The RealReal is redesigning what it looks like to shop consignment in Chicago.
Spurred by raging online success, “the world’s largest marketplace for authenticated luxury consignment” has expanded into storefronts across the country, adding a midwest flagship in Chicago as its tenth, and largest, location.
The store offers women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags and accessories; beauty; fine jewelry and watches; home and art. And from address and building materials to store layout and decor, the concept revolves around an entirely sustainable, shoppable, and educational experience.
“What sets our stores apart is how far beyond the transaction they go. Stores are a way for us to deeply engage with our community, which is why experts and services are at the heart of our store experience,” said Rati Levesque, COO of The RealReal. “Opening our largest store yet gives us even more opportunity to create a rich experience for buyers and consignors. We hope this new flagship store will drive even more Chicagoans to support resale and help us make fashion more sustainable.”
They start by choosing a location that mirrors their luxury aesthetic. Specifically, a storefront that doesn’t require a lot of work to reduce the negative environmental impact of construction. However, where refurbishing is necessary, they opt for justifiable materials such as cork.
The store isn’t just stocked to dress the city, it was outfitted for Chicagoans, by Chicagoans. A team of curators created relationships with Chicago-based artists, sourcing original pieces for the store from galleries or thrifted and reupholstered by local artists.
This local outlook extends to the store’s café, which is stocked with area favorites from Goddess and the Baker, Field and Farmer and Seasons Sparkling.
The store also represents some of the most well-known and wildly successful Chicago native designers such as Kanye West and Virgil Abloh. Such tags as Yeezy and Off-White are not just on display for city pride but as an ode to streetwear – one of this city’s claims to fashion fame.
Not only has the decor been locally sourced, but so is the in-store team of experts. Tailors specializing in alterations to high-end products, gemologists and watchmakers are all onsite to appraise, alter, customize and answer questions, providing complete transparency for clients during the buying and selling process. Screens in the store even display current stock prices so clients can see how brands are stacking up on the global market.
Visit the RealReal Miracle Mile at 940 N. Michigan Ave. The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For additional information, or to book an appointment with one of the store’s experts, stylists or consignment managers, please visit therealreal.com/chicago.
Read more about the RealReal in our interview with founder Julie Wainwright here.
More from Better:
- Experts from the RealReal Highlight the Best Luxury Consignment Pieces and Share Tips on How to Authenticate Them
- An Eco-Friendly Closet: 7 Ways You Can Lower Your Carbon Footprint Right Now
- Monet & Chicago: A New Exhibition Arrives at The Art Institute of Chicago
Alexis Miller recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where she earned a degree in Journalism, Advertising & Public Relations, and Media Studies. In her free time, she does Pilates, floral arrangements, and some freelance event planning. As an alumna member of Alpha Omicron Pi, Alexis is an enthusiastic fundraiser for the Arthritis Foundation.
