Accessories, events prove the power of pink
This year, 185,000 people, including nearly 2,000 men, found out they had breast cancer.
And so far this year, about 41,000 people died from the disease, according to the National Cancer Institute.
So if you can do something to help this very important cause this month, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you should.
The merchandise and events listed below are among those that will benefit worthy breast cancer research organizations and outreach programs:
• From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at the Carson Pirie Scott in Yorktown Shopping Center in Lombard, get a complimentary bra fitting by a Wacoal fit specialist and sign up for a monthly e-mail reminder about breast self-exams and Wacoal will make a $2 donation. They'll throw in an extra $2 donation for every bra you buy.
• CAROLEE, the jewelry designer that Michelle Obama turns to for her pearls, designed a special pearl and silver charm bracelet ($75) and a silver and crystal bow pin ($30). Available at carolee.com.
• Hard Rock's Pinktober keychain and pin ($12 each) are available at the Hard Rock Cafe, 63 W. Ontario, Chicago.
• Brighton's silver and gold bracelet ($60) is part of its Power of Pink campaign. Available at numerous suburban boutiques. See brighton.com.
• The products from Zensual's most popular product line, Asian Lychee Blossom, including their scented candle. See zensual.com.
• The Kraft Foods and Melanie "Scary Spice" Brown "Pose for the Cure" T-shirt, ($24.99, includes free shipping), at poseforthecure.org.
• Anastasia Beverly Hills' WCRF pink tweezers, $35, at Nordstrom.
• Gracie's Gear pink and black sports bra, with the company's trademark pouch in front, $36 at graciesgearandtraining.com.
Fashion Focus
New York just wrapped up its Fashion Week, and now it's Chicago's turn. Fashion Focus Chicago 2008 begins Sept. 30. The weeklong event will feature five runway shows at Millennium Park, shopping events, industry seminars and more. There are also a bunch of fun weekend shopping excursions in Chicago's neighborhoods. For a list of events, go to fashionfocuschicago.com.