The original location of this children’s boutique (a second outpost is in Andersonville) opened in the late ’90s as a children’s furniture store, selling handmade toy chests. Since then, the shop has expanded its inventory to include children’s clothing, books, toys and room accessories.
2060 N Damen Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 489-9800
Named after the street where Czech owner Jana Zacek temporarily resided in New York before landing in the Windy City, this just-west-of-Damen womenswear store offers an eclectic mix; find recognizable brands such as Seven Jeans and Cynthia Vincent along with up-and-coming indie designers, including local labels Vika and Sophia Reeys.
2019 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 952-7551
While there’s an emphasis on owner Kleiner’s own line of swimsuits, jewelry and clothing, this Damen Avenue shop is not just all about the owner. In addition to Kleiner’s front-and-center designs, the store also features local designers such as Cindy Chan and Vika Brown, as well as lines from New York and Brazil. Kleiner also hosts events in the space (such as trunk shows) and allows customers to plan private shopping parties.
1872 N Damen Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 321-6685
This corner shoe shop features two sides: the super-spendy Niche and the more reasonably priced City Soles. Women drool over Faryl Robin, Corso Como and Cynthia Vincent; guys, sneak a peek at Cydwoq and PoMonjo. Mark your calendar for the recurring nickel sale (buy a pair full price and get the second half-off).
2001 W North Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 489-2001
Despite its name, there’s a lot more than camo here. Sift your way through trendy clothes (and occasional sales) before checking out our favorite part: the shoe department. From the selection of Converse sneaks in every color (not to mention Reeboks, Vans, adidas, etc.) to the few dozen goth boots and Dr. Martens, there’s a pair for everyone here.
1318 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 384-8448
In addition to showcasing the work of everyone from Project Runway’s Jeffrey Sebelia and Christian Siriano to Vivienne Westwood, this mens- and womenswear boutique purveys limited-edition art prints. Get excited for trendy denim, leather and fabulous hats.
1751 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 235-2680
bonnieandclydes.com
Riding on the preppy-girly concept, this Division Street resident carries all the usual suspects: Steven Alan, Cynthia Vincent, Vince and Joie. The shop offers a small selection for men, too: Alternative Apparel shirts, cardigan sweaters and denim.
1744 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 698-8162
Ever since Marc Jacobs’s opening, retailers have flocked to this stretch of Damen; p.45 owner Tricia Tunstall was here before almost all of them, and the shop remains just as relevant as the newcomers. Check out long-lasting innovative casual and cocktail-appropriate attire for women by Phillip Lim 3.1, Chicago-based Abigail Glaum-Lathbury and Brochu Walker, and others, plus accessories by Winifred Grace and Sarah McGuire.
1643 N Damen Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 862-4523
Owner Liz Meyer, a fashion stylist for Aerosmith, has compiled a beautiful collection of day wear and formal attire. Standouts include striped taffeta cocktail dresses from the 1950s, along with a heavy focus on Vivienne Westwood. The men’s collection includes suit jackets and trousers, plus shirts, jackets and suits from Steven Tyler’s personal collection.
1755 W North Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 235-5797
Saint Alfred is the patron saint of learning, and the expert staff at this new Wicker Park boutique will gladly school you on the latest styles. Although it doesn’t offer customization, St. Alfred’s features limited-edition and collaboration lines such as Yohji Yamamoto for adidas and Japanese import Visvim.
1531 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 486-7159
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