Everyone that comes to Chicago is so lucky to experience such a beautiful destination. Between the scenic location, out-of-this-world restaurants, gorgeous architecture, and the best shopping and entertainment, there’s nothing more you could ask for. It is called magnificent for a reason!
As a personal shopper and stylist, I couldn’t have this job in a better city. Whether you live in Chicago or are planning to visit, shopping here has to be on your list. No matter what you’re shopping for, what price point, or in any neighborhood, there is always amazing options. Shopaholics, this post is for you! Here is your ultimate guide to the best shopping in Chicago.
MAGNIFICENT MILE
Neiman Marcus- Classic elevated department store with the best of best. My go-to for the newest, coolest things. Plus, rewards!
Coach- Known for leather handbags and wallets, with an amazing collection of shoes and clothing for men and women. Not to mention they have incredible sales. Read My story with Coach to know why this store is one of my all time favorites! Ask for Ashley or Ivan and let them know Tali sent you.
Ann Taylor- Feminine, modern, and classic womens fashion and accessories. The entire staff at the Michigan Ave location is so nice and helpful.
Zara- Fast fashion company that makes designer-level clothing at affordable, everyday prices. The Zara on Michigan Ave is my favorite location of all time, it has 3 floors!
Michael Kors Collection- If you didn’t know Michael Kors has insane, fashion-forward clothing collection, you have to check this store out! Plus they are great during sale season when you cans score up to 70% off.
Alice and Olivia- New York based company that sells bold, loud fashions for fun, powerful women.
Water Tower Place– This mall is the perfect destination for family shopping in Chicago. It has Lego, American Girl Doll, Unicorn World, Lola and the boys for kids, as well as mens, womens, and home decor stores.
900 N Michigan is your one stop destination, including Bloomingdales department store, Club Monaco, J Crew, North Shore Exchange (second hand for a cause) plus the most epic food court, Esther Hall!
Bellina Caetano- Located in the 900 N Michigan shops, this Brazilian jewelry boutique sells some of the most precious jewelry in Chicago. These delicate, everyday designs are affordable and look so luxe.
Reformation- Reformation is known for their amazing dresses and sustainable fashion, which makes them a must-go shopping destination. The bonus is they provide the most high-tech shopping experience ever. Reformation store has a gorgeous sample selection to browse on the first floor, in a luxurious space. Then, the fitting rooms on the second floor are equipped with screens and technology to request sizes to try on and browse options. It is truly a shopping experience!
Ikram- Chicago based institution for the most luxury fashion in Chicago. This store looks and feels like a museum where you will find the most amazing, one-of-a-kind designer items. Grab lunch at their upstairs cafe, and don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity shopping here!
OAK STREET
Chanel- A shopping staple in any city, but they just opened a new beautiful space on Oak Street and the shopping experience here is unreal.
Maje- Parisian brand selling clothing and accessories that are feminine, contemporary, glamorous, and bold. I work with this location all the time and the staff is like family, tell them Tali sent you!
Sandro Paris- Classic and current fashion and accessories for men and women.
VMR- A hidden gem on Oak St, this Chicago boutique sells cool, contemporary, and edgy items from designers like Isabel Marant, Yeezy, OFF-WHITE, Balmain, Zimmermann, and so much more.
Le Labo- I loved to shop for gifts at this luxurious brand for fine fragrances, candles, and body care.
Dolce and Gabbana- If you love to window shop, you cannot miss this Italian designer’s location on Oak Street. The visuals are epic and I always want everything in the windows.
Carlisle Collection- US based designer for elegant, mature and conservative collections of clothing and accessories. Their showroom and brand is such a hidden gem!
LINCOLN PARK
Lincoln Park is a charming, down-to-earth neighborhood, so Armitage Avenue is the go-to for unique shopping. On top of trendy boutiques, Armitage Ave has tons of beauty stores like Lush, Benefit, Aesop, and L’Occitane. There is also Art Effect for unique gifts, Warby Parker for trendy eyewear, and The Tie Bar and Indochino for menswear. Take a break and enjoy all the delicious dining in the area!
WICKER PARK
Christina Karin- Located on North Ave, her boutique is full of bold and contemporary designs at affordable prices.
Scotch & Soda- Dutch brand located on Damen Ave, selling mens and women’s casual, worldly styles.
Akira– Chicago based store that sells trendy, versatile, glamorous pieces that won’t break the bank. My favorite location is on North Ave.
SHOWROOMS
Imperfect Grace- Fine jewelry designed in Chicago and made in NYC. Elevated, edgy diamond jewelry designs for everyday made by Ukrainian designer! By appointment only.
Dana Rebecca- Chicago based jewelry designer, making timeless and unique fine jewelry to wear everyday. I work with her for tons of styling projects and we hosted an event together in the past!
The Order- Chicago based designer with edgy and fashion-forward clothing designs for women. Nicole, the owner, is a long-time friend and fashion inspiration for me. You’ve probably seen her featured on my blog before!
OUTLET MALLS
Fashion Outlets of Chicago- Located just outside the city in Rosemont, this mall has outlets for Gucci, All Saints, Coach, Jimmy Choo, Karl Lagerfeld, and so many more high-end designers with amazing low prices.
Chicago Premium Outlets- Also outside the city in Aurora. Outlets include Ann Taylor, Armani, BCBG, Calvin Klein, Max Mara, Restoration Hardware, and countless other stores you can’t miss the deals from.
Are there any stores I am missing that are your favorite to shop at? I love to discover new stores in Chicago!
Happy Shopping!
Xoxo,
Tali
Photos: Rose Kaz
Ultimate guide to shopping in Chicago. I found very helpful. Thanks for sharing.