If you’re in the market for new men’s clothes, a variety of local neighborhoods might spring to mind: Wicker Park, Madison Street, the Loop, maybe Gold Coast? If the men behind the new menswear destination Notre have anything to say about it, you can now add Andersonville to that list.
The store is owned by a small group of fashion veterans, including former Haberdash buyer Michael Jaworowski. Their aim is to bring another big-time menswear option to Chicago. But why Andersonville? Notre co-owner Rob Wilce explains:
“It’s probably the friendliest neighborhood in Chicago. (The neighborhood) has been a destination for both of us for awhile for shopping. It has a lot of unique furniture, art galleries, and just overall interesting shops. As we kept shopping, we kept realizing that we could serve a market here that wasn’t being addressed. Also, we want to position ourselves as a destination shop with the hopes that people to come check us out then see what else the neighborhood has to offer.” he says.
The store features handpicked items that range from the usual items like shirts, pants and accessories to luggage and footwear. Shopgoers can expect items from brands menswear mainstays like Band of Outsiders, 3sixteen, Filson and Visvim to exclusives like a denim line from Ron Herman (Notre will be the only place in the Midwest you can find the line.) When asked about the ideal Notre shopper, Jaworowski’s face brightens.
“He’s passionate about his life. He cares about the quality of life and the quality of the clothes that he’s wearing. Who doesn’t just like heritage stuff or just street wear stuff, but the best of all of those things. I want this space to be comfortable to that kind of person.”
Notre, 5202 N. Clark. Hours: noon to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. www.notre-shop.com
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