Homespun Haven

Milk Handmade

Just crowned Time Out Chicago’s Best New Boutique of 2012, Milk Handmade is one stylish Andersonville enclave well deserving of its win. Promising unique wares to all who happen upon it, Milk offers small-batch goods handcrafted by artisans, all curated with razor precision by owner Hallie Borden, who mainly keeps an inventory of women’s clothing, accessories and a smattering of home décor. It’s the kind of place where you might discover the perfect tee or the best party clutch, and where you benefit from Borden’s relationship with each of her vendors - meaning if the date-night dress you found doesn’t quite fit, she’ll have the designer tailor to your frame.

Currently you’ll find chunky gold bracelets by Michelle Starbuck Designs, cross-stitched zodiac necklaces by Zelma Rose, and braided hairpieces from Lilla, all making for one-of-a-kind gifts, while handcrafted leather booties by Elf and colourblock dresses by Sydney’s Three Little Ducks are perfect presents to yourself. There are animal print clutches from Gift Shop Brooklyn, leather belts by Muse, handmade soaps by Piccolo Paradiso, and even, come warmer months, handmade bikinis by Candace Skye. A one-stop gal’s gift shop so sweet, it should really be called cream!