Haberdash
607 N. State St. 312-624-8551; 150 W. Roosevelt Road 312-357-5134
Two locations–one in River North and another in the South Loop–of this gentlemen’s shop has everything you need to suit up, from impeccably tailored blazers and pants to neckties, ascots and pocket squares.
Glamour Closet
209 W. Illinois St. 312-245-2790
No appointments are necessary at this River North gown shop, which is like a wedding gown sample sale—but all the time. Shop high-end labels such as Carolina Herrera, Oscar de la Renta and Reem Acra at 25 to 75 percent off the original retail prices.
Bourdage Pearls
4039A N Ravenswood Ave. 773-244-1126
This Ravenswood shop specializes in freshwater pearl jewelry, from classic strands to simple drop earrings to elaborate chokers. Don’t see exactly what you’re looking for? The staff does custom designs, too.
Pistachios
55 E. Grand Ave. 312-595-9437
This art gallery/jewelry shop hybrid specializes in artist-made contemporary jewelry, including titanium wedding bands and tension-set diamond rings.
Forget Me Knodt
1313 W. Wilson Ave. 773-944-1041
Not only does this full-service florist handle wedding orders, but it also stocks same-sex cake toppers made by Lily Red Studio, a local wedding photography and invitation design business.
De Louice
1755 W. North Ave. Suite 102 773-384-8500
Whether you’re seeking a custom-made suit or tuxedo because you’re a hard-to-fit size or just because you want something one-of-a-kind for the big day, this Wicker Park showroom specializes in custom creations for both men and women.
Meringue
2207 W. Roscoe St. 872-206-8182
Former theatrical costume designer Kristine Engel opened this Roscoe Village shop in 2012 to offer brides-to-be a selection of curated vintage with a modern aesthetic. Depending on when you visit, you might find hair combs from the early 1900s, a net headpiece from 1920s Paris and all manner of capelets, belts and gowns.
Nimble Well
3717 N. Ravenswood Ave. Suite 239A 773-680-0229
Want to achieve the perfect Pinterest-inspired tablescape without wasting your weekends pilfering garage sales and thrift shops? Rent vintage cake stands, vases, serving platters and more from this North Central decor rental service (open by appointment).
Nicholas Joseph
300 W. Grand Ave. 312-895-1577
There’s no better excuse to invest in a custom-made suit or tuxedo than your wedding day. This River North shop can manage anything from a formal three-piece tuxedo to a linen suit for a breezy waterfront reception.
Formally Modern Tuxedo
2112 N. Clybourn Ave. 773-975-7700
Outfitting a number of Chicago Blackhawks players for black-tie events is one of this shop’s claims to fame. Whether you’re looking for a slim-fit Hugo Boss tux or a J. Lindeberg gray houndstooth suit, this Lincoln Park store has you covered.
SHOP AT HOME!
Brideside
This Chicago-based online bridesmaids dress service works like this: Browse options online, pay $10 to have three sample dresses sent to your home to try on, and then make a group order online. We especially love the site’s special sections, which include “Preggers” for expecting maids and “Tatas” for dresses that flatter varying bust sizes.
Little Borrowed Dress
Think Rent the Runway for bridesmaids dresses. Choose a style–from one-shouldered Grecian numbers to strapless sweetheart necklines–and then pay between $50 and $75 to rent and then return after the wedding. –Lisa Arnett
