Shop around the corner

A step back in time

Perusing the variety of vintage goods at Strage Cargo

By Paola Lastick

If you consider yourself a retro hipster, seeking to bring back the swooshing sound of a good, tight pair of cords strutting up Clark Street, Strange Cargo might just have the thing you’re looking for.

Today’s generation is seeking to relive the Era of Excess, a time when being in fashion meant pinning a dozen buttons to your Member’s Only jacket. When wearing funky wigs, adding in heavy eyeliner and topping off any outfit with Converse high-tops was the “in” thing to do.

Chicago’s young adults are demanding their childhood favorites be brought back, although I am sure some of us wouldn’t mind burying those years, burning all photos of the tweeze hairdo or vanishing all evidence of the “Miami Vice” jacket we wore to class.

Vintage stores are sprouting up all over Chicago, and even those of us attempting to erase the memories of our awkward years will find familiar favorites.

But not all items found at Strange Cargo are vintage.

“My brother and I bought this store 13 years ago,” says Jay Schwartz, the owner. “Back then, vintage was selling. Nowadays, we are shifting more toward making our own shirts.”

Although never-used items line some racks, Duran Duran and Punky Brewster t-shirts can be found nestled between the new.

Amid the customary “Do not photo” and “Check your bags” signs, others displaying messages such as “Please don’t touch the wigs, we love to help;” “How many signs do you need?” “Don’t touch those wigs;” “I know you want to touch me, but you cannot;” and “R.I.P. I touched a wig at Strange Cargo” let the customers know that the owners mean business, and have a creative side.

The walls are covered with iron-ons from the days of old, and aisles seem to close in on you as you make your way through Rainbow Bright t-shirts, leather jackets and “The A-Team” baseball caps. The cashier drowns behind the counter as a customer sorts through a collection of buttons and pins.

If you’re claustrophobic, beware, as the clutter and tightly packed spaces will have you gasping for air. But if you don’t mind the clutter, it should be fun to stop in for a look. You might even come back, as the Elvis mugs, old-school posters and wigs could have you browsing for hours. The funky atmosphere, great prices and awesome finds make this store a true original.

For all your retro, vintage and specialized t-shirt needs, stroll on in. But be sure not to touch those wigs.

Strange Cargo
3448 N. Clark
773-327-8090

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