The ever-on-trend Lakeview shopping district centers along Belmont Avenue and Halsted and Clark streets. The people-watching mecca has some of the best discount shops, vintage finds and all-around eccentric clothing and accessory boutiques that Chicago has to offer.

To get a sense of the neighborhood, you’ll want to start at The Alley (3228 N. Clark St.), an alternative tattoo and piercing store that also carries great leather apparel and “taboo” gifts. For more feminine looks, duck into Hubba Hubba (3309 N. Clark St.) where the stock is filled with such essentials as pretty date-night dresses and perfect-fit jeans.

Next, head south down Clark Street and stumble upon Ragstock (812 W. Belmont Ave.), a second-hand clothing store tucked away in an alley with a secret entrance in the back. Here you’ll find gently-used apparel and quirky accessories. Swing around the corner and discover glamorous items at Hollywood Mirror (812 W. Belmont Ave.), located in the same building as Ragstock. Dig through racks of gently used clothing to find the finishing touches on a Halloween costume or a fun outfit for a theme party. Belmont Army (855 W. Belmont Ave.) is the place to find off-kilter clothing from various designers displayed throughout five floors.

Not only does Lakeview have a selection of alternative clothing stores and consignment shops, the area also has a mile-long stretch of high-style boutiques located in the Southport Corridor.  The neighborhood has something for everyone, whether it is an innovative indie boutique or big-brand store like Anthropologie (3532 N. Southport Ave.) and Free People (3447 N. Southport Ave.).

To shop for on-trend women’s clothing and accessories, begin your excursion at Krista K (3438 N. Southport Ave.). This small boutique has a selection of designer denim, dresses and a variety of accessories. Its sister store, Krista K Maternity Boutique (3530 N. Southport Ave.), is just a block north for more fashionable mommy/baby shopping.  Continue strolling on Southport Avenue to discover Perchance Boutique (3512 N. Southport Ave.), another trendsetting women’s apparel store. Find local designers and cutting-edge brands at this stylish spot.