15 Best Clothing Stores in Chicago (2023 Updated)

Over the decades, Chicago has retained its place as a shopping hub for visitors. The variety of clothing stores is brimming with fascinating vintage items, everyday wear, luxury designer clothes, and high-street fashion.

Chicago is home to one-of-a-kind boutiques to even thrift stores. Tucked away in pretty streets, you can find many clothing shops in and around the city.

Even if you don’t purchase a stack of clothes, you’ll certainly find yourself strolling in these famous shopping areas. You can splurge on rare finds or shop economically for wardrobe staples.

So, let’s prepare for some retail therapy as we discuss the 15 best clothing stores in Chicago to shop from in 2022.

1. Primark

Famous for its quality outfits at affordable prices, Primark has opened its doors to customers in Chicago. A bold entrance standing out against an urban backdrop is sure to lure you inside!

Primark is an International fashion retail store making its presence on the iconic Magnificient Mile. If you desire a good ambiance while shopping for your favorite looks, tour their 36,000 sq foot, three-story building.

The store offers great outfits for men, women, and kids, various footwear options, and homeware items. The store’s inside also matches the rich history of Chicago with its high beams and exposed ceilings.

Primark should be your first choice if you want to revamp your wardrobe while staying on the budget. According to the brand, Primark offers “Amazing fashion at an amazing price”!

Business Address: 35 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602

Contact: (708) 733-7344

2. Macy’s

Another must-visit shopping place to add to your Chicago tour is Macy’s. Established in 1858, this world-famous retail store has everything you could need.

From the high-end clothes of well-renowned designers to a range of home furnishings, you can spot everything at Macy’s. The store features a large variety of women, men, and kids’ apparel and cute accessories.

You can also find some big-name designers like Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and Estee Lauder, along with multiple budget-friendly options.

The State Street outlet of Macy’s is also home to some nice eateries, so you can eat while you shop. With too many options, you can spend a whole day at Macy’s and not get over it!

Business Address: 111 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Contact: +1 312-781-1000

3. Ragstock

Ragstock offers a mix of hip and vintage, and it’s hard to beat that combo! Ragstock has conquered the market with its cool new designs and unique apparel options for men and women.

This trendy clothing store chain features tank tops, tees, hoodies, bottoms, and sweatshirts in glamorous designs. If you are a 90s kid, you’ll love their store. They stock up on all the popular vintage stuff like Baja hoodies, Fair Isle sweaters, and the 80s designs.

Ragstock has also been a last-minute party shopping spot with various holiday clothing options. You can find Christmas, Halloween, the 4th of July, and St. Patrick’s Day outfits.

So, if you want to shop for one-of-a-kind pieces while not spending a fortune, try Ragstock.

Business Address: 835 North Michigan Avenue Level 5 Space 6030, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Contact: +1 312-877-5877

4. Art Effect

Art Effect offers the true boutique experience in the finicky neighborhood of Lincoln Park. The two-room store has been thriving since 1984 and offers something unique for every customer’s taste.

We are talking stylish clothing, luxurious jewelry pieces, knick-knacks, and bath and body products. Plus, the store can be your go-to place for buying gifts. From funky glasses to pretty vases, you are sure to find a great gift item for your loved ones.

Art Effect also has incredible things to elevate your style game and surroundings with trendy winter gear and home accessories.

If you want to refresh your wardrobe with casual and fancy attires, go check them out! And while you’re there, pick out some scented candles and home decor!

Business Address: 934 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, United States

Contact: +1 773-929-3600

5. Penelope’s

If you’re craving high-end luxury shopping, head to Penelope’s in Ukrainian Village. The store occupies a cozy nook on the street with many upscale casual apparel brands.

Penelope’s is an independently owned boutique store with various U.S. and European brands with casual clothing attires. The store also carries the french cult label APC, brought by only a few in Chicago.

The store is a great place to take everyday clothing up a notch. You can spot classic tailored outfits with contemporary designs and styles. The staff is accommodating and ready to assist you with your clothing needs.

The price range of the outfits is slightly higher than usual clothing stores. However, the high-class clothing assortment from reputable labels would make you wish for more!

Business Address: 1913 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Contact: +1 773-395-2351

6. The Fox Club

Looking to style some throwback looks? Chicago also offers fantastic vintage clothing shops to sport retro pieces.

One such find is The Fox Club, just a block from Empty Bottle at California Ave. The store features an exceptional assortment of vintage clothing from the 60s, 70s, and 80s. The outfits are arranged to form rainbow colors and give you a cool vibe from outside the store.

The clothing store also has its swim-wear line, “Fenton Fox,” with distinctive and quirky designs. They choose engaging and quirky prints and want you to have fun with your clothes. Want to rock a bikini with a printed cigarette butt on it? Shop at The Fox Club!

The only downside is that the store opens from Friday to Sunday, so you’ll have to free up your weekend!

Business Address: 1101 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Contact: +1 773-819-0138

7. ZARA

Need cutting-edge fashion at a breakneck speed? It’s a no-brainer that you have to choose ZARA for affordable latest fashion.

The Spanish fashion chain has become a household name in America when it comes to fast fashion. Based on the four guiding principles of “beauty, clarity, functionality, and sustainability,” ZARA is one of the largest international companies.

The true success of ZARA lies in the speed at which it introduces new collections. While other brands might take months to get to the latest trends, ZARA offers rapid turnout. You can spot everything from a classic black dress to the latest TikTok viral in the store.

The prices are reasonable, and there are multiple times when these go even lower with the huge sales. Also, the store has an easy exchange and return policy if you change your mind.

Business Address: West Randolph Street Space 110-214 1, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Contact: (833)247-2473

8. Scotch and Soda

Located in one of the most affluent neighborhoods of Chicago, Scotch and Soda is an exclusive men’s clothing store.

The store is committed to serving unique looks to fit personal and work lifestyles. It has an exquisite range of blazers, ties, suits, sportswear, casual, formal, and accessories.

The lifestyle clothing brand for menswear offers multiple price range options. With carefully curated high and low apparel items, the label ensures they have something for everyone.

Business Address: 1639 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States

Contact: (773) 687-8980

9. Kokorokoko

Kokorokoko, like its name, is a quirky vintage shop located at Wicker Park. It is certainly a treasure for vintage shoppers. Consider it your go-to destination for rocking 80s and 90s looks.

The storefront is cool too. The fun and bright colors in the shop give you a funky image of their clothing collection. Their apparel collection is quite diverse to cover “vintage.” Also, you can find extremely good stuff at reasonable prices. For instance, you can resale fun items for less than $100. Step into the shop when scrunchies and neon rule the fashion world!

Business Address: 1323 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Contact: +1 773-252-6996

10. Ross Dress for Less

Another place for affordable fashion fixes in Chicago is Ross Dress for Less. The retail chain offers brand-name clothing, footwear, and home accessories at a discounted price.

The store is known for providing on-trend apparel and multiple accessories to go with your outfit. There are season-end sales, too, to get the prices even lower.

With a multitude of options, you can certainly find your taste in fashion. There is no option for online shopping, but the store is open Monday to Sunday. You can visit any day of the week and enjoy fashion that doesn’t put a dent in your pocket.

Business Address: 26 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Contact: +1 312-578-0171

11. Men’s Room Chicago

There can be no other place perfect for men’s clothing than Men’s Room Chicago at Halsted St. You can find every wardrobe essential here, from casual pieces of denim to delicately styled three-piece business suits.

The store collects top-notch designer items of clothing and accessories for men. They have a complete business attire collection, sportswear section, outwear styles, and a lot of footwear and accessories to choose from.

Some best-selling brands include Shinola, Gordon Smith, and Oliver Peoples. Step into the store to build your dream wardrobe.

Business Address: 3343 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657, United States

Contact: (773) 857-0907

12. Jugrnaut

Jagrnaut stocks hip, fashion-forward, and vintage apparel. The store has great clothing options and ambiance too.

Most articles are for males, but they also have a great variety of women’s sweaters. You can spot multiple trendy brands like Cazal, Stussy, 10 Deep, and Panels. Also, Jagrnaut has its own line of hoodies, tees, and sweaters.

They have exceptional customer service too. The staff is friendly and ready to assist you in any way possible. They will also locate special edition pieces for you on request.

The store is open Monday to Sunday so you can pop in any time for a quick look.

Business Address: 427 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60605

Contact: (312) 435-4635

13. Bloomingdale’s

Bloomingdale’s need no introduction. It is one of those sites around the city that you can’t pass without a quick stroll through. If you’re a shopaholic, it’s a perfect place to spend your day shopping while sightseeing the lakefront.

The store has a wide range of men’s and women’s fashion items, including clothing, shoes, bags, accessories, and houseware. Bloomingdale’s is also a perfect spot if you’re into personal shopping. The stylists and spa treatments render it more special.

You might be in luck if your trip coincides with Bloomingdale’s events. It includes tips and tricks in fashion, makeup, and beauty from Hollywood Experts.

Business Address: 900 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Contact: +1 312-440-4460

14. Mindblend Supply Co.

This wicker park gem for men offers a universe of denim. You can spot every style from the classic staple Levi’s jeans to the more limited Naked & Famous pants. In fact, they are only one of the three stores to partner with Naked & Famous for their collection.

Luke Cho introduced this store in 2011 as a denim outfitter place. However, the style and quality have quickly made it a go-to destination for pieces of denim. You can also spot rare batman inspired denim pieces for men.

The best part is that you can find the range of a department store, still curated in a boutique way. While at Mindblend, every guy can spot his perfect jeans on the rack.

Business Address: 1342 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, United States

Contact: +1 773-772-9711

15. Handle With Care

The two-room boutique at Wells St. is the best place for women’s fashion. The store features upscale designers like Amanda Uprichard, Joie, Shoshanna, and Missoni.

However, despite the designer duds, the salespeople are friendly and laid-back. You can find a range of jewelry, gift items, and handbags to give the final touches to your clothes shopping.

Business Address: 1706 N Wells St, Chicago, 60614

Contact: 312-751-2929

Final Words

Chicago is filled with clothing stores, from upscale designer boutiques to more affordable streetwear fashion. You can choose department stores with multiple floors sprawling with the inventory. Or, there are independently owned local boutiques offering rare one-of-a-kind pieces.

The list of 15 best clothing stores in Chicago includes both. If you are looking for affordable, trendy pieces, you might like ZARA or Primark. However, your choice for more unique limited edition articles should be boutiques like Handle with Care or Art Effect.