Studies show shopping isn’t just about buying things. It’s good for your well-being and health. All that walking around energizes your brain. It also boosts your immune system and fulfills basic social needs.
When you’re in Milwaukee, this is easier said than done. There’s such an enormous variety of clothing from retro to ultra-modern, it’s hard to pick just one.
That’s where this guide comes in. We know the sheer choice is overwhelming, so we’ve broken down some of our favorite shops in Milwaukee:
1. Hollyville
- Address: 916 Milwaukee Avenue on the lower level
- Phone Number: (414) 220-0055
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 11 am to 5pm, Saturdays 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Website: https://hollyville.com/
- Prices: $$$
View this post on Instagram
Hollyville is all about retro and vintage style. It doesn’t matter if it is an accessory, a cute outfit, or home decor. Just keep in mind, they’re not a consignment shop. Instead, they offer handmade vintage-inspired styles in new pieces of accessories and clothing.
2. Sneex
- Address: 316 North Milwaukee Street
- Phone Number: 414-509-8430
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 11 am to 6 pm, Saturdays 11 am to 7 pm, Sundays 12 pm to 5 pm
- Website: https://www.sneex3rdward.com/
- Prices: $$
View this post on Instagram
This sneaker boutique is more than meets the eye. They specifically curate every piece of clothing and sneakers for children, women, and men. They also have really great prices for hard-to-find shoes.
3. Mainstreet Boutique
- Address: 159 North Broadway Street
- Phone Number: 414-273-1720
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:30 pm, Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Website: https://mainstreamboutique.com/
- Price: $$
View this post on Instagram
There are a lot of really beautiful things hidden in this historic Third Ward boutique. It features unique, well-made women’s clothing you won’t see in anyone else. They also have pleasant decorative touches like candles that add an extra air of ambiance.
4. MODA3
- Address: 320 East Buffalo Street
- Phone Number: 414-273-3333
- Hours of Operation: Monday through Saturday 8:11 a.m. to 6 PM, Sundays 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Website: https://www.moda3.com/
- Prices: $$
View this post on Instagram
Are you an avid Bucs fan? Or maybe you’re looking for a stylish new pair of sneakers no one else has? Look no further than Moda. This store specializes in the latest in shoes and streetwear. It’s definitely the place to go if you want to add some pizzazz to your wardrobe.
5. Milwaukee Boot Company
- Address: 234 West Florida Street Suite 160
- Phone Number: 414-677-0093
- Hours of Operation: Tuesday to Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 PM, Sundays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
- Website: https://milwaukeebootcompany.com/
- Prices: $$
View this post on Instagram
They offer a wonderful selection of handcrafted signature Milwaukee boots and accessories. There are also premium leather dress shoes, bags, accessories, and more. The best part? They’re eco-friendly as well.
6. Lela
- Address: 321 North Broadway
- Phone Number: 414-727-4855
- Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 8 PM, Saturdays 10 a.m. to 6 PM, Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Website: https://www.lelaboutique.com/
- Prices: $$$
This innovative women’s boutique offers popular brands like Nicole Miller. But, they also have options from independent designers’ vintage clothing and consignment. It is truly a pleasure to shop here. The store smells amazing; the clothes are beautiful, and the staff is very helpful.
7. Retique
- Address: 190 North Broadway
- Phone Number: 414-273-1797
- Hours of Operation: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Website: https://www.amazinggoodwill.com/retique
- Prices: $
View this post on Instagram
There’s no better way to say it than, Retique is like a fancy Goodwill. The clothing you find here is unbelievable and prices will drop in your mouth. It feels more like a small boutique than a thrift store. There are some hidden gems in there worth checking out as well.
8. Historic Third Ward
- Address: 525 East Chicago Street
- Phone Number: 414-273-1173
- Hours of Operation: Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Website: https://historicthirdward.org/
- Prices $$
View this post on Instagram
Every time you go to Milwaukee, stop in the Historic Third Ward. It’s what many call the Arts and Fashion District of Downtown Milwaukee. They have locally owned restaurants, galleries, theaters, and boutiques in a historic warehouse setting.
It’s just a little south of downtown and it’s part of the Milwaukee Public Market. It’s been around for over 40 years and offers a varied array of choices in one place.
It’s a great hang-out space for friends. You can also check out the popular Riverwalk. It’s a 2-mile stroll that takes you through downtown. On the way, you’ll see some of the best restaurants and bars the area offers.
9. The Corners of Brookfield
- Address: 20111 West Bluemound Road
- Phone Number: 414-622- 8967
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 PM, Sundays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Website: https://thecornersofbrookfield.com/
View this post on Instagram
Their claim to fame is the pizza, but don’t let them tell you that. Their delightfully unique shopping experiences are pretty cool too. This area boasts over 30 restaurants, shops, and more.
Although on the pricey side, shopping is unbeatable. There’s lots of parking. There’s even a lounging area featuring an enormous TV screen. To jazz things up a little, they’ll throw in a live band now and then.
10. Alive and Fine
- Address: 2652 South Kinnickinnic Avenue
- Phone Number: 414-885-1622
- Hours of Operation: Wednesday to Saturday 12 to 7, Sunday 12 to 5, and Mondays 12 to 7 p.m.
- Website: https://aliveandfinestore.com/
- Prices: $$
View this post on Instagram
It is a true vintage clothing and accessory boutique in downtown Milwaukee. It’s in the Third Ward district. The owners pride themselves on having clothing from the 40s to the 90s for men, children, women, and the home. So, you can find vintage options that will knock your socks off. It’ll be your new favorite boutique.
11. Plume
- Address: 3001 South Kinnickinnic Avenue Suite 2
- Phone Number: 414-465-8197
- Hours of Operation:
- Website: https://plume-vintage-clothing-store.business.site/
- Prices: $$$
Plume offers a great variety of vintage clothing to peruse. Their options are great and the prices are better.
Their customer service goes above and beyond. The manager is amazing and helpful. The curator has amazing states as well. All the little touches make you feel appreciated and welcomed.
12: Sparrow Collective
- Address:2224 South Kinnickinnic Avenue
- Phone Number:414-747-9229
- Hours of Operation: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 PM, Sundays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Website: http://sparrowcollective.com/
- Prices: $$
View this post on Instagram
The Sparrow Collective is a fantastic place to find unique fashion pieces. This includes clothing, jewelry, soaps, stationery, and much more.
It’s also gender neutral. They have clothes for men, women, babies, – you name it. There’s something here for you. They even have an adorable section of baby clothes.
Plus, when you shop here, you are also supporting local artists. They also help you speak to your creative muse. They offer monthly DIY classes, workshops, and art gallery installations.
13. Edie Boutique
- Address: 244 North Broadway
- Phone Number: 414-509-5852
- Hours of Operation: they’re open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 PM, Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Website: https://shopedie.com/
- Prices: $$
View this post on Instagram
It is a cute little store filled with great handbags, jewelry, clothing, and more. Plus, their customer service is superb.
Their selection is beyond amazing. Very fashion-forward and versatile.
14. Icon
- Address: 1577 West Greenfield Avenue Suite A
- Phone Number: 414-585-9988
- Hours of Operation: Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 9 pm, Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Website: http://shopiconclothing.com/
- Prices: $$
Boutique stores all have an ambiance they’re trying to exude. This store does it perfectly with urban-inspired men’s shirts, jeans, and sunglasses. It offers an enormous variety of brand-name clothing. In the store itself, it is a work of art.
The employees are helpful and cheery. They make you feel as if you’re welcome there.
15. Third Point of View
- Address: 1134 South 1st Street on the lower level
- Hours of Operation: open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Phone Number:414-207-6372
- Prices: $$
- Website: https://www.3rdpointofview.com/
View this post on Instagram
This charming shop is a hidden gem. It offers clothing, antiques, and gifts. Just about something for everyone.
Just remember to give yourself some extra time when you visit. You may plan to stay for 30 minutes, but the intriguing finds will hold your interest for hours.
There are a lot of second-hand shops in the area. But this one stands out from the rest. The quality of its merchandise is top par and you will find some interesting gifts.
16. Millworks
- Address: 143 North Broadway
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday 11 am to 6pm, Sunday 11 am to 4pm
- Phone Number: (414) 585-9496
- Prices: $$$
- Website: https://milworks.co
View this post on Instagram
Looking for an incredibly diverse men’s clothing store and creative space? Is it in the Historic Third Ward area?
If both the answers to these questions were yes, you can’t beat Millworks. It has a high-end hipster vibe, and it’s worth every penny. They offer a wide selection of men’s footwear, apparel, and books and magazines.
They also have a collection of budget-friendly items. There are some outstanding pieces there and you won’t have to spend a lot of coins.
17. Salamander
- Address: 7532 West State Street
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Wednesday 10 am-6pm, Thursday and Friday 10 am to 8pm Saturday and Sunday 10 am – 4pm
- Phone Number: 414-259-0970
- Prices: $$
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/salamandertosa/
Salamander has a lot of high-end brands and it is fun to shop there.
Their jewelry selection is incredible. They also have a lot of simple statement pieces to accessorize any outfit. It doesn’t matter how hard the fashion emergency is, you will find the perfect piece here.
You can also check out their Facebook page to see what the latest styles are. Also, they rarely keep all available sizes on the floor. This helps maximize space. If you find something you love and it’s not the right size, an associate will help.
Whether you’re into ironic tees or the latest designer brands, Milwaukee delivers. It’s hard to sift through all the gems, so we hope this guide gives you a good place to start.
Jessica Oliver is a fashion enthusiast with more than ten years of experience in the industry. She previously managed her own clothing store in New York before becoming a mother of three. With a passion for sustainability and a desire to share clothing care and recycling tips.