Shopping and retail options in Illinois: Diverse shopping malls statewide. Boutique shops in Chicago's neighborhoods. Outlet malls for discounted brands. Farmer's markets in suburban areas. Specialty stores in small towns. Illinois-unique craft and art shops. Illinois-based fashion designers. Seasonal sales during events. Tax-free back-to-school shopping days. Local produce and artisan goods.
Diverse shopping malls statewide.
In Illinois, shopping malls exhibit a diverse range of experiences, from thriving malls like Woodfield Mall, which is one of the largest in the U.S. and features over 230 stores, to repurposed or abandoned malls such as Illinois Centre Mall and Dixie Square Mall. Many malls have adapted by incorporating retail, entertainment, and social spaces to attract Gen Z consumers and stay relevant in the Changing Marketplace.
Boutique shops in Chicago's neighborhoods.
Chicago's neighborhoods offer a diverse range of boutique shops, such as Andersonville's eclectic vendors, Hyde Park's unique bookstores and art shops, Lincoln Park's designer and artisan boutiques, and Lakeview's vintage and custom shops, each reflecting the distinct character of their respective neighborhoods. To explore more about these charming local stores and find your next favorite spot, visit the Chicago Neighborhood Boutiques guide for an in-depth look at what each area has to offer.
Outlet malls for discounted brands.
Illinois boasts a variety of outlet malls that provide discounted prices on popular brands, including Fashion Outlets of Chicago, Chicago Premium Outlets, and Gurnee Mills Outlet Mall. These destinations feature a broad array of luxury and trending fashion labels, offering substantial savings. Besides shopping, visitors can enjoy additional amenities such as dining and entertainment. For more information on these outlet destinations, visit the Best Outlet Destinations for Bargains in Chicagoland.
Farmer's markets in suburban areas.
This guide offers a comprehensive list of farmers markets in the Chicago suburbs and Northwest Indiana, showcasing markets in Aurora, Elgin, Evergreen Park, Homewood, and Lake Bluff. It provides detailed information on their locations, operating hours, and the diverse variety of products available. For anyone looking to explore these vibrant local markets, the Chicago Tribune article is an essential resource offering insights into the rich bounty of products that each market has to offer, celebrating local vendors and regional produce.
Specialty stores in small towns.
Illinois offers a plethora of unique shopping experiences in its small towns, with places like Bloomington-Normal featuring specialty boutiques. You can find fair trade crafts at Crossroads Handcrafts of the World and explore Lebanon's "Brick Street," which is lined with historic shops, antique stores, and local eateries. Other notable mentions include Galena's historic Main Street filled with art galleries, antiques, and boutiques, as well as the charming shops in Jacksonville's Historic Downtown. For more insights on these destinations, visit the Illinois Road Trip Round-Up that highlights these unique shopping spots.
Illinois-unique craft and art shops.
In Chicago, unique craft and art shops like Genesis Art Supply in Bucktown offer extensive art supplies, classes, and community events, making them standout destinations for craft enthusiasts.
Illinois-based fashion designers.
Illinois-based fashion designers showcase a diverse array of talents and specialties, ranging from luxurious faux-fur jackets by Julia Gawron to versatile pieces by Suzette Opara, who caters to all sizes and has made her mark at New York Fashion Week. The influences of Filipino culture are evident in the work of MegMANSKI, a native of the Philippines, who excels in alterations. Sustainability takes center stage with Deztinni, who is renowned for her innovative use of recycled denim. The sleek and sophisticated designs of AmaraBlack round out this impressive group, all contributing significantly to the vibrant fashion scene in the region. Discover more about these creative minds by visiting Fashion Bar Chicago.
Seasonal sales during events.
Illinois offers various seasonal shopping events, including the Illinois Product Holiday Market, Illinois Product Expo, and other markets like the Artisan Market at the Illinois State Fair and the Illinois Product Fall Market, providing consumers with opportunities to purchase locally-made products, enjoy seasonal activities, and support local businesses. For more information, visit the Illinois Product Events page.
Tax-free back-to-school shopping days.
In 2024, Illinois will not be providing a sales tax holiday for back-to-school shopping, a notable shift from the 10-day period experienced in 2022 when the state slashed its sales tax from 6.25% to 1.25% on qualifying school supplies, clothing, and footwear. Nevertheless, an alternative benefit remains available as Illinois offers an Education Expense Credit on tax returns for eligible back-to-school expenses. For further details, you can visit the NBC Chicago website to explore their comprehensive coverage on this topic.
Local produce and artisan goods.
The Midwest is abundant with opportunities to support local economies and enjoy high-quality produce and goods directly from the source. Initiatives such as the Market Wagon in Bloomington, IL, enable consumers to effortlessly connect with local farms from the comfort of their homes, promoting fresh produce and local foods through convenient online shopping and delivery services. Meanwhile, the Chicago Artisan Market shines a spotlight on the finest local food, fashion, home goods, and art, nurturing small businesses and artisans throughout Chicago and beyond. Likewise, Chicago Market collaborates with numerous farms in central Illinois, offering a seamless way to enjoy local produce and meats through online orders, with flexible pickup and delivery options. Additionally, Illinois Product Events, including the notable Artisan Market at the Illinois State Fair, serve as vibrant platforms connecting local artisans with consumers, bolstering Illinois-made goods and the state's thriving agricultural sector.