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  1. Photograph: Courtesy of Michael Fortner
    Photograph: Courtesy of Michael Fortner

    Luxemi
    Launched
    Summer 2011
    The concept
    Borrow or buy Indian-inspired apparel and accessories. Rent the Runway-meets-Shopbop.com with an exotic Eastern flair
    Favorite items
    One of the newest additions: beaded leopard-print and mirror-adorned clutches ($85-$115). Also, gold and silver hand chains ($28)
    Rotation
    Weekly

  2. Nothing Major
    Launched
    Winter 2012
    The concept
    This latest venture from indie-music site Pitchfork is designed to showcase the most inspiring and creative contemporary visual culture. A hybrid editorial and e-commerce site, NOMA features in-depth editorial pieces, short blog posts and a shop selling fragrances, niche magazines, ball caps, NOMA collaborations with brands such as San Fran shirt line Taylor Stitch and more.
    Favorite item
    A DIY lamp kit by Chicago designer Craighton Berman ($79)
    Rotation
    Weekly

  3. Photograph: Courtesy of Inland Clothing
    Photograph: Courtesy of Inland Clothing

    Inland Clothing
    Launched
    Fall 2012
    The concept
    American-made, affordably priced and classically styled men's clothing. Mostly smaller producers who are committed to domestic production of weekender bags, oxford shirts, leather belts and more
    Favorite items
    Domestic Workwear, a local line that makes durable pieces such as work pants ($120) produced from heavy cotton twill
    Rotation
    Seasonal

  4. Photograph: Courtesy of August General Store
    Photograph: Courtesy of August General Store

    August General Store
    Launched
    This week
    The concept
    Artisan-designed and crafted merchandise (such as this bell jar lamp) from makers around the country, Europe and Japan. The selection of categories is inspired by classic general stores that still exist in rural and niche communities.
    Favorite items
    Julia Paul's handcrafted pottery ($25-$90) inspired by the Appalachian Mountains landscape; and pet line Found My Animal, nautical-looking products ($42-$64) made with marine-grade ropes and metals and waxed canvas
    Rotation
    Seasonal

  5. Photograph: Courtesy of Abe's Market
    Photograph: Courtesy of Abe's Market

    Abe's Market
    Launched
    2009
    The concept
    A virtual Whole Foods—with an even wider selection. Stocked with 12,000-plus products, the site allows shoppers to filter their search by 220 lifestyle and dietary categories, such as fair trade, PVC-free and Paleo diet-friendly.
    Favorite items
    From two local companies: Simple Squares' all-natural snack bars ($20 for a 12-pack) that are free of gluten, wheat, dairy, soy and refined sugars; and Hala's wine racks ($38), cookbook holders ($38) and bamboo trays ($36)
    Rotation
    Weekly

Five Chicago-based online shops

Shopping local doesn’t only include brick-and-mortar boutiques. Check out these five Chicago-based online shops

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