A savvy shopper's guide to Chicago thrift and vintage stores
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I am a longtime vintage and thrift shopper, and whether it's sustainability, affordability or just originality, second-hand shopping is hotter than ever.
Zoom out: Here are mini reviews of Chicago and suburban shops, some I knew about, but also many I learned about from Axios Chicago readers!
Gilda Designer Thrift Boutique (1746 E. 55th St.)
The vibe: Shopping with a pal.
- While you're browsing, owner Gilda Norris chats with you and will bring out something just perfect for you.
My finds: Long, red, cotton dress with front pockets ($24), an aqua blue sleeveless sweater ($32) and a yellow, oversized vest with a futuristic shape ($42).
👗 Eight-word review: Stylish, South Side hang with personalized shopping experience.
Born Again Consignment Parlor (703 S. Dearborn St.)
The vibe: A mix of apparel from the '60s to the '90s, including housewares, games and quirky items like bald, doll-head earrings and a D.A.R.E sweatshirt.
🥂 My treasures: Guys, I can't buy something everywhere I go. Who do you think I am?!
Yes, but: I would have bought the beautiful champagne flutes pictured above ($48) if I wasn't going to be lugging them around in the heat.
😍 Nine-word review: Eclectic mix of new and old in historic digs.
Found by Steph (2050 N. Halsted St.)
The era: Special occasion pieces, including wedding dresses, primarily from the 1960s-'90s, with a few exceptions that date back as early as the '30s.
- All dresses are under $500.
My treasures: A cream sheath with lace, beaded sleeves ($125) and a long, peach dress with a chiffon overlay and rosette ($185).
Yes, but: Hard to believe, I know, but I have an abundance of dresses, so I didn't purchase these. Yet.
9-word review: Unique finds certain to start conversations at the party.
Dethrose Vintage (1100 W. 37th St.)
The vibe: Hidden gem that's best to visit by appointment, but the website is a great way to peek at the goodies.
The era: 1930s through '80s, but a fantastic array of dresses from the '40s and '50s. Very "L.A. Confidential."
My treasures: A bronze belt with an accordion waistband and large, tear-drop shaped buckle ($40).
- If I wasn't trying to be economical, I would have bought a great royal blue and silver lace skirt and shirt set and flapper-style cream dress.
7-word review: Unique spot for dresses that will dazzle.
Green Element Resale (6241 N. Broadway)
The vibe: Controlled chaos. In a good way. This is your classic thrift shop with walls of CDs next to shelves of mismatched vintage glassware between rows of used blouses in front of a furniture section with a piano.
My treasures: A pink, floral silk blouse ($4), beaded necklace ($5) and large wood bowl ($5).
🛍️ 7-word review: A true treasure hunt with $2 DVDs!
Thanks to reader Gary D. for the recommendation!
Knee Deep Vintage (1219 W. 18th St.)
The vibe: Some great rack ravaging for expert thrifters who can always find a gem in the pack.
- But not intimidating as the staff is very helpful and welcoming.
The era: All of them. Everything from the 1940s to the '90s can be found in the rows and rows.
My treasures: A three-quarter sleeve, pink striped top that has been in regular rotation.
8-word review: A Chicago staple that keeps bringing the hits.
Kokorokoko (1323 N. Milwaukee Ave.)
The vibe: Like you snuck into your older sister's room to steal her Prince record and a sweater to wear to the mall.
The era: 1980s and '90s, with everything from vintage band tees to cassettes.
- Think shoulder pads.
My treasures: A blue and gold ringer tee with the text Shepherd College ($30) and a baby yellow mohair sweater ($44).
Two-word review: Totally rad.
Luvsick Plus (2706 N. Sawyer Ave.)
The spot: Luvsick Plus in Logan Square calls itself Chicago's first plus-size thrift and vintage store, carrying sizes large and up.
The vibe: The living room of that cool, older neighbor who has an amazing closet you covet and accessorizes perfectly.
The era: Mostly 1960s and '70s but it touches on all decades.
My treasures: A pastel colored, silky '70s shirt ($34) and mauve blouse with a monogrammed "D" ($44).
Five-word review: Like perusing a friend's closet.