As the Style issue comes together, DIVA check out what LGBTQI-friendly destination Illinois has for bargain hunters and style gurus
Discover a world-famous shopping destination as you trawl through a treasure trove of trinkets at one of the many Flea Markets in Illinois; try on pre-loved outfits at quirky vintage shops; or go big at one of Chicago’s fashion outlets!
Find the best shopping in Illinois with our handy list! #amazingforall
Eve Alfille Gallery and Studio, Evanston
All of Eve’s jewelry is crafted one at a time, here in the Evanston Studio by talented goldsmiths and artisans. If the piece you want is a “special order” item, please allow us time to create it for you.
Eve’s Gallery is a magical place. Eve, an award-winning artist and former archaeologist, designs exquisite jewelry and her pieces range from the simple to the simply amazing – only things to lust for here.
Alfillé’s Gallery is a frequent stop for jewelry lovers and now Eve has captured the cachet of her brick and mortar venue in her online store where you can shop in your pj’s and bunny slippers. Eve is continually adding new pieces so take a look and get a one-of-a-kind treasure for your self or as a gift.
Gurnee Mills, Chicago
With more than 200 manufacturer and retail outlet stores offering up to 70% off, serious shoppers flock to Gurnee Mills
The diverse variety of stores includes Bass Pro Shops, Saks Fifth Avenue Off fifth, Nike Factory Store, Gap, Last Call by Neiman Marcus and Levi’s. Dining options include Rainforest Cafe or you can grab a quick bite at one of the two food courts.
Non-shoppers can check out Rink Side Sports and Entertainment Centre for ice skating, arcade games and laser tag, or catch a movie at Gurnee Marcus Cinema! One for the whole family, eh?
Chicago Premium Outlets, Aurora
More than just a shopping center, Chicago Premium Outlets is a destination for shoppers and tourists visiting the Chicago area, with exclusive deals on outstanding designer and brand names just 40 minutes from downtown Chicago
Find unbeatable savings at Chicago Premium Outlets, one of the largest outdoor outlet malls in America, with over 140 designer and name-brand outlet stores, including Armani Outlet, Coach Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Under Armour, Michael Kors, and more.
With amenities to heighten your shopping experience, on-site dining options, and its convenient location just 40 minutes from downtown Chicago, Chicago Premium Outlets is a top destination for shoppers and tourists visiting the Chicago area!
Chicago French Market, Chicago
Chicago’s year-round, indoor marketplace providing you with permanent, convenient and personal access to local artisans and purveyors. A unique collection of local vendors that were hand selected for their individual passions and high-quality products. We are the best-of-the-best from Chicago neighborhoods and outlying areas.
Comprised of entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses and accomplished purveyors. Chicago French Market features over 30 individual specialty vendors who offer fresh ingredients for cooking at home, delicious grab-and-go options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, light snacks, picnics, easy party planning for home and office settings, plus meaningful gift ideas, all in one convenient location. Open Monday–Saturday.
Milk Handmade, Chicago
Named best new boutique by Time Out Chicago, Milk Handmade is a women’s clothing boutique that specializes in small-run, handcrafted goods. Whether you’re looking for the softest tee, the perfect handbag, or your new favorite Saturday-night top, Milk has the one-of-a-kind piece for you. Come on in, hang out, and prepare to fall in love.
Magnificent Mile, Chicago
You’ll find world-class shopping, dining, lodging and entertainment throughout the Magnificent Mile area. With four shopping centers, renowned boutiques and locally acclaimed designers, Chicago’s Magnificent Mile area is a shopper’s paradise.
After you’ve shopped ’til you dropped, dine at one of our superb restaurants, see Chicago’s famous skyline from the John Hancock Observatory, or catch a show at an area theatre. Dreamy.
Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Rosemont
Fashion Outlets of Chicago is the only two-level indoor outlet shopping experience in the Midwest featuring over 130 designer outlets offering great savings up to 75% off every day!
Conveniently located just five minutes from O’Hare International Airport and about 15 miles from downtown Chicago in Rosemont, Illinois. The Center is anchored by Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store, Forever 21, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Nordstrom Rack, and Saks Fifth Avenue off fifth, and is home to world-class brands like Gucci, Prada, Tory Burch, Ted Baker, Stuart Weitzman, Michael Kors, Burberry, plus national brands like Banana Republic, Vineyard Vines, J.Crew Factory, lululemon, Swarovski, Nike, Under Armour, and lots more.
In addition to an outstanding selection of outlet retailers, Fashion Outlets of Chicago features a variety of quick-service food options available to shoppers at the food court.
The Center offers an impressive contemporary art collection and premium services for domestic and international travelers such as luggage and shopping bag storage, currency exchange, translation services, boarding pass printing, coach check, gift wrap and more.
Shoppers can take advantage of additional savings with Fashion Outlets’ Savings Pass offering exclusive discounts and incentives at your favorite participating stores and restaurants for only five dollars!
Exile on Main Street, Champaign
Exile on Main Street has the best selection of vinyl in Champaign County. Full of character, this cool little shop has a great variety of new and classic artists. And, with their friendly and knowledgeable staff, you’ll be able to find just what you’re looking for.
Jane Addams Book Shop, Champaign
Jane Addams Book Shop in downtown Champaign offers more than 70,000 titles in fifteen separate rooms on three floors, plus ephemera (old photos, postcards, tickets, advertising materials), greeting cards, and bookmarks. Find rare, out of print, or hard to find titles or purchase a gift card for a book lover!
Harrison’s Gifts, Grafton
Quirky and cute gifts for any occasion! Located in the only Victorian home in Grafton Harrison’s Antiques and Gifts features seven rooms crammed full of antiques and collectibles. Plan to spend several hours browsing through the home and flea market located in the garage.
Down The Street, Galena
Located on picturesque Main Street Galena, this unique boutique features Miche bags, Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops, Not Your Daughter’s Jeans and beaded watch bands and faces.
Want more on LGBTQI Illinois? Visit enjoyillinois.co.uk/amazingforall
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I really love reading this blog because I love vintage fashion and this really helps a lot. Thanks for the information you have provided.