Explore Chicago

Chicago for Shopaholics

Chicago's Magnificent Mile is known for its stores, so get shopping!

(Courtesy Magnificent Mile Association)

Sarah Perkins
August 21, 2017

When we're traveling, there's no way we're not going to check out the local shopping scene. And in Chicago's case, there's retail aplenty. Though there is a time and a place for trinkets and souvenirs, we'd rather focus on the special pieces and places that really make memories.

Whether it's that one accessory to pull any outfit together or discovering that little boutique full of interesting finds (that no one else will have), Chicago's retail community only brings the best. We've even added a few of our favorite salons and spas for refreshing and replenishing—so shopaholics can shop 'til they drop without looking like it. 

900 North Michigan Shops

The 900 North Michigan Shops offer six chic levels of shopping, anchored by Bloomingdale’s, along with Gucci and boutiques like J. Toor. Dining options include the Oak Tree Restaurant & Bakery. M-Sa 10 am-8 pm; Su 11 am-6 pm (some stores and restaurants may have extended hours).

Trunk Club

Men and women turn to these wardrobe curators for handpicked items representing a selection of premium labels. Sign up online to connect with a stylist, who will then choose pieces that fit with your style and body type, or even visit the loft space to meet the tastemaker in person.

Rider for Life

Normally, we wouldn’t expect to find organic cotton candy sold next to handmade soaps amidst women’s clothing and vintage sofas. But at super-hip West Loop shop Rider For Life, nothing is really normal, and that’s a good thing. Rider is a kind of retail expression of their love of traveling, or “riding” through life.

Lester Lampert

Founded in 1920, Lester Lampert is renowned for its stunning original jewelry designs, created by four generations of family artisans. The fashionable salon features Lampert designs: the CumuLLus, Pirouette and Chardonnay Diamond collections. Also specializing in estate jewelry and fine watch lines such as Carl F.

P.O.S.H.

This gracious storefront inside the historic Tree Studios building boasts fabulous vintage and vintage-inspired home and table accents sourced from hotels, international auctions and European markets.

The Red Door Salon Spa

Elizabeth Arden's full-service day spa offers one-stop beauty shopping, from skin care services, facial treatments, waxing and massages to manicures, pedicures, hair treatments and makeup artistry.

Journelle

This Bucktown outpost of the intimate lingerie boutique carries a full variety of top lines including La Perla, Stella McCartney, Heidi Klum Intimates and Spanx, along with lesser known labels like Fortnight Lingerie and Eberjey. M-Sa 11 am-7 pm, Su noon-6 pm.

Primitive

One of the Midwest’s largest collections of authentic artifacts, furniture, textiles, jewelry and fashions from around the globe, this four-level, 31,000-square-foot gallery in the West Loop also boasts a cozy library. a fantasy Himalayan temple, and the Buddha Room. M-Sa, 10 am-6 pm.