2025 Designer Profile: Parth Wokhlu

Pushing the Boundaries of Fashion

Parth Wokhlu is a third-year Maths major with a knack for creative exploration and structural design. With a personal style that blends the unexpected—think streetwear meets unexpected pops of colour—Parth is a walking testament to his own unconventional aesthetic. His style reflects an appreciation for symmetry and experimentation, pushing the boundaries in fashion.

Finding Inspiration in the Unconventional

Parth’s designs are influenced by unexpected encounters and close collaborations. His design journey began with a spark of inspiration from a social media fashion influencer who challenged the status quo. They urged the reimagination of everyday garments like button-up shirts, ultimately inspiring Parth’s own desire to push creative boundaries. Additionally, Parth’s roommate and fellow designer, Mikhail, inspired him with interactive designs showcased in last year’s collection—with garments that seemed to interact with themselves. Motivated by these influences, Parth has sought to create pieces that engage with the body in dynamic, surprising ways.  

Themes and Philosophy

At the heart of Parth’s work is a fascination with the symmetry of the human form and the playful displacement of traditional silhouettes. Parth’s designs are a playful rebellion against the ordinary. He delights in subverting expectations, “putting clothes in the wrong places”, in challenging conventional notions of where garments should belong. Imagine garments that defy gravity, defying expectations of how they should move. This playful approach is furthermore reflected in his unconventional material choices—think foam, wiring, and caging—transforming the design process into an exciting engineering challenge that perfectly mirrors his mathematical mind. His innovative approach not only reflects his technical background but also aims to evoke a sense of curiosity and delight in the audience.

The Challenges and Joys of Design

One of the most rewarding aspects of Parth’s journey has been the freedom to explore unconventional ideas and materials. He describes his process of designing as part engineering, part artistry. However, this freedom comes with challenges, such as balancing structure with wearability and ensuring that the designs remain engaging yet functional. Despite these hurdles, Parth’s enthusiasm for pushing boundaries kept him motivated, allowing him to successfully blend precision with imagination to craft wearable art.

Looking Ahead

While this is his debut on the fashion runway, Parth’s confidence is palpable. He is eager to share his unique creations, a blend of mathematical precision and artistic expression, with the audience. His designs not only celebrate the symmetry and versatility of the human body but also invite viewers to rethink traditional fashion norms. As he steps into the spotlight, it’s clear that Parth Wokhlu is not just a designer; he’s a creative force ready to challenge conventions and redefine the boundaries of fashion.  

Whether it’s reimagining silhouettes or integrating engineering concepts into fashion, Parth Wokhlu’s work stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovation in design. Let’s look forward to seeing Parth’s final works on the runway!

Join the MODA 2020-2021 Team!

Interested in becoming a member of the MODA Executive Board, Blog or Magazine team? Apply for any (or all!) of the positions you’re interested in and we’ll be in touch soon to schedule follow up interviews or invite you to our next meeting!


 

MODA Blog - Due Tuesday October 13th at Midnight

 

MODA Blog delivers daily articles on fashion, lifestyle, music, art, Chicago events and more. If you’re interested in developing your writing, photography or creative skills, and are looking for an opportunity to create content consistently throughout the year, the blog is right for you!

Available positions: Staff writers, Photographers and Creative visionaries.

Apply Here.


 

MODA Magazine - Due Sunday October 11th at Midnight.

 

MODA Magazine is a student-run fashion magazine at the University of Chicago that publishes issues quarterly. From analytical essays to editorial-style photoshoots, to a podcast to artistic web design, the Magazine is perfect for anyone looking to work collaboratively on a cohesive and comprehensive fashion zine with a critical eye on fashion and art.

Available positions: Writers, Photographers, Creative Directors, Beauty Editors, Social Media, Event Planning, Visual/Web Designers, Podcast Directors.

Apply Here

 

 

MODA Executive Board - Due Tuesday, October 13th at Midnight

 
 


The Executive Board is in charge of MODA in its entirety, from running the annual fashion show to planning MODA strategy throughout the year. If you’re interested in what goes into putting together fashion events and shows through an administrative lens, then the Board is perfect for you.

Available positions: Assistant Marketing Manager.

Apply Here

We are also launching our first Diversity and Inclusion Council to help oversee and improve our organization's inclusionary principles. We are recruiting for members from all parts of campus who are eager to help contribute.

Available Positions: Council Member

Apply Here


 

Design

 

MODA’s Designer Boot Camp (DBC) program is an intensive course in fashion design and garment construction. The program is designed for UChicago students who are passionate about design but who lack sewing and construction skills. These skills are taught in weekly workshops led by an associate professor of fashion design at SAIC. At the end of the program participants will have created complete looks for the show, and learned the basics needed to continue to make great work.

Due to Covid-19, we predict that DBC and design will take a more unconventional form, but the design team is working hard to plan an appropriate presentation for prospective designers.

Available Positions: DBC Candidate, Regular designer

Apply here


Featured image via Natalia Rodriguez

MODA Blog Favorites: April 2019

After the end of a grueling month of p-sets, essays, and juggling who knows how many other responsibilities and obligations, MODA Blog brings you a refreshing list of favorites from our bloggers and photographers to fill you with inspiration and energy for the next month.


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¿Téo?

¿Téo? (Mateo Arias) dropped his freshman namesake album last year and it provides the perfect backdrop to any summer/spring themed playlist. “Thru My Hair,” “Part of Me” and “Belong in the Sun” (feat. Lido) are personal favorites and seamlessly showcase the artist’s trademark medley of Bossa-Nova, Hip-Hop and Alternative genres. “Uno Dos” featuring frequent collaborator and friend Jaden Smith is also a bop. Listen to him on Spotify or Soundcloud.

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Knee Deep Vintage

Located right next door to Pilsen favorite Dusek’s, Knee Deep Vintage is your new all stop shop for anything from authentic Japanese kimonos to perfectly worn-in camp t-shirts, vintage Levis and amazing 70s era summer frocks. The owners update inventory daily, so you’re bound to find something new and exciting every time. If you’re still in the mood for great finds, continue down 18th St. for Shady Rest Vintage and Vinyl, Very Best Vintage and Pilsen Vintage.

NOMO

Looking to spice up your Instagram feed or save money on Polaroid film? Download NOMO (free on the App Store last time I checked) and start capturing Polaroid-worthy moments instantly. NOMO frames all of your photos with an authentic looking white border and even washes everyone’s features out just like the real thing! For added fidelity, you can shake your phone to make the photo “develop” faster. Once it’s finished, the photo saves automatically to your camera roll. What’s not to love??

Images via here, here and here


Andrew

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Dedicated

Carly Rae Jepsen is back! I’ve always loved Carly’s poppy dance beats but I think what we’re starting to see in the songs she’s released off of her new album, Dedicated, is that she’s become quite the skilled lyricist as well. This is kind of a fake favorite since the album hasn’t officially dropped yet, but CRJ is being very very cheeky and dropping individual songs off the album for our listening pleasure and let me just say, I am OBSESSED with every single she’s dropped. She’s released four as of now, and I would be completely happy if the album was just the four, they have that signature uplifting, light beat with a really joyful vibe that I adore from Carly. I can’t wait to here the rest when the album drops on May 17th.

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Anastasia Beverly Hills DipBrow Gel

When it comes to makeup, I try to keep my routine as quick and efficient as possible, and now that it’s spring, I really don’t want to layer too much product on to my face. I found that recently, my main priority has just been making sure that my brows are all filled in before leaving the house, and thankfully, ABH’s DIPBROW gel has been a big hit in my routine. I definitely like a more natural looking brow that doesn’t have a very harsh arch or angular shape, so I find myself being a little bit more light-handed and sparing with the product. I think brow gel is probably the most efficient way to elevate a natural makeup look, so it’s perfect if you’re really on-the-go or if you’re just getting into makeup like me.

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Fruits Basket Reboot

It might sound nerdy, but one of the things that got me really interested in fashion when I was a kid was actually anime. Both realms really take into account the formulation of characters through visual signs, and often make commentary on the world around us through implicit visual details. One of the first animes I ever watched was Akitaro Daichi’s anime rendition of the popular Shoujo manga, Fruits Basket. It’s a bit of a strange series that combines slice of life with Chinese mythology, but I remember thinking it was both hilarious and captivating as a child. Recently, Funimation announced a reboot of the popular series and it does not disappoint. It’s the same kind of childlike humour, but with something almost nostalgic about it. I definitely think the reboot appeals to fans of the original show, while still being fresh and relevant for a new, modern audience. I can’t wait to see how the show unfolds.

Images via here, here and here


Joseph

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Love + Fear

MARINA finally released both halves pf her fourth album this month and it is definitely worth your time. You can read my review for “Love” here. The follow-up review for “Fear” is on the MODA blog as well, so check it out!

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Special

This new Netflix mini-series follows a gay twenty-something with Cerebral Palsy navigating social and work-life in LA. It is only seven fifteen- minute episodes so you can watch the entire thing in about two-hours, and it is quite funny. The editor of the blog the main character works at is named Olivia so definitely some MODA parallels…

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Steamworld Quest

I got this game on a Thursday, and literally couldn’t put it down until I beat the campaign that Sunday. It is an RPG from the studio Image and Form who are famous for their steampunk aesthetic games. They somehow managed to make a game about medieval steampunk robots and the writing+characters are incredibly well done. The combat is actually a card game which is an interesting spin on traditional turn-based RPGs, and it is for sure worth your time.

Images via here, here and here


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2019 Designer Profiles: Louis Levin

Every year, the MODA Fashion Show wraps up winter quarter with the perfect homage to student talent, hard work and creativity. In anticipation of the show, we have been interviewing some of the designers involved in this year’s show. Meet Louis Levin, a second-year majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies in the Humanities with a focus on fashion and the incoming EIC of MODA Magazine.


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What are some sources of inspiration for your collection?

In creating my designs, I wanted to explore the intersection of masculinity and femininity. I was interested in creating super feminine, women's evening wear and imbuing it with a masculine-inspired twist.

The pieces also look at how fashion is an armor for many of us, so I played with materials and metals to investigate that.

Have you ever done fashion design work before? What are some of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of the process?

Last quarter I took a TAPS class in which I made a pillow and a button-down shirt, but before that, nothing. It’s definitely been a dive in the deep-end for me, and I’m really grateful for that. I learn best on the fly, and I’ve enjoyed seeing my progress. The most challenging part for me has been fit. My pieces are tight, and establishing that whilst still allowing my models to walk (and breathe!) has proven difficult. The most rewarding aspect is definitely that second fitting: putting the dress on my models after the hiccups of the first time and feeling (hopefully) really happy with what I’ve been able to produce is such a precious feeling.

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What are you looking forward to most about the show? 

I can’t wait to see my pieces move and interact with the world. I’m used to working on them in an intimate and static setting, which in many ways feels unnatural. I want to see how they really look.

Who do you have in mind when you’re designing? 

I imagine women much like my models: boldly beautiful. In appearance, they’re tall, athletic, and they pack a presence. They’re fierce, and they use clothing as a tool and a weapon. Their dresses don’t give them power–they’re full of it already–but instead accentuate and express it.

I can’t wait to see my pieces move and interact with the world.
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If you could give yourself any advice on the design process, what would you say to your younger self?

Breathe! When I love something, I dive head first. I would remind myself to pause and take it all in, to truly relish in it. And to have allowed some moments for reflection before snipping those sheers. Once you cut, you can’t go back; something I’ve learned the hard way!

What’s your favorite aspect of the design process? 

I have really enjoyed draping. I’m not a big fan of sketching, and for me draping is a much more effective way of getting my ideas across. Hanging my fabrics on the mannequins and having the ability to play with them directly is really suited to my creative process. I love that moment where I’ve done enough stitches and snips to put something on the form and see the semblance of a dress emerging.

All images courtesy of Louis Levin

Makeup Inspo for Atelier MODA

Fashion shows… We love them for the iconic looks, the runway models, the statement pieces. But my favorite part (and what’s often not even talked about) is what pulls the whole look together: the makeup. You can have the outfit, the hair and the personality to boot, but if you don’t have the makeup look, your ensemble will never be complete.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be a makeup expert to pull a great makeup look together. For the MODA show, we want you to shine just as much as the models strutting their stuff on the runway. Maybe you’re not sure what look you’re going for, or maybe you’re just here for some inspiration. Keep scrolling for some great makeup looks to choose from:


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Colorful + Unapologetic

The MODA Fashion Show is the perfect time to experiment with makeup looks that you’ve been dying to copy, whether it’s something you saw Kendall Jenner do (well, likely not because that woman does not do interesting makeup) or (much more likely) a look from Jeffree Star or James Charles you’ve been dreaming of since both of their palettes dropped.

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Some inspiration I’d offer is to coordinate your eye looks with your outfit, whether that’s to create a bold cut crease with complementary colors or to entirely define your eyes with a matching eyeliner. Pop on a bold lash, and any look will be complete. Lately, lash companies have been creating eye-color flattering lashes, and I’d certainly say that’s an investment worth considering.

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Too afraid to rock an eyelid look? Well, it’s finally time to break out that strange Kylie Lip Kit shade you bought but never use! Lip color is a true personality statement, and switching it up from pinky nudes and reds will be a breath of fresh air and a definite showstopper.

If you don’t have any fun lip colors, stop by your local drugstore or ULTA and I can guarantee that there are loads of affordable and fun options to choose from.


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Matte + Nude

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I get it. You want to keep it safe, and there’s nothing wrong with keeping things in your comfort zone (unless you’re Kendall, and then it just gets BORING). For a perfect nude makeup look, you can probably draw inspiration from one of the many iconic Kim Kardashian nude-makeup selfies done by makeup god, Mario Dedivanovic. The good thing about this type of makeup is that it’s a really good way to bring out the best of your facial features through contour without looking like you have cakey makeup on.

With a matte, nude look, you’re going to want to have a foundation and concealer duo that really does your skin justice. Consider finding a true match when it comes to these items, and you’ll be on the road to countless perfect skin days. Also, invest in a solid setting powder because it really pulls the whole look together.


Creative + Artistic

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So you bought the James Charles Artistry palette, didn’t you? Yes, I am guilty of the same crime (of loving makeup!), and when you have palettes like this, it’s almost impossible to not want to venture into the realms of makeup blogger experimentation.

If you really want to go this direction, I highly recommend drawing eyeshadow inspiration from your outfit, whether that is patterns, color scheme, or just general vibey-ness.

Sister James has fortunately gifted us with all types of color-based looks from his palette, but there are infinite other looks you can find if you check out Nikkie Tutorials or Jackie Aina on YouTube.


General Makeup Tips

Blend

Eyeshadow is tough. There’s nothing worse than having what looks like a massive Pinterest fail on your face. But when things (inevitably) sour, fear not! A lot of blending will really help a look. Sometimes things are pigmented strangely and will look weird. Luckily, enough blending will always soften out a look, so you can keep your panic at bay. Unless it really is messed up beyond repair… Then I highly recommend a soft makeup remover, and try, try again!

Setting Powder

Find a good setting powder, especially if you have an oily skin type. It’ll help your makeup last longer, look less cakey, and add a nice finish to your face. Of course, beware of flashback, especially because the MODA Show will have a lot of flash photography.

Find What’s Right for You

Just because everyone swears by Fenty Foundation or Shape Tape doesn’t mean that it’ll be great for you! Everyone’s face is very different from each other, and it’s definitely not worth putting your skin through hell for one night of glam. I assure you that there are the right products for your skin type out there! You just have to search a little and go through just enough trial and error.


Feature Image Into the Gloss.

Announcing Our 2019 Fashion Show: Atelier MODA

The MODA Executive Board is excited to announce Atelier MODA, our 2019 Winter Fashion Show. Drawing more than 1,200 guests each year, our annual show includes a cocktail reception, a runway show featuring work exclusively by student designers, and an afterparty at one of Chicago’s favorite entertainment venues.

This year, we are pleased to invite you to experience Atelier MODA at Theater on the Lake on February 22nd, from 8-10 PM. Tickets are available through the UChicago box office here. Options for tickets include standing, VIP, and Deluxe VIP. For more information, check out our Facebook page. Stay tuned for updates!

Missed the Launch? View the Latest MODA Mag Here!

Leave fall quarter behind you and destress with the latest and greatest MODA Magazine Winter 2019 issue! Check out the online version on Issuu here!

Photographed by Natalia Rodriguez

Photographed by Natalia Rodriguez

The MODA Mag team would like to thank all of the stores, businesses and individuals involved in creating, producing and printing this issue.

Cover image photographed by Daniel Chae.

Model for the MODA Fashion Show!

Interested in modeling an original, student created and styled ensemble? Audition to model for this year's annual MODA Winter Fashion Show!

This year we are looking for approximately 70 models. No measurements will be taken. We're looking for all body types, gender identities, and personalities. Please do not wear baggy or loose-fitting clothing. Bring heels if you feel comfortable walking in them.

This model call is open to current UChicago undergraduate students only.

For more information about the model call, please refer to the official Facebook event 
here.


Hutchinson Commons 

11 / 15 / 18

8:30 PM - 10 PM


Feature images courtesy of Angela Liu.

Model or Photograph for MODA Mag Today!

MODA Magazine is our quarterly publication with a print distribution in the hundreds, and an online readership of over 7,500. Entirely run and produced by students, the Magazine is a unique showcase for talent on campus. You can explore past issues on Issuu, or pick up the latest copy at our quarterly magazine launch parties.


Apply to become a photographer for the MODA Magazine here.

Apply to model for the MODA Magazine here.



If you have any questions please email our Photography Editor, Daniel Chae, or Editors-in-Chief Jen McIntosh & Lauren Han at moda.editors@gmail.com.

Disclaimer: Only current undergraduate students at the University of Chicago are eligible for consideration.

Apply and Join the MODA Team Today!

Interested in becoming a member of the MODA Executive Board, Blog or Magazine team? Apply for any (or all!) of the positions you’re interested in and we’ll be in touch soon to schedule follow up interviews or invite you to our next meeting! All applications close at 11:59pm on Sunday, October 14. Late applications will not be accepted.


MODA Executive Board
The Executive Board is in charge of MODA in its entirety, from running the annual fashion show to planning MODA strategy throughout the year. Available positions: Assistant Sponsorship Manager, Assistant Backstage Manager, Assistant Events Manager, Assistant Finance Director. APPLY HERE.


MODA Blog
The MODA Blog delivers articles on fashion, lifestyle, music, Chicago events and restaurants, and more. Available positions: staff writers and photographers. APPLY HERE.


MODA Magazine
MODA Magazine is a student-run fashion magazine at the University of Chicago. Available positions: editors (Assistant Visual Design Editor, Features Editor), writers, stylists and photographers. APPLY HERE FOR: EDITORIAL BOARD | WRITING TEAM.


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Disclaimer: Only current University of Chicago undergraduate students are eligible to apply for any of the positions listed above.

Join Us at Our MODA Info Session!

Are you interested in joining the MODA Executive Board, Magazine or Blog? Do you have questions related to our Designer Boot Camp program or are you curious to learn more about the events we host every year? Join us this Monday for a quick info session on all things related to MODA! There will be time afterwards to speak to board members and ask any questions as well.

For more information, check out the official event on Facebook here and don’t forget to RSVP! If you have any questions, please forward them to our Co-Presidents: Luke Lundstrom (ltlundstrom@uchicago.edu) and Annie Geng (anniegeng@uchicago.edu).


Feature image via Angela Fung.

Applications for Designer Boot Camp Are Live!

Have you always been interested in learning how to design and construct your own garments? Beginning in the middle of fall quarter and culminating in the annual MODA fashion show at the end of winter quarter, MODA’s Designer Boot Camp (DBC) program is designed for UChicago students who are passionate about design but who lack sewing and construction skills. These skills are taught in weekly workshops led by an associate professor of fashion design at SAIC. At the end of the program participants will have created three complete looks for the show, and learned the basics needed to continue to make great work!


Applications for the 2018-19 DBC cycle are now open. Apply here by October 13th!


Relevant dates for the 2018-19 application cycle:

September 28 (Friday of O-week): DBC application is released
October 12 (Friday of 2nd week) regular designer application is released
October 13 (Saturday of 2nd week) DBC app is due
October 25 (Thursday of 4th week) regular designer app is due

Contact our Design Director Kira Leadholm at keleadholm@uchicago.edu with any inquiries regarding the DBC program and application process.


Feature image via Angela Fung.

Join Us for the Summer '18 MODA Mag Launch!

Looking for a fun distradction from Reading Week? Join MODA in Bartlett Trophy Lounge from 1:30-3:30PM on Friday, June 1st for the launch of our Spring 2018 issue!

The MODA Mag team would like to thank all of the stores, businesses and individuals involved in creating, producing and printing this issue!

We're Partnering with Kiehls and Hintd to Bring You the Best in Spring Skincare!

We're excited to announce that MODA is partnering with Hintd and Kiehl's this Spring to provide UChicago students with an exclusive friends and family discount! Valid in Kiehl's stores and online starting May 17th through May 21st, use code FRIENDS for 20% off your next purchase!

In the mean time, read up on our exclusive interview with Hintd and download the app or create an account online for other promotions, the best in online shopping, design inspiration, and more! If you post a photo of your latest Kiehl's haul, don't forget to tag @modachicago, @hintd and @kiehls!

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Generation Unstoppable with Elaine Welteroth

Join MODA in Cox Lounge on Monday, May 14 for an exclusive broadcast party hosted by the New York Times featuring Elaine Welteroth! 

***THE EVENT IS FREE BUT PLEASE PRE-REGISTER HERE: https://bit.ly/2KtW6vI ***

Join award-winning journalist, media personality and the former editor in chief of Teen Vogue Elaine Welteroth, in conversation with New York Times gender editor Jessica Bennett. It’s the latest edition of Get With The Times, NYT's spirited live conversation series for college students.

Elaine brought social consciousness to the pages of Teen Vogue, and broke new ground as youngest person and the second African-American ever to hold the editor in chief title in Condé Nast’s 107-year history. She’s now a leading expert, advocate and voice for the next generation of change makers.

Hosted at Hofstra University, this event will be filmed live and broadcast to watch parties at college campuses across the country. Join us, and make your voice heard.

Dinner will be served at this event!

For more information, view the Facebook event here.


Feature image via NYT.

The Spring '18 Issue of MODA Mag Is Here!

Check out our latest issue of MODA Magazine here and don't forget to join us at our Spring '18 issue launch party this Friday in McCormick Lounge, from 3:30-5pm

The event will be catered by Fabiana's Bakery, so stop by for assorted breakfast pastries, lemon tartlettes, macarons, chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate covered strawberries as well as a fruit & cheese platter!

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The MODA Mag team would like to thank all of the stores, businesses and individuals involved in creating, producing and printing this issue!

Where to Grab Drinks Post-MODA Show

Excited for the upcoming MODA Fashion Show? Unsure about where to grab a couple drinks afterwards? Here is a selection of four stylish bars in downtown Chicago that offer a range of quality cocktails and a unique atmosphere.

1. Three Dots and a Dash

Hidden among River North's most frequented streets, Three Dots and a Dash offers exquisite crafted cocktails and a fun and intimate tiki bar atmosphere. The cocktails are mostly rum-heavy, complimented with tropical fruity flavours, and are beautifully presented. I would suggest trying the Time Traveler and the Pandan Pain Killer for a more mellow and tasty drink. If you're looking for something stronger, the Three Dots and a Dash and all of the remaining classic drinks are the best choices. The place is dimly lit and the bar is surrounded with a few tables occupied by 5-8 people, who are usually seen sharing drinks from bowls. A fairly small bar, Three Dots and a Dash gets pretty busy especially on the weekends, so reserving a table is a good idea. As the night progresses, music starts picking up and switching to trendier tracks that you can swing to. It's a definite stop in a bar-hopping adventure, and perhaps one you might not want to leave.

2. The Aviary

For more of an upscale environment with excellent cocktails, and consequently a much more costly option, try the Aviary located in Fulton Market. The drink menu seems somewhat limited at first glance with quite a few cognac and whiskey style of cocktails, but each drink is said to be "unique", with an unusual, contemporary presentation and is sure to turn heads when being brought to the table. Recommendations for drinks include Barrel Depletions and Jungle Bird. The place offers a true cocktail experience, which you can enjoy alongside a couple appetizers and a soft background lounge music. Inside, the main room is like a dark, luxurious lounge, with cushy seats around separate tables. Once again, a reservation is a must to not have to wait in line exposed to the chilly Chicago weather. For a quieter and fancier bar atmosphere where you can enjoy incredible cocktails and feel elitism at its highest levels, make sure to secure a spot at the Aviary before the show.

3. The Bassment

The Bassment is a live music cocktail lounge, located in the River North. Inspired by the 1960s British Invasion movement, the lounge is set with gold accents throughout, brick walls, and velvet and leather couches. Since the tables are usually booked, it's smart to check with reservations beforehand. Additionally, click here to see their schedule to help you decide, and get a glimpse of the atmosphere. From jazz to r&b and blues, there are different artists on stage almost everyday. Although the drinks have also gotten quite good feedback from guests, the music is definitely brought forward as a bigger attraction than the cocktails at the Bassment, where you're sure to enjoy a fun night out without the overplayed mainstream music, and the other unpleasant realities of clubbing. Make sure to give the bathtub drink a try.

4. The Violet Hour

Venture a little bit further up north to find yourself at Wicker Park's most well-known bar, the Violet Hour. Easily the calmest and most intimate of all venues listed in this article, the Violet Hour has a romantic and low-key ambiance with an extremely dark setting, heavy green curtains and cozy seating inside. The cocktails are as elegant as the place itself, and the bartenders are very knowledgeable and helpful when it comes to recommending drinks. Despite a good variety of drinks on the menu, the bar is particularly known for its speciality in whiskey, and a eponymous Old Fashioned is definitely a safe choice to see for yourself. Guests are expected to follow the house rules found on the website, including detaching from their cell phones and dressing in proper attire. Consider the Violet Hour if you are a) willing skip Instagram to truly enjoy this bar experience, and b) if you are accompanied by a group of few close friends or even preferably, a date. 

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All other images via Yelp/official websites