I LOVE Marlowe on my skin…read more Marlowe Italian cashmere, that is. Not Brave G's dining companion of the same name. Marlowe offers exquisite cashmere sweaters & shawls. Colors are understated & details are subtle. Tasteful. Elegant. Splendid. The Chicago boutique is their only store in the States. The corner space is moderately sized, but high ceilings & well placed merchandise gives an airy feel. Two pairs of eyes turned to me as I entered the otherwise empty branch. Although I very casually dressed in one of my many collegiate outfits & carrying a rather wet umbrella, I was greeted by a friendly staff. Denise Naulyt directed me to a few pieces on display & brought out more items from the back. Perfect for the upcoming Fall. (Leaf peeping, anyone?) Your skin will thank you. So will your boyfriend.

It has been quite a long time since I have had such a poor, uncomfortable experience while…read moreshopping. Granted, I seldom do however a colleague recommended stopping into a few boutiques while I was in Chicago for three weeks last year. The store is beautiful from the outside in and calm. I took in the layout of their minimalist environment with a clean approach to merchandising. Then I heard someone running in heels and a face popped around a corner, full of smiles greeting me. It was unsettling to say the least. The girl then walked towards me and started asking me questions such as have you been here before? Oh, what brings you in? What is that clients name that told you about the store? I've never felt so forcibly put on the spot and I hadn't even had the opportunity to touch one article of clothing. I wish I could have extended those few tranquil moments when I had first walked in. I'm not sure if this saleswoman is aware of how her determination and digging were jarring for me. She was incredibly skinny, looks to work out frequently from the leanness of her physique and her energy level was on high which did not match the environment I thought I was stepping into. There was a young girl near the back, maybe even 20 years old. They both made me very uncomfortable; I thought how can these girls relate to what my needs are? At this point, the girl had pulled out a suit jacket, was describing some details and I asked how much it was ($1300). I could tell that this store would be expensive when I walked in however I was not willing to spend the time with that girl. I let her know that I appreciated the store and the jacket was nice but that I had to go. Then another barrage of questions occurred; how long will you be in the city? Do you want to receive our catalog? Can I put the jacket on hold for you? I'm sorry Marlowe, it's been over a month and that experience still resonates with me. Your pushiness revolts me and I hope making you aware settles me.

In the 18 st my place to fill my mexican heart All you need…read moreis shopping bags, decor, soaps , earrings, dolls, and much, much more Yes, it is a little pricy, but all is homemade I love it

In honor of women's history month, I would like to shine the spot light on this very cool shop in…read morethe Pilsen neighborhood. Also, I would like to thank all of the people that have come out to support businesses in this area that were hit hard by the current political climate in Washington D.C. At the height of violence in our streets I tried to do my best by supporting some of these businesses. During this phase 18th street looked like a ghost town on a Saturday. Normally on a Saturday in this neighborhood has people teeming everywhere and the smell of an asado in the air (Yum). Having time off and having an asado is the perfect way to relax and spend time with your family. Plus, who doesn't like the smell of an asado? Well during this time period I found this shop that I thought had some really cool and unique stuff. Also, you may notice that they have a fair amount of stuff with the famous Hulu's The Bear line, "Yes Chef, No Chef" on it. If you are a fan of the show like I am, then, the interior will look familiar to you because it was in a seen on the show (I think it was season 3). I immediately recognized the store and thought to myself "cool" and great choice. Anyhow, if you find yourself in the area, pop in and check it out. They are very selective as to which artists around the country they want to buy from and in turn sell their products. Maybe you will find that one unique thing that you have been looking for that you didn't realize you need. I mean, you never know unless you check it out. My fellow Chicagoans, please go out and support your local small shops!

Shopping... well for me, shopping is a way a life. You spend a lifetime learning how to search for…read moredeals, digging for amazing items, and dedicating yourself to the cause. Cora's Closet is the vision of a woman who has embraced shopping, and presents it shoppers in a way that truly shows you her passion. The items are truly unique, and incredibly affordable. I'd seen a few of their products around and thought it looked amazing, but I had the typical, "I'm sure I'll look fabulous in this after I spend a whole paycheck" moment. It was a pleasant surprise to find items that were in my price range and high quality. The icing on the cake... the clothes. Cora (the owner) offers a wide variety of items, including super trendy items, work friendly clothing, and everyday basics. I was able to find a jacket to wear to work, a skirt to wear to a nice dinner, and top for a casual night out with friends. They also have an amazing selection of unique (some handmade) jewelry and accessories. I was really pleased to find a shop that wasn't owned by a huge corporation, concerned with quality, and had everything I needed. Well done! I'll be back again, you're in for a real treat. Shop on, fellow addicts!

Cora's Closet is a fantastic boutique run by Norel. A forward fashion women who runs this boutique…read morewhich features some of todays hottest trends for women! I actually discovered her shop by accident, through a friend of mine within the same building. When I popped into the store to take a peep, I was quite impressed both by the charming environment but more importantly the prices which cannot be beat! We chatted for hours, about fashion, business, careers, clothes, life. She's one lovely, hardworking and inspiring young woman! And I always \go by frequently to see what's new and often times will take or send my clients there to shop too!

Surprised I have never reviewed The Silver Room. I have been a fan of this store for years and make…read moreit a point to visit every time I'm in Chicago. Years ago I attended a poetry event and art auction inside the store but, since moving away, I'm not sure those events are still a thing. I hope they are. I couldn't count the number of sunglasses I have purchased from here if I tried. I always leave with at least one pair, a book, and various other items whether a tote bag, t shirt, button, cards, etc. I hope the business continues to be successful and would love to the location even expand a bit if that's something the owner is interested in.

Was a great experience. A very unique environment and saw some really cool items inside!read more

An African Proverb said and I Nicole Cabell-Pope quote here: If the Lion never tells His story the…read morehunter always wins. Thank you Kayra Import an important business and good friend in our story of marriage beginning. We were told to go to your store for our vision of our wedding. Cedric and I hope for an African and Christian wedding and we found good and amazing products here. We designed in a picture drawing enhanced by our seamstress my wedding dress and my husband too for my groom. Cedric found his groomsmen gifts and beautiful African bowls I found for my bridesmaids. To go here contending for the faith in your focus and design and to help you find what you are looking for is a blessing and because people are creative and have in eye for fashion you leave knowing you went to the right place. Thank you to owner and rest in peace Sherillyn

I have been going to Kayra for my fragrance oils for a while now. Language barriers happen from…read moretime to time with some of the staff not quite catching what I am asking. The owner or head is always welcoming though, and my questions get solved or answered. There isn't much to say. It's a nice store with lots of things to look at. Innovation is lacking though. The fragrance oils are the only scents they seem to have and I would have wanted some actual colognes and parfums from Africa if they are even produced. The jewelry is boring and standard stuff that you could find easily and the clothing and fabric are very basic for African wear when I would have wanted more forward inventive designs.

Pretty new cute shop that recently opened up on 18th in Pilsen by the Pink Line…read more The owners are super friendly and the items they sell here are very unique. I bought my friend a gift from here that I know she'll love. I love the Latina bruja energy that they sell here. Will definitely be back! Make sure to support your local businesses.

I am a big supporter of Latina/Woman owned businesses. I came across Angie's Instagram while…read moresearching for "hand made jewelry" I love the few pieces I bought from her. Highly recommend you visit her business in Pilsen.

Ms Ella has taken care of my mom since my father passed away....her shop is immaculate. Takes care…read moreof my mom she definitely can take care of you and yours if you like that style. Totally professional..

Great little boutique! Ella the owner is wonderful. She is passionate about her clothing and…read moreaccessories and designs many of her own clothes. Ella truly cares about her customers. If you are a church lady or a red hatter, you must shop here. She has limited hours but easily accommodates appointments. Fun place to shop on the south side!

Affordable inventory; excellent selection; carefully curated items sure to please the most…read morediscriminating buyer.

The new space is very welcoming and beautifully curated. I keep buying things here, which is…read moresomewhat unusual for me, since I'm not into retail therapy and have a full closet already. The location, near the Cove Lounge and the lake, is perfect--especially, given that it's under 20 degrees outside at the moment, its proximity to the Cove.