Categories: Shopping

How to Shop: Oak Street

Author: Rebecca Taras

Oak Street is both a tourist destination and place to see and be seen among Chicago locals. Exclusive boutiques, salons, and high-end retailers continue to attract shoppers from around the world, as well as locals with discriminating tastes.  

BEAUTY
 
Bear with Me Hair for Kids/Jose Camacho Hair Salon (72 E Oak St.; 312-943-1398)
With its relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, Bear with Me/Jose Camacho has been making singles and families beautiful since 1987. The little darlings can get a trim in Bear with Me while adults are given a gorgeous new 'do at the salon's bigger brother, Jose Camacho.

Bravco Beauty Centre
The convenient ATM located inside Bravaco makes it easy to drop some serious coin in this cash-only beauty haven. Competitively priced skin and hair products tightly pack every shelf, eliminating the need for a trip to your local beauty store.

Cama Salon (43 E Oak St.; 312-587-0550)
More like a friend’s home than a salon, Cama is a cozy retreat that specializes in the latest color and cutting techniques, as well as specialty services like hair extensions. Get a manicure or pedicure and wait for the polish to dry while seated on the open balcony and garden terrace.  
 
Charles Ifergan Salon
Charles Ifergan and his talented team of stylists have become a Chicago beauty institution.  Come for a cut or stay for the day.  The facility is a full service salon and spa. Specialty programs for teens, men, and brides are also available.

Marianne Strokirk Salon
The thorough training program that stylists and colorists must endure before going out on the floor at Marianne Strokirk Salon has certainly paid off. Marianne Strokirk is a favorite among beauty writers, having received accolades in highly regarded publications such as; Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar and Allure.  Strokirk's styles are sleek and versatile, exhibiting clean, elegant lines. In a city full of weddings and black-tie affairs, up-do’s have become a specialty at Strokirk's.
 
Marilyn Miglin
You may know Marilyn Miglin for her Pheromone fragrance.  But for over 35 years, Marilyn Miglin has offered makeup and skincare solutions for busy modern-day women. Aside from an elegant boutique stocked with beauty goods, Marilyn Miglin offers a private consultation area where you can learn about proper skin care and makeup techniques. Depending on the day, you might even be lucky enough to meet the beauty guru in the flesh.
 
FASHION AND ACCESSORIES

A Pea in the Pod
Not your mother’s maternity store, A Pea in the Pod is a fashion-forward upscale maternity boutique that has become a favorite among celebrities. Shop fashions from hot designers, or choose from A Pea in the Pod’s classy private label. Personal shoppers are on-hand to offer assistance for the new-mom-to-be.

Barneys New York and Chelsea Passage
A touch of the East Coast on East Oak Street, Barneys New York offers men’s and women’s ready-to-wear high fashion, with all the appropriate accessories and shoes to complete any look. A boutique-like cosmetic department offers exclusive beauty lines and perfumes. Brides can make their little girl dreams come true at the in-house Vera Wang bridal salon. Chelsea Passage offers distinctive gifts and home goods that are likely to be conversation pieces.  A small area in the back caters to little tots.

Calypso Christiane Celle
Take a walk past Calypso on any given day and you can almost feel the warmth of the tropics. Sexy ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories, and fragrances make buying vibrant, warm weather finds a snap – even in the dead of a brutal Chicago winter. Calypso’s unique designs are brought in from all around the world.  
 
FURLA
Can’t jet off to Milan on a moment’s notice?  Stop into FURLA, a family business that is recognized worldwide for their renowned fine leather goods and accessories. Fine Italian craftsmanship gives way to an understated elegance and distinctive style, which is part of the FURLA philosophy.  
 
George Greene
George Greene features a menagerie of high-end men’s wear from designers such as Yohji Yamamoto, Zenga, and Christian Dior.  Suits, sport coats and shirts are all made to measure, making the service as first class as the clothing. 

Hermès
The Paris-based saddler known for its line of luxe silk scarves and ties also offers distinctive men’s and women’s wear, with fashionable accessories to match. Leather goods and a well-received line of fragrances capture the essence of the brand.
 
Jil Sander
The Oak Street location is the first Jil Sander boutique in the United States to carry the designer's entire collection of hand-tailored designs for men and women. Accessorize with the complete collection of shoes, belts and bags - and don’t forget to check out the exclusive Jill Sander fragrance line.

Jimmy Choo
“It doesn’t matter what you are wearing, if you have good shoes and a good bag, you’ll look right," - words from president and founder of Jimmy Cho, Tamara Mellon, who launched the luxury multi-million dollar business just 10 short years ago. Jimmy Choo’s shoes and accessories, sexy-yet-elegant styles, have become recognizable all over the world.  

Lucky Brand Jeans
Formerly a jeans-only establishment, Lucky has expanded into a casual clothier for both men and women. While most find it “lucky” to find a pair of jeans that fit on the first try, the variety of styles and lengths at this dungaree kingdom making shopping for the right pair a breeze.

Kate Spade
You may walk in just looking to pick up Kate Spade’s classic handbag for going out, but shopper beware!  You'll likely become tempted by the selection of luxe cashmere pillows, and plush p.j.’s in prints as cheerful as the bag collection. Vintage jewelry and a collection of fine rare books are stand-alone finds.  Kate Spade also features a travel shop with a collection of unique books, maps, note cards, and journals. Head to Jack Spade for the masculine twist on accessories, or just to flip through the pages of a vintage Playboy magazine.     

Loro Piana
The leading manufacturer of the finest cashmere and worsted fabrics, you can expect luxury from the moment you walk through the doors at Loro Piana. The store offers high-end knitwear, sportswear and accessories for women, men, and children. A selection of fine home items is also available, catering to the sophisticated consumer. Master tailors offer custom-made suiting that continues the Italian tradition of impeccable hand-crafted design.

Luca Luca
Luca Luca came to Chicago from the birthplace of fashion, Milan, Italy, and brought with it its signature collection of ready-to-wear designs utilizing couture fabrics. A boutique offering exclusive looks; you can expect impeccable personal attention and assistance when choosing your perfect ensemble, finding everything down to coordinating shoes and accessories right here.
 

Madison and Friends
Adults aren’t the only ones who can have the opportunity to sport Oak Street fashions. Madison and Friends specializes in a fine selection of European and American clothing for sizes from newborn to juniors. Not just your average kids clothier, as you'll find Italian leather jackets and fur coats, special occasion dresses (including flower girl dresses), and one of the largest collections of shoes available in the city. This boutique has the reputation for becoming the “go to” spot for newborn gifts, including personalized items and toys. As parents open up their wallets to pay for the haute goods, kids can amuse themselves with the saltwater fish tank built into the counter.

Palazzo
While Palazzo is a wholesale and retail business, the flagship Chicago salon offers made-to-order and ready-to-wear gowns that are hand-made from the finest quality silk any bride has ever dreamed of. Palazzo’ s high level of customer service works closely with the bride to find a gown that is right for her body type, as well as her personal style.  

Prada
Even if you have never stepped foot inside, the engaging window displays at the corner of Oak and Rush always attract a collection of the curious who happen to be walking by. Prada is a high-class, mod source of fashionable footwear and clothing. Dresses, shades, and trendy leather shoes for men and women, designs regularly seen in high fashion magazines, make an appearance here. Now you see it, now you don’t. Prada’s selection of coats, dresses, suits, skirts and slacks stay current with the season and, of course, always ahead of the game. The famed soft leather purses and chic travel bags serve as functionally gorgeous status symbols.  
 
Sansappelle
Even though Sansappelle clothes are sold all over the country, only on Oak Street can the entire collection be viewed. The boutique specializes in the creation of day-into-evening clothing, which may be custom ordered to suit your personal needs. Or start from scratch and have the perfect garment (for any occasion) created for you in the size and color of your choice.

Scarlet Designs
Find a mix of made-to-order and ready-to-wear separates that can suit both day and evening looks. Special occasion wear for women, men, and children taps into wedding wear as well, including accessories and gifts. With the Chicago studio as its flagship, Scarlet’s Platinum Series designs features images from the work of renowned Chicago-area photographers. Open by appointment only, so plan accordingly.

Sugar Magnolia (34 E Oak St; 312-944-0885)
A fun, non-intimidating boutique, Sugar Magnolia is home to two floors of women’ s fashions, accessories, and unique gifts suitable for all types of personalities. Mannequins in the front windows are often adorned with flirty spring and summer dresses, or dressy jeans paired with a feisty top.

Tessuti for Men (50 E Oak St.; 312-266-4949)
Pal Zileri is the featured designer for the contemporary selection of men’s suits, sports coats, pants, shirts, and ties available at Tessuti. Fashions are known for their exceptional design and fine fabric selection with global influences. Next-day alteration service makes it easy to become a sharp dressed man.

Tod's
The main attraction at Tod’s is the selection of its famous hand-made shoes for both men and women.  But why stop there when you can pick up an artistically crafted handbag as well? A rich (and sometimes vibrant) color palette is prevalent in this famed Italian leather goods company’s accessories.
 
Ultimate Bride
Ultimate Bride is a couture bridal salon that matches the grandeur of its prestigious address. A breathtaking array of exquisite gowns range from fairytale styles to contemporary elegance. Bridesmaid formal wear is also available, along with a welcoming staff to help you make one of the most important choices for your big day.  
 
Ultimo
An Oak Street institution , Ultimo has been bringing the finest in international fashion to men and women in Chicago for over 30 years. The hand-picked selection of Manolo Blahniks is a must-see in this cozy boutique filled with clothing and accessories from over 70 designers.
 
The Wolford Boutique (54 E Oak St.; 312-642-8787)
Whoever said it is only what appears on the outside that counts obviously never stepped foot into Wolford. Long lasting, durable fabrics with a fashionable flair have made Wolford one of the most luxurious leg wear, body wear, hosiery, and swim suit designers in the world.  

Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche
Yves Saint Laurent is one of the world's most historically important houses of design.  Yet it still manages to stay current with all the top designers. The Chicago boutique features some of the city’s most avant-garde ready-to-wear women’s clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and fragrance. The sharp, yet elegant menswear collection also shines

FINE JEWELRY 

David Yurman
The highly anticipated David Yurman store features a vast selection of fine jewelry, timepieces and gifts - all carrying the signature Yurman style of contemporary elegance.

Graff
Chairman Laurence Graff seeks out the most exclusive gemstones from all ends of the earth. Cut in Johannesburg workshops and designed in London, the Chicago Graff store offers a large selection of diamonds at a variety of price ranges. All pieces are signed for authenticity.

Harry Winston
The jeweler to the stars has come to Chicago, offering some of the world’s finest diamonds and timepieces to local “celebrities.”
 
Judith Ripka
DeBeers Award winner Judith Ripka’s interchangeable fine jewelry collection allows you to change your look from grocery store to glam in a matter of seconds.  Custom design services are available.

Lester Lampert
For over 81 years, Lester Lampert has manufactured exquisite originals, as well as estate and designer collections from well-known designers such as Carrera y Carrera and Favero. Lester is an inductee into the National Jewelers Hall of Fame and David Lampert is a graduate of the Geological Institute of America. Their in-house craftsmanship and attention to detail and personalized service are what have made the Lester Lampert name.

Trabert & Hoeffer Jewels (111 E Oak St.; 312-787-1654)
Considering the vast array of diamonds, one-of-a-kind pieces, vintage and contemporary jewelry, it's no wonder how Trabert and Hoeffer has been going strong for over 55 years. Trabert and Hoeffer boasts an impressive list of designers such as Susan Berman and Marelene Stowe, but it is the personalized service that has given the store such a distinguished reputation. You may lose track of time browsing, so be sure to check out the upscale watch collection.

SPECIALTY

Frette
You can place trust into a place that has furnished the homes of monarchs since 1860. Timeless elegance and unsurpassable quality are still prevalent in their bed, baby, bath and table collections of today. Luxe travel and spa accessories are popular with the modern jet setter.
 
Pratesi Linens
Ernest Hemingway used to reward himself with Pratesi linens upon finishing a new novel. No need to write a book to come in and see some of the world’s finest in bed, bath, and table linens for the home, all made from Egyptian cotton. A collection of home accessories could not be complete without a luxurious cashmere blanket or robe.

The Watermark
In a world of electronic correspondence, it's nice when a store like Watermark can offer elegant invitations, stationary, and note cards - all with the option to be personalized. Photo albums, guest books and journals are great gifts for moms, for brides-to-be, or just for yourself. The Watermark also offers an extensive selection of hand-crafted cards for all occasions.

Check out places of interest near How to Shop: Oak Street:

200 East Supper Club
200 E Chestnut St, Chicago, IL 60611

A classic Sinatra-style establishment, 200 East Supper Club features an 1940's-esque food and drink menu as well as musical standards perfect for dancing.

312 Chicago
1030 N. State St., Chicago, IL 60610

This Italian-flaired steak house overlooks a tropical plant-filled atrium, complete with waterfall, providing a tranquil distraction while dining.

Bloomingdale's
900 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611

Six floors of designer clothing, cosmetics, shoes and more.

Gino's East
162 E Superior, Chicago, IL 60611

This is the original location of Gino's East, the now-famous Chicago-style pizza restaurant chain.

An Original Penguin
901 N. Rush Street, Chicago, IL 60611

An Original Penguin by Munsingwear offers trendy fashions for men, women, and boys in prices to fit every budget. 

Bloomingdale's
4963 Old Orchard Center, Skokie, IL 60077

The high-end retail outlet brings its trends to Skokie, with name-brand products for men, women and kids.

John Hancock Center Observatory
875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60661

See Chicago from the top of the Hancock Building in the heart of downtown. The John Hancock Center Observatory offers Chicago views at their finest.