Weekend Edit: Southwest Michigan

Jun 16

Just a quick hour or so drive from Chicago and you get a complete change the scenery and pace of life.  When we're here, everything slows down, the stress melts away and it’s easy to be content.  This place helps recharge our creative energy – and here's what we're wearing (and doing and eating and buying) while we're there. Summer is all about ease and comfort, and yet, it is the most social time of year, so we like to choose pieces that hit all of the marks. From checking out the farm store in Three Oaks to a rosé tasting party at our friend’s house on the beach of Lake Michigan, these are pieces you can throw on and go anywhere. Versatility is always key, and we always, always pack one great summer dress. Read on to get more insight from our cofounder Heiji Choy Black.

JEUNE OTTE: What’s first ON YOUR AGENDA?

HEIJI: Time here is all about being in nature. We love to check out the preserves, maintained by Chikaming Open Lands, spread out through the southwest region, the Warren Sand Dunes to hike the big sand dunes, and of course, the beaches along Lake Michigan.

JO: what’s next?

HEIJI: Whenever we are in southwest Michigan we always stop by Whistle Stop.  They have THE best chicken salad ever.  Their pies are also out of this world.  Plus, they curate an incredible selection of groceries from ice cream, to cheeses, it’s the perfect place to stock up for a weekend in Michigan. Granor Farms is one of the greatest organic farms in the Chicagoland area.  The care and love they put into growing produce can be tasted in every bite of fresh produce we buy from this place.  They also have a great restaurant that is open on the weekends, helmed by our friend Abra Berens.

JO: Any favorite Shopping destinations?

HEIJI: AP Lakeside may be one of the best boutiques in Michigan.  We love her mix of some of the best designer vintage pieces from Hermés, Alaia, Yves Saint Laurent with some of the coolest new designers – Cristeseya, Studio Nicholson, and – us! Sojourn is another must-see.  Stacia puts together an incredibly beautiful collection of ceramics, wood pieces, candles, fabrics in this beautiful  boutique, as well as a great selection of art monographs and cookbooks.