Contributed by Lindsay Shugerman, Catalogs.com Top 10 Guru

Sure, Chicago is known as the windy city. And the home of the Bears and the Bulls.


But Chicago is also home to some of the best shopping in the country.

If you’re heading to the Chicago area, be sure to leave some time for shopping. Here’s a great list to get you started…our top 10 choices for places to shop in Chicago.

10. Crush

Your teen or tween daughter will be happy to leave the mall chain stores behind when she sees the fashions at Crush.

This trendy boutique located at 2138 W. Roscoe Street offers teen girls clothes designed just for them, instead of sized-down versions of apparel meant for 20-somethings. Moms and daughters alike will be thrilled with the new designs and personal service.

9. Haberdash

Haberdash is all about giving men the clothes and accessories they need to look great and feel prepared no matter where they are. From shirts and slacks to parkas and accessories, their three Chicago area locations offer men a complete shopping experience in a shop where men will feel comfortable and at home.

If you’re planning a visit to town, start out by reading their blog for a taste of what this unique men’s store offers.

8. Ami Ami

No need to go to New York for the latest in couture when Ami Ami has the hottest new looks, right off the runways of Milan, Paris and London.

This boutique located at 720 B. Waukegan Road in Deerfield is the place to go for the right dress that special event, or to bring your wardrobe into the spotlight. Check out their “Look Book” online for a taste of what you’ll find, then head in for one of the finest shopping experiences in Chicago.

7. Artistica

If you’re looking for something unique and hand-crafted for your home, be sure to make a stop at Artistica Pottery in nearby Winnetka at 990 Green Bay Road. Their collection of hand-painted Italian pottery will take you directly to the hills of Tuscany.

Artistica is also home to a stunning selection of Murano glass, Florentine Majolica and Deruta Dinnerware.

6. Centuries and Sleuths

Not your neighborhood chain bookstore!

Where else can you find over 9,000 volumes of biographies, history and mysteries in one location? Add to that a collection of booksellers dedicated to their subject and their customers, throw in one highly coveted Raven Award from the Mystery Writers of America and you have Centuries and Sleuths.

Check them out at 7419 Madison Street in Forest Park for one of the best bookstore experiences in America.

5. Museum of Contemporary Art

Museum stores are almost always a winning choice for unique shopping choices, and The Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago is no exception.

From incredible home decor choices to stunning apparel, they’ve transformed the best of modern art into gifts you’ll treasure. They even offer a modern twist on the classic Good Night Moon with a witty Good Night iPad version.

A separate no-fee entrance makes it easy to shop even when you’re not planning a museum visit.

4. Muse Couture

Slipping into bed or stepping out of the shower in Chicago has never been quite so luxurious until Muse. Their collection of decadently luxurious bed linens and bath towels takes the ordinary to the extraordinary.

Visit Muse at their shop at 300 West Hubbard, Suite 300.

3. Jazz Record Mart

Chicago was the birthplace of much of what became modern jazz, so it should come as no surprise that the world’s largest jazz and blues record store also calls Chicago home.

Make a stop and browse through their 10,000’s of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, cassettes, books, posters and postcards featuring the best of yesterday’s and today’s jazz and blues artists.

2. Lou Malnati’s Tastes of Chicago

While you’re in Chicago, be sure to stop at one of Lou Malnati’s great restaurants for some authentic Chicago taste treats, from deep dish pizza and mouth-watering Italian beef to tangy ribs. Locals will give you conflicting recommendations: Pizzeria Uno, Edwardo’s, Chicago Pizza Pie Factory and a host of neighborhood pizza restaurants will make some lists. Most have t-shirts, caps and even chef aprons for you to take back home with you.

1. Takohl

Okay, call me a hopeless romantic, but when I heard that this Chicago area jeweler made beautiful rings with a secret hiding place for a message, I was immediately hooked.

Yes, the secret compartment is wonderful for hiding a pet name or private message, but the real beauty of Takohl lies in the elegant jewelry designs and uncompromising attention to quality in materials and style.

If you’re looking for fine jewelry that will thrill and delight…and stand the test of time…make sure a stop at their shop at 110 Peoria Street is on your list of places you must shop in Chicago.