“Shop” listings
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Building Blocks
Video games are great and all, but this classic toy store stocks the sort of wooden toys, board games and puzzles that never go out of style. Even the most tech-savvy kid can’t resist an erector set or, better yet, a wood block version of the Angry Birds smartphone app. (09/2011)
3306 N Lincoln Ave
773-525-6200
buildingblockstoys.com -
Penelope’s
Hip gear sans hipster attitude is the calling card of this friendly boutique along West Town’s Division Street retail stretch. Funky sweaters and jersey dresses for her, crisp oxford and chambray shirts for him, and plenty of fashionable accessories for both. (09/2011)
1913 W Division St
773-395-2351
penelopeschicago.com -
Lori’s Shoes
Footwear fanatics swear by this Lincoln Park emporium, known for stocking designer shoes up to 30% off department store prices. Whether the goal is trendy, classic or expensive Italian, this shop carries everything you could ever want. (Consider yourself warned.) (08/2011)
824 W Armitage Ave
773-281-5655
lorisshoes.com -
Hard Boiled Records and Video
This tiny, charming survivor shows that, even in the iTunes era, there’s still a market for vinyl in all its crackly glory. The focus is on indie bands, and the staff isn’t afraid to tout its taste—which is a good thing. (07/2011)
2010 W Roscoe St
773-755-2619
hardboiledr...logspot.com -
Paper Doll
Racks bursting with witty cards, T-shirts designed by local artists, and gift ideas ranging from journals and guidebooks to scented candles keep this Wicker Park boutique perennially popular. Don’t forget to say hello to Maude, the shop’s adorable house pug. (07/2011)
2048 W Division St
773-227-6950
paperdollchicago.com -
Get a Grip Cycles
This North Side bike shop sells everything on two wheels, from $11,000 Sirotta racers to $800 road bikes. Pedal pushers can also stock up on helmets, Garmin navigation devices, racing jerseys and cleats from the likes of Shimano and Mavic. (05/2011)
4359 W Irving Park Rd
773-427-4747
getagripcycles.com -
Dusty Groove America
Soul searchers—as well as those seeking classic and contemporary jazz, funk and reggae beats—can easily kill a day digging into this record shop’s impressive collection of CDs, LPs and 45s. (05/2011)
1120 N Ashland Ave
773-342-5800
dustygroove.com -
Sir and Madame
The husband-and-wife team behind this whip-smart boutique sell their own line of duds: tailored flannels for him; riding pants and silk shirts for her. They also have an eye for retro finds like antique books and vintage steamer trunks. (05/2011)
938 N Damen Ave
773-489-6660
sirandmadame.com -
Haberdash
Lawyer Adam Beltzman ditched his day job five years ago to resurrect the haberdashery (the traditional one-stop men’s shop). With its own line of dress shirts made by Gitman, affordable designer jeans and a penchant for excellent service, this Old Town boutique is a winner. (03/2011)
1350 N Wells St
312-440-1300
haberdashmen.com -
Red & White
The minimalist décor— exposed brick and recycled wood—might cause newcomers to suspect pretension, but this Bucktown wine shop is among the friendliest in town. Specializing in under-the-radar bottles, the store is best experienced during its free tastings (Saturdays from 2pm to 5pm). (03/2011)
1861 N Milwaukee Ave
773-486- 4769
redandwhitechicago.com -
ANDY’S MUSIC STORE
Unique and exotic instruments—hurdy gurdy, anyone?—are spread out over a dozen showrooms in this bi-level music emporium. But it’s not all rare Irish fl utes and African drums. Guitar lovers can still salivate over a classic Gibson Les Paul. (01/2011)
2300 W Belmont Ave
773-868-1234
andysmusicchicago.com -
GREEN GENES
“Eco-friendly can also be über-fashionable” is the mantra of this Andersonville children’s boutique. You won’t be able to resist the cute nesting baskets woven from organically grown bamboo or the charming maple building blocks crafted from sustainably harvested wood. (01/2011)
5111 N Clark St
773-944-9250
green-genes.com
