1. BULLFROGS & BUTTERFLIES This go-to baby and kids’ store is excellent for gifty items, such as frames, books, blankets, and plush toys, but it also sells practical gear, such as strollers. 2124 W. Division St.; 773-661-1632, bullfrogsandbutterfliesshop.com

2. MULBERRY & ME The owner, Jana Zacek, has a keen eye for classics with a twist—and a good selection of timeless dresses from brands such as Kay Unger and Luna by Josandra. 2019 W. Division St.; 773-952-7551, mulberryandme.com

3. HABIT A destination for small designer lines. While some apparel skews avant-garde, most is eminently wearable, and the boutique remains one of the best underrecognized sources for jewelry. 1951 W. Division St.; 773-342-0093, habitchicago.com

4. RENEGADE HANDMADE Quirk central in an already offbeat neighborhood. Look for handmade T-shirts, totes, stationery, and oddities from more than 500 independent artists. 1924 W. Division St.; 773-227-2707, renegadehandmade.com

5. PENELOPE’S One of the street’s best, this shop carries young, hip designers (A.P.C., Sessun), as well as an unexpected selection of housewares, gifts, and jewelry. 1913 W. Division St.; 773-395-2351, shoppenelopes.com

6. GREENHEART SHOP The fair-trade shop peddles feel-good products, such as purses made from pop-tops, soy candles, and organic clothing. 1911 W. Division St.; 312-264-1625, greenheartshop.org

7. THREADLESS/THREADLESS KIDS The second retail outpost of the local web phenom carries some adult T-shirts, but the real focus is the kid and baby versions. 1905 W. Division St.; 773-698-7042, threadless.com

8. BONNIE & CLYDE’S The mother ship for those with a rock ‘n’ roll attitude and money to burn. Find Wrath Arcane for men and Christian Siriano (winner of Project Runway) and Vivienne Westwood Anglomania for women. 1751 W. Division St.; 773-235-2680, bonnieandclydes.com

9. ANASTASIA CHATZKA The retail arm of the eponymous designer’s line. Everything has a girly, retro vibe—heavy on the ruffles, with unexpected color combinations and a 1960s feel that recalls Betsey Johnson, a designer for whom Chatzka once worked. 1740 W. Division St.; 586-610-4096, anastasiachatzka.com

10. LE DRESS For women who need a perfect frock and all the accouterments that go along with it: purses, jewelry, and Spanx. New this spring: Mark & James by Badgley Mischka and Dolce Vita. Prices range from $30 to $400. 1741 W. Division St.; 773-697-9899, ledresschicago.com
 

Tips

NEED TO PARK? There is ample metered parking along Division Street, which, unsurprisingly, becomes trickier on weekends and after 5 p.m. on weekdays. Parking can be easier south on Damen Avenue or on a side street.

NEED A SNACK? Stop by the neighborhood fixture Alliance Bakery (1736 W. Division St.; 773-278-0366, alliance-bakery.com)

Photography: courtesy of vendors