Those who tear through "Vogue" on the way from the mailbox to the front door will find a Midwest mecca at this Wicker Park hot spot, owned by Joe Lauer and Jena Frey. Featuring fresh-on-the-scene designers and trends in clothing and accessories for the urban dweller, Penelope's sports NY, L.A. and European labels, with an American-made section in the back. Dress to the nines from head to toe with accessories like shoes, coats, socks and jewelry, all in line with the latest looks.

Fans of graphic design and photography will find plenty of books to choose from, as well as new "smart toys" and design-trend gifts. Shawnimals ($10-$15) and "Friends with You" please tweens and adults. Sukie items (photo albums and notebooks) and Votivo candles in a range of scents are also top sellers. For something truly unique, check out the super-funky Freitag line: bags in a variety of styles using 100 percent recycled materials, such as trucks tarps, inner tubes and seatbelts ($98-$160).