Get ready to start shopping. These are 5 fashion boutiques you don’t want to live without.
Dearest D-RAVEL Traveler,
My name is Emma (@emmahassemer), and I know you will quickly become as obsessed as I, with Chicago’s fashion boutiques. While shopping the big-name stores on Michigan Avenue is every shopaholic’s dream, some of Chicago’s most iconic shopping spots are the fashion boutiques tucked throughout each street. Chi-town is home to some of the most vogue boutiques with rare styles you won’t find at a chain store—and if you’re like me and prefer to have a wardrobe filled with one-of-a-kind pieces, you’ll want to add the below boutiques to your shopping bucket list.
With baggy sweatpants and oversized sweatshirts being my go-to ensemble for three months due to quarantine, I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say I miss dressing up. Now that Chicago is slowly reopening its restaurants and bars, I’m so ready to slip into a trim midi dress, throw on a pair of square-toed sandals, and head to the nearest rooftop bar to sip on a mojito.
During uncertain times like these, it’s essential to come together as a community to show your support for local businesses. Shops may be closed, but these five chic Chicago fashion boutiques are ready to fill your online orders and help you amp up your post-quarantine closet.
Alice & Wonder
This small shop located on West Webster Avenue offers all things “girly and fun”—from fashion to interior design. Whether you’re still stocking up on comfy sweat sets for quarantine or adding a new coffee mug to your collection, Alice & Wonder has it all. If you’re a sucker for purses, you will love scrolling through the bags and totes section. This wooden bead bag screams summertime and is the cherry on top of any outfit.
The best part about this Chicago-based fashion boutique is its $100 promise—you won’t find anything exceeding the $100 price-point online or in-store. On-trend styles that are budget-friendly? Say no more.
Alice & Wonder currently offers curbside pickup and is accepting online orders.
Bliss & Belle
Are you looking for the perfect date night outfit? Bliss & Belle has you covered. The boutique’s floral ruffled dresses and animal-print wrap skirts will surely turn heads and drop jaws. My favorite Bliss & Belle piece is this crisp white, eyelet lace romper. There’s something about wearing white after getting a nice tan—or sunburn—at the beach.
No summer fit is complete without a pair of funky sunglasses. Bliss & Belle’s cateye styled sunnies are simply *heart eyes*. You won’t want to checkout without adding one or two accessories to your cart!
Bliss & Belle offers curbside pickup, online ordering and in-store shopping—be sure to stop by the next time you’re strolling down Armitage Avenue.
Una Mae’s
As I was scrolling through Una Mae’s website, I just so happened to find the ultimate Navy Pier ensemble: this white wide-brim hat paired with this lightweight, black, button-up dress and these white platform sneakers. Click the links, and thank me later.
Una Mae’s collections encompass a mixture of vintage and contemporary apparel and accessories for both men and women. That oversized jean jacket you’ve been searching high and low for at your local thrift store? Find it at Una Mae’s.
Una Mae’s is currently offering curbside pickup. Swing by to pick up your order on Milwaukee Avenue.
Notre
If you’re diehard for athleisure, Notre is the boutique to shop at. Notre carries well-known brands such as Nike, Adidas, Converse, and Stüssie, along with its line of minimalist apparel. The fashion-forward Chicago shop is up-to-date on the latest styles—chunky dad sneakers, retro drawstring shorts, oversized sweatshirts, and the classic fanny pack bags are just a handful of trends Notre offers.
If you get the chance to shop at Notre, you’re bound to step out of the store with the freshest pair of kicks. This boutique is a sneaker freak’s dream come true. These metallic gold Nike Air Max 90 sneakers are giving off major futuristic vibes and would look stellar with gold jewelry galore. Tell me I’m wrong.
Treat yourself to a pair of shoes—or two if you want—by placing an order on Notre’s website.
art effect
At art effect, you’ll find classic staple pieces that will live in your closet for years. From high-quality crew neck long-sleeves to a simple soft white tee, the perfect layering pieces can be found at this Chicago boutique. If you’re not into shopping for the basics, check out art effect for casual everyday graphic tees and crewnecks. I might have to order this sweatshirt with the “homebody” label plastered on the front. It’s pretty appropriate for the times if you ask me!
Clueless on what to get your dad for Father’s Day? Don’t fret—art effect has gifts that your dad will love and use. If your dad enjoys crafting cocktails, create a themed box stuffed with these vintage rock glasses, this retro cocktail shaker, and a whiskey book.
Whether you’re shopping for yourself or your dad, stop by art effect the next time you’re strolling down West Armitage Avenue or support this fashion boutique by placing an order online.
Next time you’re visiting Chicago, be sure to reserve a day to visit the above fashion boutiques—and don’t forget to pack an extra suitcase so you can bring home your new clothes!