The Ottawa necklace by Urbanite Jewelry

Top picks for shopping in the city

CITY GIRL
Krista Leben, the designer behind Urbanite Jewelry, uses cities as the inspiration for her worldly line of accessories. Each piece incorporates the personality of a place using colours, materials, and overall vibe. The Ottawa necklace is modern and tasteful — like many of our residents — and gives a nod to the capital's spring tulip festival. $20. With Love Bridal Boutique, 1501 Main St., Stittsville, 613-222-6003. www.urbanitejewelry.com

TAKE A HIKE
The season is upon us, so head into the great outdoors with Hiking Trails of Ottawa, the National Capital Region and Beyond by Michael Haynes (Goose Lane Editions, 2010). This easy-to-read guide provides useful tips for both veterans and beginners, such as estimated hiking time, facilities on site, type of surface you will encounter, and even cell phone reception. $22.95. Available at Collected Works, 1242 Wellington St. W., 613-722-1265, and other independent and major bookstores. www.gooselane.com

HEADCASE
Cover your lid in style with the flapper headscarf by Wooden Ships. This wool-mohair blend is half hat, half headband, and adds flair to any fall wardrobe. Fans of The City might recognize this number as worn by ‘It Girl’ Whitney Port in season one of the MTV hit. $38. Pick up yours in leaf, berry, or two other autumnal shades at the fun new boutique Roadtrip. 24B York St., 613-562-0992. www.roadtripclothing.com

VIVE LA FRANCE
Francophiles will rejoice that L’Occitane En Provence opened its first boutique in Ottawa this past summer. Did you know the brand, best known for luxury fragrances and skincare products, also has a men’s line? Treat your male companion to Cade shaving cream, which has a cushioning mousse with essential oils, dapper old-fashioned packaging, and street cred to boot. $29. Rideau Centre, 50 Rideau St., 613-232-2700. www.loccitane.com

ROCK THE WOK
Great chefs need the best tools, so next time you’re in the mood for stirfry, try the Mapleware Wok paddles by Littledeer. With a long handle to keep you away from the heat and a streamlined design for easy stirring, this Canadian company makes sure every surface, edge, and curve serves a purpose. Even better? They also have utensils for lefties. Three sizes, $16-$21. J.D. Adam, 795 Bank St., 613-235-8714. www.jdadam.ca