Chicagoan Recs

If you live in Chicago long enough, winter teaches you lessons the hard way. hese are the things I either use every single year or learned (the hard way) to never go without. Whether you’re in a drafty vintage apartment, a bungalow, or a newer place that still somehow lets the wind in, these essentials make winter more manageable, safer, and honestly a little less miserable.

Chicago winters bring freezing winds, dry air, and overheated apartments. These Ulta beauty essentials will keep your skin hydrated, glowing, and protected through every icy commute and lakefront gust. Designed for Midwest skin survival, each pick keeps you soft, smooth, and glowing even when the windchill hits. Take it from a lifelong Chicagoan who has tried everything during the dead of winter - you need these products!

Chicago winters are legendary — bone-chilling wind, snowstorms, and old apartments that let the cold creep in. While you may not control building-wide heating systems, you can take practical steps to winterize your space. From sealing drafts and insulating windows to protecting pipes and keeping entryways safe, the right tools make your apartment warmer, safer, and more energy-efficient. This list features 25+ renter-friendly products from Ace Hardware that you can order online, install yourself, and use to survive even the harshest Chicago winter. Each item is chosen with local weather, older buildings, and typical renter constraints in mind. All items are available online at Ace Hardware, and they'll deliver right to your door, so you don't even need to brave the elements!

These are books I’ve either read, loved, or gifted to friend over the years. They helped me understand Chicago beyond headlines and stereotypes - its neighborhoods, politics, architecture, music, and people. Some are beautiful, some are tough, some are surprisingly funny. All of them made me feel more connected to this city that I call home.

Burgundy handbags are having a major moment in 2025 - and for good reason. This deep wine-red shade works like a neutral but feels far more interesting than basic black, making it the perfect color for crossbodies, totes, shoulder bags, and everyday carryalls. Whether you like rich leather, croc-embossed textures, velvet finishes, or vegan options, burgundy is one of the most versatile and flattering handbag colors you can buy right now. This curated list brings together 30+ of the best burgundy handbags of 2025, ranging from under-$40 finds to timeless investment pieces. Each pick includes a quick personal recommendation so you can find the perfect merlot, oxblood, or wine-toned bag to match your style.

Show off your love for the Windy City with stunning Chicago-themed wall art. Whether you're a lifelong resident, a former Chicagoan feeling nostalgic, or a fan of our skyline and culture, this curated list has something for every space and style. From iconic landmarks to neighborhood pride and local artist designs, explore artwork that celebrates Chicago’s architecture, sports, music, and spirit. Perfect for your home, office, or as a thoughtful gift!

Whether you're decorating your tree in a cozy Chicago bungalow, sending a hometown gift to someone who’s moved away, or just love this city’s architecture and culture, these ornaments bring Chicago’s magic into the holidays. This list mixes iconic landmarks, neighborhood pride, foodie favorites, and handmade artisan picks that feel warm, nostalgic, and truly local.

If you’ve ever dreamed of styling a classic Chicago bungalow, this list is for you. I’ve curated over 30 items that I personally love or would use in a Windy City home - mixing premium textiles, local artisan pieces, and practical touches. Whether you want to cozy up your living room, add personality with unique décor, or tackle some DIY projects, there’s something here for every part of your home.

Send some tasty Chicago love through iconic foods related to the City of Chicago - shipped anywhere in the U.S.! These are perfect gifts for former Chicagoans, or those who just love the tates of Chicago!

Fall in Chicago means layering up in the morning, shedding a hoodie by lunch, and dodging lakefront wind gusts on the walk home. Whether you're headed to high school in Humboldt Park or starting your first year at UIC or DePaul, these fall fashion picks are built for the Windy City. I've pulled the best to help you stay stylish, warm, and ready for anything, whether it’s a surprise 75° day or the first chill of the season.

Chicago bungalows are full of warmth, character, and craftsmanship - and they deserve decor that honors that legacy. As a longtime Chicago resident passionate about historic architecture, I've curated this guide to help you furnish your bungalow with authentic Arts & Crafts and Prairie-style pieces. These picks are inspired by the Arts & Crafts and Prairie School movements that influenced so many of the city’s classic homes. Whether you're restoring your home or adding a modern twist to the traditional style, these pieces will help keep your bungalow feeling beautiful, intentional, and uniquely Chicago.

Whether you’re parked outside Soldier Field, hosting a backyard watch party, or just repping Da Bears in your living room, this Chicago-tailored tailgate kit has you covered. From portable grills to team gear and weather-proof seating, these must-haves will keep your pregame legendary. Don’t forget the hot sauce.

From pews in Chicago to the throne of St. Peter! Pope Leo XIV has made history as the first American (and first Chicagoan) to be elected pope. Whether you're marking the moment with reverence or pride, these unique souvenirs celebrate his journey, his city, and his new chapter in Rome. Grab a keepsake worthy of the Windy City’s first pontiff!

Fall is a wonderful season to plant native species in Chicago. The cooler weather helps roots establish before winter, so your garden bursts to life come spring. Whether you have a balcony, garden, or yard, these plants and essentials will get you ready for a vibrant outdoor space next year.

Bears Fans must haves for decorating your home with pride! From your man cave to your backyard, here are some unique items to show your Chicago Bears pride

Starting school in the city? Whether you’re headed to Loyola, UIC, DePaul, Columbia, or beyond, your dorm room should be more than just four walls, t should feel like you. This list has everything you need to create a cozy, functional, and stylish space that shows off your Chicago pride. From smart storage solutions to local art and Windy City vibes, these picks are perfect for making a small space feel big on personality.

Chicago’s indie bookstore scene is a treasure trove for readers of all kinds. From feminist powerhouses to labyrinths of used books, these beloved spots offer more than just shelves - they’re hubs of culture, creativity, and community. Whether you're a literary fiction lover, a zine collector, or just someone who enjoys the smell of a good bookstore, here are the best independent bookstores in the city.

Do you love Da Bears, Da Bulls, Da Cubs, Da White Sox, Da Hawks, or any of our other local sports teams? Put these books on your to read list!

Think you know Chicago? Think again. From historic streets to vibrant corners you’ve yet to discover, these books take you deep into the stories, struggles, and celebrations that define the city’s neighborhoods. Grab a title, take a stroll through history, and meet the real Chicago - one block (and book!) at a time.

Chicago’s story is bigger than any one moment — it’s a tapestry of triumphs, struggles, and reinvention. This carefully curated list brings together the definitive books that capture the spirit and complexity of the city. Whether you're a history buff or just getting started, these are the must-reads.

Chicago is a city known for its rich history, diverse communities, and vibrant LGBTQ+ culture. In this list, we highlight 12 must-read LGBTQ+ books, each written by an author with ties to Chicago or set within the city’s iconic neighborhoods. From historical works to contemporary fiction, these books explore themes of love, identity, and activism, making them essential reads for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ literature and Chicago’s queer history.

Welcome baby to the city of big shoulders with these charming Chicago-themed board books! Whether you're a lifelong Chicagoan or just want to share your love of the city with the next generation, these sturdy little reads are perfect for introducing babies and toddlers to the sights, sounds, and spirit of Chicago. Great for baby showers, first birthdays, or building a Chi-town bookshelf!