P.O.S.H.

Karl Sorenson, owner
www.poshchicago.com

P.O.S.H. will celebrate 17 years this fall, and Karl Sorenson admitted he still loves the thrill of finding products that tell a story. A former art director, he uses his keen eye to help merchandise his best-selling category of hotel silver from a bygone era throughout a shop that also carries a vibrant mix of European and American brands of tabletop, stationery and baby items.

“There is something about pieces that have provenance and a story behind them,” Sorenson said of his vintage silver. Even nonvintage items in the shop are chosen because they mean something, whether it’s the Danish Matchbox Mice by Maileg, which reminds people of toys of their youth, or tabletop that is more than utilitarian.

Sorenson moved the shop from stroller-friendly Lakeview to the historic Tree Studio building, which has given the shop additional charm and proved to be a wise move. Tourists now make up a big part of Sorenson’s clientele who make repeat visits when they stop in the city. If they can’t make it in the shop, a robust website keeps them coming back for more.

Best Sellers
Best Seller Vintage English Silver plated flatware
Baby Danish Matchbox Mice by Maileg
Tabletop/Home Our “Pancakes Make People Happy” plates and mugs
Jewelry Vintage Estate jewelry
Stationery Stationery by Rifle Paper Co.
Wedding Vintage ”Elegant Depression“ Stemware

Megy Karydes

Megy Karydes is a professional writer and president of marketing/public relations consulting firm Karydes Consulting. She specializes in the gift and home industry. You can reach her by visiting www.karydesconsulting.com.