Gem: A Vintage Collective

Gem: A Vintage Collective is a community-centered vintage shop located at 2894 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago’s Avondale neighborhood. Opened in August 2024, the collective features vintage clothing, home goods, and artwork from over 30 local vendors and small business owners, each given a semi-permanent monthly booth to display their items. Co-owned by Kara Leonard and Kelsey McCormick, who previously sold at pop-up markets in Wicker Park and Logan Square, Gem aims to be more than a retail space by hosting workshops in sewing, printmaking, and jewelry-making, and plans to operate a photo studio in the back for vendors. The owners envision the store as a mission-driven collective dedicated to providing an accessible, diverse shopping experience and creating a gathering space for local artists and the community.