I need to join AA. Akiraholic's Anonymous. I've cut back on my addiction, but I used to frequent this store a couple times a day. It's ironic that I don't go as much because I moved right by it. Their clothes range from low to high end making fashion affordable. They don't have too many of the same pieces ensuring that you won't have an embarrassing "omg she's wearing the same dress" moment. I've gotten many compliments from the stuff I've bought here, and several times people have mistaken some of it for being very pricey. Quite the contrary. They even have a frequent shoppers card. For every $60 you spend, you get a sticker. After 5 stickers, you get a $30 credit. I've filled out one too many of these. The workers always make me feel like VIP here. Love it. read more

Great cheap clothes. Pretty crappy service. Sorry I don't look like some Lincoln Park trixie, but you shouldn't tell me you'll help after I have to ask after waiting 15 minutes because you're too busy having a conversation with the other employee. And then, I'm sorry, it was my fault that you totally disappeared and never did end up helping me after you said you would. Diversey store has much better service with the same clothes. read more

Best customer service ever they freaking rock at this store and the owners are awesome!! If ur in the know then u know this place has the most happenin' clothes from Rock and Republic, People's Liberation, Serfontaine, William Rast, BCBG, Vera Wang...........you have to check it out and not to mention they have the best fashion shows ever!!!!!!!!! I heart this place and the peeps! V xoxoxo read more

I think that there are 1023857093 different Akira shops in Wicker Park.... it's a little ridiculous. Yet I still managed to go in to every one of them (I think). The basic thing I love about Akira is the range of prices. They have some stuff that hovers just slightly above the Forever 21/H & M priceline (where I usually shop) but also provide incredible high fashion designers like Betsey Johnson and Vera Wang. It's a crazy mix, but I like it! The shoe store was awesome-- loved so many of their pieces, but of course they were all the more expensive designer ones :( Still there were some prices that couldn't be beat! The women's store had some amazing sales- my sister got a $450 floor length gown for $125. All of the clothes were very stylish and most were what I would consider showpieces-- not your typical jeans and tshirts. I found all of the staff people very helpful and friendly even though the store was pretty busy. The men's store was the most disappointing, I think (but maybe that's because I'm, you know, a GIRL) just because most of the stuff on the sale rack was absolutely awful looking. Totally the very bottom of the barrel. read more

My friend and I came in here to kill some time before an event. I really liked it because the styles were similar to what I used to find when I was living in Europe and shopping at Mango; however, I can tell most of the outfits cater to the skinnier ladies. They have a lot of dresses that give the illusion you have hips. I do, so I won't be needing those. And I'm pretty sure that if I were a twig then I still wouldn't be able to afford most of the stuff. Basic vests were about $45 and the dresses I saw were about $80. With a stroke of luck I was able to find a pair of sweet earrings that looked like they were crafted in the Elven forests of Lord of the Rings. I am in love with them and they complemented my outfit. The best part of all is that they were under $10, which was quite a steal from everything else. There is a dress that I fell in love with there and I am pretty sure it won't fit me, but I didn't get a chance to try it. I might return to see if it is still there, or after I compete in Yelp's Biggest Loser. read more

I love the selection here, but ESPECIALLY during the summer when they FILL their store up with dresses. They have the best summer dresses EVER at Akira. It can be a bit overwhelming, but when it comes to jeans, accessories, and dresses, they have everything you need. I like that they carry BCBG tops in the same store as $20 tank tops (diff sections of course) because sometimes we need both! The other thing I love is their $30 promo cards....If you spend $60 you get a sticker--get 5 stickers and get $30 gift card. NOT $30 off a certain purchase, but a gift card. And it's super easy to spend $60 so those cards are wonderful. read more

Akira is not high on my list of go-to stores. If I'm passing by I will stop in and browse, but I've never bought anything there. I don't think the quality of the clothing is very good and based on that they are way overpriced. I tried on a dress once and a seam ripped a little when I tried it on. I told the salesperson about it, thinking that they would mend it or take it off the rack, but I later saw them putting it back on the rack with all of the other dresses. They do have some cute stuff, but overall, I've never been really impressed. read more

I drop by here every so often, after friends score awesome stuff..but for some reason always leave a little disappointed. Yesterday I did 3 runs through the store...I kept thinking..I'll find something..so much potential!! I did find a dress, but if I gain 2 pounds it may be a loss. I am 5'10 and fairly thin, but size 1, 2, XS. umm...no. Every dress I found seemed to have 3 sizes, extra small, smaller, and large. I am not really any of those normally. I will keep going back, because seemingly the stock changes a lot, and if you really look there are some really interesting things under the glittery tube tops and such. Sales people really nice! read more

I am a fan of Akira but this location is always frustrating. I love the area and make a whole day of it when I head out to go shopping in wickerpark. The frustrating part is that they never have my size! All that's ever left is larges in everything cute. I have to say the staff is very helpful and friendly but they can never suggest going to another location for something I'm looking for cuz it's usually out! It seems that when you find something at Akira you need to grab it while you can! overall I'll keep coming back! read more

They lost me as a customer when they started doing final sale and no exchanges! I've spent so much money with them and barely return anything! Never again! read more

I was very excited because i saw a lot of cute stuff. Of course with a store that is high volume like this one you will find that there will also be things that aren't the "BEST" in look or quality and can be compared to Chinatown wear or Forever 21 but the good thing is that Akira caters to all kinds of budgets within the same trendy style so anyone can find something there. Then keep in mind that you can't buy an article of clothing for $20 and expect high quality stitching and fabric that won't need extra care... ANY and basically ALL cheap (at full priced) clothing is not going to be the BEST stuff on the rack... but if you remember to inspect for holes before leaving the store and take care of it based on the needs of the kind of fabric it is, it'll last you years... So yeah, the store is fabulous... the only downside is that the associates don't (or didn't when I walked in at least) greet or offer help... They kinda just glance and look away to look busy... Kinda funny actually... read more

This store has been one of my favorite haunts for a while. It has a great mix of clothing that you would find at places like forever 21 with stuff that you would find at department stores and boutiques. The difference is, the staff is always nice. I have never been to the store when the staff wasn't attentive, friendly, and helpful. I love all the different Akiras, the shoe store on North has a great manager, the shoe store downtown has great staff, and the men's and women's clothing stores are great. The selection changes pretty frequently, so you can always pop in and find great new things. Also, when they mark things down, they really mark things down! Their sales are great! I think I bought a pair of 575 and a pair of Antiks for 120! It was a buy one get one for $1 sale! You CAN'T beat that! Overall, if you are looking for a good blend of stylish clothing, stop by, it's worth it! read more

Holy crap, was what I thought as I walked into this store. Clothes everywhere - which made it really difficult & tiring to shop; I took note what they had on the mannequins and went from there - and the music was frickin' loud (maybe it's just me and my old age of 30+). Cute, trendy clothes, a step up from Forever 21. I did, however, leave with a $18 scarf that I adore. read more

Bottom line Akira has some really inexpensive, trendy, and cute clothes but just like the trends they don't last long. I think that their selection can be hit or miss at times but I have gotten some really cute things over the years. The only problem I have with this location is the sales people. Over all I find them rude and they appear personally offended if you do not like the item they suggest for you or heaven forbid not buy anything at all. Even on days when I would like to go in and take a look I sometimes pass to avoid dealing with the people who work here. I also find their shop lifter signs just rude and tacky. If you are looking for a cute going out top to wear for a season though this is your place. You may have to dig a bit though and don't count on them having a lot of items in your size. Often you will find a cute top only discover they only have one. read more

I am reviewing the Akira Women apparel shop that's in Wicker Park/Bucktown. This store has so much potential. Their marketing is great...they made such a huge impression on Chicago women shoppers with their marketing campaigns (ie. fashion shows), but when you actually shop there, it's like shopping in a completely different store that had nothing to do with those campaigns. If I wanted to buy $200+ jeans, or purchase a $500 dress, Id rather shop at Neiman Marcus or Saks. Their lower priced items are of poor quality and the styles they offer is nothing exceptional. read more

I love this store and their shoes! Seth was very helpful in guiding me to all the different sales and new items.. he even described materials of each section's shoe differing from leather to faux. I have a brand new pair of boots thanks to the pretty girl with the braids who helped me out as well. read more

I don't really get Akira... I always thought it was supposed to be high end but it actually seems a little trashy. Quality and style-wise. And some pieces are ridiculously overpriced. However they have some good deals too, like I got some cute bird earrings for 5 bucks... And 3 hours later I noticed a few rhinestones were missing. read more

Akira is a total candy store and if you have any latent girly-girl tendencies in you, even those that you thought you got rid of when you graduated from college, they're going to surface. Going in here, you'll find your inner 7-year old squealing with glee over the rainbow of colors, all things lacy, silky, ribboned, and ruffled. Despite having picked up a few very chic and sophisticated wardrobe staples and officewear pieces from Akira, my typical inner monologue when I walk into this store is usually kind of like this: ME: Ooooooooohhhhhhhhh, ruffles!!!! Pretty pretty pretty! Can I have it? Can I? Can I? It's only $40! ME: Don't be ridiculous. You're 33 years old. You can't wear that. ME: I promise I will, I triple promise, I will sooooo wear it! ME: What are you talking about? Where are you going to wear that? You can't get away with wearing that to work, and you don't go to Spring semi-formals anymore, grammy. ME: I'll FIND somewhere to wear it. I'll wear it to weddings. I'll wear it to fancy dinners. Pleeeeeaaase?? ME: No. If you get it, it's just going to hang in your closet with the tag on it, collecting dust with all of your other unnecessary ruffle dresses. Put it back on the rack and let's get out of here. The 22-year olds are scaring me. ME: Can I just try it on? I just want to see what it looks like. I'm just going to try it on, ok? ME: Fine. But be quick about it. ME: Oh my god it's soooooo cute. Look at this. And it fits me! I LOVE this dress! Look!!! ME: Damn, you were right. That IS cute. ME: Can I get it? Can I? Can I? ME: Yeah, you'd better. That shit's pretty freakin' adorable. Here's your credit card. So yeah... be careful in here because shopping in this store is pretty much the equivalent of handing your wallet over to your inner child. And she doesn't really have a very good grasp of what constitutes a sensible purchase. read more

I remember when Akira was just a tiny closet sized retail establishment on North Ave. overflowing and ready to burst at the seams with unique items that were just too abundant for the space that housed them all. So, it was exciting to see it branch off into three separate retail spaces on North Ave: women's, men's and women's shoes (oh my!). Akira offers a great range in clothing, shoes and accessories from their own private label to well known brands and designers. Whether it be the unjustified splurge or shopping for an occasion, you're sure to find something that not only fits your style, event and budget as well. Just as the brands can vary, so does quality. But this goes without saying anywhere you shop. There will always be items that aren't going to withstand the test of time. But when you're spending $30 on a top, there really are no regrets if it doesn't make it past the season. You should be prepared to be overwhelmed when you walk into Akira (by the selection and the loud music pumping through the speakers in the store). No matter how many times I go in, I just don't know where to start (that's not really a bad thing by any means)!! Therefore, I really appreciate the wonderful stylists at Akira. They are sure to pull items for you that you might have missed as you add to the growing pile in the fitting room they have started for you (it's nice not to have to lug an arm full of clothing around!). Many times, the stylists use their keen eye to gauge your personal style based on what you're wearing and what you're picking out. I have actually scored some of my most favorite items this way because a stylists scoured the store for something that ended up being perfect for me. It's this attention to detail and service that keeps me going back. Might I add, that supporting a local business is a positive in itself, but knowing that the clothing you're wearing isn't being sported by thousands of other women is also a big bonus if you ask me! read more

I'm actually due for a seasonal trip very soon. Akira is what it is. Inexpensive prices & trendy runway styles. Perfect place to find an outfit for going out/ dates & career clothing. You honestly can't complain about this & that when each item is around $40. Let the personal shoppers do their magic. Usually I get super peeved when salespeople try to hustle me by throwing clothes on me but here it's different. This store is mayhem & things are scattered all about. Let the girls put together outfits for you & try on something you would have NEVER thought of before. You'd be surprised. Step out of your box & into the new fabulous you. read more

Probably the first Akira I've ever know, since back in 2006, and the one I still enjoy. Good collection, helpful people, available sizes, and all the good stuff that makes shopping fun. read more

The sales people are hugely helpful, but warning - you cannot walk out of this place without buying something. I went in a few weeks ago for one dress and walked out with three. These people are just too good at their jobs! read more

This is such a weird store. It has some great things going for it but then some really horrible things as well. The good: Great selection of jeans in a whole room of denim! Can't beat that. Also, all of their clothes are arranged by color. I wish all stores did that (sometimes you're looking for something in just a certain color--this makes it easy to find that). The accessories are fun and pretty cheap. They also have a wide range of prices. The bad: My last "good" is also somewhat of a bad. The price range is extremely wide. A $30 shirt will be next to a $200 dress which makes shopping somewhat of a challenge at times. And the cheaper items feel really cheap. Is it H&M or Saks? Pick one and go with it? Also, the last "bad" is sort of a necessary evil--the security guard is a bit scary. Also, it's slightly annoying having to turn other shopping bags over for a search or to be kept behind the counter. I logically understand why this is necessary but it's still a bit annoying. read more

I've been to this location a few times and in my opinion Akira can be hit or miss. I have friends that get really cute stuff from there every time but I will often leave empty handed. I went last week during the Carnivale Event, it was crazy but very fun ( extremely crowded, shirtless guys handing out red bull and belvedere, dancers up on a mini stage, DJ's, and 10%-25% off). Despite the fact that everyone in the store was sweating like pigs because of the heat and the crowds my sales girl was still very attentive. I was a little disappointed that my stuff was only 10% off when I thought everything was 25% off. I'd go back but it's not my favorite place to shop. read more

I really like this store. The staff are super friendly and they carry both designer and non-designer items in the same category, which is especially convenient when you're trying on jeans and want to compare their store brand (at $40) with say, Citizens of Humanity. I found a lot of great items that fit well, and had to restrain myself from buying them all. I tried on a pair of William Rast skinny jeans that were a little funky, just for fun, but ended up really liking them. Though they were marked down to $99 (from $199), I wasn't sure I wanted to spend even more money... and the employee helping me offered them to me for $75! I didn't know they could do that -- but, awesome! I ended up buying them, of course :) read more

Passing this location driving down North Ave countless times, I decided to stop in one day to hopefully find a holiday party dress that was more affordable than something at Bloomingdales, but better quality than something at Forever 21. Lo and behold, it was not difficult finding EXACTLY what I wanted for 40 bucks! One half of this store is devoted to dresses, including your designers like BCBG, DKNY, Betsey Johnson, etc. Also I loved how the dresses were arranged according to COLOR, which makes the decision process a little easier. The other half contained accessories, designer denim, a clearance room with a ton of damaged items and tops, which weren't anything too special. Chanel was one of the girls that worked there and was very helpful and friendly in helping me find the perfect purple dress. However, I didn't like the atmosphere in which I felt like I was in an exclusive boutique that I needed a membership for, since a group of over-dressed people were lingering at the "boyfriend lounge" in the middle of the store, talking loudly and gossiping with the employees. They stared at me strangely when I walked into the store, which also kinda put me off. Same with the seemingly ditzy chicks that shopped there, spending well over $200 for 2 plain tops and whining to their moms on their cell phones, learning that their card just got declined...lol. However about a week later Chanel sent me a postcard which I could redeem to get 20% my next purchase =) I don't plan on returning anytime soon for anything else but the dresses, but at least I know I can get in and get out with exactly what I need. read more

I wish I could give more than 5 stars to Akira. i love this place! I always deal w/ Margie or Matt but the entire staff is amazing. I can never seem to find that great of stuff here on my own; the second I tell them where I am going, they have a fitting room full of PERFECT outfits (this place is best if you have a certain event in mind). Somehow the bill is always shockingly low here as well. I don't really consider this a complaint, but both of them will often pull stuff a size smaller than I wear- and I have to dispute them to go a size up. The sizes on the Akira branded clothes can be a little inconsistent, but the ridiculously low prices make up for having to sometimes try on a few different sizes. Their fashion shows & events are always fun and the smart cards are pretty sweet too. Overall, I would cite the stylists as the reason why this shop is so much better than any of the other boutiques and stores in Chicago. read more

Went here and was helped by Lynda and Molly I believe their names were. Super helpful. Honestly spent way more money than I normally would have. Especially because Lynda was so helpful with suggestions and holding clothing. Everyone was super helpful and upbeat. Great experience. read more

Akira is fashionable AND affordable! This is always my go to place when I need something new and fun to wear. Living in Wicker Park for many years, I've watched the numerous boutique's & artsy places close down and switch over to retail giants. I watched the first Akira store go up, and am thrilled they they are able to thrive in the neighborhood despite the changes going on around them. The customer service is AMAZING. I have my own favorite "personal assitant" at Akira Women. I'd post it here, but I am not sure I want to share him! :-) Honestly though next time you go, find one of the crew and tell them what occasion you are searching for. They will stick you in a dressing room and bring you things you would never have grabbed yourself! I always end up LOVING what they put together. Go have fun! read more

When you are a busy working mom, on a time crunch, have a glimpse of social life coming up and need some help to get into clothes that aren't work or lounge related - this is your place! Called in advance, they pulled some items for me and when I walked in with my toddler, I was able to get in and get out in 30-40 mins max with check out! With not one but two outfits! Can't wait! Great job team! Store looks great! Atmosphere upbeat! read more

I get a sad, sick feeling every time I walk or drive by an Akira store and not go inside; but when I do get to walk through those doors, I get all tingly inside. The store offers variety upon variety. It's easy to find clothes in any color and style imaginable. I'm obsessed with their dresses. No matter the occasion, I can guarantee I will find one here. Though one downfall is trying to something in a size small. It's almost like trying to find the holy grail. Their higher end designer merchandise is still pretty affordable, and the Akira brand clothing ranges from reasonably price to really cheap. However, you may or may not get more than one use out of a clothing item. But you get what you paid for, so it's expected. read more

My #1 store for the past 2 years. I love the prices, I love the service they provide, and I always feel like I have something unique that no one else will have. For some reason in the past few months they have been playing the music SUPER LOUD in there which has made it distracting and hard to shop, especially with friends when you like to chit-chat. I hope it's just a phase... read more

A boutique that has the latest trends, moderately friendly staff but you must work to find the clothing! A far cry from Filene's basement, Akira has their clothing separated by colors. If you seek a party outfit this is a place you may find it in however the quality let's just say "you get what you pay for". Week days are better to browse through the racks, week-ends tend to be a bit more crowded, parking is available on the street however, very difficult to find. Price point varies here as some items are very reasonable for a trendy piece that you will wear twice or can get up there (so do check the price tags). read more

Akira has been one of my "secret" favorite boutiques since moving out here. I say "secret" because I like to think no one else knows about one of my favorite spots, even though I'm pretty sure every girl out here knows just how great it is. I usually have the best luck at the Lincoln Park store, but I tried the Wicker Park location over the weekend, and wow - it's huge! They had three large rooms separated by style. They always have the most unique and trendy pieces at all different price points. I have bought some great pieces there that I always get compliments on. I am a huge fan of their maxi dresses right now. They also have trendy, fun accessories all the time. This trip was merely just to browse, but I have added many new things to my 'want list' and I'm sure I will be back soon. PS. They also have great shoes across the street at their Akira shoe location! read more

I've had mixed experiences here. Sometimes I find outfits that I just can't live without, other times I walk away with nothing. They have a great jean selection and the service is usually pretty good although I've also dealt with some difficult and snooty sales people. Their clothes runs the gamut (as do their prices) and some of their stuff feels cheap and tacky whereas others really hit the mark. To be honest, I went shopping with a guy friend of mine and had a much better time at the men's store. Maybe it's because it's smaller and feels more focused. But bottom line is, if I'm looking for something cute, this is my first stop. read more

Let me tell you about the most wonderful experience I have ever had!!! My two girlfriends and I went to Akira looking for dressing for a party that night. We were greeted right when we walked in. After perusing for a few minutes a wonderful gentleman name Kenny comes and asks me what I am shopping for. I explain to him that we are shopping for dresses for my friend's birthday party (one of the girls with me) he wishes her a happy birthday and proceeds to get another associate Kati. Kenny sets us up with three dressing rooms together in the back so we will have our space and Kati and Kenny start pulling dresses for all of us. They were so wonderful and so focused on making sure we had the best time ever. Kati and Kenny picked dresses that looked good for each of our specific body shapes. All of the dresses were reasonably priced and not once did I feel like I was getting up-sold. Never once did I feel pressured to buy anything and if I really did not look good in the dress the staff told me to take it off. We were there for an hour and a half, all the while getting just the right amount of attention from Kati and Kenny. Dorrie, the store manager came over to our area and introduced herself as well and even helped pick more dresses for us. In the end I bought two dresses, the birthday girl bought one and my other friend bought two as well. We also took a picture with the wonderful staff! I truly had a wonderful experience and even though Bucktown is completely out of my way I would go back. I think it is very important to highlight how welcomed I felt. How my business was important to them. I tried on 15-20 dresses and never once did I feel rushed or like I was a burden. I will be bring a lot of my business back to this location and will make sure my friends do as well. PLEASE KEEP UP THE AMAZING WORK!!!!! :) read more

This place is a life saver! I needed a dress for a wedding this weekend and I spent five hours the other day walking around Water Tower, Bloomingdale's, and Nordstrom to come home empty handed. While being annoyed by a Victoria's Secret associate, a helpful eavesdropper suggested Akira. Why didn't I think of that before? I love the shoe store, but never thought of heading to Bucktown. Long story short, I found the dress cut short enough for my 5'2" frame and I'm very satisfied with it. Staff was friendly and helpful. This rating would be five stars if it weren't for the LOUD music. read more

I used to go there every now and then. but each time i got there the quality of the clothes has gotten worse n it's always messy they have too much clothes out. It's just not very appealing anymore.. but they do carry some great designer jeans.. but they are pricey.. so wait for the sale.. read more

Went on a shopping trip here with my girlfriends, and we all, though many of us are not "shoppers," thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. I do concede that the quality of the clothes is sometimes an issue here, if you just look carefully, you'll find something for your next night out. It is also really nice that when you shop at Akira, you re shopping local. It is a shame that i lived in Chicago for so long and waited till now to go. What really makes this place is the GREAT SERVICE! Everyone who worked there was super friendly, approachable, and helpful. I most definitely did not get that holier/cooler than thou feeling that I get from salespeople sometimes. Kaytee and Bianca were great! Based on the positive experience that I and my 3 (Chicagoan) friends had shopping at Akira, I would definitely go back. read more

Best akira in Chicago! They have the widest variety and best selection of clothes! Everything from essentials (bralettes and basics) to formal Bariano gowns! They're Akira Black label is to die for And the jewelry is ALWAYS on sale! You can't go wrong here. I can honestly say, every time I go out (girls night, date night, clubbing, birthdays, weddings, etc) I always wear at least one piece from akira and I constant am getting compliments! read more