While I love brands like Opening Ceremony and Vetements, their new drops are hard to come by in a city like Chicago where we have limited access to events like NYFW and flagships stores. The 312 does have a ton of love in the form of influencers like Virgil Abloh and Joe Freshgoods and their work can be found on the backs of their city's citizens every day. Here's my list of hometown favorites, I'll let you decide the order yourself.
Fat Tiger, the brainchild of Joseph Robinson (better know as Joe Freshgoods) is known for its dope collections like "Thank U Obama" that celebrities such as Chance the Rapper and hypebeasts can't get enough of. I personally love how Freshgoods' progressive style always captures the attitude of the city he grew up in with an ironic twist.
Jugrnaut was the first streetwear store I discovered, and because of that reason, it will always have a special place in my heart. Four summers ago living in the South Loop off Printer's Row, I stumbled into the store and began my overly obsessive addiction to The Hundreds and Billionaire Boys Club. To find out the latest news on emerging hip-hop artists in Chicago, check out their Instagram feed.
This Wicker Park establishment created by Don C and Virgil Abloh back in 2009 remains a landmark in Chicago streetwear history. Throughout the years, we saw the rise of the high-end tshirt, numerous collaborations, and an endless turntable of famous supporters. It's the best place to go for Chicagoan sneakerheads to cop the latest drop, but for most it remains a luxury few can afford.
Leaders 1354 comes from Hyde Park on the south side of Chicago as a way to help mentor aspiring "leaders" of tomorrow in fashion, art, music, and entertainment. Dwayne Wade, Anthony Davis, and VIc Mensa are huge supporters of the brand. The brand has evolved throughout the year with Corey Gilkey and Diego Ross' help and is now a nationally recognized brand and portal into the city of Chicago.
Since its opening in 2005, Saint Alfred has grown to become one of the most respected lifestyle shops in the country. It revolves around the city of Chicago, showcasing what residents love and fighting violent portrayals of the city. It's where you'll find me on a quiet Sunday in Wicker Park after a long weekend of drinking as I find solace in the simple store layout.