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A potent concentration of famous retailers around Michigan Avenue and neighborhoods bursting with one-of-a-kind stores combine to make Chicago a shopper's paradise. Michigan Avenue's legendary Magnificent Mile lures thousands of avid shoppers every week. How often can you find Neiman Marcus, Macy's, Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Barneys New York within walking distance of one another? In recent years State Street has regained some of its former glory as well, with discount department stores sharing prime real estate with trendier clothing boutiques and the Block 37 retail development.
Neighborhood shopping areas, like fun-but-sophisticated Lincoln Park, eclectic Lakeview, and the hipster haven of Wicker Park/Bucktown, offer countless independent stores that cater to every desire, whether Prairie tyle furniture, cowboy boots, or outsider art. And there are countless smaller shopping enclaves within these neighborhoods that have concentrated clusters of antiques stores, home-furnishings shops, high-end boutiques, and other specialty stores. Those averse to paying retail won't have to venture far to unearth bargains on everything from fine jewelry to business attire. When it comes to shopping, this is one city that has it all.
Be forewarned that a steep 9.5% sales tax is added to all purchases in the city except groceries and prescription drugs. Neighborhood shops on the North Side, especially those in Wicker Park and Bucktown, tend to open late—around 11 or noon. Most stores, particularly those on North Michigan Avenue and the North Side, are open on Sunday, although this varies by type of business (galleries, for example, are often closed on Monday); where applicable, more information is provided at the beginning of each category.
Everything you need for your furry friend (leashes, collars, bedding, carriers, shampoo, and more), along with pet-themed artwork, is carefully arranged in this inviting pet boutique. Another branch is at 1137 West Madison Street, in the West Loop.
The color palette is restricted to neutrals and the style is minimalist at this airy home goods shop, but the offerings are anything but dull. Come for modern sculptural vases, freckled hand-thrown pottery, dried florals, and understated work shirts. The prices are a little higher than some other area boutiques, but the quality is, too.
More than 300 local designers have showcased their work at this longtime favorite. Owners Shirley Kienitz and Jenny Stadler carry clothing, jewelry, home goods, and art at very reasonable prices. They also have occasional workshops.
Want something weird? Looking for a piece of taxidermy, a skeleton, or some vintage medical supplies? Woolly Mammoth has an ever-evolving selection of strange, unusual, and occasionally disturbing items—but that's what makes them worth a stop when you're in Andersonville.
In our cringe-averse culture, earnest positivity can be tough to land. And yet the succinct mantra that gives artist Matthew Hoffman's gallery-meets-shop its name has obviously resonated: over nine million stickers bearing these three words have been produced, and they've been spotted stuck on street signs and doors around the world. Pop in to buy one of your own, in English or another tongue—they're now available in 100 languages.
The main attractions here are old-school sneakers and hip urban fashions for a fresh generation of fans.
Young trendsetters flock to this mini-empire for fashion-forward threads at easy-to-swallow prices. The flagship women's boutique shares a stretch of North Avenue with offshoot men's clothing and women's shoe stores. Check the website for other locations.
Men's footwear essentials range from classic Italian leather wing-tips and slip-ons to casual moccasins and rugged boots. You'll find a second store in the Loop at 122 South LaSalle Street.
The French designer's famous takes on the classic white shirt sport hefty price tags, though they also show a careful attention to detail.
A multilevel fantasyland for fans of Apple's iPad, computers, and related accessories, this store also has an Internet café where PC fans can get a glimpse of life on the other side. There's a second location in Lincoln Park (801 W. North Avenue).
This bastion of conservative ready-to-wear fashion still sells boatloads of their classic 1837 navy blazer. But this one-stop shop for Oxfords and khakis also sneaks in bold colors.
The label once favored by the conservatively well dressed is now hot with lots of other people who can't get enough of its signature plaid on everything from bikinis to baby gear. Even the exterior of this stunning Mag Mile flagship features that tan-and-black plaid.
Ensconced in the Drake Hotel, this shop carries the complete line of Chanel products, including ready-to-wear, fragrances, and cosmetics.
Well-designed leather goods, in the form of purses, briefcases, and cell phone holders, are Coach's specialty. Smart shoes and other accessories have joined the inventory as well. Embossing is available on-site at this impressive location. There’s a Water Tower Place shop (835 N. Michigan Avenue), too.
At this Mouse emporium, there's everything little Disney disciples need for a fix: a plethora of plush toys, DVDs, games, and other goodies. You'll find a second store in Block 37 (108 N. State Street).
Catering to pampered pooches and their devoted owners, Dog-a-Holics sells treats, bedding, collars, carriers, and clothes. There's even a selection of birthday items for Fido, such as party hats, pup-themed balloons, and canine cakes.
The sportswear, softly tailored business attire, and dress clothes of this Italian great are gathered all under one roof.
An airy, two-floor space displays Armani's discreetly luxurious clothes and accessories. The store includes the top-priced Black Label line, considered a cut above the department store line.
Though the prices aren't for the faint of heart, there are some pieces here that will last a lifetime.
The well-heeled shop the Chicago flagship for suits, signature scarves, and leather accessories.
Men will find modern, well-cut suits with attention to tailoring, as well as other signature Boss clothing and accessories here.
Label hunters were thrilled when branches of this New York boutique opened in Chicago, offering designer lines like Rag & Bone, Elizabeth & James, Helmut Lang, and Missoni. In addition to the Bucktown outpost, there are stores in Lincoln Park (841 W. Armitage Avenue) and the Gold Coast (40 E. Delaware Place).
These bra-fit gurus specialize in a "holistic" fitting process that results in a more flattering shape; that's enough to make any customer, well, perk up. Schedule your fitting ahead of time if possible.
This line has captured the devotion of the fashion crowd for its minimalist look and impeccable tailoring. Prices are at the upper end of the designer range.
These are the extremely expensive heels that keep celebs and stylish women the world over drooling.
Canadian designer Fluevog's chunky platforms and bold designs have graced the famous feet of Madonna and throngs of other loyal devotees. If you shop here, they can house your toes, too.
Design guru Adler's store is chock-full of his signature fun, funky pottery and home furnishings, all arranged in a series of small living spaces.
The U.K. designer's first shop in the Midwest takes you from day to night; pieces range from tailored skirts and cardigans to drapey tanks, skinny jeans, and leather jackets. There is a selection of sky-high heels featuring bold patterns and embellishments, too.
The goddess of handbags has filled her two-floor boutique in the heart of Oak Street with adorable shoes, small leather goods and, of course, her to-die-for purses and totes. (If you're after men's clothing and accessories, head across the street to Jack Spade.) Ladies will find more to fall in love with at the Kate Spade store in 900 North Michigan Shops.
