Whether you have a steady sweetie or just hooked a first date, Valentine’s is one night you want to make a good impression. But there’s more to date prep than flossing, people! Need help putting your best foot forward? We’ve rounded up top spots to get you polished and presentable.
Metro-what?
Fellas, you’ve got a big night planned and want to look your best, but you wouldn’t know style if it hit you over the head. (Need proof? Check that closetful of grubby T’s.) Before you put your heart on the line, head to Guise (2217 N. Halsted St. 773-929-6101), a manly one-stop shop for all things put-together. Get new duds or a haircut with the guidance of a lifestyle specialist. Take the time to clean up, and you’re sure to lure her in.
Shape up
Ladies: Looking for your own place to pretty up? Bucktown’s Spa Soak (1733 N. Milwaukee Ave. 773-395-9000) offers a slew of V-Day packages you’ll take a shine to. The Hot Date includes a bikini wax, Mini Glow Facial and manicure for $120, or add a flirty touch to any single bikini wax service ($30-$60) by asking for the heart-shaped special (no extra charge).
Naughty niceties
You say you want your partner to heat things up in the boudoir? Help him help you: Slip some sexy tricks up your sleeve for a behind-closed-doors surprise. Pick up nighttime treats at Early to Bed (5232 N. Sheridan Rd. 773-271-1219), a female-friendly adult store that has all the tools to unleash your inner temptress.
Scents and sensibility
Set the mood with the right aroma. No, we’re not talking pheromones. Love may be blind, but it can’t resist a whiff of a custom fragrance from Body Chemistri (3451 N. Southport Ave. 773-296-4999). The folks behind this new Lakeview storefront are no strangers to love; they’ve been mixing alluring concoctions since 1983. Need a little extra insight? Stop by for Love Life Readings (11 a.m. Saturday. $1 per minute) with clairvoyant Beth Jusick.
Liberating libations
“Want to go back to my place and have a drink?” It’s a great line for casually inviting someone in, but you’ll look like a creep if you haven’t got a drop to pour. Maximize your evening options with a predate trip to Champagne: A Night for Romance at The Gourmet Grape (6 p.m. Friday. $20. Reservations recommended. 3530 N. Halsted St. 773-388-0942). The walk-around wine tasting features 12 sparkling vintages, so you can sample, then collect a selection to please any palate. Which means your Valentine’s night won’t have to stop for an unsexy trip to the convenience store.
Kitchen aid
You know the old axiom: The way to the heart is through the stomach–but you don’t know the difference between a scallion and a shallot? Even kitchen virgins can make a perfect dinner for two after some last-minute expert instruction. The Valentine’s Lunch and Learn Cajun cooking demo at The Chopping Block features recipes, and samples of gumbo, blackened fish and more. 12:15 p.m. Tuesday. $20. Reservations required. 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 107. 312-644-6360.
Pimp my pad
It’ll be a serious mood-killer when your potential partner sees the pig sty you call home. Your space doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker; tidy up! Then, freshen your decor with one-of-a-kind art on a shoestring budget. The Gallery 37 Store (66 E. Randolph St. 312-744-7274) sells student crafts with professional flair that won’t break the bank but will show off your sensitive, artsy side.
