Second, I was impressed by the amount of merchandise; racks and racks of potentially-mine garments.  But let’s be more specific.

You would not believe how many cocktail dresses of all colors and sorts. I’m talking about that dress you realize you don’t have just hours before that cool event. Well, they have it! And by peaking at the tags, I saw lots of $50, $70, $100. Not bad at all in case of an emergency.

The staff was friendly and offered to tour me around when I said it was my first time, which was nice because they had a huge sale going on and without the tour, it’d have been overwhelming. Although organized by color for the most part, the racks were a little too cramped. It reminded me of shopping at outlets in Florida (a memory I’d like to forget), and I don’t know about you, but for me, if it’s not Forever 21, a mess will turn me off real quick. But somehow, I got past that.

Some really cute and comfy cardigans were priced as low as 25 doletas. I had to stay away. One more of those and you could call me granny, all rights reserved.

They also have a large denim section to shop through, which I haven’t yet seen at another local shop. Another reminder Akira is something else.

Thumbs up for the accessories selection. My favorites were the belts, rings, and bracelets, but if you’re an oversized earring maniac, you’ll be well served.

Lastly, the picture wall is the strongest reminder this is a Chicagoan store.

The verdict: This is the place to find a cocktail dress that is cute, different and on a budget, especially if you’re running out of time. And if that’s the case, their large selection of accessories will help you complete the look. Their rings and bracelets are the cutest and the prices are good. If you’re visiting, it’s a nice change from the national shops you’ll be seeing at Michigan Avenue