Heather Sperling, Chicago Editor of Tasting Table

She recommends: Parker Long Pleated Dress. $286, available at Shopbop.

Why is this dress perfect for heading to a new restaurant in Chicago?
"I love Parker's breezy, patterned dresses. They can be dressed up or down, are incredibly comfortable, and can sustain being stuffed in an overpacked weekend bag. This one would work as well on a Randolph Street patio or as your farewell trip to Trotter's."

What would you wear with it?
"I'd wear a thick wooden bangle, a few simple gold chain necklaces, and some simple, strappy flat sandals. Or skip the necklace and bracelet and go for standout earrings."

Where do you love to shop in Chicago?
"I troll the Milwaukee and Damen stretch (Eskell, Tangerine, p.45, Intermix, Club Monaco), as well as Penelope's and Trillium on Division. I love a good session of dress-up at Barney's Co-Op, and have incredible stamina for Topshop and H&M forays."

What is your favorite summer dining spot right now?  
"I recently moved to Logan Square and cannot stay away from the patio and new bar room at Lula Cafe. After its renovation last fall, the food is more ambitious and creative than ever. My ideal night includes stinging nettle farfalle with halibut collar, green garlic and preserved lemon, and one-too-many glasses of rosé."


Photo: Courtesy of Heather Sperling