Need something trendy to wear to the city’s favorite gin joint? You’re in luck—Scofflaw’s brand-new neighbor is Tusk (3205 N. Armitage Ave.), an artsy boutique that sells a curated selection of vintage apparel alongside ceramics and other art.
Shop owner Mary Eleanor Wallace began her boutique journey in the online world with a successful shop on Etsy. Several months back she shifted her focus to brick-and-mortar, pouring time in to spruce up the former barbershop that would become her store. With help from friends and the building’s owner, Wallace completely revamped the space, adding tin ceilings, installing a painted plywood floor and commissioning custom lighting from local artist Up In The Air Somewhere. Believe it or not, Tusk is not even Mary Eleanor’s full-time gig—by day, she is a nurse in Lawndale.
The shop, described as “curated clothing and objects,” opened in late July. In terms of clothing, Wallace noted that she gravitates toward “neutrals, patterns and textures.” On the accessory and art front, Wallace likes to pull in pieces from friends and local artists, including ceramicist Paige Johnston, jewelry designer Sarah Shikama and artist Michael Hunter.
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