Beatnix
So it’s costume time, and you’re on the hunt for something… fabulous. If you’re thinking along the lines of feathery angel wings, disco balls, vinyl, rhinestones, and size 12 platforms, walk loud and proud to Beatnix.
This outlandish boutique in the heart of Boystown (mere steps away from Sidetrack) attracts a clientele as flashy as its merchandise. Clubbers, drag queens, and a curious, giggling straight tourist or two can be found perusing the aisles. The staff has just about seen it all, so they won’t give a second thought to helping you find outrageous wigs, tiaras, feather boas, headpieces, or even cosmetics that will perfectly accentuate any gentleman’s beautiful eyes. If pink isn’t your color, there’s also some “interesting” leather gear available as well as a considerable collection of military-themed outfits… some of which are more revealing than others.
Beatnix brings out the glamorous, campy side in everyone. Come find your inner diva.




The sign on the left reads, “Hey Hoochie… those shoes aren’t yours!
Absolutely no vogue-ing in the shoes or in the shoe area!
This includes spinning, dancing, bootyshakin’, strutting, or anything of the sort!!!”
Photo credit: (c/o Flickr) polomex, lobstar28 (1, 2), anarchivist
Beatnix: 3400 N Halsted St; 773-281-6933
Sun – Thurs: 12 noon – 10:00 p.m.
Fri – Sat: 11:00 a.m. – 12 midnight
Street parking difficult
Public trans: Bus # 8, 77, 152 or Red Line train (Addison)



October 31st, 2007 at 6:14 am
[...] Fashionista shares some inexpensive (but highly original) costume ideas here. Matt B. over at The Chicago Traveler recommends Beatnix, which he calls “an outlandish boutique in the heart of [...]
July 15th, 2008 at 8:45 am
[...] Beatnix. Although originally featured for Halloween, this Boystown corner shop is fun and fabulous all year [...]
August 26th, 2008 at 6:01 am
[...] 20-somethings hypnotized by the deep bass emerging from Hydrate (just north of Beatnix) enter via the “blue room,” where a bar island sits in the middle of an aquamarine-colored [...]
September 15th, 2008 at 10:26 am
This store was the worst experience of my life. Maybe because we are women??? The owner is extremely offensive!
September 15th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
I’m sorry to hear about your experience. I have to admit, the service there can be a bit spotty, depending on who is working there at the time and their level of rude ‘tude.
March 27th, 2009 at 1:04 am
Web site states that the store hours are Mon - Thurs are 12pm - 10PM. I made a special trip specifically to THIS store. 1 hour driving time and 20 minutes just to find a parking spot. I arrived at 8:05pm THURSDAY March 26th. After I walked in the door and confirmed it was Beatnix I was told that they were closing in five minutes. Surprised I mentioned that their web site says 10pm. I was told simply “NO.” by the female sales clerk and offered no more help than that. Well after a wasted trip, gas money, meter money and my time, I certainly didn’t want to keep them to their POSTED HOURS.
TWO WEB SITES BOTH STATING TEN PM AS THEIR THURSDAY CLOSING TIME.
http://chicago.citysearch.com/profile/3735260/chicago_il/beatnix.html
http://www.thechicagotraveler.com/beatnix/
Any costumers who can suggest a more professional store please contact me.
April 22nd, 2009 at 1:12 pm
hey there folks
beatnix webmaster here- just wanted to let everyone know our opening hours are always the same on special occasions we might open earlier. Closing time varies between 8-9 on weekdays and 10-11 on weekends. summer hours are later of course. please take note THANKS