A Real Flagship

The RealReal opens brick-and-mortar store in Chicago

The RealReal, an online marketplace for authenticated, consigned luxury goods, has opened a flagship store on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. Building on the success of the company’s local Luxury Consignment Office, the new 12,000-sq.-ft. store features shopping on both the main and mezzanine levels, as well as a Luxury Consignment Office and the company’s fourth CaféCafé. The company has 10 other physical stores.

“What sets our stores apart is how far beyond the transaction they go. Stores are a way for us to deeply engage with our community, which is why experts and services are at the heart of our store experience,” says Rati Levesque, COO of The RealReal. “Opening our largest store yet gives us even more opportunity to create a rich experience for buyers and consignors. We hope this new flagship store will drive even more Chicagoans to support resale and help us make fashion more sustainable.”

The RealReal Miracle Mile brings together features and services in an inviting space that reflects Chicago’s unique culture. Sustainable materials used in the store design include refurbished vintage furniture — which, like everything in the store, including the furniture, art, and décor — is for sale. Features include a Chicago-inspired sneaker loop, works by local artists, Art Deco decor, and retractable shopping closets that bring hundreds of additional items into the store.

At the heart of the store, a glass-encased watchmaker station lets shoppers see horologists in action and consult with them for expert watch advice. An onsite tailor provides custom fitting, alterations, and apparel repairs from the store’s mezzanine tailoring department. The store offers a full suite of repair services for handbags, shoes, jewelry, and watches, helping to extend the life of luxury goods. Also available in-store are gemologists, handbag experts, stylists, resales specialists, and valuation managers, providing insight into resale value, details on unique pieces, complimentary valuations, and much more.

Offering clean foods, the cage supports local producers and uses compostable packaging.