Clothing

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Hot Shopping: Gaspard’s Euro Stash

Thanks to Jennifer Halchuk and Richard Lyle, you no longer have to go to Europe to purchase some of the continent’s hottest labels. The co-founders of Toronto-based womenswear label Mercy have now curated a discerning selection of clothing, footwear, jewellery, scarves, handbags and more by the likes of Les Prairies de Paris, Ascher London, Jamin Puech and La Botte Gardiane—plus items from their own line, naturally—at Gaspard, their newly opened Queen West boutique. Tue.-Sun. 913 Queen St. W., 416-546-7480.

Hot Shopping: Ugg Puts its Best Foot Forward in Yorkville

photo by Oscar Mach

It’s the time of year when every other pair of feet you see is likely to be sporting a pair of calf-length caramel-coloured sheepskin boots. Although such footwear is synonymous with UGG Australia, the brand produces many other styles, too. Tony Yorkville is home to the company’s first concept shop here in Canada (a second is now open in Vancouver), where a curved zebra-striped ceiling and frosted glass walls serve as a backdrop for the brand’s entire collection of men’s and ladies boots, slippers, sneakers and accessories such as hats and handbags. Open daily. 23 St. Thomas St., 647-799-0300.

Hot Shopping: Keep Your Wardrobe (Joe) Fresh

Buying a carton of milk, eggs, some apples and a crewneck sweater was the norm for devotees of Joe Fresh, the Loblaw-owned label sold in the company’s chain of grocery stores. But now fans of the brand’s cheap-chic style have a standalone space to call their own on Queen Street West. (Equally popular south of the border, Joe Fresh shops are simultaneously opening in prime locations in New York City and New Jersey.) Though retail outposts have popped up in the suburbs, this is the company’s first downtown location. The 8,200-square-foot space boasts an extensive collection of Joe Fresh’s inexpensive and trendy ready-to-wear pieces like puffer jackets (for less than $99), sweater dresses and brogues for ladies, and V-neck sweaters and gingham shirts for men. Sleep- and activewear, jewellery, cosmetics and accessories like hats, gloves and sunglasses round out the selection. 589 Queen St. W., 416-361-6342.

Hot Shopping: Eileen Fisher Opens in Vancouver

Cashmere poncho by Eileen Fisher

Feminine Charm

The latest shop to join the boutique-filled neighbourhood of South Granville is Eileen Fisher. This opening marks the first Canadian store for the New York–based fashion company. The concept has always been the same: simple, high-quality women’s wear. For winter, look for holiday-ready dresses, structured coats and flattering sweaters (including the turtleneck poncho in merino cashmere, pictured).—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

EILEEN FISHER 2721 Granville St. 604-733-5225. www.eileenfisher.com

Hot Shopping: Outerwear by Icebreaker

Cascade full-zip jacket by Icebreaker

Woolly Warmth

Brave the elements with a piece from Icebreaker, a New Zealand label that makes stylish and sustainable merino wool clothing. The store carries everything from tops and leggings to socks and outerwear in a range of wool weights. Clothes are breathable, fast-drying and machine-washable. New this season is the RealFleece collection of soft mid-layers (including the Cascade Full Zip, pictured).—Jessie Colgan

More information:

ICEBREAKER 2089 W. 4th Ave. 778-329-2710. www.icebreaker.com

Hot Shopping: OLEANA Wool Blankets

Wool blankets by OLEANA, at Urbanity

NORDIC CHIC

When the weather outside is frightful, curl up with a super-soft blanket by Norwegian company OLEANA. These bright throws are made of merino wool (pictured) or alpaca and reference both Nordic culture and the Silk Road in their patterns. Stop by Urbanity to find OLEANA blankets, knitwear, silks and coats to perfect your Scandinavian style.—Kristina Urquhart

More information:
URBANITY 2412 Granville St. 604-801-6262. www.urbanity.ca

Hot Shopping: Designer Labels at Leone

Versace men's bag, at Leone

Fashionable Finds

Dior and Prada and Miu Miu, oh my! Find it all, plus runway-ready styles by labels such as Alexander McQueen and Roberto Cavalli, at Leone. The designer emporium stocks apparel and accessories for women, children and men, including this dapper Versace bag (pictured) for the stylish guy on your holiday gift list.—Kristina Urquhart

More information:

LEONE Sinclair Centre, 757 W. Hastings St. 604-683-1133. www.leone.ca

You Are Here: Old Strathcona

Image courtesy of Noel Zinger

With over 600 eclectic, independent and alternative shops and services to explore, it’s little wonder Old Strathcona is regarded as the place to experience Edmonton’s finest live theatre and music, boutique shopping, dining and nightlife. Read on for some of our top spots in this historical district and then visit www.oldstrathcona.ca for even more.

CHIANTI CAFE Housed in the historic Old Strathcona post office building and featuring super affordable made from scratch Italian fare — including over two dozen pasta dishes — it’s little wonder this charming eatery has been voted one of Canada’s top 100 restaurants and is popular with everyone from university students to young professionals to families. 10501 Whyte (82) Ave., 780-439-9829.

WHEN PIGS FLY This quaint gift shop brims with intriguing and unusual trinkets, jewelry, stained glass, home accessories and more. Chances are, you won’t walk out empty handed, as it caters to any aesthetic taste, covering rustic wares, vintage inspired décor, sleek, modern finds and even children’s toys and accessories. 10470 Whyte (82) Ave., 780-433-9127.

Image courtesy of Laura Byrnes Photography

ROWENA Lovers of pin-up couture will revel in this fashion boutique where you’ll not only find the sweetest selection of 1940’s and 50’s inspired pin-up dresses, but also rockabilly, gothic and other alternative cultures clothing and accessories. The shop offers a wide array of lines for both guys and dolls including Lucky 13, Dirty Devil, Deadly Dames, Trashy Diva and Lip Service. 10762 Whyte (82) Ave., 780-439-5445.

BLUES ON WHYTE Featuring top local, national and international blues talent, Blues on Whyte in the legendary Commercial Hotel is the place to enjoy live blues music from soulful Mississippi Delta to finger-snapping Chicago style. The easy-going atmosphere and standout musicians are second to none, and with live music seven days a week, the place is almost always bustling. 10329 Whyte (82) Ave., 780-439-3981.

BLOCK 1912 An eclectic European style café with vintage ambiance, Block 1912 is a trusty Whyte Avenue staple offering specialty coffees, wine and beer, an assortment of in-house made desserts, sandwiches and gelato. This is a casual, inviting spot, perfect to stop in at and unwind after an afternoon of shopping. 10361 Whyte (83) Ave., 780-433-6575.

Image courtesy of Wee Book Inn

WEE BOOK INN This locally owned and operated second hand bookshop includes two floor levels of fiction and non-fiction finds including a sizable selection of antique and collectible literature. Look for their resident cat who you’ll find purring away contentedly in one of the shop’s cosy corners. 10310 Whyte (82) Ave., 780 432-7230.

PRINCESS THEATRE For a dose of history and entertainment, watch a film at the Princess Theatre, Edmonton’s oldest surviving cinema, which screened its first film in 1915. The ornate building still features the original auditorium and balcony, and has remained much the same as when it was built nearly 100 years ago. Today, the theatre screens an interesting mix of independent, foreign and alternative films. 10337 Whyte (82) Ave., 780-433-0728

Hot Shopping: Kids’ Threads

Image courtesy of Alligator Pie Kidswear

Alligator Pie Kidswear, a chic children’s shop in Manulife Place, serves up high-end fashion pieces for the pint-sized bunch, and this November it celebrates its 25th anniversary. Owner Catherine Medak keeps the shelves stocked with the best of high fashion for the little ones including Hugo Boss, Diesel, Juicy Couture, Burberry and Armani. Clothing ranges in size from infant to youth (size 16), so you can even find pieces for pre-teen fashionistas.

Hot Shopping: Tee Time

Lacoste's t-shirt mash-up with Jonathan Adler

Lacoste’s classic crocodile is getting a bit of a facelift thanks to a partnership with popular American interior designer Jonathan Adler. Three limited-edition polo shirts (including the men’s orange polo, pictured) start lining shelves this month in a variety of colours for both sexes.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Dates: Market Fresh

Beautiful baubles by Jen Ellis at Portobello Petite

August 4 to 27

There’s a new pop up shop in town: Portobello Petite, a mini version of the popular Portobello West Fashion + Art Market. This cute space showcases clothing, chocolates, jewellery (including pieces by Jen Ellis, pictured) and creations for kids by talented local artists and artisans. On Aug. 27 the store closes to rejoin the main market for the final summer show.—Jennifer Patterson

Portobello Petite, 186 Kingsway.

Vancouver Life: Cambie Street

Spend an afternoon exploring the sights and smells of Cambie Street between 17th and 19th avenues, a hotspot for great eats and the latest trends

By Carli Vierke

Cheese from Benton Brothers

The Local Gourmet
It’s foodies’ choice on Cambie. With both local and global fare, the restaurants, cafes and artisan shops offer a mix of flavours. Whether it’s gooey BC cheeses from the family-owned Benton Brothers or homemade tiramisu from Kreation cake shop, everything you need for the perfect epicurean feast is here. Feel like treating yourself without lifting a finger? Enjoy steak frites at the friendly French bistro Pied-à-Terre, or grab a slow-roasted pulled-pork sub to go at Las Tortas Gourmet Mexican Sandwiches.

Eye for Design
Suit up for a stylish stroll at Shop Cocoon, a boutique that features the latest trends in clothing, jewellery and handmade toiletries (think goodies such as hand-milled pomegranate soap), all crafted by local designers. For fashionable inspiration in the home and beyond, check out Walrus, a minimalist shop known for its fun, stylish lifestyle goods such as Scandinavian-designed lanterns or locally designed hot-pink rubber shoes. The space doubles as an art gallery and transforms one night a month into a packed cultural hub where Vancouver artists have their exceptional work showcased.

Ceramic birds from Shop Cocoon

Drink Up
No matter what type of buzz you’re looking for, you’re in good hands. At Beans coffee shop, grab a soy latte while getting cozy on one of the vintage couches or armchairs. For the beer connoisseur, Biercraft Bistro serves dozens of Belgian, imported and local beers. Develop your taste buds with a pint of the creamy Augustijn Blonde alongside a pound of fresh local mussels in a beer, cilantro and lime-butter broth. If you’re seeking libations to go, the Liquor Barn has a good selection of wine, beers and spirits from all over the world. Cheers.

Hot Shopping: Lookin’ Smart

In Halifax, discerning gentlemen find their fashions at Dugger’s Men’s Wear. Located on Spring Garden Road, the popular shop offers the latest styles from Canali, Hugo Boss, Diesel and many others.

Hot Shopping: Fashion Forward

Unicorn

• Renaissance, Barrington Street: Casual clothing and footwear for men and women; lines like Converse, Chuck Taylor, Mexx, Dept and Matinique.

• Unicorn, Lower Water Street: Fashionable boutique for women offering the latest European and North American ready-to-wear collections; also boasts footwear and jewellery by Canadian designers.

• Big Apple, Barrington Street: Women’s fashions for varied lifestyles; career and casual collections from Montreal and New York.

Cool Clothes for Chilly Conditions

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you should forsake all sense of style.
With this seasonal wear—everything from hats and boots to gloves and goggles—
you’ll be weather-ready whether you’re taking a stroll in a winter wonderland
or battling a blizzard.

Hot Shopping: Fashion in Ruins

Unisex boutique Ruins is best described as part art gallery, part concert venue and a whole lot of edgy, urban style. Co-owners Mikey Apples and Josh Reichmann, both of whom originally hail from the music industry, set up their shop in the fashionable Queen West neighbourhood and stock designer exclusives by Assembly New York and Patrik Ervell, plus such coveted labels as H by Hudson, Loden Dager and Thomas. In addition to of-the-moment apparel, jewellery and fashion books, an in-house salon called Leonard’s offers cuts and shaves at the back of the store—a salvaged church archway marks the entrance. Along the exposed brick walls hang works by local artists, and some evenings, the store transforms into a concert venue to showcase up-and-coming musicians. Tuesday to Sunday. 960 Queen St. W., 647-351-0960.

Hot Shopping: Where to Shop 2010

We asked. Where readers voted. Here are your top spots to shop.

Whistler Village photo copyright Steve Rosset/Dreamstime

To vote for next year’s winners, visit www.where.ca/whistler. To see Vancouver’s winners, visit www.where.ca/vancouver.

2010 Where to Shop Awards

We asked. Where readers voted. Here are your top spots to shop

By Jennifer Patterson

'Tis the season for holiday chocolates at Purdys. Photo by KK Law

CHOCOLATE
Purdy’s Chocolates
For over 100 years Purdy’s has delighted sweet tooths with hazelnut truffle–filled Hedgehogs, Mint Melties and gooey Sweet Georgia Browns. Just in time for the holidays: decorative tins of assorted chocolates and peppermint bark. Yum!
Honourable Mentions
Thomas Haas Chocolates & Patisserie;
Chocolate Arts.

SHOPPING CENTRE
Pacific Centre
Downtown’s largest shopping mall houses some of the biggest labels: H&M, Teenflo, Aritzia, Harry Rosen and Sephora. It’s also home to high-end retailer Holt Renfrew.
Honourable Mentions
Metropolis at Metrotown;
Park Royal;
Oakridge Centre.

FINE ART
Heffel Fine Art
Head to the gallery to purchase works by Canadian, American and European artists, or visit the website to bid in the online auction house.
Honourable Mentions
Inuit Gallery;
Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery.

DEPARTMENT STORE
Sears
The downtown location is hard to miss thanks to its bulbous white exterior. Inside find high-end cosmetics, apparel for the whole family, and small and large home appliances. There’s also a Starbucks on the main level.
Honourable Mentions
The Bay;
Holt Renfrew.

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES
Vancouver Architectural Antiques
VAA specializes in 19th- and 20th-century lighting. Find everything from art deco sconces to early Victorian lamps. Sculptures, furniture and paintings, too.
Honourable Mentions
Guild House Antiques;
Antique Warehouse.

EYEWEAR
Sunglass Hut
Keep those peepers protected from harmful rays with a pair of quality sunshades. Fashionistas favour Fendi, Burberry and Ray-Ban, while sporty types pick up Oakley and Bollé.
Honourable Mentions
Art Face Optical;
Eyes on Burrard.

Colourful yoga mats and apparel at Lululemon. Photo by KK Law

ATHLETIC SPORTING GOODS
Lululemon Athletica
This local success story first opened shop in Kitsilano, and the yoga-inspired athletic apparel, which ranges from hoodies and jackets to pants and bags, has become a wardrobe staple for Vancouverites.
Honourable Mentions
Mountain Equipment Co-op;
SportChek.

LINGERIE
La Jolie Madame
Opened in 1971, this ooh la la lingerie shop carries high-end European intimates as well as daywear and nightwear. Sizes range from 32A to 46H.
Honourable Mentions
Dianes Lingerie;
Scarlet.

LADIES’ APPAREL
Aritzia
Fashion-savvy women head to Vancouver’s own Aritzia for edgy designs and must-have wardrobe staples. In-house lines include Wilfred, TNA, Community, Talula, Wilfred Free and Talula Babaton.
Honourable Mentions
Roots;
Wear Else.

MEN’S APPAREL
Boys’ Co
This hip shop carries everything for the stylish man. Brands include J. Lindberg, Hugo Boss, G Star, True Religion and Justin Timberlake’s line William Rast.
Honourable Mentions
Dunn’s Tailors;
Harry Rosen.

CHILDREN’S APPAREL
The Children’s Place
Find fashionable clothing and shoes for newborns, babies and kids size four to 14.
Honourable Mentions
Dandelion Kids;
Please Mum.

FOOTWEAR
Freedman Shoes
For over 75 years this Vancouver company has been helping locals on the hunt for the perfect shoe. Brands include Calvin Klein, Sam Edelman, Michael Kors and Frye.
Honourable Mentions
Ecco;
Sterling Shoes.

Brilliant baubles line the glass cases at Blue Ruby. Photo by KK Law

BOOKS
Chapters
Spend an hour—or two—exploring this palatial, multi-level bookshop. Everything from cookbooks to self-help to art to language has a dedicated section, as do the hottest best sellers and the multitude of magazines. Great gifts ideas such as candles, calendars, blankets and music complete the space. In-store Starbucks cafe.
Honourable Mentions
Barbara-Jo’s Books to Cooks;
Book Warehouse.

CHINA & CRYSTAL
Atkinson’s
Find the perfect hostess gift, such as timeless Waterford Crystal and delicate Fabergé eggs, or style your own abode with dinnerware by Versace and Wedgwood. Linens, pottery, home decor and fragrances, too.
Honourable Mentions
Chintz & Company;
Herzog.

JEWELLERY & WATCHES
Blue Ruby
This local shop highlights jewellery designers from around the world but focuses on both Canadian and Vancouver talent. Find items great for gifting at a variety of price points. Pyrrha talisman necklaces and sterling silver Tashi earrings are eye-catching additions to any outfit.
Honourable Mentions
Birks;
Spence.

SPAS & SALONS
Absolute Spa
A perennial winner, Absolute Spa continues to charm locals and visitors alike at its citywide locations. Let your mind wander during the relaxing aromatherapy massage, or enjoy the toning and hydrating rose and tonic facial. It’s a hot spot for celebrities including Jennifer Garner, Janet Jackson, Chris Rock and Megan Fox, so you never know who you might run into.
Honourable Mentions
Spa Utopia;
Willow Stream Spa.

To vote for next year’s winners, please click here.

Hot Shopping: Corner Store

Gorgeous garments line the racks at Oliver & Lilly's

Tucked just off the busy South Granville corridor sits style-savvy boutique Oliver & Lilly’s. Editorial-worthy items from Heidi Merrick and Steven Alan line the racks, and antique tables are stacked with hip designer goods and handcrafted jewellery.—Jennifer Patterson

TIFF List: 3 Styles for the Red Carpet

The Toronto International Film Festival is ramping up for its 35th excellent year, with more than 300 movies showing between September 9 and 19. Follow this space in the days leading up to TIFF 2010 for features on much-anticipated premieres, the Bell Lightbox—the festival’s exciting new headquarters—and scads of sites at which to spot visiting celebrities. During the festival itself, we’ll bring you details on each day’s film offerings plus what to do before or after your screening.

Gotstyle

TODAY: A-LIST ATTIRE
It’s rarely enough to be just a great thespian. One has to look the part, too. Toronto’s world-class selection of shops ensures the stars are dressed to the nines for their moment in the spotlight.

1 The luxe looks donned by Hollywood’s leading ladies can be found along Bloor Street West, home to international boutiques including Prada, Gucci and Chanel, plus high-end department store Holt Renfrew, which collects all manner of designer duds. Hermès, Cartier and others provide the jewels and accessories. Or for that timeless Audrey Hepburn look, go slightly north to vintage couturier The Cat’s Meow.

2 Men in the George Clooney mold—respectful of the classics, but mindful of modern trends—are rakishly attired by the likes of Nicolas Men and Harry Rosen. The latter’s bespoke tailors are sought-after, and have outfitted the likes of Dustin Hoffman and Christopher Plummer. Custom suits at King West’s Gotstyle are also in high demand—master tailor Joa Cavalcanti has designed for Leonardo Dicaprio, Daniel Craig and Daniel Day Lewis.

3 For stars who really want to shine, many on-trend shops offer youthful, eclectic apparel. Denim specialist Over the Rainbow has long catered to clients such as Ryan Reynolds and Renee Zellweger, while Julia Roberts was recently spotted perusing at Preloved. Canadian brand Roots also has hipster cred—its latest iconic collection was designed by artist and author Douglas Coupland.

Tomorrow: 10 Celeb-Approve Nosh Spots