Jul 21, 2026 - Culture

Wicker Park Fest puts thrift style on the runway

Carrie Shepherd

Split image: left a woman in a white polka-dot blouse and brown polka-dot skirt before a bright mural; right a vintage clothing shop with racks, hats, and a brick wall. — Photos: Courtesy of The Pear House and Store B Vintage.

Thrifters and vintage lovers can get inspiration this weekend at Wicker Park Fest's first secondhand fashion show.

Why it matters: The tale of Wicker Park's bohemian roots giving way to chain stores and pricey condos has been told a million times, but the artistic spirit lives on with the neighborhood's many thrift and vintage stores.

What to expect: Curated looks from Lost Girl Vintage, Store B Vintage, Velvet Goldmine, Chicago Estate Advisors and more take the stage at 1pm on Sunday at the Thrift Riot Fashion Show.

Amber McCulloch, aka @stylepluscurves, emcees the show while DJ Mishaal Jan spins tunes.

State of play: Wicker Park Fest also features three days of performances on multiple stages, including the "Ultimate Combat Gauntlet," a pro-wrestling showcase of Chicago wrestlers in the Walgreens parking lot on Milwaukee and Wolcott from 5-9pm.

Featured dance troupes include Rhythmhood, Ballet Folklorico Xochitl, Bollywood Groove and DivaDance 606 Chicago.

Zoom out: The Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce, which presents WP fest, was integral in forming the Save Our Street Fests Coalition last year amid dwindling attendee donations.

Visitors who donate the suggested $10 at the gate this year will receive a commemorative pin that confers perks and discounts at local businesses.
Donations will also help support The Night Ministry, Garbage Gals, Nourishing Hope and Friends of Burr Elementary School.

If you go: Wicker Park Fest takes place 5–10pm on Friday and noon-10pm on Saturday and Sunday on Milwaukee Avenue.

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Wicker Park Fest puts thrift style on the runway

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