Change is a foot at violette

Formerly Kathryn Kerrigan European Footwear, violette is the new name with a new attitude headed by Stephanie Sacks at 2031 N. Damen. While the separation from the former partner is final, the grand opening of violette will not take place until sometime in May. In the meantime, the transition sales are benefiting shoppers' pocketbooks.

"There will be a variety of shoe lines for sizes from seven to twelve and accessories will be bags and scarves...with some bobbles," Sacks explains. "With prices ranging from twenty-nine to ninety-nine, we call this store cheap and cheerful."

Sacks points to her favorite Balasis painting..."Lose the dress. Keep the shoes"

The open airiness of the space is indeed cheerful and Michael Balasis' comic book art paintings add fun. Influenced by Roy Lichtenstein, Balasis can be seen in the Pop Chicago Gallery in the Flat Iron Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave. and in other businesses in the area.

Sacks second store is vive la femme, at 2048 N. Damen, which caters to "plus sizes 12-24 for Chicago's stylish women of size."  "Our cheap chic section at vive is from thirty-five to sixty-five," says Sacks. Regular prices range between $35 and $165.

Hours for both stores is 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the week. The week starts on Mon. for vive and Tues. for violette. Both are open on Sat. and Sun. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

More info: Kathryn Kerrigan original opening