Vintage shopping scene in Chicago

From the bustling Maxwell Street Market to the treasure-filled aisles of Broadway Antique Market, Chicago’s vintage scene captures the city’s gritty charm and Midwest authenticity. Local favorites like Kokorokoko and Salvage One offer everything from retro furniture to classic Windy City memorabilia.

The Brown Elephant in Andersonville and Rad Vintage in Wicker Park anchor a network of curated second-hand shops that define Chicago’s thrifting culture. These spots blend perfectly with neighborhood haunts like Knee Deep Vintage and VMR, where savvy locals hunt for hidden gems.

Explore Chicago’s best vintage haunts down below!

Broadway Antique Market

What to Expect

Extensive vintage furniture collection

Description

Broadway Antique Market is Chicago's oldest and largest antique store, offering a vast selection of vintage furnishings, art, lighting, objects, fashions, and jewelry across two floors. It specializes in unique Mid Century, Art Deco, 60's & 70's furniture and design, featuring items from 75 top dealers. This market is particularly notable for its well-merchandised and clean environment, making it a standout destination for vintage enthusiasts. It features a diverse range of items, including decorative arts, historic photos, and magazines, making it an ideal place to explore for those interested in vintage goods.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Broadway Antique Market

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Knee Deep Vintage

What to Expect

Extensive vintage clothing collection

Description

Knee Deep Vintage offers a wide range of men's and women's vintage clothing from the 1940s to the 1990s, including hard-to-find items from the 1920s to the 1950s. Located in Pilsen, the store provides affordable, fashion-forward vintage apparel and accessories like bags, shoes, and jewelry. It also features housewares and furniture, making it a comprehensive destination for vintage enthusiasts.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Knee Deep Vintage

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Kokorokoko

What to Expect

Curated 80s and 90s vintage fashion

Description

Kokorokoko is a vintage clothing store in Wicker Park, Chicago, offering a curated selection of clothing, accessories, and shoes from various decades. It specializes in 80s and 90s fashion, providing an inviting atmosphere for shoppers. The store frequently updates its inventory, ensuring a fresh selection for returning customers. It also hosts events and workshops celebrating vintage culture.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Kokorokoko

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Maxwell Street Market

What to Expect

Historic Cultural Marketplace

Description

Maxwell Street Market offers an eclectic mix of handmade crafts, resale housewares, clothing, and more. This historic market, once a major economic hub, now features live entertainment and incorporates local businesses. It stands out for its diverse cultural offerings and welcoming atmosphere.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Maxwell Street Market

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Rad Vintage

What to Expect

Curated vintage clothing selection

Description

Rad Vintage offers a curated selection of women's and men's vintage clothing and accessories from the 1940s to the 1990s. Located at 1511 W Berwyn Ave, it provides a unique shopping experience with a wide range of vintage items.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Rad Vintage

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Ragstock

What to Expect

Diverse vintage and used clothing selection

Description

Ragstock offers a diverse mix of affordable vintage and used clothing, along with new and party items. With locations in Wicker Park, Lakeview, and Water Tower Place, it provides a wide selection of vintage pieces from various decades. The stores are known for their eclectic inventory and frequent updates, making them a go-to destination for vintage enthusiasts.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Ragstock

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Salvage One

What to Expect

Architectural Salvage Warehouse

Description

Salvage One is a vast 60,000 square foot warehouse specializing in architectural salvage. It offers a wide array of vintage items, including stained glass windows, claw-foot tubs, wooden doors, and antique furniture. The store also serves as an event venue and provides rentals for film and theater productions. Its mission is to preserve and reuse architectural elements from old buildings.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Salvage One

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Shangri-La Vintage

What to Expect

Vintage clothing from the 1950s to 1980s

Description

Shangri-La Vintage offers a diverse selection of men's and women's vintage clothing, accessories, and housewares from the 1950s to the 1980s. Located in Roscoe Village, this store is a staple for those seeking nostalgic pieces to enhance their wardrobe. It provides an eclectic mix of items, making it a go-to destination for vintage enthusiasts.

Where: Chicago | More Info: Shangri-La Vintage

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The Brown Elephant

What to Expect

Historic theater building

Description

The Brown Elephant is a vintage resale shop located in a historic Spanish Baroque Revival building, formerly the Calo Theater. It offers a vast selection of fashionable finds, home dΓ©cor, and vintage items. All proceeds support LGBTQ+ healthcare and fund care for the uninsured and under-insured at Howard Brown Health. Features a spacious environment with a rich history, making it a standout destination for vintage enthusiasts.

Where: Chicago | More Info: The Brown Elephant

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VMR

What to Expect

Upscale Designer Vintage Showroom

Description

VMR offers a meticulously curated selection of vintage, modern, and current season designer clothing and accessories. Located in a serene, by-appointment-only showroom, it features pieces from major design houses. VMR is particularly noted for its upscale offerings and personalized service, making it a standout for those seeking high-end vintage fashion.

Where: Chicago | More Info: VMR

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