1632 W. Division, (773)227-8200, thr3eestore.com [ratings]
Thr3ee is in transition to become the flagship store for its own brand, and will become Chii Clothing Culture T-Shirt Shop by the end of 2009. Goods: Clothing and accessories for men and women. Designers: Chii Clothing Culture, Rebel Spirit, Edward Dada, Smet and Christian Audigier. Owner: Chii Clothing founder Rich Santo had great success hawking his line at fashion shows and in local bars; in 2006, Thr3ee Boutique opened to give the urban-chic brand a home of its own. Vibe: Graffiti and hand-painted skulls plaster the walls while hip-hop and house beats pulse aggressively from the speakers. City-side staples like jackets, hoodies and caps fill the space. Price Range: Moderate. The Look: Armed with a vodka-Red Bull and a hot honey, you’re ready to kick it till sunrise in the VIP lounge. Shopper’s Perks: They carry many exclusive Chicago brands.
UPDATED OCTOBER 2009
I’m hot and cold on their designs–too clubby in a 2005 kind of way–but I got my favorite tee here. They have their own label, and make lush t-shirts. If you see a design and color you like, grab it. You won’t regret it.