These seven Chicago shops are perfect for holiday gifting

Fashion comes with a side of education at Black-owned Reformed School, where you’ll find T-shirts, applique apparel, face masks and sweatshirts, all made with repurposed or recycled materials. Snag the Literati enamel pin gift set ($25) — celebrating authors Langston Hughes, James Baldwin and Chicago’s own Lorraine Hansberry — for the literary lover on your list.

Support your favorite Lakeview spots from the comfort of your couch with the Lakeview Holiday Gift Guide, an online marketplace highlighting the neighborhood’s businesses. Grab a doggy gift set from Barks N’ Rec, complete with items like a holiday plaid bandana from Simply Stout and Bocce's beef bone broth biscuit treats ($26.25-$78.75), or gift your spa-loving aunt with a soap set and handwoven basket from The Guild ($54.60). Can't decide on just one retailer? Choose the Home for the Holidays Gift Package ($79.80) which features items from multiple businesses including socks, a candle, tea towel and more. Some packages qualify for free delivery, otherwise you can choose a pickup time and date once you’ve made your selection.

Paid content

A favorite among Hyde Park residents and visitors alike, this Black-owned shop and community space has been a major player in Chicago’s small business scene for more than 20 years. From clothing and enamel pins to fragrant incense and witty greeting cards, you’ll find gift options at all price points. Tackle your holiday shopping list in person or online — the Silver Room offers free local same-day delivery — and be sure to check out the shop’s Black Lives Matter and Chicago collections.

Did you know lululemon offers way more than luxurious athletic wear? Help a friend get a headstart on their New Year’s resolutions with online classes. Alternatively, book a curated private shopping experience with a lululemon stylist and top it off with a personal development session, a HIIT or vinyasa yoga class. Email lincolnparkcommunity@lululemon.com for more details.

Paid content

We all know someone who could use more time for self-care. Known for its mask bar and wellness programming, the woman-owned skincare salon sells a variety of beauty tools, oils, soaps and scrubs. Scratch Goods has also launched a virtual mask bar party, a pandemic-friendly version of its mask bar experience. The shop is also offering contactless pickup on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays at select times.

Help the at-home mixologists in your life toast to the holiday season with a bottle of booze, new crystal glassware or a fancy new bar set. Check out the Whiskey Revolution Spirit Box, including a sampling of six 50-milliliter bottles of whiskey ($39), or the four-piece stainless steel mixologist barware set ($66). Spirit Hub’s site also features a recipe collection, where you can learn how to make a new cocktail and shop for your liquor in one visit.

Paid content

Shop for your fashion-forward loved ones at this North Side boutique, open since 2012. The woman-owned business highlights handmade clothing, accessories, bath products, home goods and gift sets (we love the Date Yourself package, $39) from local and indie designers. Shop online or email milkchicago@gmail.com to book a private shopping appointment.