Your Chicago Guide to Creating your Fall Look
Fall is fast approaching and it's our favorite time of year - for FASHION! According to some fashion experts, feathers, fur and fluff are all the rage, and so are Boho and leopard print . .. so it seems you've got a pretty good range to find your own style! Really, is there a better wardrobe time of year than fall? We don't think so - With the leaves turning color, and a gentle, cooler breeze ushering in shorter days, it's the perfect time of year to mix fabrics and textures to create some fire layered looks.It's all about being comfortably cool!
We've done some of the ground work for you with our reco's on shops around the city to get you outfitted for this awesome autumnal season of fun. With a few exceptions, this list is mostly comprised of locally owned shops, because supporting local businesses is important! In fact, ACME is an independently owned local business too! - So we get it. Check out some of our faves!
- Like a breath of fresh (fall) air, Penelope's offers daywear, outerwear and even accessories for women and men. And since it's a boutique, you'll be sporting one-of-a-kind styles around town. It's at 1913 W Division, Wicker Park.
- Alice & Wonder is a first-rate boutique in the Lakeview neighborhood with a tagline that reads Pretty Fun Things, and we couldn't agree more! Ranging from apparel to accessories to home, their looks are fresh and unique! The Southport corridor is stockpiled with independently owned small shops and an awesome place to spend an afternoon! 3542 N Southport. Lakeview neighborhood.
- Featuring styles for women and men, Madewell just happens to be the mecca for denim. They even feature Madewell Atelier, a one-on-one tailoring experience so you get the exact fit you want. And yes, we want! Two nearby locations: 932 N Rush St in the Gold Coast and in Fulton Market at 855 W Randolph. Bonus, both locations are smack dab in the middle of some crazy mad bars and restaurants in the city! Stop for lunch, stop for a cocktail. Stop for a lunchtime cocktail. We don't judge!
- Nordstrom Rack, while not an independent, is definitely worth a peek! Located just down the street, it's a little easier on the wallet! Take note; one must be decisive when shopping at Nordstrom Rack because inventory shifts quite often, so if you want it - get it - because you probably won't see it 2 hours later! 101 E Chicago.
- Check out Una Mae's for kicky separates for men and women. Think tops/bottoms, sweaters, scarves, plus home and apothecary items if you want to pick up some extras! They're in Wicker Park at 1528 N Milwaukee!
Of course, fall also requires a perfect new home for your feet - A place to nestle those dogs while you hit the trendiest restaurants, gaze at a masterpiece at the Art Institute, or traverse the city taking in the wonders that are Chicago. Yes, we're talking about boots! Those versatile fashion must-haves that complete just about any look you create - from denims to dresses, skirts to shorts - the boot is a girls best fashion friend. Give your wardrobe a kick and check out some of our favorite boot haunts in the 312!
- Don't walk, RUN to Free People for some of the hottest looks in boots this fall. Free People is known for their bohemian fashion and their boots. And their clothing selections are wide and incredibly on point! Plus with a few locations . . . super easy to get to! You can find them on the Mag Mile at 835 Michigan Avenue, and in Fulton Market at 1101 West Randolph.
- It's no secret to most shoppers that Nordstrom has ruled the shoe department for decades. With an ultra wide selection and their legendary sales, Nordstrom is always worth a drop in - (and it's just around the corner). They've got a great selection of fall clothes too! 55 E Grand Ave in River North.
- A Lincoln Park institution, Lori's Shoes is a longstanding local favorite because we all know when you go to Loris for one pair . . . you usually walk out with two or three! It's what we do - A boot-shopping trip to Lori's is like the official kick-off to fall! And btw, there's lots of other cute places on Armitage too - Buy boots, stay for lunch, shop some more! 824 W Armitage.
- When western boots are all the rage, one must find themselves at Alkala's in the West Loop. Imagine just about every color combination under the sun, then consider the mind-blowing combo's you' can't even picture. You'll find them at Alkala's! Men's, women's, kiddo's . . . they're all there waiting for a new home! 1733 W Chicago Ave.
- City Soles has been outfitting the stylish feet of Chicagoans since 1991. From combat boots to sneakers, they've got it all. Besides, can you really argue with a shop that uses the tagline, If you're going to kick ass, you need kick ass shoes? We didn't think so. 1710 N Damen in Wicker Park.
The fact is, we could go on and on . . . because there are so many shopping options in Chicago, it would make your head spin. Hopefully this gives you a head start - While you're out there, keep your eyes open, because around every corner in every neighborhood, you're going to bump into a real find! Maybe we'll see you out there - or better yet, here at ACME.
photo credit: Senivpetro on freepik