As spring fashion is beginning to make its appearance in the windows and “new arrivals” tabs of our favorite stores, and coats begin to hit the clearance racks, a certain kind of excitement rushes through the atmosphere of the fashion world. Being a time for new beginnings (and certainly new trends), spring serves as the perfect time for fashionistas to branch out and try new shops. The many neighborhoods around Chicago house countless boutiques and independent shops that are often overshadowed by bigger names like Urban Outfitters, Forever 21 and J. Crew.
Just down the street from the Belmont Red Line stop, located at 855 W. Belmont Ave., stands the four-story Belmont Army. Upon walking in, the store is immediately comparable to Urban Outfitters. Studs, Peter Pan collars, graphic tees and other current trends decorate the racks, all at incredibly reasonable prices. So what makes this modern-urban shop so unique? There are five floors, each with their own theme.
Off to the right you’ll find a staircase. Head down to the basement if you’re in need of a new deck for your skateboard, or a killer pair of skate shoes. The second floor houses tables and shelves of shoes ranging from Tom’s to Jeffery Campbell. Not to mention the well-stocked sale section.
Camo and military jackets have definitely been making a comeback this season. Follow the staircase up to the third floor to find the military surplus shop: carrying everything from edgy combat boots, to flags for your apartment and of course, military jackets of all sorts.
Finally, if you walk up the last flight of stairs, colorful arrows decorate the walls directing you up to Belmont Army’s home for vintage. With endless racks to search through, fitting rooms decorated with CTA signage and necklaces dangling from potted branches, the thrift floor is definitely the most eclectic.
For those who would typically shoot for a more feminine classic look at Anthropologie or J. Crew, hop on the train and head over to Penelope’s located at 1913 W. Division St. in the ever-eccentric Wicker Park.
This quaint boutique is incredibly inviting, and lines its racks with fresh and chic pieces that showcase vintage inspiration. Housing both men and women’s apparel, this boutique has something to offer for every shopper. If you often find yourself donning bright colors, fun prints and can’t get enough vintage, Penelope’s is definitely for you.
Fashion is all about taking risks and breaking the rules. This spring, step away from your go-to fashion retailers and check out what these, and other, independent shops have to offer.
