Winnetka Thrift Shop

Recommends

Elisa Kronish

Joined 10 years ago

A little of everything finds its way to this friendly, North Shore shop.. The Scene
Who knew that the wealthy North Shore needed thrift shops? Judging by this busy store, it seems someone there does. The front shelves house a selection of paperback and hardcover books, some board games and puzzles, several old magazines, a jumble of dishware, and old mugs--the kind that have sayings like, "World's Greatest Mom" and "I Love New Jersey."

The Goods
Neatly hung clothing takes up most of the space, with the conservative style of this Chicago suburb expressed in the abundance of men's cotton golf shirts (from places like the Gap, J.Crew and Izod, from $5 to $10), several quilted skirt and blazer sets, and some wildly colorful men's pants (about $15). Other items include bathing suits, blazers, kids' clothing, sweaters, dresses and a rack of maternity clothes. Many labels come from popular clothing stores like Benneton, Express, Talbot's and the Gap, while a few high-end designer names pop up here and there.

Miscellaneous
The shop also carries some linens, random items like a box of party hats for 10 cents each, as well as a bin-full of records with musical selections ranging from INXS to Neil Diamond, Roberta Flack to U2. Everything comes in on donation, and proceeds benefit Family Services of Winnetka. The gray-haired women who run the shop only take cash or checks, determining tax with a sheet by the register.