Timeout : Chicago - That's Hot
August 08, 2007; Timeout - Chicago
Every pierced and tattooed teen in the city knows that shops like Hot Topic are the places for all indie and punk culture–related merchandise. But where do you go once you’re past your 21st birthday? Luckily, the founders of the popular mall-rat shop have realized that teens do, in fact, grow up, so they've opened Metropark, a store that keeps Hot Topic's rebel edge and takes it to a slightly sophisticated level — and higher price points. Items such as men's Obey T-shirts ($29–$36), Mek Denim jeans ($139) and Matty M crocheted cotton tube dresses for the ladies ($79) are featured in the Lincoln Park outpost. The shop may be nestled among the other trendy stores on Halsted Street, but it sets itself apart with not only the clubbier selections, but also its emphasis on music: DJs spin in the shop on weekends and the owners like to think of the place as part store, part club. Shoppers can get a taste of both at the official opening party on Thursday 2 at 8:30pm. 2042 N Halsted St between Armitage and Dickens Aves (773-634-5009). —Kevin Aeh