I’m obsessed with vintage dishware. There, I said it. I love the weird old patterns, funky colors, and mismatched serving ware. It’s become a bit of a problem to be honest with you, but lucky for me, this is the time of year when I can chalk it up to gifting. I mean, what better to give to friends and family than unique pieces they can make the most of during the holidays and beyond?

As a prop stylist, I live for tiny vintage shops, pop-up markets, and any resale operation with the word ‘secret’ in their name. I’ve found most of my favorite treasures in small stores that carefully curate their offerings and let me tell you: there’s something special about shopping in stores like that. 

Like I said, I treat scouting these shops like it’s my job because it is. But I’ve honed in on a list of the best places to do some vintage shopping, and I’m sharing them here, along with some items you should keep your eyes open for while you’re browsing their shelves!

1. Secret Treasures Antiques—Evanston: This store isn’t open too often, but when it is, their wares spill out onto the sidewalk. Inside, you’ll find a Room of Requirement-like assortment of glassware, china, vintage cookbooks, napkins, and more. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the jewelry—most of the wares are sourced from estate sales around the North Shore, and the selection doesn’t disappoint. 605 Dempster St; W-Sat, 11a-3p

2. Mercantile M—Andersonville: Stacked full of art, furniture, and quirky curios, Mercantile M punches above its weight. This is my go-to place to find what I think of as “light furnishings:” things like trunks, blankets, stools, and paintings. They also have great picnic baskets! 5409 1/2 N Clark St; 11a-7:30p

3. Praha—Roscoe Village: I love this shop. Its cozy interior houses cabin-core essentials like blankets and great chairs, along with a whole room of kitchenware! Great vintage books, artwork, and lamps make it worth a stop anytime you’re driving down Belmont. 2201 W Belmont Ave; W-Sat, 1-6p

4. Velvet Goldmine—Logan Square: More furniture than strictly kitchenware, this shop makes my list because of its dedication to the beauty of the mid-century modern (MCM) movement. While you’re there being seduced by the gorgeous dressers, chairs, and tables, don’t forget to check out the glassware. It’s irresistible, and a perfect thing to gift to your favorite hosts. 2001 W Division St; Sat: 11a-7p, Sun: 11a-6p

5. Dahl’s Vintage: Dahl’s Vintage is a pop-up only vintage shop that consistently catches my eye when I’m out and about. Chloé, the curator behind Dahl’s, does an incredible job at finding funky, nostalgic homeware pieces. I’m currently nursing an obsession for some panther planters, but have previously been tempted by colorful tile trivets, coffee pots, and, of course, old issues of Playboy. @dahlsvintage 

6. Vintage Barware: Another pop-up only, Vintage Barware is just what it sounds like: the city’s best vendor for absolutely gorgeous glassware of all types. I’ve spent more than I care to admit on some absolutely stunning glasses from Laura, and her novelty finds always fit the bill for someone on my gifting list. Her collection changes frequently, but she mostly focuses on MCM. @vintagebarware

7. The Brown Elephant—Lakeview; Andersonville; Oak Park: Last but not least, I have to shout out The Brown Elephant. A not-for-profit, donation-driven shop, The Brown Elephant proceeds go to Howard Brown Health, which supports healthcare services for the LGBTQ+ community. I stop in every time I’m even remotely close: their selection of kitchenware ranges from the totally off-the-wall to classic sets of china. I’ve also purchased yards of high-end fabrics for crafty friends, funky frames to showcase art, and vintage sunglasses. There’s something for everyone on your list here! 3020 N. Lincoln Ave., 11a-7p; 5404 N. Clark St., 11a-7p; 217 Harrison St., Sun-Thurs 11a-6p, Fri & Sat 11a-7p