Get the Blues: Where to Shop for Jeans

2210 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

Do the name-appropriate thing and go to happy hour before hitting this store's long, wooden "bar" stacked with blues and blacks. Call it the law of averages, but with more than 40 labels and hundreds of styles on tap, it's more than likely that you'll find a match.

923 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611 (map)

A shout-out to the curvaceous shopper: While you'll find every wash under the sun at this spendy, catwalk-worthy outfitter, the regular, slim and super-slim styles rarely exceed a size 32 waist.

1876 First St, Highland Park, IL 60035 (map)

It's a denim wonderland at this North Shore store, which stocks upwards of 15,000 jeans from the likes of Chip & Pepper and Hudson--not to mention the chic, trouser-cut Hillhurst style from Paige Premium Denim. Even wee ones can get in on the label-loving action, with True Religion jeans for infants.

605 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL null (map)

Iconic--and now triangular label-free--this 1980s fave still delivers with body-conscious, trendily washed capris, skinny legs and flares. But it's the leg-flashing denim skirts that turn an everyday outfit into something head-jerking.

1715 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647 (map)

This popular luxury line's first freestanding store stocks more than a dozen styles for women of all shapes and sizes--plus a handful for men--in its industrial-sleek Bucktown space. The twinkling fiber optic lights in the dressing rooms should help you get into the night-on-the-town spirit while trying on those dark-washed hip-huggers.

600 N Michigan Ave Ste B, Chicago, IL 60611 (map)

Fashion-conscious without being fussy, this jean juggernaut takes a many-sizes-fit-all approach. Whether you're petite, plus-sized or prefer them super-low, something booty defining awaits. Guys can gussy up in stonewashed, super-skinny and perfectly pre-worn pairs.

2048 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

Granted, there are hoodies, dresses and polos, but the real reason to visit this mid-priced denim shop is its "Lucky You"-labeled dungarees. From bell-bottomed beauties to classic straight-legs, these wardrobe staples--including a selection of hard-to-find lengths--rock.

35 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602 (map)

Recession-friendly basics are the backbone of Gap's cheaper sibling, where cuts like "The Girlfriend" and "The Darling" get the job done for a fraction of the cost. Just lower your service expectations (the staff isn't paid enough to care) and try on those perfectly proportioned boot-cuts.

1733 W Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 (map)

Boot-scoot your way past the cowboy hats to find Wranglers and Levi's--the perfect foundation for that pair of chaps. Then, make like a gringo and snag elaborately embroidered or fringed Western shirts to complete the look.

1 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602 (map)

Ignore the somewhat dingy, subterranean setting of this discount retailer, and you'll be rewarded with Chip & Pepper and Blue Cult jeans at equally bargain-basement prices. Although the selection can be overwhelming, it's also awe-inspiring in its breadth and scope.

900 N Michigan Ave Ste 2, Chicago, IL 60611 (map)

It's prep central at this mall mainstay, where lacrosse players and polo shirt-lovers unite over broken-in boot-cuts and ankle-length, toothpick-skinny stretch styles. Adding to the appeal, frequent sales bring the relatively affordable prices down even further.

111 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602 (map)

From preppy, classic-fit numbers to cutting edge bamboo denim from organiK Revolution, there's a style for all shapes and most every size at this State Street store. Just be careful in the fancy, chef-driven food court: Noshing on burgers, tacos and noodles may mean buying the next size up.

1460 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622 (map)

Hipsters--at least those willing to pay top dollar--frequent this secondhand shop in Wicker Park for vintage looks. And while the cowboy boots in every imaginable color and retro luggage get props, it's the worn-in denim that many can't live without.