George's Light Special Moisturizing Lotion
It’s no secret Canadian winters can do a number on the skin. Salvage dry limbs with George’s Light Special Moisturizing Lotion, invented by Albertan George Doherty, now carried in Ottawa. A lighter version of George’s Special Dry Skin Cream, this lotion is fragrance-free, gentle enough for everyday use, and is perfect for those with sensitive skin. $2.99 for the 30 ml, $10.99 for the 360 ml, available at Loblaws grocery stores.
Local store Sharks + Hammers
Take a walk down Gastown’s cobblestone streets to find a couple of the city’s coolest tucked-away shops. Sharks + Hammers (pictured) carries a mix of in-house designs, pieces from other local designers and a select collection of items from labels such as iconic Pendleton and Ransom by Adidas. Popular purchases seen around town: eye-catching EastVan tees and the cheeky “I went to EastVan and all I got was mugged” coffee mug. Stussy, just around the block, stocks graphic tees, sunglasses, caps and shoes.—Jennifer Patterson
J. Crew
After many swirling rumours, the official word finally landed that J. Crew arrives in Vancouver at the end of the month—thank the fashion gods. This brand, a long-time fashionista favourite, has shot skyward in recent years thanks to its much-photographed creative director Jenna Lyons and her covetable style. For spring: printed pants and colourful silks.—Jennifer Patterson
Soft, cozy, and easy to layer: ideal duds for the frequent flyer
Travelling has never looked so good, or felt so comfy! If you’re often on the road for business or pleasure, it can be challenging to find the right outfit. Green Tree Eco Fashion tackles this problem with a classic look that features three of their most popular and versatile basics: skinny “Yoga Jeans” by Montreal’s Second Denim Company ($114.99), a long black cami from Part Two ($24.99), and a reversible bamboo wrap (seen here in both short and long styles) by Ecoskin ($179.99). Top with a statement necklace and oversized tote to complete the look. With eco clothing for both men and women, you can feel good about purchases from this boutique, and never have to sacrifice style. 358 Richmond Rd., 613-695-8733.
Necklaces by Foxy Originals
Support Earth Day Canada with the purchase of a bracelet or necklace (pictured), in silver or gold, from Foxy Originals’ new collection “Teach Today. Change Tomorrow.” At www.foxyoriginals.com.—Jennifer Patterson
Plattan headphones by Urbanears
Leave it to Swedish design collective Urbanears to up the ante on headphones and elevate them from an everyday gadget to a stylish accessory. Bid adieu to flimsy, blasé earbuds and instead choose from one of four cool and compactible styles (the Plattan, Medis, Bagis, Tanto), all available in a variety of funky colours (including the Plattan in mustard, pictured). Pick up a pair at Moulé or Walrus. —Jennifer Patterson
Tea towels by local label The Tiny Fig
The Tiny Fig, a web-based store, started as a way for the owner to keep busy while not in university. And keep busy she did: she designs and creates every piece herself. This pet project flourished into a sweet little business with too-cute collectibles for sale: tea towels emblazoned with mushrooms, green sprouts (pictured) or elephants, cartoon-looking earrings and colourful, fun tees. Online at www.thetinyfig.com. —Jennifer Patterson
These chic feetless wine glasses from Waterwinewine are a popular buy at Ma Cuisine.
For anyone who knows their way around a kitchen, Ma Cuisine is a must. Located in the ByWard Market, this spacious shop carries more than 12,000 products. Take time to browse the latest and greatest items on the market for cooking and baking, as well as kitchen accessories. Some popular pieces you’ll find in store? Try the Corkcicle, an icicle that’s inserted into a wine bottle to keep white wine chilled without diluting it, or “feetless” wine glasses from Waterwinewine (featured) that are part art, part drink holder. 269 Dalhousie St., 613-789-9225.
Crate and Barrel's younger sibling, CB2, has arrived in Vancouver
Condo dwellers and homeowners alike are flocking to the newly opened CB2 on Robson Street, its second location in Canada. This younger sibling to the United States’ popular Crate and Barrel stores stocks unique yet affordable home furnishings that brighten your home without emptying your wallet. If you’re looking for just the right yellow filing cabinet, or orange bird-shaped candle holder, or blue bar cart, then this is the place for you. —Sheri Radford
Essence's "XXXL Shine Nudes Lipgloss."
Spring is coming, so it’s time to revamp your look and add some pretty pastels to your palette. That should be easy (and affordable) with a new makeup line that’s just come to town. Essence is an award-winning value cosmetics brand from Europe that features a full line of products, from mascara to nail polish. And with prices ranging from $1.49 to $4.99, you can shake up your morning makeup routine. We suggest the fresh-faced “XXXL Shine Nudes Lipgloss” for an unbelievable $2.49. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Ottawa.
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Stay, Dine, Do
