CheekyChicago

This isn’t what you think it is. Sofia Vintage isn’t just another thrift store. There’s no storefront and no funky sign. There aren’t any faux pearls or messy piles of clothes. Tucked away in an office building in the Gold Coast, Sofia Vintage is a hidden gem of a vintage shop. Just like the boutique’s Victorian blouses and old school dinner jackets, Sofia Vintage is one of a kind.

The collection at Sofia Vintage is glamorous goodness. Sisters and co-owners Ashley Zisook and Allison Zisook-Goldstein handpick the store’s selections. They shop auctions and estate sales, and cull through the seemingly endless racks of thrift to find the perfect pieces. At Sofia, that means beautifully weathered, leather bomber jackets, classic Chanel purses, vintage tees and Valentino gowns – and a lot more. The store also carries new clothing and jewelry lines from up-and-coming designers, like Chaser and (Cheeky-approved) Steven Shein. Sofia Vintage brings old Hollywood glamour, as well as new LA bohemian chic, to Chicago’s doorstep. And some of us may be weary of the bright colors of the ‘80s or the chunky belts but not to worry, Sofia Vintage can sooth your fears. Ashley and the Sofia team also help customers with personal styling, and mixing vintage pieces into her (or his!) everyday style.

With Chanukkah happening and Christmas a-coming, Sofia can work vintage into the everyday style of your loved ones. The store has unique (albeit last-minute) gifts for everyone – even the man in your life. Sofia Vintage just started carrying ELTIF Designs’ Hamza Collection, a line of necklaces with hamsa charms featuring astrological signs, from Aquarius to Capricorn. Although the boutique’s selection of fur stoles and jackets are not, the necklaces are unisex and make a very cheeky, personalized gift. Sofia Vintage takes personalization to the next level with in-house customization and leatherwork, too. The store can add a cool leather pocket to a plain tee or tailor jackets or dresses to fit just right.

A one-of-a-kind piece with custom fit? That’s anything but old-fashioned.