While the designs are lovely, I would not recommend ordering online until you confirm the item is actually available and will be shipped. Designer is nice and responsive but confirm specifically before paying. I ordered a lovely print poncho for $50 and was mailed a mass produced very inexpensive too small tunic/tank top/shift dress. The kind they sell in Walgreens or CVS. No apology no exchange or refund. The physical studio closed shortly after. read more

The styles are unique. However, I did not have a good online experience. I hope yours is better.

I was blown away by the genuine warmth of the service at this boutique - I can't stress that enough since I've been put off many times by staff attitude in upscale clothing stores. The clothes seem to be made almost exclusively of natural fibers, and I enjoyed the awesomely funky handbags and shoes. Prices are a little high, but the clothes are unique and I thought it was all reasonable considering the workmanship and design. The next time I'm in the market for a dressy outfit, I'll look here first. I found a top I loved so much, I had them remove the tag and left the store wearing it - that doesn't happen to me often. read more

Takara - Women's Clothing Near Me - Forest Park, Illinois

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Excellent, friendly, personalized, attentive service- and what a gorgeous shop!! Takara's shop has moved from Oak Park to Madison Street in Forest Park. I stopped in tonight and Takara assisted me. I'm a little sensitive about my curves but Takara made me feel wonderful and personally selected two flattering tops- bold colors, exquisite craftsmanship- and a cool versatile green knit cardigan that doubles as an asymmetrical poncho. There is a great selection of necklaces, scarves and knit winter wraps & hats. The tops were a bit out of my budget but I could see saving up and returning for one soon. Easy free street parking along a really cool stretch of Madison Street. Great location. read more

Beautiful wearable art -- the designer, Takara herself, is on site and is very friendly and approachable. I have been in places like this where the staff is very snooty, but I walked in wearing very shlubby clothing (I had biked there) and they couldn't have been nicer. I think the prices are fair for the quality and design, but I took a star off since there was no sale rack. Note the new address in the Marion Street Mall -- 123 N. Marion. read more

The clothes are quite unique and use beautiful, colorful fabrics. Many of them are artistic and involve a lot of fabric, so not necessarily the best if you're looking for clothes that will show off a svelte figure. (Not all the clothes are like this, but I would say the majority). The owner, Takara herself, is as sweet and warm as everyone says. And I have to disagree with other reviewers on the lack of lower-priced items. I found a beautiful, fitted formal dress on sale for $40! Marked down something like 70%. She has some very nice deals. read more

If you want to be uniquely dressed, shop at Takara's. I've been in dire need of a few skirts for a while and I purchased a lovely one a few weeks ago. Also, if you like flax, Takara's is the only authorized seller in Oak Park. read more

I have to agree with the reviewer on Whimsical ! I tell ya, I was trying to walk off my pancake breakfast across the street from this store and was dying to get in there (after reading about it in a local magazine).. everything in there was so Pretty.. from the jewlery to their Scarves. I ended up walking out with a Gorgeous Jacket and a $170 Skirt Set for about $60 (Their stuff is ON SALE!!! )... I was so excited about the buy.. I took pics of it for my mom and told her to look out for it as it's in the Mail. I will frequent here for special pieces. How fun it is to get a few things that everyone and their mother has. The store owner/designer wasn't there however the Staff was Great and knowledgable. She took me by surprise listening to NeoSoul music haha! Loved it! Even their Fitting Rooms are Whimsical. This place is just GORGEOUS!! I hope that she remains there for a long time. I was afraid to go into her shoestore next door as I knew that I'd break the bank account! Takara's things are just TOO CUTE! read more

If you are looking for unique and modern, yet feminine clothes, then Takara is the shop for you! Takara is one of the gem boutiques I visit at least once a month when shopping in Oak Park. Takara is the name of the boutique and also the owner/designer who selects unique fashions to sell, and designs her own as well. Takara and her staff are always friendly and helpful, and it's really a pleasure to shop here, even if only stopping in to say hi. I have purchased a few unique pieces from this shop over the past year, and each one of them is unique, feminine, yet modern and a bit edgy. read more

Love Takara - have been shopping here since it opened! Sales associates and Takara herself are great and get to know regulars. Takara makes her own line of clothing but also carries beautiful, unique lines that I haven't found anywhere else. Prices can be high, but I get great deals on regular sales, and especially major sales! When I find something I like at Takara, I usually don't have a problem paying a bit more because they carry such unique things that I can then pair with Gap and J.Crew clothes for a more independent style comprised of budget and pricier pieces. Takara also has Shoe Soko down the street, full of comfortable, unique footwear, and her daughter Maya has a clothing shop a few doors up the street called Croix with clothing geared toward a slightly younger demographic. read more

I believe this is the only place in Oak Park that sells the Kinky-Curly hair care line! The KCCC is $30, Spiral Spritz $16 and the KCKT is $16. They also sell Miss Jessie's products. The staff are friendly and they also have h'orderves (at least on the Saturday I went) for the shoppers. The clothes are really beautiful, but more geared toward the 40+ crowd. read more

This boutique is a bit magical, full of interesting and beautiful clothes and accessories. I am not a high-end shopper, but I live up the street, so I go in when I see an irresistible sale sign. At the end of the summer I got some really terrific bargains, including several pieces that I'm still wearing as layers. Very versatile, comfortable items - but unusual at the same time. Over the past two years, I have bought about 10 items from this shop. Most of them really stand out in my closet. They have held up well and I enjoy wearing them. I have also bought some great earrings here. I wish I could afford more of the gorgeous accessories. Thanks to Takara (she's also a person, and a clothing designer, not just a shop) for providing such a lovely and unusual shop out here in the burbs - what a great alternative to the chain stores - shop local, support a woman-owned small business - yes, it's all good. Long may you thrive in our midst. read more

What a special place, what an awesome woman Takara is! I had a great time shopping there this past Friday. Her pieces are one of a kind and blend into my current wardrobe perfectly. I will be back. She now carries my button jewelry and I am thrilled to be a small part of her clothing shop. I was invited back for a trunk show on April 16th. I can't wait. I know I will find more great finds in this shop. The ring I purchased ROCKS!!! I LOVE IT!!!! read more

Takara has the most uniquely flattering clothes by a Chicago designer. In the small boutique in the Oak Park Arts District on Harrison Street, the outfits are incredibly creative and unique yet elegant and sophisticated. The dresses, wraps, coats, scarves, gloves, wallets, purses and jewelry are gorgeously designed and wonderfully matched. Her staff, and above all, Takara herself are very warm people who are genuinely interested in making the customer look fabulous - and they can with these clever wraps and beautifully cut designs. Takara knows how to make a woman's body look incredible - no matter the size or age. What a gem to have in Oak Park! read more

OMG I had another amazing experience today at Takara's. I got to actually meet Takara and purchase a fabulous dress for a party! She was very nice and the warmth that she showed my friend and I was wonderful. I love this place! I wish I had the money to shop in here all the time but just knowing I can walk in at anytime and find wonderful timeless pieces is a beautiful thing. read more

This is a great place to find beautiful unique women's c lothing. Although they are pricey, this weekend (Jan 17/18) is one of the few times a year when clothing is 70% off! Shoes and accessories have a smaller discount, but still a bargain. Hang on to anything that you intend to buy. A beautiful coat that was being held for me at the counter while I tried on something else was sold to another customer by mistake. read more

Friendly staff, best window-dressing around town, unique fashions, and fabulous accessories like jewelry and purses, and now that they've incorporated their shoes, it has it all! read more

I love clothes that are artistic and not mass produced. That's exactly what you'll find here. The two ladies that run the shop design a lot of the clothes you see in the store so you can ask questions about the clothing before buying. Each piece is made of high quality fabric and often times the only item of it's kind in the whole store. They're prices are resonable for a shop of its kind. The beautifully crafted items are well worth every penny. read more

Well, I gotta say I hadn't been to TAKARA before, but heard fantastic things about the boutique. I have a graduation that I'm attending and a friend made a suggestion. When I arrived I was impressed the second you walked in the door, someone said hello and smiled! I was at Anana's just the day before and not one person spoke when I walked in the door. I quietly walked around and not one person acknowledged me. After ten minutes or so, I decided to leave. Later that evening I was sharing that experience with my friend who recommended TAKARA. I recognized Takara right away, she was featured on CNN a few weeks ago. She was so helpful and friendly, she spent a great deal of time with me until I found the perfect outfit for the graduation. It was a beautiful cobalt blue wrap ruffle top she designed and we paired it back with a Babette black pant. I also found a simple 18kt gold earring to bring the outfit together. I'm not sure what experience Hannah Y. had, but TAKARA has a new customer for life! Thanks TAKARA - We love you in Oak Park! My husband just loved me in the wrap top, he said I looked regal. read more

Even though I have only been in Willow once, I really was impressed. They have unique items and good accessories. They also have good sales from time to time. read more

Not only does Takara have so many beautiful and unusual things, who else runs a 50% of sale on Cydwoq shoes?

I received an email to attend Takara's end of summer sale....offering 70% off! Imagine that! I love this store.

Found this store and its affiliate, Croix, in downtown Oak Park. Both stores have an edgy fashion forward appeal. Croix specializes in fashions under $100 for women size 2-12, while Takara has all price ranges and features fashions by the owner, Takara (featured on CNN - Live Here Oak Park) and a wide range of sizes for real women. Beautiful accessories and jewelry are also available to compliment your purchase and the friendly, knowledgeable staff will help you coordinate your outfit and accessories for a stunning finished look. If you need boots or shoes to go with your new purchase from either store, Soko shoes (another affiliate) has shoes to compliment your new purchase. read more

Takara Rocks! Have been shopping here for years and can always find a fabulous outfit for that special event. Her own line is phenomenal with creative twists and the designers she chooses to showcase are truly one of a kind. Service? OMG it's terrific. Everyone is warm and friendly,taking care to help pick accessories and make suggestions. Love this place! read more

Excellent merchandise, unique designs, excellent customer service!!

It had been years since I visited Takara's shop. In fact, I remember when she was on Harris street before she moved to Marion street. From that last wonderful experience, I had so many people compliment me on the items that I purchased more than some 10 years. When I stepped into her new store today, Takara recognized me-Unbelievable. The beautiful, edgy, and creative clothes that I placed on my body made me feel renewed. Yes, you will spend money if you're there. BUT, she has some awesome sales and to be frank, it's good to splurge if you want to something different that brings out the real beauty in you. I rarely talk this way about myself, but damn I looked good in Takara's clothes. My husband fully agrees. Thank you Takara for your customer service and looking out for some of us who forgot how to look good for ourselves first. Peace, read more

A friend informed me of this place a few year ago. We usually walked in to just look at it is quite pricey even to buy one item of clothing, but the designs are so unique and wonderfully made. Well, this time around I went in to buy a dress. Tried on a slew of items: pants, blouses, dresses. The staff was wonderful in selecting items that would fit my body type. In the end though I only bought three items but they are staples sorely needed in my wardrobe. So, it was an investment. There was no sale in progress. I will definitely go back when they announce a sale. read more

So I realize that Takara does not really cater to my age demographic - totally OK! I definitely recommend checking out some of the accessories if the clothes aren't exactly your thing. I have two wallets from Takara - one vegan leather and one leather. Both purchases have been high quality, tasteful in design, and great in terms of value. read more

I have decided to update my review because I realize I shouldnt have let that experience I had taint my feelings about Takara. Bottom line, it's a great boutique with awesome products/clothes. The day that I went I wasn't impressed by the staff but I believe in the professionalism that I've seen on previous trips. read more

Great finds in a really cute boutique. I found the most unique and warm winter coat there (now how often do you find a winter coat that is stylish and uber warm?) and always find unique items for gifts as well. Check it out! The owner is often there and has a wonderful spirit! read more

Fabulous store for interesting and beautiful clothing that you can't find in other stores. I thought the prices were appropriate for the quality and uniqueness. The sales staff was lovely and approachable and eager to help in all ways. Great find and I will be shopping there often! read more

I work "High End" retail for 30 years..from Jacobson's, to Saks, to Barney's of New York here in Las Vegas and I can tell you Takara's expertise in buying is right up there with the best of them..Her selections are structural almost with a Japanese influence...her clothing is comfortable and timeless...When I am in town visiting, I always make it a point to pick up a few of her pieces...and the Jewelry is something else...I purchased two pair of shoes at her new shoe store...I had women stopping me on the street here in Las Vegas asking "where on earth did you get those shoes"? they are so different.....Trying so to get her to open a shop here in Vegas read more