Chappell's Top Ten: Leather go-to destinations in Chicago

Always a staple in the leather and fetish community, JackHammer, 6406 N. Clark Street, is sure to be a hot spot for IML revelers. Featuring two bars, a live DJ, and a pool table, patrons can expect a top-notch experience. Not for the faint of heart or clothes for that matter, The Hole – the basement of JackHammer – will be hosting a party on Saturday night in celebration of IML. With a saying that reads "Come Clean, Get Dirty" according to the website, be sure to leave your hang-ups and your pants at the door.

Don't let the name scare you off or for those who are into that, feel free! Cell Block, 3702 N. Halsted Street, will be presenting Raging Stallion on Friday and Saturday night where patrons can enjoy a live DJ set by Steve Henderson, raffles prizes, and give-a-ways. As an added bonus, Cell Block is smack dab in the middle of all the fun and glamour of Halsted Street. Cell Block's general manager Herb welcomes everyone.

"Anyone is welcomed. We have a variety of people who come here. We have the leather people, furr people (into hairy guys), and the neighborhood people. Everyone seems to have a good time here," said Herb.

Located at 6525 N. Clark Street just up the street from JackHammer, LRA is Chicago's oldest BDSM leather club and dungeon. With a mission to educate, support, and embrace different sexual expressions and fetishes, LRA is actually a private, non-profit member's organization. Hidden away in the basement of a back parking lot building, don't be alarmed by the slings, whips, and other dynamic toys.

The crowd is very friendly and professional. Be sure to stop at LRA for its 7th Annual Fetish Ball and anniversary party. Bring out your best in fetish gear for a free night of fun and exploration. Guests must be 19 or older to enter and must sign a waiver. Vice president of LRA's board Larry Glantz not only tells potential guests to leave the t-shirt and jeans at home but also feels that the event is a great way to meet other open-mined people.

"You can expect anything you ever wondered or read about the BDSM crowd. It's a great opportunity to come out and meet people and get exposed" said Glantz.

It would be completely inappropriate and just plain boring to tote around Chicago during IML wearing a pink polo with loafers! Explore your leather style side at Shel-Don Chicago, which offers quality affordable leather clothes, accessories, and toys – as well as fragrances. Smells amazing…what's that you're wearing, leather summer breeze? Leather enthusiast Stephen Aranha Miranda frequents many leather shops but remains loyal to Shel-Don Chicago.

"They have a wide selection of quality leather goods at a competitive price," said leather enthusiast
Stephen Aranha Miranda.