Treasure Hunt: Your Guide to Chicago’s Vintage Stores

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Buffalo Exchange

The chic boutiques on the Magnificent Mile has helped earn the Windy City a reputation as a world-class retail destination. But beyond downtown, one can find many shops for lovers of the past decades of fashion. Check out our guide to the best of Chicago’s vintage stores.

Lost Girls Vintage

The Vibe: Founded by two friends with a passion for fashion, woman-owned Lost Girls Vintage blends retro charm with modern flair. Its selection caters to free-spirited, bold individuals who aren’t afraid to stand out, with an array of boho-inspired clothing, accessories and home goods curated for eco- and trend-conscious shoppers.
On-the-Go: Lost Girls Vintage started as a traveling store housed in a 1976 Dodge RV before expanding to a brick-and-mortar location. There are now two shops, in West Town and Logan Square.

Richard’s Fabulous Finds

For the Gentlemen: Located in Humboldt Park, Richard’s Fabulous Finds bills itself as a “true vintage haberdashery.” Richard’s specializes in a full range of dapper menswear, from sharp suits and pocket squares to bowties and fedoras. Walking into Richard’s feels like stepping into a classic 20th century wardrobe.
What’s Different: Richard Biasi brings his expertise in luxury menswear and historical costuming to every piece. His attention to detail has earned him a reputation among collectors and costume designers.

store B Vintage

High-End Threads: Wicker Park’s store B Vintage is the epitome of luxury among Chicago’s vintage stores. The carefully curated collection includes designer clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories from brands like Prada, Versace and Cartier. This boutique prides itself on discovering meticulously preserved merchandise, allowing you to find timeless investment pieces that make a statement. 
More Than Just Fashion: The shop also sells home goods, from art glass decorative pieces to a set of swizzle sticks topped with pink elephants. 

Knee Deep Vintage

Journey Through Time: Nestled in the heart of Pilsen, the vibrant Knee Deep Vintage has been a beloved fixture since 2008. Discover a wide variety of styles, from ‘50s dresses and statement jewelry to grunge-era leather jackets and band tees.
Newcomers Welcome: Known for its affordability and accessibility, Knee Deep has personal styling and shopping services for those looking to get into the vintage scene. 

Vintage Frills

Cozy Vibes: Avondale’s charming boutique has an array of vintage clothing, jewelry and home decor with a touch of whimsy. Vintage Frills blends quirky nostalgia with practicality in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Shop by Color: The space is split into five rooms based on the color of the items (yellow, blue, red, pink, black/neutral), with a sixth called “Prom & Beyond.” This unique setup allows shoppers to find exactly what they’re looking for in a fun way. 

Pep Club Vintage

Preppy Picks: Located in West Town, the merchandise found at Pep Club Vintage specializes in sporty, preppy and retro styles from the ‘70s through the ‘90s. From colorful varsity jackets to perfectly broken-in sweatshirts, this shop embodies the playful side of the past.
What’s Special: The shop regularly hosts events like community craft nights and parties in its studio.

Bodega Vintage

New on the Block: Among the newest of Chicago’s vintage stores, Wicker Park’s Bodega Vintage has become a favorite in less than a year. Spanning 2,000 square feet, the inventory is a diverse selection of treasures, from retro tees to home decor. The shop also hosts community events, making it a hub for vintage lovers and creatives alike.
An Ever-Changing Experience: The store’s owners lease space to other vintage resellers for up to two weeks, which allows for frequent new arrivals and builds community among local vintage vendors. 

Buffalo Exchange

Renowned Treasures: A national vintage staple, Buffalo Exchange in Wicker Park and Andersonville are a go-tos for sustainable shopping. This buy-sell-trade store combines vintage and contemporary pieces, making it a favorite for both thrifty fashionistas and environmentally-conscious shoppers.
Eco-Friendly Finds: The shop’s dynamic inventory changes daily, with everything from classic denim and graphic tees to modern footwear. Plus, selling your own clothes for store credit is a fun, environmentally-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe.