Best Vintage Shop in Chicago! Visited for a few days and tried to hit up as many thrifts and vintage shops as possible. Didn't find most of them fruitful but this shop beat my expectations and more! Great selection, fair pricing, nicely curated and great staff that was knowledgeable and friendly! If I ever visit Chicago again this would be my go to stop! read more

Came here last summer with friends looking for dresses for a graduation, actually had some cool pieces but we ended up not wanting to give our business to the owner due to her extremely weird comments to us about our bodies and weight. I posted about this on my instagram publicly to warn people and dozens of women responded saying they had the same experience, and that the old woman that runs the place is extremely judgemental, old fashioned, and insists she knows your body better than you and that you won't fit the things you want unless you were smaller. Will not ever be returning, and will always warn women against this place. read more

Shangri-La Vintage - owner is a menace - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Cute and reasonably priced selection, but as others have mentioned, the owner has made insensitive comments about how things would not fit. I have been in 3 times and each time, she has told me something would not fit. I was looking for a gift for a (tiny) friend of mine and each time I asked for the size of a particular item and she said, "it's for someone very tiny" and did not give me the information. I understand she wants to keep the integrity of her vintage items, but as a customer I would like these questions answered without judgment. Her comments and insensitivity have deterred me from coming back and recommending this place to anyone who is not "very tiny" (which is subjective). read more

I've lived in the neighborhood for years and have been meaning to go in, but frankly, I didn't want to have another must-visit place to be. I love vintage shops and thrift stores--could spend hours in consistently good ones. And just from their colorful window displays, I knew I'd have a good chance of being sucked into another cool place to spend money. The shop is a throwback to the 80s-90s vintage store scene, with its crowded racks, handwritten signs, and reasonable prices for vintage pieces that appear actually wearable/usable: many of the pieces were in great condition, ranging in sizes that skewed toward the 8/10 medium-sized and up, and were priced around $15 and up. An out-of-town friend's visit finally prompted me to go in, and it was just a perfect way to spend a weekend afternoon, browsing through the mostly 60s-90s pieces for both women and men. There was even room for a few household items, like a vintage sleeping bag and a 60s psychedelic suitcase. The hours are weekend-centered, and on a Saturday afternoon, it had lots of shoppers, which made it feel cozier, so go with that in mind. I hate that I have another place to be now, but I not so surprisingly love this shop and am so glad that I finally went. read more

My favorite vintage shop in Chicago. Owners are friendly and easygoing, and even though it's small I always find something!

ooooo, la la... Shangri-La! G-E-M. Every vintage piece is hand-selected or purchased for inventory, then dry cleaned and arranged by era, then by size. Amazing. It's a smaller version of Knee Deep Vintage in Pilsen...but the quality is just as high. You can easily zip through the racks, as they are so well presented... The owner is knowledgeable, and has been open for 17 years...before Roscoe Village was hip, hip, hip and home to the stroller set. Been in biz that long selling second hand? Must know some tricks of the trade. Yeah, awesome vintage stuff + not overpriced. We have a winner! Prices: VERY reasonable. Dresses range from about $18-$35. In pristine condition...ain't no mothballs up in here! Everything is clearly marked with pricing, sizing, measurements, era. I got a hair clip for $1, necklace/earrings set for $12 and a really cute scarf/tie for $4. I mean, really...those are downright Brown Elephant prices, but you don't have to wade through piles of Forever 21 rejects. Accessories: SCORE! Sunglasses galore, hair stuff, hats, gloves, tights, shoes...you name it. Parking to the east of Damen on Roscoe is non-metered, non-permit...so park yourself, and enjoy... (hehe, ps...their mannequins had breathing masks on a la swine flu. some of the best window decor in the city!) read more

Love browsing in this place, as it's definitely set up to accommodate shoppers. (Some of the vintage shops here in Chicago simply, well, AREN'T.) Debbie's always helpful and full of good information, and the prices here are consistently reasonable. read more

An awesome vintage store that is reasonably priced and has a great collection. I have snagged a silver cardigan ($14) here, and a fabulous floor length burgundy leather coat with black piping and unique buttons ($40). Great place to pop into every once in a while to hunt for something unique to add to your wardrobe. read more

Shangri-La Vintage - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I bought a one of a kind, vintage shift dress that seems to be made of burlap. Don't laugh. The print and coloring are glorious- a rich, bright, glowing teal printed on a n olive green background. It has pockets and fits like a dream, as though professionally tailored. Every single person who has seen me wearing it is raving! And it was $16.00. I adore vintage sheath dresses... this store could become my new mecca. I like it so much I might marry it. If that union would be legally recognized by the state of Illinois. Sigh. At least I will be well-dressed for my dreams. read more

Oh, Shangri-La, I've always wanted to thank you for that psychedelic muu-muu I bought thirteen years ago. Purchased for a very special occasion--Valentine's Day, freshman year of high school with my first "real" boyfriend--it's garish colors were meant to dazzle and stun the boy, making him mine forever. I think he was definitely stunned and even though we didn't last forever, that was a very memorable and enjoyable V-Day, celebrated in technicolor polyester/rayon blend. When I was in high school, Shangri-La also provided me with a $1 pair of bowling shoes that I absolutely loved, in addition to all sorts of other fun vintage items that have held up remarkably well, considering they were at least 20 years old when I bought them and have been going strong since then. Still love Shangri-La. I think I've moved on from the over-obvious psycho muu-muus (well, really--muu-muus in general), but it's still great fun to search through the racks at Shangri-La... even if it does smell sort of BOish. Eh, just means the stuff's been well-loved, right? Right?? read more

We just happened upon this place as we were strolling along Roscoe trying to digest our very filling dinner. It seemed like we had come in very close to closing time, but the fellow working the counter was incredibly nice and cool and did not try to shoo us out at all. So because I didn't want him to be there any longer than necessary, I only took the briefest glance at the clothes, which seemed to me to be very well maintained with some very surprising prices! I was expecting stuff to be marked at least double for this neighborhood. The accessories were totally bangin - I have my heart set on this cute little 1950's style wicker purse that I just decided I must go back and get, as well as really sweet jewelry & shoes. I ended up buying a vintage magazine and some 1970's baseball prints for BF which were in pristine condition but cost virtually nothing. This is one place you are totally going to get addicted to if you are a fan of vintage goods! read more

First time there last Thursday (December 9, 2010) and it vas a vonderful experience! The voman behind the counter vho I believe must be the owner vas very helpful! I vas able to find my prize vinning ugly sveater there for the Yelp Elite Ugly Holiday Sweater Soiree at Nick's Pizza and Pub in Elgin! Countess even found a terror-ific sveater for herself! I should of visited this fine vintage clothing establishment a long time ago for costumes! Vell, I now know to go look there for future costume ideas vhen ve film for upcoming shows! read more

Shangri-La Vintage - Used, Vintage & Consignment Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

What a wonderful little find in Roscoe Village. I trekked to RV to pick up a vintage jewelry tray I found on Craigslist. While that can be a pretty sketchy transaction and I was unsure of how I'd fare I was lucky enough for it to be a great find (as verified by Debbie when I struck gold upon entering her store). It was so fun to browse all around the store, my eye kept being drawn by so many amazing pieces. I finally settled for a black fur super luxurious stole that is probably one of the classiest pieces in my closet thus far and a gorgeous black beaded shirt with a 1920's flapper vibe (think beaded fringe). Debbie (the owner) was so helpful and sweet I just wanted to stay and keep browsing forever but my wallet would have been in big trouble if so since I wanted to take every other piece home! The prices were extremely reasonable and I walked away with a huge smile on my face! THANK YOU SHANGRI-LA VINTAGE!! read more

I usually have bad experiences with vintage stores: either they're pricey, people are so protective of the clothes that they're theoretically handing off to you that you can't even unzip them without being terrified that they're going to turn into dust in your hands and then you may be arrested for committing art crimes, or they just have nothing for people like me, eg, average-sized. Shangri-La, is, well, sort of a nice little paradise after places like that. We went in last fall and I was pleased to see they not only listed size but frequently average bust and waist measurements, which are really useful on vintage clothing, particularly because trends shift so much and sizes change. Sometimes 10s are cut big and sometimes 18s are for people with wasp-waists...it's a gamble. I found a couple of great pieces that are now some of my favorite clothes, a nautical tunic that I have worn as both a costume piece and just a really freaking cute shirt/minidress (blue and red go with everything, let's be real) and a great hip-length plaid top that goes great with skinny jeans and boots. There were a TON of things that I would have loved to walk out with, from a sequined jacket I would have been unsurprised to see on a rockstar to an adorable highwaisted skirt. I also LOVE their accessories collection and I WILL be back for their amazingly inexpensive brooches and military pins. Basically, a great place. read more

I love vintage - but I am not as diehard a fan as some. This shop is cute and unlike most "vintage" stores - this place means vintage.... They owner had a great selection of 60's and 70's fabrics tucked in the back - and I may just need to go back to grab some. read more

What... a... goldmine! Picked up- an actually vintage- DKNY red leather bomber... 40 bones. What? Excuse me? You'll knock off a few bucks for a rip that I didn't even notice? OKAY! The prices aren't jacked up because they are vintage, either. There was nothing there that I looked at where I was shocked at the price. Honestly! You may not be able to find everything you want, but if you are just looking to expand your wardrobe (by a few decades), Shangri-La Vintage is the perfect place if you're in the area. And please chat with the owners. They were super friendly to everyone who walked in the store! read more

I needed a vintage 1950's outfit for work (lucky me), and after calling places near the theatre the owners at Shangri-La mentioned they had a few (and even a few at home that had just been washed they could bring in!). I went by that day and tried on the one in store and it was perfect. The store is small, but they know their inventory and there are always lots of fun pieces on display. It's a good thing I don't live in the neighborhood because I have a feeling my pocketbook would be a lot lighter. The owners are nice and the prices are great. I got my skirt for under $30. Win. WIn. I love supporting local businesses - especially local businesses that realize I'm not made of money. I'll definitely be back. read more

I love love love shangri-la! its always so full of treasures. I will never forgive my self for passing up the motley crue painters hat! Always a pleasure to shop. Clothing is clean and well organized. If you are looking for something specific just let them know more than a few times they have pulled things out for me that hadnt made it to the sales floor yet. only bad thing is i missed the used book section. remember that???? oh cheap used books i miss you! read more

I LOVE Shangri La. Firstly, for a small store, they offer a great selection of REAL vintage goods, from formal and casual clothing and shoes to weird knick knacks, fabric and magazines. I have a few great beaded sweaters and dresses from Shangri La and I always gravitate toward their jewelry section, which is wonderfully displayed, showcasing long chained charm necklaces, classic brooches, chunky Greek style necklaces, bracelets and earrings, ect. Jim and Debbie, the shop owners, are really cool people and make the shopping experiance all the better. Shangri La is definetely a front runner in the best of Chicago vintage shops Go for an easy to find location, great customer service and a fantastic selection of vintage wares. ps, they're always playing music I like: post punk, psych and goth tunes that keep a good shopping beat. If they served food and drinks I'd be there all day. read more

Shangri-La is exactly what I wish my closet looked like. Animal print, sequins, grandpa sweaters, spandex, lace, funky accessories, and polka dots everywhere. Oh, and a friendly bearded guy behind a desk asking if I need help finding anything. This tiny shop sits on a corner of Roscoe, past most of the shops, bars and restaurants, but it is one of the most interesting places to visit in the area. The clothes and accessories aren't for everyone, but definitely a go-to place for me when I'm looking for something funky, without a funky price tag. I love just visiting to see and touch all the crazy pieces they have. Vintage to Shangri-La means vintage, unlike some "vintage" shops I've been to, where they might have a bunch of contemporary clothing mixed in with the vintage pieces at insane prices. The racks and shelves and well-organized and the staff has always been a pleasure to interact with, so I say browse away! And tell me what you got, afterward. read more

Oh my goodness! I just moved to Roscoe Village 2 months ago. I walk by Shangri-La every single day and I never went in until this weekend. I would usually classify my style as ho-hum- I tend to throw on flared jeans and a bright, yet plain tee shirt. I really like the idea of older, classic clothing, specifically 50's swing dress all the way to loose hippie clothing. I digress. I went in this store Sunday with my mind on a swing dress or a pin up style. I was in the store maybe 5 minutes and the lady in there (I presume owner) said, "here try this!" It was like she read my mind and pulled out this very, adorable dress. I tried it on- fit PERFECT. The shoulders were a tad worn out (in terms of the black color) but it was barely noticeable. For that reason though the dress was only $5. She recommended throwing in a red belt which was $4 and definitely made the dress. I walked out of there with a cute outfit for $9 and some change! And for the record, I am 5 ft 9 and wear an L/XL and teeter between size 13-15. Women were smaller many decades ago, but still, it's not impossible to find an outfit for those of us who are curvy. She was so nice, so helpful, and so friendly. The store is small, yes, but it's much better than walking into a big thrift store and having to find gems yourself while searching through messy clothes piles and the dirty stench you sometimes encounter at Village Discount. I will definitely be stopping by every few weeks to see what I can get my little paws on! read more

Great little vintage shop, nestled in Roscoe Village. She carries a great selection of both men's and women's wear as well as accessories (belts, purses, hats, jewelry, etc) You also find a pattern or sewing bits if need be. Or even a vintage glass or Pyrex every now and again. Prices are reasonable. There is a dressing room (it's not glamorous but it works!), for trying items. Lovely shop. Helpful owner. Highly recommend stopping in this shop. read more

In theory, I like vintage. In execution, I only find the weird, ugly, or just plain broken/torn/stained stuff. I came looking for some accessories for my friend's "retro wedding", and did manage to come away with a pair of earrings which were perfect after some polishing. The owners were friendly and tried to suggest as many items as they could from their admittedly small selection. I meandered about the rest of the store for another half hour desperately trying to find something else to like, but only found the weird, ugly, or otherwise unsuitable stuff as mentioned above. I stand in awe of you who build your wardrobe from vintage goods (especially from here). read more

Ahhh!! I am TOTALLY obsessed with this store now! Shangri-La, you have now ruined me. I have to confess that I am a sucker for the bigger shops, as I am a very small size and can usually never find things that fit. But despite the fact that Shangri-La is about the square footage of a New York apartment, their stuff is all quality and not very expensive. They are helpfully organized by time period and size, and on top of that the owners provide bust, waist and hip measurements as well (really, why don't more shops do that?). I very quickly found exactly what I'm looking for -- 50s and 60s dresses with a 24-25 waist, and at the last minute my eye fell on a great white leather belt that would look great over summer dresses. The owner was the perfect mixture of helpful and hands-off -- I hate it when people hover like you're going to spill wine over their clothing or something. Can't wait to be back! read more

In recent years, vintage clothing seems to have gotten "hip." At least, much "hipper" than it used to be. That means many vintage stores have raised their prices. AND many "vintage" stores have taken to carrying old Gap or Old Navy shirts, marketing them as "vintage," and slapping a $10 price tag on what may have been $10 new. No thanks. Shangri-La is truly vintage AND surprisingly affordable. It's a small store, so I don't always find what I'm looking for, but their inventory rotates enough that I make sure to stop in every month or so. It's also very well organized, and I appreciate the informative notes on the price tags (regarding era, size, etc.). Also, the owners are very friendly and helpful. I went in on Halloween last year, desperately seeking a costume, and the owner suggested I go as "Joan" from "Mad Men." She even grabbed a '60s dress from the back that fit me to a tee! read more

They don't make 'em like they used to, and if you already know that, well, you already know where to go to get the stuff they used to make. This is hands down my favorite vintage store that I have ever been to. The owners are two of the coolest and nicest cats you could hope to meet. The store is small but the collection is always terrific (no "filler" to sort through), the prices are great, and there is always a lot of turnover so I advise you to go, and to go frequently. When I lived in Chicago I would frequent this place. Whenever I return to Chicago I make it a point to return to this store. It is impossible to leave without finding at least one thing, and if you can't, you just aren't looking hard enough. read more

A friend and I came here on the recommendation of the other yelp reviews...man, we were not disappointed at all! I found three wonderful dresses in great condition, and my friend found two gorgeous necklaces. He gave her a discount on one of the necklaces after he had rung me up and felt bad he hadn't given me a deal, so let me pick out a pair of earrings! How nice is that? It is small, but what a selection. I also really appreciate when shop owners make an effort to find vintage/retro dresses over a size small/extra-small. There are some funk-tastic (in a good way...they do clean everything before putting it out, a REALLY great thing to do) selections for a size medium to large busty gal such as myself. I walked away with a fabulous black 70's number. Sweet. read more

Really nice selection of vintage clothing. I have went to this place and found really great items, other times I find nothing I like. One of my favorite sweaters is from this place and a few shirts. Reasonably priced and knowledgeable owners. Definitely worth checking out! read more

I need need need NEED this place! Like the reviewer posted below, I've NEVER left Shangri-La empty handed, always find amazing wears at seriously unbelievable prices. The well-kept quality of these garments is both mind-boggling and gorgeous! I've amassed sweet little slips to layer as sexy dresses, belts to hold it all together, a ridiculous hand-strung rattlesnake vertebrae necklace, a pristine eel-skin clutch. Most recently, a sleek black satin cowgirl shirt with fabulous embroidered lace detail and a hot summery baby-blue disco dress... I have to find a way to winterize it! The woman who owns this place is totally hilarious! She knows how to buy-to-sell and check out please check out the belt buckles and bracelets and other treasures hidden amongst that jewelry display case. One stop vintage shipping. Don't be fooled: It's a tiny place. Give yourself time to try on everything! You'll find plenty to play with . read more

I love this store. I can't help it but I have an affinity for old stuff and Shangri-La has cool vintage finds at way affordable prices. I love the jewelry and have bought many pieces to mix in with my current wardrobe. This place has less "junk" in it than a Hollywood Mirror, but it's not necessarily modern fashion as you might find at some of the other vintage shops near by. The owner is super nice too and knowledgeable about the different eras. Definitely worth stopping by to find a hidden treasure! read more

Two days ago I was in there with a friend of mine and we were instantly dazzled by the selection! We got excited because there were so many cute things to choose from. I saw these adorable pants on the wall-cream with roses all over. They looked like they might fit my waist, but the pant legs were long and I'm pretty short. I asked the woman the size and she winced at me saying that they were for someone tall and thin. I looked at my friend-that was weird. So I move to looking through their other pants and I mention to my friend how cute these other pants were. The woman then says "Well, they don't stretch much so." She then again mentions it fitting someone tall and thin. I look through some dresses-searching through the smalls and she then comes over to show that they are marked by sizes and I just have to look. Now. I am a size 2 or 4. I wear smalls in all my clothes, but I guess having my Cuban curves and being short in her mind meant I wasn't worth being helpful to. She made me feel so bad about myself! My friend pulled me out of the store at once and kept checking on me because it made me feel so self conscious. No one should be made to feel that way. No one. Do better. read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE! Great vintage at great prices- what could be better? I've been in here quite a few times and am always blown away by their selection. Not only great clothes but great bags, jewelry, and shoes OH MY! The owner is really nice and has done a great job of having a ton of items (very organized) in a tight spot. I really enjoy the Roscoe Village neighborhood and am so glad they have such a wonderful vintage shop. read more

I've always been kind of afraid to shop establishments like this becos 1) they are kinda expensive, and 2) they are full of snooty artsy people. But upon arrival to Shangri-La Vintage I found neither of those things. The shop was small but very well organized and the lady at the counter (the owner?) was very sweet and helpful. Prices are reasonable too (for Roscoe Village, that is). We had actually come in to find some *ahem* ugly holiday sweaters for the Yelp Chicago Burbs Ugly Holiday Sweater Soiree and we were not disappointed. The lady actually had gone in back to bring out a sweater so horrific, so tacky you needed sunglasses just to view this thing! HAHA! I even found a sweater that I thought was tacky but everyone else seemed to disagree, but oh well :). They also had some Mr.Hankey the Xmas Poo earrings for sale but I decided just to go with the sweater. I will definately go back here anytime I need a vintage piece P.S. Count Gregula WON first prize at the Ugly Sweater party! Thanks Shangri-La!!!!! read more

There is nothing I can say that has not already been said about how fabulous this store is!!! It seems as though the owner spends a great deal of time handpicking each item he sells in the store. I have gone here a few times and have never been disappointed or spent a ton of money. I feel like what Im purchasing is clean, solid, and reasonably priced. This is more than a thrift store, this a vintage clothing store that sells amazing pieces. If you are looking to pop in here and spend $5.00 on 20 things this is not the place for you. If you are looking for really amazing pieces of clothing that are truly vintage and/or original then I totally recommend this place to you. read more

Shangri-La is great! The quality and selection of clothes is impressive and I thought everything was reasonably priced. It's definitely not one of those vintage stores where you have to hunt for cute clothes-- pretty much everything I saw was wearable and cute. The owner was working and she was really nice and helpful. I will definitely be back when I have more money to spend! read more

It's a great store. Little something for everyone... The vintage selection ranges everything from 50s pillbox hats to 80s party dresses and everything in between. Cool owner. Fair prices. Interesting pieces. read more

I was looking for a very special item for an audition and found it here! When I called them, they were so helpful (over the phone!) and were able to find something that they thought would be what I was looking for. It was PERFECT and I have to say contributed heavily to my absolutely fabulous audition! (I won't hear back until January, though :( The selection of men & women's clothing and accessories is amazing and very moderately priced. I will definitely be back! read more

Very cool vintage shop in the neighborhood. The owner knows a lot about each piece and was very helpful to my boyfriend and me as we asked questions about the men's accessories. I can see this being a great place to find wonderful treasures. Great for both men and women! read more

Well.... I am not even sure where to begin. I don't think I've felt so bad about myself after leaving a clothing store in a while. Not because the clothes didn't fit, actually all of the ones I tried either fit or were damn close. No, it was because of the owner who acted like I was too fat for the dresses I was picking. Yes, I am a size 12 and I know that's in a modern size and with vintage I am going to need something a little bigger but I am 27 years old and I know when something is going to fit pretty much immediately. I don't like feeling like I am being followed around (maybe its just me). If I rip something trying to stuff my fat ass in it-I will buy it! She really offended me, at first she was just up our ass about everything and I thought she was just overly helpful, then I realized what she was doing. She actually picked a dress for me (without me asking) that was so big I could have taken it in about 8 inches everywhere! Not even kidding either. It was pretty ridiculous and I left feeling horrible. I can be sensitive but I am also pretty confident and I think I look good but she really hurt my feelings. THE PLUS SIDE was that I found a beautiful dress that looked great on me and a pretty necklace. I spent $44 dollars even though I could barely look at her at this point. Maybe the skinny costumers don't have this problem with her and I totally understand her being nervous about things being ripped but I did not deserve to be treated like that. My sister works at a vintage store so I get it but I am a costumer and it was out of line for her to act the way she did. She could have simply said that she checks the pieces after every person try's one on just to make sure they are in the same condition, I would have been completely understanding of that. I will never go back and it's too bad. UPDATE: Her post/response isn't even accurate... I was handed the Gigantic dress BEFORE I even went into the dressing room so clearly it was assumed that I wouldn't fit into the ones I had which she never actually saw me in and has no clue how they fit-just cause I didn't buy them doesn't mean they were too small. But thanks for the back handed apology... I am officially done with this! read more

Adorable stuff that is original and classy at a low cost. Also, the owners are husband and wife and have been doing this for decades. What more could a gal ask for? Seriously go there now and thank me later. read more