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Hot Shopping: Luxurious Labels at Leone

Leone photo by KK Law

If the mention of Alexander McQueen and Prada sends your heart palpitating, make your way to Leone—celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Peruse the multi-level 2,320-sq-m (25,000-sq-ft) space on your own or book a personal shopping appointment. Upstairs, splurge on high-end fashions for the whole family, then head downstairs to the edgier L2 Leone for items from uber-popular Vince and Y-3 by Yohji Yamamoto.—Jennifer Patterson

Beach- and Cruise-Worthy Resort Wear

Photo by Carlos Mendoza

Yesterday we shared our hottest summer destinations to book now. Today, we’ll refer you to FashionMagazine.com on what to wear (emphasis on bright, retro separates) and how to wear it.

Get cracking on your summer vacation wardrobe (you eager beaver, you!) or gear up for a tropical winter getaway.

See the slideshow (FashionMagazine.com).

Hot Shopping: Hot Heritage at The Bay

Heritage-inspired silk scarves at The Bay

The Bay continues to delight both fashion fiends and collectors with the reimagined Hudson’s Bay Company Collection. An item sure to tempt history buffs is the historic-looking charter scarf (pictured, $125 each). Every one of these silk kerchiefs features an intricate sketch of Canadian history on an archive scroll—textbooks be damned—and comes in warm yellow, blue and red.—Jennifer Patterson

Canadian Travel in Review: the 2011 Whirlwind Royal Visit to Canada

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the Calgary Stampede in July 2011. Photo by Samir Hussein/WireImage.

Looking for inspiration for a 2012 trip to Canada? Take a page from the whirlwind itinerary of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. (more…)

Hot Shopping: Affordable and Trendy Fashions at Forever 21

Find Ottawa's Forever 21 downtown at the Rideau Centre.

In September, fashionistas’ wishes were granted when Forever 21 opened its first store in Ottawa (and a two-storey one at that!). Known for carrying runway-inspired fashions, it’s a favourite amongst hipsters, bargain hunters, and girly girls. With a price range that spans $1 to $65, you can try out trendy pieces without breaking the bank, so you don’t have to worry if they only last a season. With plenty of ruffles, animal prints, and vibrant colours in their arsenal, this is just the place to pick up your New Year’s Eve outfit. Rideau Centre, 50 Rideau St., 613-233-0423.

Hot Shopping: Winter Coats by Joe Fresh

Cute and colourful puffer jacket by Joe Fresh

Keep Cozy

All signs point to a cold West Coast winter—thanks, La Niña. Cut through the chill with a brightly coloured puffer jacket by Joe Fresh ($49, pictured). This down-filled coat comes with a matching bag to keep it packed away—sleeping-bag style—until the weather takes a turn for the worse. —Jennifer Patterson
More information:

JOE FRESH STORE 540 Granville St. 604-681-4200. www.joe.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.

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.

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: Versace at H&M

Bright prints are a hallmark of Versace, which collaborates on a collection with H&M in November

Flamboyant Fashion

Swedish hot shop H&M takes us on a trip to Italy with its most recent designer collaboration: Versace. And this iconic fashion house isn’t playing it safe; it’s opened up the vault and brought back to life some signature outrageous prints (including the silk bustier and trousers, pictured). For men: fitted jackets with elaborate gold detailing and green leopard print, and studded leather pants. For women: silk and leather mini dresses, and two-tone leggings. Line up with the legion of devoted fans and collectors for the collection launch on Nov. 19.—Jennifer Patterson


More information:

H&M

Pacific Centre, 609 Granville St. 604-692-0308.

Coquitlam Centre, 2929 Barnet Hwy., Coquitlam. 604-945-2781.

Lougheed Town Centre, 9855 Austin Ave., Burnaby. 604-420-2470.

www.hm.com

Welcome to the Finals

Where to go, what to do and who to see during Canadian Finals Rodeo week

BY TERRI MASON

Image courtesy of Northalds

The most widely anticipated rodeo of the year, the 38th Annual Canadian Finals Rodeo is the pinnacle of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association’s (CPRA) rodeo season. The rodeo takes place at Rexall Place in Edmonton November 9-13 and this year, the celebration of the sport has turned into a city-wide party!

The CFR is a showcase of the best rough stock, rodeo contestants, bullfighters and pick up men. The city will be bursting with high-charged entertainment, high ridin’ rodeo contestants and rodeo glitterati as they crown the new Miss Rodeo Canada and Princess. The top money earners from the rodeo trail have spurred, roped, raced, wrestled and bucked their way to the top twelve of the leader board, earning them a berth in one of the Top Ten richest rodeos in the world – and the richest CPRA-sanctioned rodeo in Canada. In 2010, the Canadian Finals Rodeo paid out a whopping $1,274,996 to contestants – that’s a lot of jingle in those jeans.

Leading into the rodeo is the internationally-renowned Farmfair International, a showcase of livestock that attracts buyers and purebred breeders from around the world. From November 5-13, Farmfair also features a line-up of thrilling horse events and competitions that is a huge draw for horse lovers.

Also on deck is the wildly popular Heritage Ranch Rodeo, which has established itself as a huge crowd pleaser. Working cowboys from ranches as far away as British Columbia to Manitoba compete in traditional ranch activities and events such as cattle penning, working cowhorse, branding (using paint) and often one of the wildest events of the night – bronc riding. Each contestant is ‘riding for the brand’ as they proudly represent some of the oldest ranches across the West.

With Christmas just around the corner, be sure to stop in at the RAM Country Market in the Expo Centre. This annual trade show features all things western and beyond and can surely help you complete your naughty and nice list in no time. Add to this great meals, entertainment and liquid libation in The Buckle at Northlands and a coterie of eclectic and fun events – from karaoke competitions to fashion shows – and you’ll see why Edmonton is the place for a good time.

River City Round Up Events
NOVEMBER 4 The Downtown Business Association’s 21st Annual Chili Cook Off Scotia Place, 10060 Jasper Ave. 11:30 am – 1 pm edmontondowntown.com

NOVEMBER 5 River City Round Up Kick Off Celebration Sir Winston Churchill Square 9 am – 6 pm

NOVEMBER 5–13 FarmFair International Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.farmfair.ca

NOVEMBER 5–13 Live Country Music Celebration Rose & Crown Pub, Sutton Place Hotel, 10235-101 St. www.edmontonpubs.com

NOVEMBER 5–13 RAM Country Market Place Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com

NOVEMBER 5–13 River City Round Up Celebration Oil City Roadhouse, 10736 Jasper Ave. www.oilcityroadhouse.com Moriarty’s Bistro & Wine Bar, 10154-100 St. www.moriartysbistro.com

NOVEMBER 6 Country Karaoke Contest Final Overtime Broiler & Taproom Sherwood Park, 101 Granada Blvd. www.overtimesherwoodpark.com

NOVEMBER 6–8 Heritage Ranch Rodeo Kubota Hall, Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.farmfair.ca

Image courtesy of Northlands

NOVEMBER 8 There’s A Heifer In Your Tank The Buckle, Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.heiferinyourtank.ca

NOVEMBER 9 Miss Rodeo Canada Fashion Show NewCap Stage, West Edmonton Mall, 8882-170 St.

NOVEMBER 9–13 Canadian Finals Rodeo Northlands, 7300-116 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com

NOVEMBER 10 Miss Rodeo Canada 2012 Crowning and Reception Sutton Place Hotel, 10235-101 St. www.missrodeocanada.ca

NOVEMBER 10 Bloodstock 2011 Kubota Hall D, Northlands Expo Centre, 7300-116 Ave. www.farmfair.ca

NOVEMBER 10 Blake Shelton Live at CFR Rexall Place, 7424 118 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com

NOVEMBER 10–12 The Buckle Hospitality Headquarters featuring buffets, live dinner time entertainment and bar service. Northlands Expo Centre, Hall H, 7300-116 Ave. www.canadianfinalsrodeo.com/buckle

NOVEMBER 11 CPRA Ladies Luncheon & Fashion Show Marriott River Cree Resort, Corner of Whitemud Drive and Winterburn Road (215


A Guide to the Language of Rodeo

ARM JERKER
Horse or bull that is really stout and bucks with a lot of power resulting in a huge amount of pull on the contestant’s arm.

BREAKING THE BARRIER 10-second timed event penalty. Steers, calves get a head start. Once the bovine passes a pre-determined length, a barrier rope is released, permitting the cowboy/ horse to leave the box without penalty.

BRONC REIN A thick rope, 1 1/2 – 2 inches in diameter that is attached to the halter of a saddle bronc horse. The rope can be no longer than 6 1/2 feet, and is used to provide balance for the cowboy.

CHAPS Pronounced shhh aps; not like chapped (lips).

CROSSFIRE Team roping penalty: If the heeler throws his loop before the header has turned the steer, it’s called “crossfire” and the run is disqualified.

DOG FALL An illegal manoeuvre in steer wrestling causing all four feet and the head to face in different directions. In order to receive a time, the cowboy must roll the steer over or let it up and throw it again legally.

DOUBLE KICKER When a horse or bull that kicks up with the hind legs, walks on the front legs and then kicks again with the hind legs, before the hind legs touch the ground.

DALLY; DALLIES Fast wrapping of the lariat around the saddle horn. Derived from the Spanish term dalevuelta, meaning “give it a turn.”

Image courtesy of Northlands

DOUBLE-GRAB; PULLING LEATHER; GRABBING THE APPLE When a roughstock cowboy grabs the shank, saddle or bareback rigging with his free hand. Automatic disqualification.

FLANK A flank strap is used to encourage the horse to kick out straighter and higher when it bucks. About four inches wide and covered in sheepskin, it fastens behind the widest part of the abdomen. The flank does not cause pain because irritants or pain interfere with a horse’s ability to buck in an energetic and athletic fashion.

HAT BENDER When a horse or bull does not buck and just runs around the arena.

HOOEY The knot used by tie down ropers to hold the wraps used to tie three of the stock’s feet together after the calf has been thrown. Also known as a half-hitch to most people outside of rodeo.

NECK ROPE A rope that is affixed to an animal’s neck in the timed events. It is used to trip the barrier in front of the contestant to assure the animal a head start.

PICK UP MAN The cowboy on horseback who assists the bareback and saddle bronc riders in dismounting from their stock, gets the stock out of the arena and keeps the rodeo running smoothly.

PERF Rodeo performance

RE-RIDE When another ride is given to a saddle bronc, bareback bronc or bull rider in the same go-round when either the stock or the cowboy is not afforded a fair opportunity to show their best. Can be caused by things like a chute-fighting animal, a fallen animal, etc.

SEEING DAYLIGHT The term used when a cowboy comes loose from a bucking animal far enough for the spectators to see daylight between the cowboy and the animal.

STAR GAZER Describes a saddle bronc that bucks with its head up, and causes the cowboy to have a hard time keeping the slack out of the rein.

Timed Events
STEER WRESTLING Timing, coordination and strength are prerequisites for a steer wrestler a.k.a. “bulldogger”. A steer is released from a chute and once he crosses the score line, the mounted steer wrestler and a “hazer” (whose job is to keep the steer running straight) streaks out from the starting box. The bulldogger drops onto the steer and wrestles it to the ground. For scoring, the steer must be flat on its side with all four legs extended.

TEAM ROPING Team roping requires close cooperation and timing between skilled ropers, a header and heeler. The steer leaves the chute and once it crosses the score line, the header ropes the animal and turns the steer. The heeler then attempts to rope both hind legs. The clock is stopped when there is no slack in the ropes and the horses are facing each other.

TIE-DOWN ROPING Tie down roping is the most technical event in rodeo, with many hours of practice to perfect the skills of the roper and the horse. A calf is released from the chute and once it crosses the score line, the cowboy ropes the calf, tips it to the ground then ties three legs together. The tie must hold for six seconds.

LADIES BARREL RACING Breakneck speed, precise manoeuvres and great riding skills are mandatory for this colourful ladies’ event. The cowgirl races a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels. Times are so close in the precision event they are measured in hundredths of a second. The same requirements apply in all Novice Events: Saddle Bronc, Bare Back and Boys Steer Riding.

Hot Shopping: Runway Ready

The Room at The Bay

Prabal Gurung, Jason Wu, Roland Mouret, Charlotte Olympia and Azzedine Alaïa. If the mere mention of these five designer labels leaves you feeling faint, then The Room at The Bay is the place for you. This 2,100-sq-m (23,000-sq-ft) store-within-a-store carries covetable clothing, jewellery and footwear, all prominently displayed in a pristine, super-chic setting. Another reason to stop by: Erdem’s nine-piece collection, exclusive to The Bay—be still my beating heart.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

THE BAY Canada’s oldest department store features fashions for the home and family, as well as Canadian gift items and everyday essentials. High-fashion area The Room features pieces by Armani, Erdem and others. The heritage department stocks the iconic point blankets, outerwear and collectibles. 674 Granville St. at Georgia. 604-681-6211. www.thebay.com

Hot Shopping: Cool Canadian Fashion

Ooh la la, a cashmere travel set from the HBC Collection.

Show off your Canadian pride (whether you’re Canadian or not) with the HBC Collection. This signature line from the Hudson’s Bay Company offers a range of high-end items that boast the multi­coloured stripes synonymous with the brand (we love this cashmere travel set, $350). The collection also features collaborations with a variety of designers, such as Smythe, Steven Alan, Caroline Fur, and Harry Barker, for products that range from apparel to fur accessories to pet products. The Bay, Rideau Centre, 73 Rideau St., 613-241-7511, and St. Laurent Centre, 1200 St. Laurent Blvd., 613-748-6105.

Hot Shopping: Top 5 Sassy Suits

Top 5 Sassy Suits

Black and white suit by Nanette Lepore at Swank.

Unless you’re trying to revive Annie Hall, no woman wants to look like a man, even when she’s wearing a suit. Thankfully, today’s professional female can dress the part without forfeiting her femininity.

At Swank (pictured), the suit gets a flirty makeover with a Nanette Lepore retro-inspired pencil skirt complete with back-panel pleats in knobby black-and-white wool. Pair with a matching jacket with 3/4 length-sleeves. 1170 Taylor Ave, 475-1671.

Inside Danali, sharp shoulders, leather detailing at the collar, and cuffed, wide-legged pants by Robert Rodriguez mean business. Wear it with a bordeaux-hued blouse for another twist. 100-530 Kenaston Blvd, 489-0577.

An eclectic mix of Canadian designer wear populates the racks at Girl Candy Shop, where edgy separates make the working woman. Think cargo pants, leather skirts, and sweaters and tops embellished with beads, bows and a smattering of sequins. 918 Grosvenor Ave, 975-4605.

Every woman dreams about a Chanel suit. At Second Sensation those dreams come true at a fraction of the price. This upscale consignment store stocks designer office duds by Anne Klein, Armani and Nygard, among others. Pair with Prada or Coach shoes to complete the look. 725 Corydon Ave, 475-0457.

At Luxe Label, the “Jackie O” dress by Black Halo, with its figure-flattering front panels, skinny belt and asymmetrical collar, is the definition of office chic. 1693 Corydon Ave, 451-1415.

Notes from an Ottawa Fashion Blogger

Marilou Moles is the founder and creative director of Twenty York Street, a local fashion and lifestyle blog. Here, we get her thoughts on Ottawa’s style scene.

Marilou Moles from Twenty York Street. Photo credit: Jose Perez-Alvarez.

What role does fashion have in shaping a city?
It inspires creativity and self-expression! Fashion is global; when you take home pieces from different parts of the world — whether through travels or local stores — it enhances that city’s identity, if only through the medium of fashion.

What are your favourite places to shop?
I’m a huge fan of Banana Republic and the Rideau Centre. I also love local brands Kania and Miikali, and accessories from frAsh by Isobel Walker!

What’s your favourite neighbourhood for shopping?
I love the ByWard Market. It has everything, including clothes, shoes, gourmet food, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and — when you get hungry after shopping — lots of cafés and restaurants to choose from. Though the Glebe also houses fantastic spas and stores like Thann.

What Ottawa store is a hidden gem?
Everyone is gushing about Roadtrip right now because it has a fantastic selection and most items are under $100!

How would you describe Ottawa’s style to someone who’s not from here?
Evolving. The city’s style is definitely a superb representation of its multicultural and multi-disciplinary citizens. Though the weather — especially in the winter — is a huge factor, Ottawa has its own unique style identity. You’ve got the classic dressers, preppy, sexy glam, hip-hop, eclectic street style, and the downright wacky!

Read more from Marilou at www.twentyyork.com.

Hot Shopping: In the Bag

Le Pliage handbag by Longchamp Paris

Master the art of French dressing with the Le Pliage handbag by Longchamp Paris. These foldable nylon carriers, available at Betty Hemmings Leathergoods, make perfect travel totes and come in several sizes. Dreary autumn days may be ahead, but the line’s rich fall colours, such as peacock and grape (pictured), will brighten the season. C’est parfait.—Kristina Urquhart

Hot Shopping: Fancy Footwork

Trendy yet classic TOMS shoes, designed by the Olsen twins

The days as Michelle Tanner on Full House are just distant memories for Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Now they’re focused on their passion for fashion. Items fly off the shelves from their casual Elizabeth & James line and from their luxe label The Row. Recently they lent their star power to a good cause: designing a line of cashmere and wool shoes for TOMS (pictured), a company that for every pair of shoes purchased donates a pair to a child in need. Head to Holt Renfrew to buy items from all three projects, or purchase your pair of slip-ons at www.toms.com.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Cool Collaboration

Sac by Klaxon Howl for The Bay

The Bay asked hip menswear label Klaxon Howl to reinvent and reimagine the iconic point blanket. The results take the housebound blanket to the streets with a heritage sac (pictured), backpack, belted coat and zippered vest, all made from the striped, re-purposed wool.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Shop Till You Drop

Photo by KK Law

The Gassy Jack statue, the Steam Clock and the cobblestone streets aren’t the only attractions in historic Gastown; this hot spot for locals and visitors boasts some of the best shopping in the city. Oak + Fort (pictured) celebrates the minimalist aesthetic with a simple colour palate for both the shop and the clothes carried within. Ishara stocks everything a girl needs for a fabulous night on the town. And Inventory has every stylish man reaching for his wallet.—Jennifer Patterson

Vancouver Life: Gorgeous Granville

Stylish stores and cool eateries line the 11th to 15th Avenue stretch of this upscale neighbourhood

By Jennifer Patterson & Amanda Peters

Pottery Barn Kids

Serious Fashion
Rich colours set the tone at Boboli, a high-end shop with clothes from designers such as Giambattista Valli and Issey Miyake. Head next door for more fancy dress at the attached Max Mara. Hit up Anthropologie for the coveted clothing, accessories and whimsical home decor. Fashionable femmes pop by Violet for items both cute and comfortable.

Artistic Flair
Catch a performance by some of Vancouver’s best thespians at the Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage. Fans of the static arts visit Winsor Gallery to see pieces by Emily Carr University graduates along with works by established North American artists. Bau-Xi Gallery is the perfect place to peruse contemporary fine art by internationally acclaimed Canadian artists including Joseph Plaskett and Anthony Redpath.

A Taste of the Town
Join the throng of locals at Vij’s and indulge in mouth-watering Indian cuisine. This always-busy restaurant doesn’t take reservations but it’s worth the wait. If you’re tight on cash and time, grab a table next door at sister spot

Smoked sablefish at West. Photo by Tracey Kusiewicz

Rangoli for a more casual take on the same fabulous flavours. Award-winning West caters to theatregoers with a special pre-theatre dinner menu available nightly until 6 p.m. Spice up the day with Cajun and Creole cuisine at Ouisi Bistro. With its relaxed atmosphere and private patio, there’s no better place to enjoy the comforting flavours of the Louisiana bayous.

Happy Homes
Buy colourful quilts, accessories and gadgets galore for your favourite tot at Pottery Barn Kids. Whether a veteran of the kitchen or a novice at the oven, you’ll find everything you need to make that perfect dish at Williams-Sonoma.

The Ottawa Style Files

Shopping is an essential part of exploring a new place, so WHERE gives you the scoop on five top shops. Whether you’re from a big city or a small town, Ottawa’s got just the store for you. By Misa Kobayashi.

Pretty dresses abound at Victoire.

VICTOIRE
At the downtown location, an old dresser displays knickknacks and vintage jewellery, while pretty party dresses line the wall. This girly shop boasts clothing lines with classic designs that flatter a woman’s body, while still offering a bit of edge. Nearly all the stock comes from within Canada, and popular items include Laura Langford leather bags (made locally), Preloved clothing made from recycled materials, and walls of funky jewellery made by Ottawa artists. Prices range from $5 for quirky greeting cards to $220 for a dress or coat.
246 Dalhousie St., 613-321-1590, and 1282 Unit B. Wellington St. W., 613-421-0089. www.victoireboutique.com

Workshop highlights local, female designers.

WORKSHOP STUDIO & BOUTIQUE
This is the home of the handmade. Workshop carries more than 180 small designers — half of whom are local, and nearly all of whom are Canadian — with an emphasis on startup women designers. One such brand is Twiss & Weber, a line that features eco-fabrics and great hats and scarves for fall. While higher-end items like dresses could go for $200, you can also find a range of delightful and inexpensive gifts, such as $2 fabric brooches, hilariously raunchy soaps, and cards. Check out the selection of fun print bags, unique stuffed animals, and jewellery (there’s plenty in the $25 to $50 range).
242 1/2 Dalhousie St., 613-789-5534. www.workshopboutique.ca (more…)