A new boutique in Forest Park offers a cultivated selection of clothing and accessories that are “classy, chic, edgy and funky,” according to owner Patti McMillan.
McMillan, who previously owned a shoe boutique on Chicago’s South Side, opened Classy Addiction Boutique in January at 7601 W. Madison St., suite D in Forest Park. The shop sells apparel, jewelry, handbags, shoes and hats, which are her specialty.
McMillan recalled times as a child when she’d intercept her mother’s store catalogs before she had a chance to look at them, because McMillan was obsessed with Barbie dolls, paper dolls and “everybody looking pretty.”
Style icons Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn are among McMillan’s favorites, and their images can be found in the shop.
“These are my girls,” she said, gesturing to the portraits. “… Fashion is my passion, from a little girl, on. I was just always hungry for fashion.”
McMillan, who’s lived in Oak Park in the past and has been in Forest Park for more than four years now, found storefronts in Oak Park or elsewhere in Forest Park too pricey, and said she was blessed to find the spot she ended up with.
“I love the area because it’s diverse. … I never met a stranger,” said McMillan, whose springy curls reflect her buoyant personality.
McMillan said her clothes, carried in sizes S-3X, are affordable and versatile, transitioning easily from work to a night out. She also mentioned the shop can be used for special events like meetings or photo shoots.
The fitting room features a velvet couch and large gilded mirror; McMillan mentioned she offers customers specialty water or sparkling wine, as she wants to provide a unique and comfortable experience.
Erica Harris, project manager for McMillan, said the shop’s quality, well-priced pieces and McMillan’s warmth make the boutique stand out. Although the space, near the corner of Des Plaines Avenue and Madison Street, is small, Harris said that adds to its boutique feel.
“I think she has a wonderful talent for choosing beautiful pieces for all shapes and sizes, for all women,” Harris said. “It’s definitely a unique store in that little spot.”
Classy Addiction Boutique is open from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday, by appointment only on Sunday and closed Monday. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/classyaddictionboutique or call 708-657-4575.
Caitlin Mullen is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
