Category: Shopping

Sometimes it’s relaxing just to wander about all by yourself. One Friday night I was wandering around lovely Forest Park, the city that boasts small town charm amidst a big city atmosphere. I wasn’t looking for anything in particular, but I stumbled across a few little treasures that revived my once-dead belief that the suburbs can be home to interesting places, too.

Not sure of what I’d find inside, I walked into Madison Street’s Priya Grocery. From the outside, it just looks like an old Mom and Pop corner store. But when you walk in, you see it’s much more than that. Priya Grocery stocks their shelves with Indian groceries, specialties and treats, as well as common staples to help you get through the week. In the cooler, you’ll find freshly made foods from local Indian restaurants. As you head farther back down the long, narrow aisles, the food becomes more and more authentic, and if you were going to prepare a delicious Indian meal, you’d probably want to stop here first.

As I approached the counter, I chatted with a young girl who was helping tend the cash register. She mentioned that she did Henna designs for $5.00. Thinking back to high school when my best friend and I would get elaborate Henna tattoos on our hands, I couldn’t resist the urge to take a few minutes and let her try her artistic skills out on me. She opened a tube of the dye and went right to work. The smell is so relaxing and it gives of such a soothing aroma. Having it done sort of has the same feel as getting your nails done, so I felt very pampered.

When she was done, I held my hand out and admired her artwork. It was the kind of spur-of-the-moment thing that you never could have planned. As my hand dried, I strolled through the store checking out the unique inventory.

The great thing about Priya is that it carries items you’d never find in say, Jewel or Dominick’s. I spotted a huge bag of loose tea and picked it up, holding it to my nose. The smell was terrific! Way in the back, in the freezer, there was all kinds of prepared foods that just needed heating up. I grabbed a few things from the freezer and from the cooler in the front. There was no way I was going to settle for McDonald’s tonight—I wanted to cook myself a real meal.

And as I stood in line to pay, my eyes wandered over the titles of hundreds of Indian movies, which the owners rent out as well. A grocery store and a video store all in one! Talk about dinner and a movie.

Chicagoland has tons of hidden treasures and I think I found one of my favorites. Keep your mind open and you might come across some rare gems yourself.

Remember when you lived at home and your income was yours to spend as you liked? Remember back when you two were jealously referred to as DINKs by your straddled coworkers and clothes shopping was considered to be a leisurely pastime? Remember all those beautiful designer shoes your closet used to be loaded with but you can no longer afford to shop for? Well buck up! This is the best time of the year for getting a new wardrobe, for you and even your kids, and your wallet won’t even complain!

First off, the department stores are all trying to lure you in with their various sales, because they know many of you have your tax returns on hand, and you also need to start stocking up on a lot less layering. If you want to go that route, Carsons should be your first stop, because they’re having their annual Goodwill sale. For every item you donate, you get a coupon for a new item for 20% off, even if it’s on sale, and of which there is a lot of! You do good for someone else, and you get treated for it. Not bad! The other stores of its caliper, like Macy’s and Kohl's, are also having big sales right now, so you might want to explore all three.

Now if you’re like me and want to go vintage and retro, your first stop should be the Village Discount Outlet, especially if you’ve never tapped a store like this before. Hey! You there! Stop your moaning and eye rolling! Yes, thrift store clothes are used, and yes they have that weird smell to everything, but they’re also fun, cool places to shop and have really nice stuff if you know where to go! I like the one on Elston when driving, and the one by Diversey and Halsted has some pretty high end stuff to check out.

Now, once you get broken in to how the system works, you might just be ready for the smaller boutiques and theme shops. Shangrila Vintage in Roscoe Village is just so fun to check out, and the people working there are awesome! A Ragstock location is another place you’ll want to check out if you’re of the 20-30 year old persuasion, because they always have a sale going on, the stuff is so friggin’ cool, and they’re even a happy medium between new and used. I like the store on Belmont the best, even though the parking is pretty scarce.

So definitely get your shopping freak on and enjoy your new duds! Just remember to bring cash to the vintage joints!

Ladies, it’s time to go out for a night on the town. You’re gonna meet up with the girls and hopefully, later on, meet up with some guys. So you throw on your black stiletto boots, tight jeans, strappy low-cut shirt and accessorize with sparkly, dangly jewelry. Right?

Wrong. It’s time to spice things up. You want to stand apart when you go to the bar, am I right? My advice is: head to store B in Wicker Park. This upscale antique/thrift shop is full to the brim with classy accessories and rare clothing finds that will have you looking like an old-time movie star at a glamorous premiere.

I stopped in there a couple of weeks ago and the glimmer of style from an era past caught my eye with every unique handbag, cute hat and sophisticated fur coat. This is where you go when you want to liven up your wardrobe in a way that is completely new as well as old.

Beautifully decorated, this place gives me a vibe that I don’t usually get in antique stores. No stinky, dusty smell, no junk, nothing that made me cringe. Just upscale, good quality clothing in a soothing, relaxed environment. The exposed brick, pendant lighting and elegant chandelier certainly bring a modern feeling to the space.

Trying on a couple of hats, I thought back to a girls night out I had a few years back, where I loaned out some of my vintage hats to some friends before we ventured out and painted the town red. Sporting our unique style, we got plenty of interesting looks and lots of compliments. Store B has a great collection of hats, so grab your girls and try some on.

You’ll also find plenty of gift items here, like unique glasswares and captivating knick-knacks. Personally, I can’t keep my hands off the adorable handbags, some in shiny patent leather and some with intricate beadwork. You’ll only find the best of the best here, but expect to pay a hefty price for it. A vintage handbag in good condition will set you back between $50 and $100 dollars.

Ever thought of wearing a vintage party dress to a dinner party? Check out their dress racks and see if you can find something that you can pair with an old handbag or a awesomely gaudy necklace. Since a lot of the newer styles are throwbacks to the fashions of past decades, you won’t look outdated at all, just vintage chic.

When you’re shopping with the girls in Wicker Park, make sure to stop by Store B. It may make you change your mind about antiques.

No longer a novelty only relished by the aristocratic types held in tucked away, European chalets, wine tasting is something no couple should live without experiencing. There is just something special about going to a quaint wine shop for a tasting that can really bring a couple together, and Provenance is certainly the place to go! And with the tastings at this location usually being complimentary, it sure does stretch the budget for opting for some wonderful gifts later on, of which Provenance is stocked and ready to accommodate.

What I like about this place is how special you feel as soon as you walk in the door. The wine and cheese selections are decent and perfectly priced, plenty under $10, with very caring, helpful and knowledgeable service who don't mind chatting over that passion for good food and drink. Beautiful gift baskets are also available, which are perfect for folks who are on their way to dinner parties and are unsure what to bring. And, since that wonderful Thai place practically next door, Sai Mail is BYOB, the location couldn't be any more convenient!

The other thing I really like, besides the fact you don't have to jump in the car to get a few needful things, is just how fresh and flavorful everything is! Hormones and other weird ingredients are relegated to the chain stores, though the prices are surprisingly fair. Goodies like chocolate truffles and scones are also available, as are bakery fresh breads, crackers and other tasty nibbles. They even offer a decent array of spices and pastas, which allows for the novices and experienced chefs alike to surprise their dates with a quick, home cooked meal that is truly gourmet. Nothing says romance than showing up with a small bag of groceries, preparing and then savoring culinary decadence you infused with your own creativity.

I personally believe they follow the “Kill 'em with Kindness” philosophy, because I have yet to meet anyone who hasn't left there grinning ear to ear – the happiness is just so infectious! Even the cute, paper shopping bags make me happy, turning a quick trip in the neighborhood into an enriching experience. And once you take in a visit, I'm sure you'll be stopping by again and again.

Next time you have a whole day set aside for shopping, head over to Buffalo Exchange in Wicker Park, but don’t expect to go anywhere else. This store has everything you need, and chances are, you’ll find yourself unable to leave.

Trendier than a typical thrift shop but full of the one-of-a-kind items that only thrift shopping can turn up, Buffalo Exchange is a fabulous new addition to Wicker Park’s line of second-hand shops. This particular store opened in October of 2007 and is part of a larger national chain, although you definitely don’t get that feeling when you walk in. Right away, a jewelry counter overflowing with colorful, sparkling treasures will call out to you. And sprawled out before you are clothing racks that are just waiting to be explored. Tons of different styles are intermingling in this shop, and I guarantee there’s something for everyone. Putting an entire outfit won’t be hard; they have purses, hats, shoes, boots, coats, jeans, belts, sunglasses and other accessories in abundance.

The walls are decked out in the vibrant red paint color that has become popular as of late, a nice touch with the classic high ceilings and the thoughtfully tasteful displays. And when your arm is about to give out from the huge stack of clothes you’ve picked out to try on, you’ll be glad to know that this unique store has a wonderfully not-so-unique feature: eight, count ‘em, eight oversized dressing rooms! This is not your neighborhood Salvation Army, that’s for sure.

Not used to thrift shopping? No worries. This place doesn’t even really feel like a second-hand shop, with its friendly staff, wide aisles and laid-back vibe. As long as you have an eye for fashion, you’ll feel perfectly at home.

Of course, once you’ve sifted through the racks and compiled a mound of new additions to your wardrobe, you’ll undoubtedly feel that sense of apprehension as you head to the register. But the best part about Buffalo Exchange is that this sense of worry will dissolve once you’ve been rung up, thanks to the amazingly affordable prices. You’d be surprised at how much bang for your back you can get at this place, compared with some of the pricier shops in the same neighborhood.

And if you really don’t have much in your budget for shopping, keep in mind that this shop will actually buy your clothes from you, for either cash or store credit. So whether you need rent money or a new dress, this place can hook you up and will keep you coming back for more. Happy shopping!

Wicker Park residents are known for their hip, trendy clothes. But who would have thought that in a big city like Chicago, you could find all the latest trends at a consignment shop? At Lenny & Me on Milwaukee Ave, you can do just that. However, upon stepping in, you might not even realize you’re in a used-clothing store.

Set up like an upscale boutique, Lenny & Me adds a touch of class to resale shopping, which isn’t always so glamorous. Beside carrying high quality vintage coats, dresses, hats and other clothing items, this store has a layout and organization that surpasses most resale shops, even in the area. When you first walk-in, your eye is drawn to the collection of vintage handbags that are neatly displayed to the right. At places like the Goodwill, purses would be strewn about in a haphazard fashion. But here, each purse occupies a rack with few other purses, making it easier to pick one up and admire it. There are also some exceptional furniture pieces here, and not the kind that you would find by the side of the road, either!

Unique jewelry design glimmer from the glass jewelry case, giving the pieces a more distinguished feel, and keeping them from looking like a bunch of old necklaces that Grandma dropped off.

Low lighting and stylish decor also add to the appeal of the store. This shop manages to balance having a large inventory with allowing for plenty of space to walk around. You can shop without feeling like you’re going to knock something over or run into someone.

You’ll find cute 60’s party dresses, one-of-a-kind-footwear, and almost-forgotten outerwear from generations ago. You’ll be surprised at the quality of the items, too. No stains or tears on these clothes!

Next time you’re looking for a really unique outfit, head over to Lenny & Me. You might find that one unexpected item that could take your wardrobe from drab to fabulous. And unlike the Goodwill, you won’t have to deal with any funky smells.

“That old car’s worth money!” Anyone who grew up in Chicago knows the commercial by heart, since that same green beater of a ‘71 Chevy has had its door fallen off for almost thirty years now. Of course, a couple things have changed, that the car “may” be worth money now, and that there’s an area code provided with the phone number. But darn it if that bushy blonde hair, wide banded wrist watch and bell bottoms donned by the star of the commercial aren’t as vintage as the cars on the lot!

Victory is a gear head’s wildest dream come true, where just about any part you can possibly think of can be found here. Since this salvage yard has been in business since the’40s, those looking to find a hood or door hinge for a classic muscle car will certainly be able to find it - without having to pay ridiculous eBay costs or getting a second rate knock off.

Of course, the whole thrill of the hunt deal gets involved, wandering through all those acres of classic cars, not unlike hitting up a flea market with a shopping list of specific finds. I remember many a rainy day walking around with my dad, tracking down parts for him to bring to his mechanic buddy. Regulars head down with their tool sets strapped on and jeans tucked tightly into their grungiest mud boots looking to find that rare part at one heck of a deal. Yep, even in drought season, this place is pretty muddy, and one has to wonder if the oldest cars haven’t gotten sunken down by the Morlocks. But hey - who cares! This is the sort of place that pretension gets thrown right out the door, uhhh… if there was a door. Just keep an eye out for a car that looks like yours, bust out your tools, rip it off and bring it up to pay for it. It can’t get any more simple as that, and hey - it just plain feels good to recycle!

A bonus is the folks who work here are straight up honest and tell it like it is, especially when it comes to junking your car. Since the value of scrap metal has gone down over the years, the thing they’re really looking for is the wind shield. Even if you lost the title, they seem to find a way to buy your car, and will come out to you to pick it up and will provide a receipt.

Have you ever found yourselves in one of these situations?

a) Your hair style probably makes your Grandma cringe, and your specialist stylist is no longer around.
b) You haven’t done a thing with your hair in years, and you want a stylist that won’t mess with the length you worked so hard to grow.
c) You’re sick of your current stylist cutting your hair a certain way, because that’s what he / she likes!
d) You’re a guy that likes his hair styled and not clipped, but you don’t want to go to a foux foux place to get it done.
e) You’re female as far as anatomy is concerned, but your style is anything but girlie!
f) You want an expert stylist that doesn’t make you gulp when you pony up to the register.

Then get your potentially sexy butt on the phone with the folks at Milio’s and make an appointment! They can make the impossible possible and have been doing so for decades! This is the number one place in town that really does “get it”, no matter what “it” may be, and do it in a fun and crazy atmosphere!

Like many folks, I too have family members who are registered beauticians, but I see what their specialties are, and I really don’t like it. No hard feelings, but it seems it’s always better to get your hair done by an unbiased third party who listens to you and not to your other family members‘ ideas of what looks cute. And, as most ladies go, I’m pretty particular about my hair, so when it comes to suggesting a place for a great style at a fair price, there are very few places I will go out of my way to get it done - Milio’s is one of those few places.

It goes without saying Milio’s is a place that caters to those with a rebellious side, what with all the far out hair styles, tattoos and piercings seen on the other stylists. People who want to get dread extensions done go here often, as do those who want to make sure their multi colored hair is done professionally. If you want to look like a total Rock Star, this is definitely the place to go! But even if you’re the super fabulous, fashion model type and far from the post-Punk dye jobs many of the stylists sport, you can be rest assured you will look absolutely stunning. And yes, you can get your eye brows done while you’re at it! The best part is, no matter what you want, you will leave with plenty of cash left over for shopping for a new outfit afterwards. After all, you’ll need one to go with the new you!

It seems that just about everyone is experimenting with a healthier lifestyle these days, even if it’s just sampling a few new menu ideas. The bets place downtown to do a little lunch time experimentation is at Kramer’s, where you can try a few new entrees and do a little shopping at the same time.

As you walk in, you’ll immediately pick up on the health nut vibe, from that distinctive vitamin and incense smell to the hippie and hipster types wandering around. So much to shop for and to check out! For the regulars, this place feels just so cozy and welcoming, but newcomers might already be feeling a little overwhelmed. For the latter, I suggest to head straight for the back and go up the stairs to the little café.

The overhead menu on the left shows off the vast concoction of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, and on the right are the lunch items. Go for a lentil soup or a lunch special, like the veggie burrito. If you’re not sure about liking vegetable juice, ask the guys behind the counter to exchange it for an apple juice instead - fresh squeezed apple juice is just so, so good and makes you feel like a kid again! Be sure to season your food at the counter before sitting, because there is absolutely none in it, but is fantastic after you put your personal touch to it! Just remember to pay downstairs when you leave.

Once you’ve finished, go back downstairs and explore. The staff is very helpful, and there is a wealth of information to be had. It’s a little more expensive than bigger stores that carry the same products, but when there’s a sale, it’s very worth it. And hey - students get a 10% discount! What’s also nice is there are many products at this store that are made locally and are otherwise hard to find. And what gal doesn’t love testing hand creams and smelling the shampoo bottles?

Also, across from the register is a prepackaged cooler that has some dangerously good “health food”. The Totally Vegan products are really good, especially the seitan barbecue and the “corned beef” sandwiches - almost identical to the real deal! Pick some of this stuff up and bring it back to the office for even more experimenting! It’s little wonder why all the hipster bike messengers congest this section! Just remember when you leave to grab a store flyer for your next visit, because you’ll definitely be coming back!

I’m not one to rave about grocery stores, so listen up! Like just about everyone else these days, I try to be a smart shopper and buy more organic and healthy food, but the cost of superior products can really be a daunting task. I really don’t care for the predominantly snooty and asinine clientele one tends to find at Whole Paychecks or the overall craziness typical with that Trader fellow‘s stores. So when this store rolled into town, I admit I was pretty skeptical but was lured in with the coupon I got in the mail. Wow! So, so happy here, and I am now a loyal customer!

The very first thing people are going to notice is just how darn easy it is to get a parking spot! There’s almost always a spot up front, without any Land Rovers hogging up doubles in the lot. If you drive in from Marcey Street instead of Clybourn, you don’t even have to deal with the traffic! Then when you walk inside, the first thing you see is the produce section. Not huge, but the fact that the crisper section stuff is kept in a walk in crisper is an absolute treasure, and you can pretty much find everything you need. And then comes the prices you notice on said produce - not bad at all! In fact, a lot of what I see here is priced even lower than conventional super market prices, and this stuff is organic!

The rest of the store just makes me happy. It’s all big, bright and inviting, and it’s never, ever crowded. The people who shop here are just as eclectic as the regular super market chains, and the store help are some of the absolute friendliest and most helpful I have ever encountered. Consistently. I don’t think I have ever had a bad shopping experience here, and I rather look forward to doing the grocery shopping! Who can say that?

For those shopping on a budget, they offer so many discounts on top of their great prices it’s unreal! Coupons galore, discounts for using your own bags, their reusable bags are only $0.99, and Thursdays and Fridays offer you an ADDITIONAL $5 off for reusing bags!

Now it’s true they don’t have a meat or deli department, so that next section you go through is almost all pre-packaged. Oh well - they at least make up for it with having lots of free snacky things to munch on while you go through the aisles. And what they do offer is pretty decent, so yes, you can definitely make a few meals from here. Also, the choices of bread and pastries are pretty non existent, but again, it’s not a one stop shop. Even so, it’s such a wonderful overall experience, and I hope they stick around for many years to come.