If you’re a mom, you know that shopping with your family can sometimes feel like leading an expedition through the Amazon—except the wildlife is your own child, and the humidity is just your stress levels rising. But somehow, time after time, Bloomingdale’s at 900 North Michigan Avenue makes it feel like a vacation instead of a survival mission. First, let’s talk about the ambiance. From the moment we step inside, I feel like I should’ve worn pearls and white gloves (instead of the usual “mom uniform” of leggings and a hoodie). It’s that magical mix of elegance and warmth that makes you want to channel your inner Mr. Brady and say, “It’s time to put on your Sunday best!” Shopping with my daughter and husband here is always a moment. My daughter transforms into a mini fashion critic, offering opinions like, “Mommy, that bag looks fancy, but can you even fit snacks in it?” (A fair question, really.) Meanwhile, my husband follows us around with the same energy as a dad at Disneyland—equal parts enthusiasm and exhaustion, usually punctuated by a hopeful “Are we almost done?” And then there’s the service. The associates at Bloomingdale’s must have taken a master class in patience because they treat every question—no matter how ridiculous—with grace. “Do these heels come with a guarantee that I won’t fall chasing a toddler?” (Answer: No, but they do come with style points.) Of course, no trip is complete without a little splurge. Whether it’s a luxe perfume, a fabulous coat, or a handbag that might fit snacks after all, I always leave Bloomingdale’s feeling like I made the right choices—both in fashion and in dragging my family along for the ride. So if you ever find yourself on North Michigan Avenue, put on your Sunday best (or your leggings, no judgment here) and head to Bloomingdale’s. Because a shopping trip that leaves a mom feeling glamorous instead of frazzled? That’s a miracle.