The Chicago Traveler

Alright, I’ll admit it. The whole retro fashion fad? I don’t get it. I stopped wearing my ‘80s outfits for a reason. But if vintage is your thing, then browse through the racks at Strange Cargo.
The racks and shelves (just north of Purgatory Pizza) are full of retro clothes, shoes, jeans, pea coats, accessories, and more. While most of the customers found perusing here don’t look like they even remember the ‘80s, they appreciate the quirky store for its old trading cards (“Saved by the Bell”?!), button-pins, and hundreds of iron-on T-shirt decals.
And just in case you don’t find a …read more

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We’ve all heard of the term “retail therapy,” shopping for the purpose of improving your mood. Often, shopping while you’re feeling down has less to do about what you’re buying but rather how those purchases make you feel.
Shopping for gifts at Virtu is an incredibly soothing experience. Soft music plays as you browse through fine-quality artisan wares. This charming gift shop (across the street from Red Dog House) carries “a curious collection of fine craft,” with everything from hand-carved spoons to ceramic tea sets. A wide variety of handmade jewelry is available from designers all over the country, and elegant …read more

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Is there someone out there whom you really, really don’t like? Give them the treatment they deserve with custom-printed toilet paper.
From Petersburg, IL (3-4 hours southwest of Chicago), Carlberg Design, Inc. custom prints biodegradable two-ply with photos, logos, or any other material that’s not copyrighted. Have some quotes printed, so you’ll have something to read while you’re in the bathroom. If you have roommates, have your roll monogrammed, so they know exactly which TP is yours. Throwing a Super Bowl or World Series party? Your guests’ll be surprised to see the opposing team’s name printed appropriately in the washroom. Or …read more

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So, you and your significant other “work” together. (wink wink nudge nudge) As a couple, your performance reviews are usually pretty good. However, on occasion, you have creative differences. Sometimes, you feel like working a half-day, while s/he wants to put in some overtime. Maybe your oral presentations could use some work. Perhaps you’re interested in some (ahem) “business attire” that’ll make him stand up and take notice. Or you want to surprise her with a new technique of double-clicking her mouse.
Maybe it’s time for some “work-related” research. G Boutique offers books, videos, accessories, supplies, and clothing (or lack thereof). …read more

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Everyone knows at least one person that’s seemingly impossible to shop for. If this person on your list is a fan of Chicago and its history, then there’s a store near Michigan Avenue that’s perfect for them: the City of Chicago Store.

Just across the street from Water Tower Place, you’ll find the city’s old pumping station and the City of Chicago Store. There’re plenty of wonderful souvenirs as well as retired municipal equipment, making it perfect for both tourists and longtime Windy City enthusiasts.
This Chicago “outlet,” if you will, carries a variety of books, featuring the city’s history and architecture. …read more

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Pretty soon, those little superheroes, ghosts, and pirates will be ringing your bell and knocking at your door, expecting something sweet to eat. Sure, you could go to any store and pick up the same ol’ Snickers and M&M’s that everyone else has, but how many houses can boast Abba Zabba, Mary Janes, or Wonka Bars?
Around the corner from Luxe, Suckers Candy, Inc. is chock full of candy memories. Revel in the sweets of the past, browsing through the likes of Slo’ Pokes and Wacky Taffy. Can’t decide? They’ll gladly put together a gift package for you, filled with all …read more

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Sure, you’re fairly easy to please. You can appreciate the simple things in life. But sometimes the occasion calls for something with a touch of class. A few flowers, some wine, perhaps?
A. Vision creates floral arrangements with flair and style. Just tell them the colors, themes, or vision you have in mind, and they’ll provide a presentation that matches perfectly. They’ll even match it with the perfect vintage. These blooms from all over the world will transform your home, office, restaurant, or event into a charming venue. A. Vision’s impressive collections make a great gift for your friends or yourself.
Elegant. …read more

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