Popular New York-based jewelry brand Catbird has officially opened its first Chicago store in Lincoln Park, marking a major expansion for the company known for its sustainable and artistic approach to fine jewelry.
Located at 904 W. Armitage Ave., the new store combines the charm of Catbird’s original Brooklyn location with the welcoming atmosphere of its new neighborhood. The opening comes just in time for April, the month associated with diamonds — fitting for a brand celebrated for its use of recycled and lab-grown stones.
“It’s a block with such a great neighborhood feel,” said Sriya Karumanchi, Catbird’s vice president of marketing.
The store was designed with careful thought and attention to detail. Karumanchi said Catbird’s creative director wanted to preserve the essence of the original Brooklyn shop while updating the layout to improve the shopping experience.
“We kept familiar touches like handwritten love notes and inspiration mood boards,” Karumanchi said. “But we also included practical features like wider counters. It’s important to feel the jewelry and have enough space to do that.”
Catbird began in 2004 in a small storefront in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Despite its modest beginnings, the brand quickly stood out for its unique design vision, support of local artists, and dedication to sustainability through upcycled and responsibly sourced materials.
Catbird has become known for its minimalist, stackable pieces designed for everyday wear. Customers can browse its in-house collection or work with trained stylists during personal styling sessions. One of its most talked-about services is the Catbird Forever Jewelry — a custom bracelet or necklace that’s welded directly onto the wearer for a seamless, clasp-free finish.
For Chicago locals like artist and creative director Rachel Bottlinger-Howe, the store opening is a long-awaited event.
“I’ve only bought their pieces online,” she said. “I’m thrilled there’s now a place where I can try things on in person. Catbird makes the kind of jewelry that lasts — it’s timeless with personality, not what you’d find in a typical jewelry store.”
The Lincoln Park store plans to host events throughout April and collaborate with Chicago-based creatives.
“We’re really looking to integrate into the community on a personal level,” Karumanchi said. “We’d love to work with local artists and authors, host panels, and build relationships.”
A custom Chicago-themed charm is also in development and is expected to launch in mid-May.
With a strong following and past collaborations with celebrities like Phoebe Bridgers and Jenny Slate, Catbird’s arrival in Chicago brings a blend of fine craftsmanship, sustainability, and neighborhood connection to the city’s jewelry scene.
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