art effect

I enjoy this shop for their unique selection of goods, but I was truly disheartened on my visit today. I specifically walked there to buy gifts for family members hosting my baby shower over the weekend. I walked in with my dog (who is exceptionally trained) as I've never noticed a pet restriction. I was about to take a few crystal diffusers to the counter when an associate said hello. I was hoping to hear 'can I help you' but instead she said dogs were only allowed inside if they could be carried because of the fragile merchandise. It must have been obvious that I was not going to pick up my 40 lb dog, especially at 8 months pregnant; so she was essentially asking me to leave. I asked for an exception as I just needed to buy 3 shower gifts and she said she would ask her manager. A moment later, she and the manager returned to coldly reiterate the precious nature of the items in the shop, invite me to the sidewalk sale, and advise me to beware of potential shards of glass by the door left from someone else's misstep. I don't leave a lot of reviews for businesses and would like to support local ones as much as possible. That said, I am looking for more of a 'can I help you' type of place. After all, such a simple question would have yielded a several hundred dollar sale. Missing the days of kindness in retail because otherwise it's just candles and cheese knives and stuff to put more stuff in. And if kindness seems out of range, just put up a clear sign for no pets period.

One of my long-time favorite boutiques. Cute stuff, friendly staff! Would recommend avoiding the sunglasses, though, as mine broke before I got home. Alas!!! (They were so cute, too.🥺) Everything else I’ve bought there has been great though.

Cute store with unique items and Knicks knacks. Stuff you don’t see at a lot of places. They have a bunch of eclectic items. Red wine stain removers, taco holders, avocado vase grow kits, cool posters, books, cards, socks, games, puzzles, toys, cocktail kits, etc. Definitely a lot of interesting items. A bit pricey for my taste though. Really cool shop though!!

Cute boutique store with a great selection of gifts! They had all sizes of clothes, candles, lotion, soaps, jewelry, and cutting boards. Tons of nice kitchen items like bowls and plates. Unique finds here!

My favorite store to buy gifts. From birthdays to hostess, they have something! Also, beautiful free gift wrapping.

My favorite boutique in Chicago. Whenever I have a special event or need to buy a gift, they are first on my list. Art Effect never lets me down - I can always count on them for a unique selection of clothing, cards, and home goods.

This is a really adorable store! They have a large selection of wonderful and adorable goods. In the same way that you can get cool posters, candles, books and jewelry, cards, pet supplies, socks, games, cocktail kits and so much more! If you're looking for some gifts to offer to someone special, you can find them right here. They feature a large selection of things that are both unique and adorable. There are definitely a lot of interesting items on display. However, it is a little too expensive for my tastes. Although they appear to be of high quality, I believe it is appropriate for them to be a little pricy based on my observations. The fact that I happened to come across this store on my way home from work was a pleasant experience. Definitely a good worth of both money and time! Maybe the next time I’ll come here, I'll bring a large amount of money so that I can buy a lot of things.

This is my favorite shop in Lincoln Park on Armitage. They have the best selection! I am normally able to knock out almost all of my Christmas shopping here and can always count on this store for cute gift items throughout the year! They have a wonderful and diverse selection. There is something for everyone at Art Effect. Definitely check this place out if you haven’t been before!

I enjoy this shop for their unique selection of goods, but I was truly disheartened on my visit today. I specifically walked there to buy gifts for family members hosting my baby shower over the weekend. I walked in with my dog (who is exceptionally trained) as I've never noticed a pet restriction. I was about to take a few crystal diffusers to the counter when an associate said hello. I was hoping to hear 'can I help you' but instead she said dogs were only allowed inside if they could be carried because of the fragile merchandise. It must have been obvious that I was not going to pick up my 40 lb dog, especially at 8 months pregnant; so she was essentially asking me to leave. I asked for an exception as I just needed to buy 3 shower gifts and she said she would ask her manager. A moment later, she and the manager returned to coldly reiterate the precious nature of the items in the shop, invite me to the sidewalk sale, and advise me to beware of potential shards of glass by the door left from someone else's misstep. I don't leave a lot of reviews for businesses and would like to support local ones as much as possible. That said, I am looking for more of a 'can I help you' type of place. After all, such a simple question would have yielded a several hundred dollar sale. Missing the days of kindness in retail because otherwise it's just candles and cheese knives and stuff to put more stuff in. And if kindness seems out of range, just put up a clear sign for no pets period.

One of my long-time favorite boutiques. Cute stuff, friendly staff! Would recommend avoiding the sunglasses, though, as mine broke before I got home. Alas!!! (They were so cute, too.🥺) Everything else I’ve bought there has been great though.

Cute store with unique items and Knicks knacks. Stuff you don’t see at a lot of places. They have a bunch of eclectic items. Red wine stain removers, taco holders, avocado vase grow kits, cool posters, books, cards, socks, games, puzzles, toys, cocktail kits, etc. Definitely a lot of interesting items. A bit pricey for my taste though. Really cool shop though!!

Cute boutique store with a great selection of gifts! They had all sizes of clothes, candles, lotion, soaps, jewelry, and cutting boards. Tons of nice kitchen items like bowls and plates. Unique finds here!

My favorite store to buy gifts. From birthdays to hostess, they have something! Also, beautiful free gift wrapping.

My favorite boutique in Chicago. Whenever I have a special event or need to buy a gift, they are first on my list. Art Effect never lets me down - I can always count on them for a unique selection of clothing, cards, and home goods.

This is a really adorable store! They have a large selection of wonderful and adorable goods. In the same way that you can get cool posters, candles, books and jewelry, cards, pet supplies, socks, games, cocktail kits and so much more! If you're looking for some gifts to offer to someone special, you can find them right here. They feature a large selection of things that are both unique and adorable. There are definitely a lot of interesting items on display. However, it is a little too expensive for my tastes. Although they appear to be of high quality, I believe it is appropriate for them to be a little pricy based on my observations. The fact that I happened to come across this store on my way home from work was a pleasant experience. Definitely a good worth of both money and time! Maybe the next time I’ll come here, I'll bring a large amount of money so that I can buy a lot of things.

This is my favorite shop in Lincoln Park on Armitage. They have the best selection! I am normally able to knock out almost all of my Christmas shopping here and can always count on this store for cute gift items throughout the year! They have a wonderful and diverse selection. There is something for everyone at Art Effect. Definitely check this place out if you haven’t been before!

I went in to browse when we parked randomly in front of their store. I was initially only going to a clothing store down the block, but the store looked so warm and inviting that we just had to explore. I saw through the window a display of brightly colored "readers" (magnification glasses for us oldsters) and I was so happy. So many different style frames with beautiful colors, and many with blue light glass which is what I needed as a gift for my cousin. They were kind enough to ship them securely and put a ribbon bow on for her birthday. She absolutely LOVED them. Also, I commend them for having a small, but diverse stock of 2.25 magnification. So many other stores jump from 2.00 to 2.50- or even just 3.00 mag. The whole store was clean, organized and looked like the definition of FUN! Will definitely comeback and look when I need a gift for someone (or myself).

The BEST, cutest store ever. Seriously my favorite place in the city for cute gifts (anything from candles to kitchen stuff to sweaters and jewelry). Everything is super high quality and the people are really helpful. It's not a store to go to if you're looking for something cheap! Truly the cutest store ever!! You have to go!

This place is a game changer! Definitely my go to spot when I need to get unique gifts for either my girlfriend or my sisters or whatever. They have everything from Jonathan Adler stuff, Michael Aram, and all sorts of great unique gifts from Tarot cards, funny socks, candles and greeting cards. You can also find astrology related items, jewelry, clothing, incense holders, books of all categories, kids stuff, pet stuff, I literally saw a gift for everyone I know! Anyway, it's definitely a gem on Armitage and so close to where I live. I know a few spots like this throughout Chicago however, Art Effect is probably my favorite. They even have stylish optical readers and great games! Plan to spend 45-1hr there! You will get lost, they have everything and it's thoughtfully curated. Happy New Year

Such a fun place to look at all kinds of items from candles, to jewlery to dog items! I did see a little dog birthday box and thought about it because my lab's birthday is coming up! But decided against it. It has many kitchen items but needed to ask myself if I really had to have it. If I had the right space I might have purchased some art work that I liked. They have a nice Hanukah section as well as Christmas. And some very kitch items too. Definitely glad I came in. Maybe next time I'll buy something.

cute stuff but feel rushed by the workers everytime i am in here they pressure you and rush you but then take 30 min to check you out.

Cute store with unique items and Knicks knacks. Stuff you don't see at a lot of places. They have a bunch of eclectic items. Red wine stain removers, taco holders, avocado vase grow kits, cool posters, books, cards, socks, games, puzzles, toys, cocktail kits, etc. Definitely a lot of interesting items. A bit pricey for my taste though. Really cool shop though!!

This is a really adorable store! They have a large selection of wonderful and adorable goods. In the same way that you can get cool posters, candles, books and jewelry, cards, pet supplies, socks, games, cocktail kits and so much more! If you're looking for some gifts to offer to someone special, you can find them right here. They feature a large selection of things that are both unique and adorable. There are definitely a lot of interesting items on display. However, it is a little too expensive for my tastes. Although they appear to be of high quality, I believe it is appropriate for them to be a little pricy based on my observations. The fact that I happened to come across this store on my way home from work was a pleasant experience. Definitely a good worth of both money and time! Maybe the next time I'll come here, I'll bring a large amount of money so that I can buy a lot of things.

I was really excited to check out Art Effect because a friend of mine has told me so many great things about. We arrived close to when the store closed and one of the store associates reminded us on several occasions when the store was closing. We eventually stopped looking around because we felt uncomfortable. As we were checking out, I placed the items I wanted to buy on the counter. The same store associate asked me if the clip in my hair was from the store and before I could respond, she told me that I needed to pay for it. I informed her that it was my personal clip and she just walked away without saying anything, making me feel more uncomfortable. I thought the items in the store were very cute; however, I did not appreciate the customer service experience. I am not planning to return to this store.

SUCH a great gift shop! The perfect place to browse, from a gift for somebody and even for yourself. Prices range anywhere from cheap to expensive. Lots of clothes, jewelry and home good items. Plenty of unique items. Very friendly staff. Store is the size of two normal storefronts. They even gift wrap for free!

This has been a long time favorite store! I even make the trip from the suburbs to the city just to go now that I'm a suburbanite. I bought some S &P shakers as a housewarming gift late last spring. i happened to be in the city and grabbed them even though friends weren't moving until this Fall. I took them home gift wrapped and they went directly into the closet. When my friends opened them up they were broken. I was so disappointed. I headed down to the city yesterday (literally first time I'd been in the neighborhood since I bought them) and tried to exchange. The manager/ owner (not sure which) was so rude to me and all but accused me of being responsible for breaking them. They refused to do anything and her demeanor was downright dismissive and nasty. I NEVER leave reviews, but it was bothersome enough that I needed to. Makes me so sad, bc I'll never shop a favorite again.

We found this store by just walking around the neighborhood. The store has so many cool items. The staff was very helpful and nice. The things are a bit pricey but overall cool store.

This was a great spot to find a holiday grab bag gift. I chose a charcuterie board with set of cheese knives! SO many great gift options for almost every price range and recipient style and preference. Easy to shop for self as well. The place was BUZZING and all employees were friendly and helpful. I had my gift wrapped at checkout and it looks tasteful: lowkey & cute. Would totally return.

Nice stuff, but not unique. You can find it anywhere else so keep walking and don't waste your time here. Stopped in to look for house warming gifts for my daughter and her roommates. They just moved into their apartment nearby. Was there for about ten minutes midday, not busy, no one acknowledged me. I must have had my invisible cloak on. I was even looking thru the clothes rack when the sales girl slid all the clothes over in front of me so she could put stuff back. Not a word. Rude as can be.

It's gift shop to hit when wandering around shopping. Was extremely crowded on the weekend but would go back during less busy hours.

These types of stores are my favorite, and by "these types" I mean stores that are a mix of Paper Source, an upscale and crafty Chicago souvenir shop, and the trinkets section of Urban Outfitters. I've stopped in here quite a few times just to look at the cool stuff they sell, and I've never been disappointed by their extensive selection of unique Chicago souvenirs, mugs, soaps, lotions, clothes, and kitchen and bathroom gadgets. I was particularly seeking out sunglasses recently after dropping my last pair in the Lincoln Park Zoo Lily Pond and walked into Art Effect hoping I'd find exactly what I was looking for: a pair without metal nose pieces, so I could rest them on my head without them getting caught in my hair. If you need those specific kinds of sunglasses or after reading my review realize that you now need them, I can confidently say that Art Effect sells those and quite a few other types of sunglasses for all genders! My pair of sunglasses cost only $12, too, by the way. They had a few more expensive ones (the most expensive I saw were $30), but I've had mine for a few days and am absolutely in love with mine. I was surprised that I found exactly what I was looking for at such a great price, because those boutique stores tend to be out of my preferred price range. Love you, Art Effect! I'll be back soon, because I always come back!

I love this adorable store! I popped in before Christmas and spent over an hour in here, building up piles of gifts for everyone I know. Art Effect has a great mix of affordable trinkets, home decor, kitchenwares, clothing, classy Chicago memorabilia, and funny games/books/gifts. The clothing is definitely listed at boutique prices so this isn't anywhere I would shop for clothes, but this will now be my first stop when I need a gift.

This is a cute store to check out if you're in the Lincoln Park area. They have teapots, home decor, cushions, figurines, jewelry, greeting cards, little trinkets, stuffed toys, mugs, as well as an eclectic selection of clothes and shoes. Rummage through their sale bins as sometimes you can find a great scarf or a pair of shades. There are things here you can purchase for gifts or for yourself. If you sign up for their emailing list, they sometimes send you notifications of in-store discounts and sales. +clothing, home decor, and gifts

I've been coming here for years for birthday, housewarming, Christmas gifts you name it! I always find what I need and they wrap anything you need beautifully. My only hang up about this place is the customer service. Unless you're a middle aged woman from the neighborhood be prepared to be treated like a peasant/shoplifter. Very uncomfortable. I hope it gets better because I really love the convenience of this shop.

So offended leaving this place :'( Went in after seeing this amazing cream faux fur jacket in the window... sadly it was a large. A friendly, nice associate approached me to see if I needed anything and confirmed it was the only size they had. I kept looking around... they had a bunch of cute earrings, and two different employees invited me to open the cases if I wanted a closer look at anything. I ended up picking out a pair of silver lotus earrings... but I really wanted yellow gold, as I wanted to wear them with a specific bracelet that had a gold accent. I asked the closest associate and she looked but didn't have any... and here's where what felt like a great experience went South... After she confirmed they didn't have them in yellow gold, I opened the case and put the silver earrings back in. She was talking to me during this time, so I figured she saw it happen... But them all of the sudden she was rushing around towards me and asking if I put them back in the case. Folks, this is what's called a "face saving statement." I know because I work retail too... it's what you say to someone when you think they've stolen something but can't accuse them outright. Between her hurrying in my direction and saying that, I realized she thought I'd taken them. I'm not a thief, and was pretty offended by this point. Since she was right next to me at this point, I pointed at the silver lotus earrings (through the glass, seeing as how they were safely back in the case). But at this point, I was pretty upset... so I said as much... she kept insisting she didn't mean I was stealing but between her words and actions I really didn't believe her, so her protestations made me more upset. I was totally planning to come back to this place (I'd really like a pair of gold lotus earrings) but I just can't. I'm offended by how I was treated & embarrassed from getting upset. I was trying to have a fun shopping day but this place threw a wrench into that. :/

I love visiting Art Effect, they are a real neighborhood gem! The selection of products they carry is high-quality and super cute. The staff is accommodating, and they have always gone out of their way to help or answer any questions I have. I'll be moving to a larger space in a couple of weeks, and I'm already planning my next visit to pick up some much-needed home decor pieces!

Where do I even start with this amazing boutique?? The store is PACKED with fun gifts, knick-knacks, home decor, and clothing. I can spend hours just browsing everything they have in there--and there's always lots of new items every time I go. The staff is extremely friendly, and the owner, Esther, is so so nice! I think visiting this Lincoln Park staple should be on everyone's to-do list.

I have been shopping at Art Effect for 12+ years, and it remains my favorite boutique in the city. It is my "go to" store for all kinds of gifts, and great clothing. Highly recommend.

Super cute and amazing store right underneath the Armitage L stop! I've been coming here for years and it's the perfect place to pick up a cute gift. I could spend hours in here (have before, will likely do it again) exploring all of their options. The one thing I will say is the store itself is kind of a tight squeeze, but it adds to the charm!

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.

I used to love this store. I live in the neighborhood and I was walking by with my 70 pound, well behaved dog. Having seen other dogs in the store before, I entered with my dog. I was stopped once inside the store and was told that the store "only allows small dogs". WTF, what kind of rule is that? Either you allow dogs or you don't. Straight up breed discrimination. Will not be back again, and have told all my friends about the bad experience as well :)

It's a good shop for quick finds/gifts: knick knacks, games, home decor, nice candles, candle holders, coffee table books, decor pieces, nice quality hand/body lotions, shower products, and cards.

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?

I know it's tempting, in a sea of exquisite, high-end, luxury boutiques to veer straight toward them. Barney's? Check! Hermes? Check! Bloomies? Check! But those places are corporate and predictable. How about attainable luxury in a funky neighborhood setting? Enter: Art Effect. I am obsessed with this shop. I used to frequent it when I lived around nthe corner, and - now that I'm several states away - I head there every time I am in town. This place has it all: gorgeous gifts in the brands you've come to love - think beautiful candles, elegant serving platters, a variety of menorahs, sweet picture frames - anything that would make your hostess invite you back to her next soiree. There are also fun cards, local art prints and a collection of funky jewelry and sunnies! Towards the back of the shop, you've got cookbooks, kitchenware and lovely barware. And then you round the corner for a fantastic collection of awesome clothes and basics that you won't see everyone else wearing. Is it a bargain? No. But it's reasonable and you can always rely on finding a terrific outfit or piece to add to your wardrobe. When in Chicago, sure window shop on oak Street, but save your spending money for Armitage in Lincoln Park - specifically at Art Effect!!

Great store. Highly recommend taking a look. It has so much to offer and everyone can find something here. The shop is full of unique and fun things.

If I were a girl, I'd love the great location and spacious layout Art Effect has. If I were a girl, I'd love all the tchotkes and whimsical stuff Art Effect has. If I were a girl, I'd love all the travel diaries and related travel stuff Art Effect has. If I were a girl, I'd love the room scents, perfumes and candles Art Effect has. If I were a girl, I'd love the helpful and attentive salesgirl Art Effect has. But I'm a guy who found a perfect thank you card out of all the cards Art Effect has.

I love this store and the gifts/clothing SO much. What I can't stand is how hovering the staff is and how dreadfully LONG it always takes to check out. Needless to fail, ever single time I'm there it takes forever to check out and there is never any kind of efficiency or sense of urgency in wrapping up the sale. It is so painful it almost makes me not want to shop here.

I have never written a yelp review before but had to sign up just to share how amazing the staff at Art Effect have been to work with. I got a stunning diamond necklace as a Christmas gift and it broke the next day. The owner responded immediately, reassured me not to worry and had it replaced without any additional fees. Their staff was so helpful and communicative throughout the whole process. I can't recommend their customer service enough- I have always loved this store but they have most definitely secured my loyalty for future purchases. Thank you again!

This store is just too cute. So many fun things! It's hard to see everything in one visit but this has to become my go to for gifting as there really is something for everyone.

Great little store with cute cards and gift ideas. A little pricy but that's Lincoln Park. Great for holiday shopping.

I absolutely love this store! It's the perfect place to buy a gift for any lady in your life! This is where I usually come to buy a birthday or engagement gift. The staff is friendly and they gift wrap like no other store! Whenever I give a gift to someone, they always compliment the wrapping and save the little ribbon with eucalyptus. Yes, the candles are way over priced, but they make quite the impression on the person receiving it. :)

The woman on the floor was extremely friendly... and just plain awesome. The only reason I give this place a "one star" is due to the two women who were standing behind the desk, which one checked-us-out... were the complete opposite of the woman who was on the floor. They were kind when we looked at them, but I turned a couple times as we were shopping for v-day gifts for our girls and, on one occasion, I noticed one rolling her eyes at us... and on another occasion stepping-out to follow us around like we were going to rob the place. I really like the shop, too... and we live around the corner. ... but for these reasons I will never spend a large amount of money in here.

The woman with the shaggy blonde hair is truly one of the rudest people I have ever encountered. I had a coffee in the store (they don't allow food or drink apparently) and she yelled at me, took my coffee out of my hand, and put it on a ledge by the front door. Talk about a chill pill. This was a favorite store of mine but unfortunately I won't be returning. What a shame.

I lived in the neighborhood for quite some time, and always loved popping in to see what they had. It is a great place to pick up a quick gift or to just peruse, but the staff is so incredibly unfriendly. So much so, that it almost feels like the ownership/management has directed them to be that way. After several years of popping in and out and purchasing small items here and there, I can honestly say I have never received a smile, "hello", "thanks for popping in", "welcome" or "do you need help finding anything?." not once. I so appreciate small, local businesses, but that is because of the warmth they typically have. I have since taken my business to the adorable shops on Southport, where the staff is welcoming and you can buy the exact same items for slightly less.

Came here on a suggestion of a local friend. Really liked the wide selection of gifts and items. The store seemed to carry a nice mix of high and low cost items - compared to mostly just expensive in the surrounding shops. I found some great souvniers to take back from my trip here!

The concept of this place is cute and some of the merchandise is good, but honestly I would suggest staying far away. The staff is condescending and rude and the return policy is pretty much the worst I've encountered anywhere. My husband picked up a dress at the store and it was huge on me. We also saw that one of the sleeves was missing a button. They never told him it was final sale even though he worked with multiple sales associates and we called about a return less than 24 hours after purchasing. This is far from the only negative experience I've had at Art Effect, but it was definitely the last straw for me. The location is very convenient for me so I used to drop in quite a bit. The last time I was in, the sales associate refused to look for my size in an item and told me she didn't think they'd ever ordered it in my size (a blatant lie, as I saw my size in the item a few days earlier). The staff here has a lot to learn about customer service.

You would think after all the reviews saying how rude the staff was they would maybe try to talk to their employees. Not the case. Very condescending staff. I shop here quite a bit and the experience with the staff is never positive.

So I am a long time customer of art effect. My friend also sells wholesale for a variety of products at the store. Your buyer/manage was extremely rude to me, she may not know who I am, but I just want to let her know she is rude! I was not paying attention after being really excited about a product carried and didn't realize the testers were in front of my face. I actually WAS going to buy them, I'm familiar with the product. She comes up and tells me that's what the testers are for in a rude tone! Okay, I wasn't paying attention but you know what-your attitude sucks and so does having all these people "watch" you around the store. Not a pleasurable shopping experience the last few years, thumbs down from a long time neighbor and good customer

It's such a turn off when the employees act like you're going to steal something. I was going to purchase multiple overpriced chotskies. Cute stuff but don't think I'll be back.

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.

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...

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.

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!

Expensive. Depending on your budget. But I think most ladies I know would consider the merchandise to be expensive. That's not to say that it isn't worth it. I fell into lust with a picture frame, but with a $129 pricetag, that's more expensive than the photos my wedding portraits were framed with. The clothing is also quite pricey, as I did not even try on a colorful top that I liked - once again, for $129. There's lots of things that are affordable though. Lots of nice things to smell at the perfume counter, and those were pretty reasonably priced. There were a few that were made from Chicago flowers, which would make lovely gifts for anyone, out of town or not. I had some fun with the "I Am..." perfume line. There's one called "I am...Naked," which is so amusing to say aloud in the store. In the back of the store, there are some fun, kitschy housewares and other giftable items like a unicorn shaped sprinkle shaker ($15), notepads, charcuterie boards, aprons, and of course, solar-powered Queen Elizabeth figurines. I love this place, and I'd stop in again. It's a really good spot to start your window shopping in Lincoln Park.

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).