Such a fun store to browse in or look for gifts for yourself or a friend... they carry a lot of cute like knick-nacks for the home, bedroom or kitchen. Also a nice selection of bath & body products ... unique photo albums, books, jewelery... and cute clothing too. Good stuff. read more

even before i lived here, i always liked coming into art effect when i visited. it just has a really good selection of gift items, jewelry, clothing, toys for kids, home furnishings - a wide variety of stuff that's great for gifts or if you just need some retail therapy. i could look around in art effect for hours. read more

Lots of different categories of things, and lots of items for each category. really, they have a huge selection. Great place for gifts. I stopped in and couldn't stay long but i will definitely be back. read more

I purchased a dress from the store during a sale but when I got home I saw that it was defective and had a hole/snag on the lining. I went back to the store to exchange it. I was not greeted when I entered the store and stood there for about 30 seconds before I was even acknowledged. I explained the situation and was immediately told, "sale items are final". Thinking maybe she didn't understand I explained again that the item was defective. She again said that because it was on sale, there was nothing she could do. I told her that all I wanted to do was exchange it for the SAME DRESS but without the defect and asked for a supervisor. She said that SHE was the supervisor and she didn't know if we had the dress (don't know your stock?). Finally, after more arguing, she agreed to do a store credit but I had to use it that day. Geez...a reminder why I love Nordstrom. Sadly, I like their stuff and shopped there often, but today will be the last day I step foot in this store. If you don't stand by your product, you don't deserve my money. Plain and simple. read more

This store is awesome. Perfect place to find a quick bday gift for someone. I was in a rush the last time I was there and ended up spending way more time in the store than anticipated Bc thy had so much awesome inventory to go through. read more

This is an amazing go to store for anything gift. I've been there a few times and always leave with more than I intended. They were happy to BEAUTIFULLY wrap my items, which saves me money and time. Helpful staff, cute selection, happy customer. read more

Art Effect has superb merchandising, and their buyer has a great eye. They sell lots of pretty, whimsical things that no one actually needs, i.e. my favorite things to purchase. I usually shop on Etsy, or across the street at Paper Source (where the staff are super friendly and helpful), but for last minute gifts, Art Effect is great. However. Their staff is ridiculous, and after this weekend, I'm pretty sure that I'm not going to shop here anymore. I'd rather plan ahead and find my gifts online, or go to another store where the things are just as cute, but the staff are friendly and competent, like the Left Bank on Webster. I was here on Mother's Day, picking up some last minute stuff and I had two plastic candlesticks in my hand plus a plastic cake stand. An older woman rushed up to me, saying "Let me take this and put it at the front so you don't break it." What? So I don't break it? Am I a child? This past weekend, what was in my hands was again escorted up to the counter for me, which made me feel like I couldn't be trusted to hold a plastic trinket. Also, both of the aforementioned purchases were rung up incorrectly and I was overcharged both times. The last time, I caught the mistake while I was still at the store (charged double what I was supposed to have been charged on one item) and the girl fixed it for me. The first time, I was overcharged by almost $20 and had to go back to the store to get my money. The girl never apologized for the inconvenience, and actually had an attitude like it was tacky that I was coming back for the money that THEY overcharged me. Having worked retail for years while in school, I can never understand the snobby attitude possessed by some boutique workers. You're...working...retail. read more

Love this shop. I'm not in the Lincoln Park area all that often but whenever I am, I make a point to stop in here. Such a unique layout, not too cluttered or hard to find things. And the items are great, fun, and have a pretty wide price variant, although overall it would lean towards the pricey end. But even still, from Moleskin pads to lace tops to whoopee cushions, this plays is always very fresh and fun. read more

I love this crap. Like, if I could buy all of it, and had some place to put it all, I would. But in all seriousness, this is the perfect place to get that random birthday gift for the friend (or mom, or sister) that's hard to shop for, or easy to shop for. They have an awesome selection of cards, books, and other fun things you didn't even know you wanted. It's a good place to kill some time to, although you'll probably end up walking out with a shopping bag... read more

Artifact has a really good location and some cute tchotchkes. Unfortunately that's really about the only good thing that I can say about the place. Everything is way way way overpriced, and staff is something else- they really leave a lot to be desired. It's kind of a prerequisite working retail to at least put on a happy face and pretend like you like your job or hell, pretend like you like people but apparently not at art effect. I'm pretty sure every time I've stopped in the staff hasn't been great. In fact I think the only time they've ever said anything that resembled a greeting was when I had the misfortune of stopping by Starbucks or David's Tea before coming in. Woooaaaahhhh by the way don't try this you will be immediately and rudely stopped within two steps of the front door and scolded that you aren't allowed to bring any food or beverages into the store as if anything is really that expensive! Overpriced, but nothing that would break the bank. Crazy! I visit art galleries and high-end designers who will let you walk through with a drink in hand. Promise not to actually drink in the store, nope they won't care. I don't think anything artifact is the highest quality, mostly middle-of-the-road of the road and stuff you can definitely find online way cheaper... Plus there are tons of other great shops in Lincoln Park that will treat you much better, and actually act happy you chose to visit them. read more

I always make an excuse to go here to buy someone's birthday gift, of course instead I shop for myself! There's so much packed into this boutique! I love the jewelry and accessories here the most because they are all cute and so affordable! Clothes are unique here, they sell a lot of shirts from Michael Stars, Velvet, and Three Dots. The clothes here don't fit my tastes and my budget, so I rarely buy anything from this section. I love the sparkly hair accessories and the bath/body products. Good stuff! read more

Art Effect was fun to browse, but I feel like there wasn't too much stuff I would actually purchase for a friend or family member. Lots of gifty stuff, but nothing that really hopped out in my mind as being unique. I also feel that some stuff was overpriced here. I am glad I checked it out and yes, I'd go here again another season to see new offerings, but I already have my go-to shops for gifting goodness. read more

This boutique is super cute and fun to browse at. I love their random selection (dish ware, clothes, purses, jewelry, hostess gifts, lingerie, cookbooks, notecards) you name it they have it and their selection is unique and cute. I love that they have Tai jewelry as well as various other obscure brands and local designers. Perfect place to find a gift for a friends birthday or bridal shower. read more

I LOVE this place. I just happened to pass by and walked in. They have a bunch of scarves that are different from the ones you usually get at department stores. I also loved their clothing selections; it's simple, basic and cute. Definitely going back when I move to Chicago in May. read more

Great store for gift giving....or for yourself if you find yourself distracted with all the little things browsing around. It's busy on the weekends, and that kind of makes it difficult to look through the racks and shelves without getting a little frustrated. I seriously worry I'm going to knock over something when I'm "carefully" trying maneuver around the tables and other shoppers...or someone might knock me over if he/she is not paying attention. read more

How have I gone so long not knowing about this gem of a store hiding along Armitage Ave?! I stumbled upon Art Effect while doing a little Sunday shopping on a beautiful fall day and I am never looking back! They have everything here-from clothes to jewelry to other accessories and the cutest gifts-you never need to go anywhere else! Can't wait until the holidays get closer-I know where I'll be doing my shopping! Love, love, love!! read more

Very pleasant boutique with a wide range of gifting possibilities for every price point. I was very happy to have a reason to buy something when I went in because I found so many amusing things! They also did an exceptional job with the gift wrapping at no charge. read more

This is a great store for gifts! They have the BEST candles (my favorite is the Votivo Red Currant- smell it, you'll love it). I also love their selection of funny toys and offbeat items. And they have many Barefoot Contessa books in the home & kitchen nook- so you know this store has to be good! They have a great jewelry selection too, but it is pretty pricey. Don't forget the gift wrap- they put a sprig of eucalyptus (at least I think that is what it is) on each gift and it smells great! read more

I love the fun and unique things I find in this store. Some of it is quite expensive, but some of it is quite cheap! I am thinking of going there today to pick out something fun for my ma for Mother's Day! read more

This store is fabulous! The only reason it gets 4 instead of 5 stars is that it is a bit expensive. However, it has really cute clothes and is the best destination for any gift-giving occasion. I noticed numerous fantastic options for small engagement presents (bride & groom shotglasses, little "everything a new bride/groom" needs to know" gifts, etc, as well as lots of fun gifts for the foodies (cookbooks, untacky chicago local guidebooks, fun kitchenware), and for birthday presents. Also very conveniently located right off the brown line! read more

Excellent selection of gifts for all occasions! Love their selection of cards as well. The store is very large. The other side has a large selection of clothing as well. If you are ever in need of a last minute gift, stop here. read more

Such a cute little shop to browse and only recently have I purchased anything from here. I love Dogeared jewelry (www.dogeared.com) and wanted to get a piece for a friend as a going away gift...only I waited too long to order it online. Art Effect carries a very good selection of the jewelry and had just what I wanted. I have never seen dogeared sold anywhere but online. The sales associate was also very nice and accomodating and they gift wrapped my purchases for free. I will definately be back to purchase again when I wait too long to order online. read more

I could have spent all day in this store! I was on the hunt for a birthday gift for my best friend and thought to stop into Art Effect. The salesperson greeted me right away and after a few minutes offered to help. She was extremely helpful--asked me how much I wanted to spend and made some great suggestions. Art Effect isn't cheap, but they have some items that cost less than others. This shop might not be for every budget, but if you're looking to splurge a little on something for a good friend (or even yourself), it's worth it to check out the rather large selection of items here. read more

This is a really cute shop in Lincoln Park with many gift ideas and clothing. The clothes are a bit pricey but it is always fun to look!

I loved the things in here, but I thought the prices were a little high and I didn't find the staff the least bit helpful. Check out their site before you go for an idea of what they carry. One half is all gifts and cute things (the kind of gifts that give you the reputation of "always buying the cutest, most unique things!") and the other half is clothing and accessories. I found a few things I would have bought, but I just couldn't believe the prices - even for a Chicago boutique. I will say though, it's fun to at least look through - lots of inspiration! The wall art (for sale, of course!) is absolutely to die for. read more

This place has been a favorite for years. It is perfectly positioned off the Armitage Brown line or Armitage Bus. they sell anything from a quirky ice tray to a 900 necklace. They have unique home accessories, absolutely gorgeous frames and vases, jewelry for every price range, great clothes and especially my fave, Michael star shirts!! 5 woots. You'll find the perfect gift for yourself or someone else. read more

They have awesome, and special things in this store for sure, but they really don't have the nicest manners or customer service. I bought 5 gifts there for mothers day, one happen to be on sale and they refused to wrap it for me unless I paid 2 extra dollars. Of course I did because I'm a sucker, but they couldn't have been more rude about it, and quite frankly...I bought 4 other things. If you're looking for cute local pieces this store is great, I'll definitely be back, but I've experienced rude employees more than once. Just a heads up..... read more

Interesting assortment of goods from clothing to home goods, but a poor customer experience. No returns allowed and exchange only within 14 days. While I want to support my local economy and independent shops like this one, this makes it difficult. I would encourage the owner to consider more customer friendly policies. read more

I don't shop the clothing side of the store but I love the jewelry! I have picked up so many cute inexpensive pieces for myself and friends. The earnings I am wearing today have been complimented 3 times and only cost $10! The rest of the store is full of unnecessary things for the home that are pretty to look at but nothing I would need. Although, this is a great place to find a gift for the person who has everything. read more

Amazing unique selection of products. Very reasonable prices. Service however was terrible. While I can appreciate the policy on outside drinks, they could definitely improve the delivery of that message. Haven't been treated this way by multiple store attendants at a store in quite a while. Purposely bought less in response to this negative attitude. read more

The inventory of boutique-y items here is just great. This is a go-to for me for engagement party and birthday gifts for my girlfriends. If I'm going to buy you stuff you definitely don't need, at least if I go to Art Effect I know it's going to be quality, attractive stuff that you would legitimately want. I sympathize with what I can only assume were ongoing problems for the store that led to some of its polices (i.e., no outside drinks, must put small items you plan to buy at register while browsing, store credit only 7 day return policy). As others have mentioned, I've found that the staff varies widely in level of tact and helpfulness. I love that they gift wrap for you, and I love being able to support a local business. read more

Had to go into this store when I moved into the area and I am pretty glad I did. It was a phase for a few weekends to drop way too much money here on pictures, kitchen items, and everything in between. They had great Christmas stuff for the most part and was looking forward to Valentine's Day stuff that they never got.....the sales staff here is decent, nothing to rave about. I hate their cashier wrap though, if you are in when its busy you will consistently get cut in line because there is no semblance when it comes time to handing over your paycheck for your Pylones goods and candles. I let it go too many times to mantain order but next time I am sticking my heel in the next B's foot that "doesn't realize she cut you". Why the H is Pylones stuff priced so high. I want that damn olive oil pourer that looks like a girl and is so cute and the water bottle with colorful flowers, but they would collectively cost $90+..... I DO heed warning however to these candle holders I got there in the fall. They are kind of Moroccan-ish looking and gold in a few sizes and weren't too expensive at all. However, they have held my tealights for months and caught fire 3 times now, one actually did so and exploded into a ton of pieces in my living room. Scary, I assume its the paint or something on them and I AM using them for the purpose intended upon creation so I have wanted to march down there and demand something be done for these instances but it is not worth dealing with boutique-esque return policies. WOOHOO! Great run on sentence :) read more

This is one of my favorite stores. Bright, clean, beautiful layout. A great array of products to choose from. I wish things were cheaper, but not enough that I'll knock a star off. read more

I stumbled into this store and it is WONDERFUL! Jewelry, clothes, accessories, gifts... all of it is very high quality and unique! I really loved the vintage-looking maps and other prints. I was in a hurry so I only glanced at the clothes but I really want to go back and spend more time!! read more

Visited the store this afternoon and I felt so uncomfortable. Wasn't greeted with a hi or how can I help you today? Instead I had the staff give me dirty looks. Won't shop here again! Beware! read more

Art Effect is an awesome place to go, whether you have a specific purpose or just want to look at fun things. I love the aesthetic and it can feel like you are looking through someones closet or trunk of goodies! It is my go to place for fun/funky gifts. I am a Youth Minister and they have the best random stuff for teenagers! My favorite is the rubber chicken that sqwawks and candy comes out of it's butt! Staff is also great! Always a smile and never pushy. read more

I love this place! It has a little bit of everything--clothes, jewelry, random books and gifts, kitchen stuff, etc. It's great for finding gifts for friends or picking up something new and different for yourself. The salespeople are always friendly and helpful. And the space of the store itself is also great. I personally love their t-shirts and earrings, and my friends are addicted as well. read more

I love this store. I just wish that it was a little bit more affordable for my college student budget!!!

More than once I've been approached (with potential items to purchase) at 7:01 and told that they were closed. Other times I've been there they've announced (read: yelled throughout the store) in advance that they "are closing in 5 minutes." Who rushes a bunch of would-be paying customers out of their store a minute past closing AT 7 PM? You're in retail- most stores stay open until 9pm (PLUS however long it takes the customers who entered your store prior to closing to finish shopping). Maybe their high prices are covering the high cost of rent, but either way it's terrible customer service and makes me want to pelt them with the merchandise I was previously planning on buying. Let's be honest, I'll probably shop at Art Effect again, but it won't be because of their friendly and accomodating staff. read more

What a disappointment today. Usually I absolutely LOVE this store, but today I was incredibly disappointed by the service. I wanted to buy a pair of white jeans that were on sale, but they had a spot on them and were a bit dirty by the front pocket. I asked the manager if she would be willing to discount them further due to the spot and dirt, and she said, "I'm sure that will come out with one washing. And they are discounted enough." My mistake? I actually bought them. Had I not been so desperate for a pair of white jeans, I would have never given her my business. She couldn't even give me 10% off? What a bad business move. I will never shop here again. And neither will the friends I was with. Too bad. read more