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Categories: Cosmetics & Beauty Supply, Women's Clothing, Accessories
Neighborhoods: Lincoln Park, DePaulArmitage (Purple Express, Brown)
Mon-Thu. 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Fri. 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Sun. 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
"From the moment you walk in, you are greeted with smiling faces, herbal tea, and chocolate. The only thing warmer than the atmosphere is…" read more »
This is truly one of my favorite stores in Chicago. It has such a diverse range in merchandise that I can spend a good bit of time making sure I've seen all there is to see.
When you walk in the door, the merchandise tends to be a bit hodge-podge. Sometimes I've see some Jewish-themed items, sometimes Asian. There are picture frames, small gardening items, to peace-sign cake pan. I once bought a "French" toast maker---it imprints the Eiffel Tower on a piece of toast. A little further in is some "green" items---reusable shopping totes, books on being green, etc. Continuing straight back past the register, you hit bridal and baby themed gifts on the left and some cards and more general gifts on the right. (For a friend's bachelorette, I got a book here, "38 Uses for a Husband") I saw a mini-shooting gallery game before and wished I could play.
Moving to the back of the store is a room with kitchen items, travel items and some soaps and bath stuff. In the second half of the store is clothes and jewelry. Come Christmas, there is also a good selection of ornaments here too.
Essentially, Art Effect has a little bit of everything. Some things are affordable, but others are overpriced. I've bought jewelry, gifts, ornaments here and always enjoy browsing. Unfortunately, browsing tends to morph into buying too often so I have to limit myself. I also want to note that the employee gift-wrapped the book for a friend without my asking if she offered wrapping and it was a beautiful finished product---and saved me time and money. Bonus points in my book.
I did not expect to like this place. I pass it every day en route to the brown line, and the stuff they put in the windows has always... repelled me a bit. That sounds extreme when I write it out, but that was the effect Art Effect had on me: just, "Nope. Do not ever want to go in there, not one bit."
So I have friends in from out of state, and they want to buy trinkets. And I turn into a middle schooler, saying 'random' all the time, "there's this random place that sells random crap maybe one of your random friends will like. Grumble grumble trudge in the door."
And it IS filled with random crap, but this crap holds my attention and interests me and I actually enjoy my time there while waiting for my guest to browse.
But most importantly, they have a pretty rockin' sale section. Front of the store around the corner to the left, this treasure trove of things that are actually in my price range. I can't even generally classify the things that they had. $3 teapots, $2 CDs, $5 packs of single-use lineless panties, $5 Moleskines... just lots of random things, but sold at a price that I would consider.
To be clear--there is plenty here I wouldn't spring for. I quickly ducked out of their "sale" rack that lowered dress prices down to the $80s... but that's just me...
Service was really good at first, but then as soon as I'd gone through the line the sales lady apologized proFUSEly and repeatedly to the woman behind me for making her wait through my two-CD purchase. So I guess that's polite... but maybe wait til the inconveniencing customer gets out of earshot before apologizing to the next one?
People thought this was:
Many many years ago, I dreamt of opening my own store. I wanted a store that was inspiring, eclectic, vintage, bo ho, and everything in between. My personal dream never came to fruition..but I found it realized in Art Effect.
This store is Trouble with a capital T. You can easily spend hours here oohing and ahing, spending money on items that you never knew existed, and never knew that you wanted or needed.
I felt like a drug fiend in their store. They had the most beautiful pieces of clothing. I was gaga over some of their handmade skirts and sundresses. I bought the perfect black button down blouse. It was exactly what I was looking for. I found a few kitsch items for my house, and an incredible waterproof zebra tote bag that folded into a tiny little roll to tuck into my purse for whenever I needed one.
Luckily I only had 20 minutes to browse while my son was in class. Had I been given more time..I could have really gotten myself into trouble. There are tons of gorgeous jewelry there to be had, journals to fill, stationary, soaps, unique home decor, the list is endless. It will unfortunately be a regular stopping place for me in the weeks to come. I can't wait to introduce the store to my son. He will have a field day in the kids section. I would buy one of everything in there if I could.
People thought this was:
I love this place for their unique items... specifically jewelry.
I got a rockin' gold rhino necklace here for a very nominal price. They carry Me & Ro (love!) along with an infinite number of the fun and interesting knick knacks. It makes you feel like a kid again.
People thought this was:
Easily my favorite store in Lincoln Park. Art Effect is the perfect stop for quirky gifts for coworkers & knick knacks to adorn my own home and workplace. They have a ton of smaller things: stationery, post-its, mugs, etc. Also, a large collection with a French theme (perfect for a Francophile such as myself). Previous purchases have included rubber bands shaped like world monuments, a book on how to raise a Jewish dog, and a ring made out of an old button.
They also carry Michael Stars shirts. I'm a big fan (especially when they are on sale).
People thought this was:
I love this crap. Like, if I could buy all of it, and had some place to put it all, I would. But in all seriousness, this is the perfect place to get that random birthday gift for the friend (or mom, or sister) that's hard to shop for, or easy to shop for. They have an awesome selection of cards, books, and other fun things you didn't even know you wanted. It's a good place to kill some time to, although you'll probably end up walking out with a shopping bag...
One of my favorite stores in the city.
Easy location, right off the Armitage brown line, in Lincoln Park. They always have a wide selection of knick knacks, jewelry, decor and kitchen items to choose from. The perfect place to find a memorable gift for any occasion or to treat yourself.
-1 star because it can be a tad pricey.
People thought this was:
If you're looking for a unique birthday, wedding, baby, bat mitzah or housewarming gift this is the place. They have a lovely assortment of clothes and gifts. High end items and more affordable pieces. It is hard for me to walk out of the store without buying something! Gifts for the home (soaps, candle holders and artsy cheese platters); your foodie friend (cookbooks, adorable serving pieces & aprons); the wee babe (soft stuffed toys and cute onesies); and your fashionista friend (large Michael Stars assortment, funky accessories and fun clothes).
In terms of jewelry they have some beautiful pieces under the glass at the jewelry counter but then also have some inexpensive stuff on display (sometimes in the room with the clothes, other times closer to the register) these items tend to be more in the $10-20 range.
This store should be your first stop when shopping on Armitage!
If you've ever been to Pylones in NY, multiply it by 4. This place has EVERYTHING, and makes it all a little bit cuter.
Stationary becomes more fun,
tea becomes more fancy,
luggage tags become more fasionable,
cooking utensils become more patterned, etc.
In Art Effect, anything goes. Its a little overwhelming but I could browse around (and did) for an hour. A great place to get unique eclectic gifts.
People thought this was:
I wish I could do 3.5 stars. This is a great place to buy nice gifts for people. They carry a TON of stuff - kitchen, bath, baby, clothes, jewelry, etc., so you really can find something for everyone. The have the most amazing scented candles ever, but I have never purchased one because spending $33 on a candle would surely make me feel guilty.
I wanted to do 3.5 stars, and not 4, because employees totally ignored me when I was in there this morning. I'm not somebody that likes to be followed around, and talked at, but a friendly "hello" or "can I help you find something?" is always appreciated.
Sure they have some cute home decor, stationery, and clothing in the back, but the sales associates should learn how to be a bit more friendly. Prices range from being a bit steep to kind of ridiculous.
People thought this was:
This store is a cute place to stop by when you're in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. While the… Read more »
I Love this store!!! If you are ever looking for some creative gifts, they have them. I bought some items last week as presents so i won't spoil it on here but in the past I have gotten some cute items that people just love!
Some of their stuff especially clothes are a tad pricey .. But they do have some awesome gadgets and novelty Items. I got my boyfriend a cute bath sponge that looked like a microphone LOL! I also got some cute magnets and solid fragrance here.
If you are looking for a unique gift I would stop here first!
People thought this was:
I love to look at their store windows. I love some of the treasures you can find-- I bought a Postcard stand....who knew! I like their travel section, too and their dressing rooms! I'll take anyone there who visits. Cheers!!
Crap.
It's so hard to pass up and so easy to spend an hour in this place!!
Like many reviews have said, Art Effect is perfect for unique gift ideas when places like Crate and Barrel and the Body Shop just don't cut it. It's Esty-esque and kicks Anthropologie's butt. Lucky friends who receive gifts from here will think you're uber thoughtful, quirky, and creative. Who would've thought?!
And if you're shopping for yourself, be prepared to spend a lotta money here buying cute things you want...but don't need (or can afford).
I spent my time today looking at the following:
-Buttons and mugs with cute graphics that read 'Plane Jane,' 'Cry Baby,' or 'Work Horse,' etc.
-Milk bottle shaped vases
-Lots o' stationary with simple, beautiful, and colorful prints
-Fun cooking aprons
-Coats and jackets by indie designers and warm woolen knit wear
-Delightful soaps and lotions
FYI, this place reeks of hipster.
People thought this was:
I love this store. I just wish that it was a little bit more affordable for my college student budget!!!
Sweet Jesus, this store will be the death of my pocketbook.
I LOVE Art Effect. It's a really wonderful spot to visit when you need a gift. I would say it's more of a girly shop, but I'm not particularly fond of gender socialization, so screw it. I will say the only dudes I've ever seen in the store were from Time Out Chicago and UPS. But still--it's a great store and has a little something for everyone.
Housewares, kitschy kitchen gadgets, fun accessories, Michael Stars tops, gorgeous (and I mean really lovely) jewelry that I just can't bring myself to pay for yet, pretty and costly clothes, gnome stuff, wall art, candles, fragrances, mezuzahs, books, unique picture frames, head of Freud lollipops, stationery, toys for babies and for grown-ups (not THOSE kinds of toys. Sheesh, get your minds out of the gutter!)... Art Effect has it all. I found gifts for 5 people on my list this year (complimentary gift boxing with ribbon and eucalyptus sprig!) and I make it a point to visit this shop every time I'm remotely close to it. It hurts so good to spend my money here.
People thought this was:
My go to place for any extra little item needed for a party or special event. Have bought (and loved) magnets, earrings, ornaments, cards and home goods. Always a great place to go if you need a little something for a birthday or Christmas.
I frequently just wander around inside and gaze longingly around...
People thought this was:
There really is no reason to shop anywhere else because you can buy absolutely anything at Art Effect. You name it and they've got it- jewelry, clothing, candles, picture frames, hanky pankies etc. They not only carry a variety of stuff, but everything is adorable as well!
The owner and her employees are also extremely helpful and approachable. It's the perfect spot for some holiday shopping, which many people seem to know by the crowd that was in there today.
People thought this was:
I definitely love browsing in Art Effect. I'm not a big fan of all the kitscy items and gadgets, but they do have some very cute stuff if that's what you are into. They carry some Alessi, Jonathan Adler, and Pylones products, among others.
The windows are always well done and make me want for all the fabulous designs they sell. Unfortunately, the clothing and finer artisan jewelry are a bit out of price range, but they have great stuff if it IS in your price range. They carry Orla Kiely bags/clothing, which I am OBSESSED with.
My favorite part of the shop used to be the cute, affordabe fashion jewelry/accessories section. Unfortunately, the last time I was in, this had been whittled away into nothing. So, I was quite disappointed as I was buying a gift, but I found something that my friend loved. I do hope that they build this section up again.
Generally, in my opinion, the staff has not been all that accommodating or interested in me. However, that's just fine with me, because I don't like to be bothered. They seem to have a lot of chit-chat amongst each other-- but it's fine. They have always been willing to help when I had questions.
I pretty much decided to do all my holiday, wedding and birthday gift shopping here a couple of years ago. I realized I was going all over the place only to end up at Art Effect and find the perfect most unique gift right there. No matter who it is: guy, girl, coworker, best friend, I find awesome stuff at Art Effect.
The sales people are generally nice although once I asked to see a ring in the jewelry case and the woman said "You know it IS about $400". OK! I guess she decided I couldn't afford it before I even tried it on. It was Christmas time and my husband was with me and he could have been looking for a special gift for me but I couldn't even try it on? Weird. Other than that, the sales people don't really push stuff on you and give you space to shop and browse--which I LOVE.
Overall--awesome variety, good prices.
UPDATE:
I went last night and literally got 80% of my gifts done. Amazing! Lots of adorable stuff. The sales people were helpful EXCEPT! the older woman in the jewelry case has GOT to stop telling the prices of things before she even brings them out of the case! Seriously! It's really insulting! Even if its unintentional, it makes me feel like she's telling me I can't afford something. I bought not only that necklace, but about 12 other things so stop bustin me like you think I'm poor!
People thought this was:
With Christmas right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about gift shopping... went in here and though I refuse to shop for Christmas gifts in November, I think I could have done my shopping for just about everyone on my list here.... They really do have just about everything, including Dreidel ornaments for your Jewish friends who like Christmas trees? If you're looking for Chicago-specific gifts, they have some cool El stop T-shirts and other t-shirts... They had some cool baby stuff. I think 50 different kinds of candles. Lots of books. Lots of other home stuff.
It's a little urban outfitters minus that whole corporate right wing republican backing thing, more tsotske stuff, and fewer clothes (unfortunately no men's clothes at all).
People thought this was:
Art Effect is pretty cool.
I recently stopped in on my way to the nearby Argo (yes, Argo Tea & I are officially on a first name basis now), 'cause I was looking for a new way to procrastinate during the hell that is law school mid-terms...
Anyway, Art Effect is a cute, medium-ish sized shop. When I first walked in, I wasn't quite sure what all the hubbub was about, but I grew more & more impressed as I kept walking...
They have lots of cool & colorful plates/dishes & kitchen items, which I'm a complete sucker for. There are also tons of knick-knacky items & adorable little pins that are perfect for decorating a boring old t-shirt or coat, etc.
Art Effect is great for birthday/holiday presents or for putting some kind of theme-based gift together for your friends, too. (The note pads with titles like "Shit List," & "Cell Phone Citation" are particularly amusing...)
So, bottom line:
Do you "need" anything they sell here? Nope.
Will you actually buy anything? You betcha.
People thought this was:
I got a pad of paper here that is entitled "Mood Alert." You can check off how your day has been, what you need, advice for what your significant other should do to keep you happy, etc. I think if all relationships had these things lying around then maybe we wouldn't all have communication problems!!!! A pad of paper can save your relationship! (Except not...more like they're just fun. Sometimes I fill them out when I want food. Or sexy time. Etc.)
Anyway...Wow. What an awesome store! I didn't want to go in because it looked like a combination gift/clothing store but then my friend made me and it was about the best place ever. They have so many great gift-type items, clothing, such pretty jewelry in the jewelry cases, headbands, cheap/random jewelry...so much stuff. I am definitely coming back.
People thought this was:
I love this place! It has a little bit of everything--clothes, jewelry, random books and gifts, kitchen stuff, etc. It's great for finding gifts for friends or picking up something new and different for yourself. The salespeople are always friendly and helpful. And the space of the store itself is also great. I personally love their t-shirts and earrings, and my friends are addicted as well.
Kitschy decor, plain (I consider it boring) clothing, some amazing jewelry.
Perfect for fans of crafts, quirky gifts, hip bakers, and useless gadgets.
Some of this stuff is overpriced however (drastically marked up, for realz) and items can be found online at places like Fred Flare, The Spoon Sisters, or modcloth for much cheaper.
An interesting juxtaposition: fun items aimed at a college aged crowd, but packing an upper middle class white woman price tag. I guess it's by DePaul so it makes sense... but I'm cheap.
"Cute, little post-its, and hand-knitted mittens. Outfits and candles- these things make me smitten. Kitchen accessories, gadgets and bling. These are a few of my favorite things." -sung to the tune of "My Favorite Things" from the Sound of Music.
My go-to place for gifts and self-pity shopping. period.
People thought this was:
This is probably my #1 shop when I'm looking for a gift for someone. They have a huge variety of items here...housewares, candles, lotions, great kitchen gadgets, plates, decorative bowls, odd toys, stationery, watches, jewelry, clothes...you name it they probably have it. I have spent quite a few of my little pennies here and been super happy about it.
A few things to note, however...
this place can really be spendy. It definitely varies within the store (which is nice) but you'll be looking at a pair of earrings at a reasonable price and then two steps later - boom - oucha - 'spensive! Also, their return policy kinda stinks with regard to giving stuff as gifts. It's like a week or two weeks! Come on, for a wedding gift? What if the people go on a honeymoon right after? They can't exchange the bowl I gave them? Geesh!
Anyway, I still like the place...a lot...and still try to go there...often.
People thought this was:
I went to Art Effect last week to buy cool and interesting (but also useful) gifts for my cousin and my friend, and within two minutes my hands were full of options. Everything there smells good, looks cute, does something unexpected, or serves a purpose you never realized needed serving (but quickly learn is indespensible).
Examples:
--A cow-shaped keychain/flashlight that, when you squeeze it, moos, opens its mouth to reveal a light, and lights up. Totally useful if you need help unlocking your door at night.
--An orange-shaped orange juicer for manually juicing oranges. Great way to avoid paying a lot for one of those big fancy machines, and you can store it in your fruit bowl!
--A PORTABLE, FOLDING, PLASTIC SPORK THAT'S SHAPED LIKE A LADYBUG!!!! 'Nuff said. Sporks rule.
I hold off on the 5th star because some of the t-shirts and other clothing cost more than is reasonable. Think $80, but poorly fit and somewhat unoriginal. Same with the dresses. Overpriced and often sack-like.
But mad props to the gift-section merchandiser, because every front-room table is stocked with something magical. I will def be back.
People thought this was:
I could have spent all day in this store! I was on the hunt for a birthday gift for my best friend and thought to stop into Art Effect. The salesperson greeted me right away and after a few minutes offered to help. She was extremely helpful--asked me how much I wanted to spend and made some great suggestions. Art Effect isn't cheap, but they have some items that cost less than others. This shop might not be for every budget, but if you're looking to splurge a little on something for a good friend (or even yourself), it's worth it to check out the rather large selection of items here.
Sooooooo I MUST go to Art Effect whenever I'm within a block. I love love love going in there and looking at everything. It's full of things I want, but nothing I need.
More importantly, everything is just too expensive for me.
I've probably been inside 20+ times, and only purchased something once (some perfume). (Hence, the 3 star rating). Put it on your list when you're shopping on Armitage.
People thought this was:
I'm not sure what else I could say that hasn't been said in other reviews. Its a great store, with something for everyone. They have a great variety of candles, with very unique scents - plus the have a great variety of soy candles, which are much much better for you to be burning in your home, plus they last longer.
There is a great variety of unique kitchen items from a salt pig to tea sets. If you are looking for a gift for someone who enjoys cooking or baking definitely check out their back room.
They do have other kitchy stuff which usually makes me laugh out loud, which can be embarrassing when one shops alone.
I have not purchased any clothing here, its expensive and my wallet shakes its finger at me when I even think about picking up a t-shirt for $45.
Overall a great store, I love shopping here! But make sure you are clear of their return policy, its a little different!
People thought this was:
I want to buy every single thing in this store, even if I don't need it, which is often the case.
I don't need 8 different serving platters and their corresponding knives and such. I don't need kitchen aprons. I don't need a big jug that says "Iced Tea" and has a little spigot on the front of it even though it would be PERFECT for making a big batch of sangria or vodka or whatever. But just because I don't NEED it, doesn't mean I don't WANT it.
EVERYTHING here is cute and awesome, if a little expensive sometimes. $8 for note cards? No thanks, I can get them at Tar-zhey for less than half of that.
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It's A Toy Store for Adults! Or so it felt...
I went in Art Effect for the first time this weekend and LOVED it. I could have spent hours browsing the myriad of different things they have. I bought a gift for my sister and the next time I need a gift for anyone I will definitely be looking here!
I was a bit disappointed in their clothing selection. After reading reviews on here I was excited about it going in, but disappointed leaving. Yet, all of their other merchandise is too good to make that a downer.
People thought this was:
This is one of my favorite shops in Lincoln Park -- perfect if you are in need of a gift, although you're likely to find something you want as well. It's so fun to browse through all the different things they have in the store, from home goods and stationery to clothing and jewelry. Most of the jewelry is a little expensive, and I think the cheaper earrings that are not kept under glass are a bit of a disappointment, but I still have a great time looking at all the unusual pieces.
People thought this was:
LOTS. OF. STUFF.
A cool quirky store but a bit on the pricey side. They have some clothes, lots of jewelry, art, candles, random gifts, tableware.
The perfect store to head to when you need a gift for someone and are unsure what to get.
What a cute store! You walk in and are surrounded by housewares in the front half and then clothing and beautiful jewelry fills the other half!
It was so exciting to see that they carried jewelry designed by Jeanine Payer (http://www.jeaninepaye...)!
People thought this was:
Even though I rarely buy anything when coming to this store, I can't help but browse around it at least once a month. There's something about the quirky items that you may be able to find at 10-12 different stores all together in one store. The gift items are reasonably priced and unique for the most part. The clothing and jewelry is a little more pricey...but then again I am the cheapest person in the world when it comes to fashion so what do I know?
Last month there was a sale. Maybe I came near the end, but I really found nothing decent to buy. Stick with going after the sales when they put out all the new merchandise. You won't be disappointed.
neat store with a lot of cool stuff. I wish there was more stuff for dudes, but it's cool. I see how it is.
Go and discover something.
People thought this was:
Art Effect was fun to browse, but I feel like there wasn't too much stuff I would actually purchase for a friend or family member. Lots of gifty stuff, but nothing that really hopped out in my mind as being unique. I also feel that some stuff was overpriced here. I am glad I checked it out and yes, I'd go here again another season to see new offerings, but I already have my go-to shops for gifting goodness.
I wish I could afford to shop here!!!! Well, I can afford a few of their smaller items, but I want those dresses...
They have very tasteful unique items. This is a superb place to find a gift. Everything here is selected impeccably. I love their clothing. Their housewares are adorable. Everything is very clean and organized well. The staff is exceedingly friendly and helpful. They really know how to do aesthetically pleasing!
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