Want to get your shopping fix off the beaten path? Head a mile northwest of the Loop to Chicago Avenue in the Ukrainian Village, a quaint neighborhood that sports an eclectic mix of fashionable boutiques. Whether you’re a vinyl junkie, a design devotee or a vintage vixen, a stroll down this strip is just what the stylist ordered.
Stetson hats, Frye boots and a collection of massive, personality-baring belt buckles suitable for both urban cowboys and folks eager to infuse their wardrobe with a dose of the Wild West are just a few of the items at Alcala’s Western Wear. 1733 W. Chicago Ave., 312-226-0152, www.alcalas.com.
At Very Best Vintage, you’ll spy goods ranging from a 1950s prom dress to a ’70s jumpsuit to an ’80s lunch box. Look for a small selection of top-tier designer vintage—a recent visit unearthed finds from Diane von Furstenberg and Sonia Rykiel—at this delightfully eclectic shop. 1919 W. Chicago Ave., 312-226-5530.
The carefully edited collection of toys at Rotofugi is less for kids and more for art and design aficionados. Look for DIY paper postcards from Taiwan, mini fortune cat figurines from Japan and other items from artists across the globe. On Saturdays, stop by the adjacent gallery to view work from up-and-coming artists. 1953 W. Chicago Ave., 312-491-9501, www.rotofugi.com (after Aug. 22, call for new location).
