When Melissa and Joseph Basilone moved to Portage Park in 2007 in the midst of the economic crisis, they knew the neighborhood needed a budget-friendly shop where residents could purchase gently used housewares, clothing, furniture, toys and more, with prices everyone could afford. Years later, Thrift & Thrive draws Chicagoans from all over who are hunting for a bargain. The shop is full of goods but very well-organized. It's clear the owners have a keen eye for detail. Between the selection and the prices, you can't leave here empty handed.
Thrift stores are more than just treasure troves for great deals on secondhand clothes or vintage furniture finds—shopping secondhand also keeps clothes, home goods and other items out of the landfill a little while longer. Whether you're donating your own gently-used goods at the tail end of a spring cleaning session or browsing through the inventory at some of Chicago's best thrift and secondhand stores for that perfect hidden gem, be prepared to score some serious deals on items you simply can't find at most other women's clothing stores, furniture stores or even gift shops.
RECOMMENDED: Best clothing stores in Chicago