2008 Woodie Awards
Cultural flare in Pilsen's vintage shop
Kelli Schlueter
Issue date: 4/2/07 Section: Features
Media Credit: Jamison NashMestiza is located in 1010 W. 18th St. in the Pilsen neighborhood.
A true cultural hotspot in the city of Chicago, the Pilsen neighborhood is know for its authentic eateries, family-owned and operated shops and art galleries.
Mestiza, a trendy Latin American inspired boutique on 18th Street, does not disappoint when it comes to unique items, religious symbolism and locally-produced pieces from independent artisans who live in the area.
Mestiza first opened its doors three years ago, when co-owners Sugeiri Martinez and Lorena Almanza decided to bring the flavor of Mexico infused with a modern touch to the Pilsen area.
The shop carries everything from screen-printed t-shirts to handmade bamboo curtains that are locally designed and produced.
"I would describe the style of our shop as Latino eclectic," said Martinez.
The small shop contains items like bamboo curtains, Frido Kahlo memorabilia and Our Lady of Guadalupe imagery adorning the walls.
The storeowners handpick every item they wish to sell, and even make frequent trips to Mexico in order to bring the best and most authentic items back to their customers.
"Lorena, the other owner, is actually leaving for Mexico soon to look for more special items that we can sell in our shop," said Martinez.
The unique items draws in a diverse crowd, ranging from locals, artists and UIC students.
"I would say that Mestiza is a good place for students to shop if they want to find something unique and cultural," Martinez said. "It can also be a great spot if you are looking for a very unique gift."
The best selling items in the shop seem to be the bamboo curtains and screen-printed t-shirts.
Decorated in different patterns and/or with various Mexican cultural symbols and important historical figures, some have thought the bamboo curtains to be an attractive option for someone looking to add a little flair to their living space.
The screen-printed t-shirts have an abundance of different patterns and prints on them as well, including Our Lady of Guadalupe and Frida Kahlo.
Another interesting item Mestiza carries are the recycled purses, made from old reused cereal boxes and the like, making for a very trendy buy.
The shop also carries jewelry, art (posters, postcards, figurines), knickknacks and a small selection of vintage clothes and antiques.
For the vintage shoppers among us, Mestiza will rise to the occasion, with its carefully chosen pieces.
"We are currently in the process of bringing more '70s-inspired vintage clothes into the shop, and hope to do so by the time the summer season comes about," said Martinez.
Martinez is also in the process of designing a website for the shop, that will allow loyal customers to make their purchases directly online.
"I am doing all the coding for the website myself, so it's taking longer than anticipated," said Martinez.
While websites provide convenience, the true experience of Mestiza has to be undertaken by a visit to the shop. The warm and cozy Latin American atmosphere alone will be enough to keep customers coming back for more.
Mestiza is located at 1010 W. 18th Street, just 2 blocks west of Halsted.
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Mestiza, a trendy Latin American inspired boutique on 18th Street, does not disappoint when it comes to unique items, religious symbolism and locally-produced pieces from independent artisans who live in the area.
Mestiza first opened its doors three years ago, when co-owners Sugeiri Martinez and Lorena Almanza decided to bring the flavor of Mexico infused with a modern touch to the Pilsen area.
The shop carries everything from screen-printed t-shirts to handmade bamboo curtains that are locally designed and produced.
"I would describe the style of our shop as Latino eclectic," said Martinez.
The small shop contains items like bamboo curtains, Frido Kahlo memorabilia and Our Lady of Guadalupe imagery adorning the walls.
The storeowners handpick every item they wish to sell, and even make frequent trips to Mexico in order to bring the best and most authentic items back to their customers.
"Lorena, the other owner, is actually leaving for Mexico soon to look for more special items that we can sell in our shop," said Martinez.
The unique items draws in a diverse crowd, ranging from locals, artists and UIC students.
"I would say that Mestiza is a good place for students to shop if they want to find something unique and cultural," Martinez said. "It can also be a great spot if you are looking for a very unique gift."
The best selling items in the shop seem to be the bamboo curtains and screen-printed t-shirts.
Decorated in different patterns and/or with various Mexican cultural symbols and important historical figures, some have thought the bamboo curtains to be an attractive option for someone looking to add a little flair to their living space.
The screen-printed t-shirts have an abundance of different patterns and prints on them as well, including Our Lady of Guadalupe and Frida Kahlo.
Another interesting item Mestiza carries are the recycled purses, made from old reused cereal boxes and the like, making for a very trendy buy.
The shop also carries jewelry, art (posters, postcards, figurines), knickknacks and a small selection of vintage clothes and antiques.
For the vintage shoppers among us, Mestiza will rise to the occasion, with its carefully chosen pieces.
"We are currently in the process of bringing more '70s-inspired vintage clothes into the shop, and hope to do so by the time the summer season comes about," said Martinez.
Martinez is also in the process of designing a website for the shop, that will allow loyal customers to make their purchases directly online.
"I am doing all the coding for the website myself, so it's taking longer than anticipated," said Martinez.
While websites provide convenience, the true experience of Mestiza has to be undertaken by a visit to the shop. The warm and cozy Latin American atmosphere alone will be enough to keep customers coming back for more.
Mestiza is located at 1010 W. 18th Street, just 2 blocks west of Halsted.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Louise
posted 4/22/07 @ 8:42 PM EST
Why more Hispanic shops? I have to go further to shop for Celtic items.
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