First Look: The RealReal Opens Its Largest Store Yet
Online marketplace for consigned luxury goods The RealReal has opened a Midwest flagship store on Chicago’s iconic Magnificent Mile.
The new 12,000-square-foot flagship is the retailer’s fifth brick-and-mortar store. The store features shopping on both the main and mezzanine levels, as well as a Luxury Consignment Office and the company’s fourth CaféCafé.
The RealReal Miracle Mile brings together features and services in a space that reflects Chicago’s unique culture. Sustainability is also a focus for the store, from using sustainable materials to refurbishing vintage furniture to creating compostable packaging for the cafe. Everything in the store is for sale—including the furniture, art and decor—and new items are added every day.
“What sets our stores apart is how far beyond the transaction they go,” said Rati Levesque, COO of The RealReal. “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. 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.”
Inside, a glass-encased watchmaker station sits at the heart of the store, where shoppers can see horologists in action and consult with them for expert watch advice. The RealReal’s gemologists, handbag experts, stylists, resales specialists and valuation managers are available to shoppers and consignors, providing insight into resale value, details on unique pieces, complimentary valuations and more. An onsite tailor provides custom fitting, alterations and apparel repairs from the store’s mezzanine tailoring department. The store also offers a full suite of repair services for handbags, shoes, jewelry and watches, helping extend the life of luxury goods.
The RealReal’s fourth cafe brings a sustainable and clean eating dining option to Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, with a focus on supporting local producers. Food options include homemade waffles, frozen yogurt with seasonal toppings, pastries from Troubadour Bakery, a rotating selection from Karl’s Craft Soup, and grab-and-go options from Goddess And The Baker. Drink options include Colectivo Coffee cold brew, Sightglass Coffee, Field & Farmer juice and Sparkling Seasons organic botanical water.
The store’s merchandise is curated based on the brands, styles and trends Chicago shoppers love, and offers women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, shoes, handbags and accessories; beauty; fine jewelry and watches; home and art. 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.
The RealReal Chicago flagship store is located at 940 N. Michigan Ave and is creating 50 additional local jobs, according to the retailer.