The 7 Best Vintage Clothing Stores in Chicago

Chicago is a city where history and style intertwine, making it a haven for those who cherish the charm of the past. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a newcomer to the world of retro fashion, discovering the best vintage clothing stores can be a delightful adventure. In this guide, we explore the 7 Best Vintage Clothing Stores in Chicago that offer a unique shopping experience, filled with timeless pieces and unique treasures.

When exploring these stores, consider the variety of services and aspects that enhance your vintage shopping experience:

Curated Collections: Handpicked selections that showcase the best of various eras.
Alteration Services: On-site tailoring to ensure a perfect fit for your vintage finds.
Authenticity Checks: Assurance that items are genuine and of high quality.
Styling Advice: Expert tips to help you integrate vintage pieces into your modern wardrobe.
Unique Accessories: A range of hats, jewelry, and bags to complement your outfit.
Affordable Prices: Pieces that fit every budget, with prices often starting at just a few dollars.
Sustainable Shopping: Embrace eco-friendly fashion by choosing pre-loved clothing.
Custom Orders: Requests for specific items or styles that you’re eager to find.
Thematic Events: Special sales and events that highlight particular decades or styles.

With this guide, you’ll be equipped to explore the vibrant world of vintage fashion in Chicago, uncovering pieces that tell a story and add character to your wardrobe.

1. Consume Vintage
2. Buffalo Exchange
3. Richard's Fabulous Finds

4. Kokorokoko
5. Monarch Thrift Shop
6. Lost Girls Vintage
7. Greater Goods Community Thrift

Number of companies

1360

Verified reviews

4,39

Average rating

1. Consume Vintage

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5,0/5

3452 S Western Ave, 60608.0, Chicago

Vintage clothing store
Clothing store
Men's clothing store
Women's clothing store
Youth clothing store

Why we chose them

Consume Vintage is a distinctive minimalist boutique nestled in the heart of McKinley Park, Chicago. Specializing in unique vintage apparel and accessories, this eclectic store caters to all ages and genders, offering a curated selection inspired by ‘70s to Y2K memorabilia and pop culture. The originality and authenticity of their items set them apart, ensuring that each piece is not only rare but also meticulously cleaned before reaching the racks. This dedication to quality and uniqueness makes it a standout destination for vintage enthusiasts and fashion-forward shoppers alike.

In addition to its impressive collection, this boutique doubles as a neighborhood café, enhancing the shopping experience with a welcoming atmosphere. The combination of a clothing store, men’s clothing store, women’s clothing store, and youth clothing store under one roof makes it a versatile stop for fashion seekers. By integrating a café, it provides a cozy space for customers to relax and enjoy, further solidifying its place as a community hub. The creative synergy between vintage fashion and a café ambiance offers a refreshing twist to the typical shopping experience.

(773)2279558

2. Buffalo Exchange

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 3,3/5

1478 N Milwaukee Ave, 60622.0, Chicago

Vintage clothing store
Consignment shop
Costume store
Thrift store
Used clothing store

Why we chose them

Buffalo Exchange stands out as a vibrant buyer and seller of hip used apparel, offering a unique blend of services that include a vintage clothing store, consignment shop, costume store, thrift store, and used clothing store. Situated in the trendy Wicker Park area of Chicago, this dynamic location is easily accessible via the CTA Blue Line, making it a convenient destination for fashion enthusiasts and eco-conscious shoppers alike. Known for its eclectic selection of stylish and sustainable fashion, the store provides an inviting space where customers can sell their clothing and accessories anytime during store hours, with no appointment necessary. This seamless selling process is enhanced by modern conveniences like a QR code check-in system, ensuring a smooth experience for all visitors.

Emphasizing community engagement and customer satisfaction, the store hosts events and initiatives like “50 Acts of Kindness,” further solidifying its commitment to giving back. Shoppers can stay informed about exclusive sales and new arrivals by signing up for the store’s mailing list, ensuring they never miss out on a $1 sale or the latest fashion trends. With a focus on accessibility and customer service, the company ensures an inclusive shopping experience by utilizing cookies for website optimization and providing comprehensive information on how to sell clothing. This dedication to quality and customer care makes it a noteworthy addition to our directory of exceptional businesses.

(773)9430710

3. Richard's Fabulous Finds

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,9/5

2545 W North Ave, 60647.0, Chicago

Vintage clothing store
Door shop
Men's clothing store

Why we chose them

Richard’s Fabulous Finds stands out as a remarkable blend of style and utility, offering a unique shopping experience that caters to diverse tastes. With its eclectic mix of vintage clothing, this store captures the essence of timeless fashion, attracting enthusiasts who appreciate the charm of retro styles. The store’s carefully curated collection ensures that every piece tells a story, making it a go-to destination for those seeking distinctive wardrobe additions.

Beyond its fashion offerings, Richard’s Fabulous Finds also excels as a door shop, providing a surprising yet delightful service that complements its core identity. The inclusion of a men’s clothing store further broadens its appeal, offering modern and classic options for discerning customers. This multi-faceted approach is precisely why the company earns its place in our directory, as it seamlessly combines fashion, function, and flair in a single, captivating location.

(773)2526996

4. Kokorokoko

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,2/5

1323 N Milwaukee Ave, 60622.0, Chicago

Vintage clothing store
Clothing store

Why we chose them

Kokorokoko stands out as a vibrant destination for enthusiasts of ’80s and ’90s fashion, offering a unique and funky selection of vintage wear. This engaging clothing store captures the spirit of these iconic decades, providing a nostalgic journey through its carefully curated collection. With an inviting atmosphere, it appeals to both collectors and casual shoppers looking to add a touch of retro flair to their wardrobes.

The shop is open every day from 12-7 PM, making it accessible for vintage lovers to explore its offerings. In addition to its physical store, it maintains an active online presence, engaging with customers through platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Tumblr. The company’s dedication to vintage fashion and its active community presence highlight why it deserves a spot in our directory, making it a must-visit for those seeking to relive or discover the vibrant styles of the past.

(773)7972090

5. Monarch Thrift Shop

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,6/5

2875 N Milwaukee Ave, 60618.0, Chicago

Vintage clothing store
Thrift store
Women's clothing store

Why we chose them

Monarch Thrift Shop is a standout boutique thrift and vintage clothing store nestled in Chicago, known for its inclusivity and community-driven mission. This women-owned, award-winning shop offers a diverse range of quality merchandise, including clothing, shoes, accessories, housewares, home decor, and select furniture pieces. The spacious 4,000 sq. ft. store invites customers to explore stylish and affordable finds while supporting a greater cause. In February 2024, they introduced Monarch Luxe, redefining luxury by embracing circular fashion and creating an eclectic luxe shopping experience. With a focus on community involvement, the store is stroller-friendly and includes Monarch Kids, an art space designed for families.

At the heart of the store’s mission is its commitment to reducing recidivism through restorative justice by providing job training for individuals facing barriers to employment. Customers’ purchases support programs offering mentorship, career training, interview apparel, and access to technology. These initiatives foster a safe, growth-oriented environment where participants can earn an employment soft skill certification. The shop’s dedication to empowering individuals and enhancing the local community makes it a valuable addition to our directory.

6. Lost Girls Vintage

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,5/5

1947 W Chicago Ave, 60622.0, Chicago

Vintage clothing store

Why we chose them

Lost Girls Vintage is a vibrant vintage clothing store that stands out for its unique blend of retro and modern fashion offerings. Founded in 2013 by Kyla and Sarah, the brand began its journey in a 1976 RV and has since evolved into two dynamic locations in Chicago. The store is renowned for its extensive collection of quality vintage clothing from the 1930s to the 2000s, appealing to environmentally conscious individuals who appreciate sustainable fashion. Alongside vintage pieces, they also offer modern clothing, handmade items, and exclusive designs, making it a haven for those who love to express their individuality through fashion.

The brand exudes a spirit of adventure and self-expression, encouraging customers to embrace their true selves with confidence. Beyond clothing, the store features an array of accessories, housewares, beauty products, and novelty items, catering to diverse tastes and styles. With workshops and events that foster community engagement, Lost Girls Vintage is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a lifestyle brand that promotes fearless living and creativity. Their commitment to sustainability and unique style curation makes them an essential addition to our company directory for those seeking distinctive fashion experiences.

(773)6573482

7. Greater Goods Community Thrift

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,2/5

6025 W Irving Park Rd, 60634.0, Chicago

Vintage clothing store
Home goods store
Used clothing store
Used furniture store
Thrift store

Why we chose them

Greater Goods Community Thrift stands out as a vibrant boutique dedicated to offering a diverse selection of used goods. As a woman-owned small business, it boasts two levels filled with clothes, shoes, jewelry, vintage clothing, books, vinyl, housewares, collectibles, glassware, linens, and small furniture. The owner’s passion for repurposing and saving items from the landfill sets this thrift store apart. Each item has the potential to find a new life, and if its history is known, it is shared with customers, adding a unique touch to the shopping experience. The store also provides discounts for students, teachers, and seniors, enhancing its community-focused approach.

Renowned for its friendly and attentive service, the store offers an impressive range of products at good prices, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate quality thrift shopping. As a vintage clothing store, home goods store, used clothing store, used furniture store, and thrift store, it caters to a wide array of customer needs. The owner’s love for cats resonates with many visitors, creating a welcoming atmosphere. This commitment to customer care and sustainable shopping is why Greater Goods Community Thrift deserves a spot in our directory.

FAQs

What should I look for in a vintage clothing store in Chicago?

Look for stores with curated collections, authenticity checks, and knowledgeable staff who offer styling advice. These elements ensure a quality shopping experience.

Are there alteration services available at vintage clothing stores in Chicago?

Yes, many vintage clothing stores offer on-site alteration services to ensure a perfect fit for your chosen pieces.

What is the average price range for vintage clothing in Chicago?

Prices can start as low as €5 and go up to several hundred euros, depending on the rarity and condition of the item.

How can I ensure the authenticity of vintage items?

Look for stores that offer authenticity checks and have staff knowledgeable about different eras and styles.

Is it possible to request custom vintage items in Chicago stores?

Yes, some stores offer custom orders for specific items or styles you are eager to find.

How do I incorporate vintage pieces into my modern wardrobe?

Many stores provide styling advice to help you seamlessly integrate vintage pieces with your contemporary clothing.

Are there any special events at vintage stores in Chicago?

Yes, many stores host thematic events and sales that highlight particular decades or styles, offering a unique shopping experience.