1421 W. 18th, (312)226-4040, zapatillasinc.com
Goods: Shoes and accessories for women. Designers: Chinese Laundry, Steven, Bamboo, Anne Michelle, Me Too, Nine West; bags by Latico and Franco Sarto. Owner: After a retail-filled career, Sylvia Rocha opened up her shoe shop in her native Pilsen neighborhood, aiming to bring style and value to the community. Zapatilla means “slipper” in Spanish. Vibe: Stylishly low-maintenance. The ambiance is attractive yet no-frills, and shoppers here can get in and get out easily, as neatly stacked boxes full of shoes line the walls below their corresponding displays. Price Range: Inexpensive. The Look: For the comfortable shoe fetishist, Zapatillas stocks footwear that keeps up with both the latest trends and classic looks, yet at the core remains easy to wear. Perfect for the many commuters of Pilsen. Shopper’s Perks: Realizing that Chicago women will undoubtedly don a bridesmaid dress at some point, Rocha stocks a wide selection of Nina dye-able shoes in styles that are modern, stylish and, yes, flawlessly dyeable.
1419 W. 18th, (312)563-9663, omdchicago.com
Goods: Clothing for men and women. Designers: No Manches, Solstice, TA Collection. Owner: Octavio Martinez paid his dues in the retail world in both chain stores and small shops. The lifelong Pilsen resident became his own boss late last year. Vibe: Clean, modern, organized and devoted to Chicago, as gorgeous photographs of iconic Chicago images line the walls. Pulsing Madonna remixes bring a clubby vibe, but Martinez’s welcoming demeanor adds an everybody-knows-your-name feel. Price Range: Inexpensive. The Look: Hip, unique and fun. The t-shirts, emblazoned with quirky phrases and images, double as conversation pieces, while the colorfully fun women’s dresses are distinctly West Coast-like. Shopper’s Perks: Support Chicago’s up-and-coming artists: Many of the t-shirts carried here are created by local designers, while the artwork is all from local photographers.

