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
February 14
OMEGA's Seamaster Planet Ocean Chrono watch for men
Cupid takes flight—heart-shaped bow and arrow in tow—to celebrate all things lovey-dovey this February. Woo your sweetie with chocolate treats and fragrant blooms, or head to the newly renovated OMEGA boutique and give the gift of time. For her: the Planet Ocean steel watch encrusted with diamonds; for him: the Planet Ocean Chrono (pictured) with a clear sapphire back case. Both of these timepieces are water-resistant to 600 m (2,000 ft) and come from the new Seamaster range, a classic line dedicated to producing watches for divers.—Jennifer Patterson
OMEGA Boutique, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, 900 W. Georgia St. 604-681-8266. www.omegawatches.com
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
Tone and sculpt with The Bar Method
The holidays are over, but your expanded waistline—thanks to the extra slices of pumpkin pie—doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to disappear. Stick to your new year’s resolution and fight the fat with a class at The Bar Method. Each hour-long class uses techniques from yoga and Pilates, along with the ballet barre, for an all-around aerobic treat.—Jennifer Patterson
837 Beatty St., 604-681-6188, http://vancouver.barmethod.com
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
Roundhouse Lodge photo by Toshi Kawano courtesy Tourism British Columbia
Peak-to-Peak Eats
Looking to satisfy hunger cravings between runs? Find fabulous fare—and to-die-for views—on top of both mountains. On Whistler, savour West Coast cuisine at Steep’s Grill or head to the spacious Roundhouse Lodge (pictured). On Blackcomb, Christine’s boasts a full-service menu at 1,859 m (6,100 ft), while at the cozy Crystal Hut log cabin, comfort food arrives straight from the wood-burning oven.—Jennifer Patterson
Graphic knits by Granted
Winter Wear
Cut the chill with an oh-so-cozy knit by Granted. This local, family-run label hand-knits each sweater with pure, new wool. Get decked out in woolly vests, zip-ups, ponchos and toques all adorned with charming prints such as deer, anchors, waves and whales. Don’t forget to grab a piece from the canine collection for your pooch, too. Shop online at www.grantedclothing.com or head to Gastown boutique Lynn Steven.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
LYNN STEVEN 225 Carrall St. 604-899-0808. www.lynnsteven.com
Get inspired by the decor at Livingspace
Urban Inspiration
The up-and-coming Armoury District, just west of Granville Island, is a go-to spot for hot home shops and even hotter coffee. Livingspace (pictured) thrills decor and design aficionados with its recently opened multi-level location. Mint Interiors stocks cool collectibles and eye-catching light fixtures. And next door’s Café Bica offers an inspired setting to sip frothy lattes and nosh on freshly baked pastries.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
LIVINGSPACE INTERIORS 1706 W. 1st Ave. 604-683-1116. www.livingspace.com
MINT INTERIORS 1805 Fir Street. 604-568-3430. www.mintinteriors.ca
CAFE BICA $. B/L (M-Sa). 1809 Fir St. 604-733-8818. www.cafebica.com
Two seasoned shoppers dish on (what else?) shopping
By Jennifer Patterson
Anna (L) and Kristina (R), better known as the Shopping Bags. Photo by Jonathan Cruz
Meet Anna Wallner and Kristina Matisic, Vancouver’s very own professional shopaholics. They both got their start on TV as anchors for BC’s Global TV, but since 2001 this dynamic duo has won the hearts of viewers on not one but three different television shows: The Shopping Bags, Anna & Kristina’s Grocery Bag and Anna & Kristina’s Beauty Call (airing on W, CosmoTV and OWN). So when Where planned our annual issue devoted to all-things-shopping, it was a no-brainer who to interview.
For their just-released online gift guide, visit www.annaandkristina.com.
Q: Your top Vancouver shops?
Anna: Diplomatic Immunity, Gravitypope, Atkinson’s, Kitsilano Wine Cellar and Les Amis du Fromage—an essential party stop.
Kristina: One-stop shops The Bay, Chapters—for books and odds and sods—and Holt Renfrew.
Q: Any gift ideas for travellers?
A: Good stocking-stuffers for anyone who travels: eye masks, pashminas, a good moisturizing cream and warm socks for the plane.
K: A brightly coloured passport holder, a magazine subscription or an e-reader.
Q: On your wish list?
A: The new blue Hermès dishes. If anyone would like to buy me a plate or teacup—though you may have to mortgage the farm—I’ll be forever in your debt.
K: I would like—and put in a good word for me with Santa—a little rose-gold horseshoe necklace from Tiffany & Co.
Q: Where do you go after shopping?
K: We often go to the Wedgewood Hotel’s Bacchus Lounge—it’s so cozy—for the best pizza in the city.
A: And a good wine list.
Where‘s top picks for everyone on your Christmas list
By Jennifer Patterson
The Trendsetter
Ring in the holiday season with a piece of arm candy from Tiffany & Co. The Bracelet Bag comes in satin, velvet or leather, in colours such as Tiffany blue, burgundy or walnut.
Jacob’s new eau de toilette trio comes in Classique, with notes of pink pepper and citrus; Joie de Vivre, passion fruit and freesia; and Very Chic, vanilla and black amber.
We asked. Where readers voted. Here are your favourite spots to shop
By Jennifer Patterson
Patterned ties at Harry Rosen. Photo by KK Law
Ladies’ Apparel
Aritzia
The city’s fashion elite favour this chic label thanks to high-quality, editorial-worthy clothing. This local company started in 1984 and now boasts shops across North America. The store offers six in-house lines, and it was an official apparel partner for the 2010 Winter Games.
Finalists
Holt Renfrew;
H&M.
Men’s Apparel
Harry Rosen
Well-groomed gents feel right at home in Harry Rosen. Custom-made suits, classic casual wear and colourful ties grace the rich wood interior, alongside leather loafers and great-for-winter puffer jackets.
Finalists
Boys’ Co.;
Mexx.
Eyewear
LensCrafters
This chain stocks a huge selection of prescription sunglasses and eyeglasses for men, women and children. Drop by for an eye exam with the on-site independent optometrist, choose from a wide selection of flattering name-brand frames, then wait while your lenses are made at the in-house optical laboratory.
Finalists
Sunglass Hut;
Eyes on Burrard.
Lingerie
Dianes Lingerie
For over 25 years Dianes has helped women of all sizes find that perfect bra. Take a few minutes to have a free, professional bra fitting, then choose from sexy lace delicates, practical t-shirt bras, or convertible or strapless numbers.
Finalists
La Jolie Madame. Pacific Centre, 701 W. Georgia St. 604-669-1831.;
Change.
Footwear
Gravitypope
Join the crowd of locals at this bustling shoe shop, carrying hard-to-find labels for the whole family. For women: Alexander Wang, Repetto and Rachel Comey. For men: Bensimon, Rag & Bone and Zeha Berlin. For kids: Minnetonka, Tretorn and Toms. The house line offers on-trend options without the sticker shock. Find purses and travel bags, too.
Finalists
Fluevog Shoes;
Aldo.
Colourful items for kids of all ages at Hip Baby. Photo by KK Law
Children’s Apparel
Hip Baby
Cool parents shop for their cool babies and kids at this Kitsilano boutique. Adults appreciate the eco-friendly options, clothing and furniture, while tots go crazy for the scoot-along balance bikes and ride-on animals.
Finalists
Dandelion Kids;
The Children’s Place;
Please Mum.
Chocolate
Purdy’s Chocolates
For over 100 years this iconic Vancouver chocolatier has satisfied sweet-tooth cravings with a box of mint melties, sweet Georgia browns or hedgehogs. The recognizable gold and purple box—chock-full of assorted chocolates, nuts and caramels—makes a great gift, whether for a hostess or for that chocolate-loving friend.
Finalists
Thomas Haas Chocolates & Patisserie;
Daniel Le Chocolat Belge.
Shopping Centre
Pacific Centre
Serious shoppers head to this downtown mall for footwear, beauty and electronics. Go underground to the lower level and make your way to The Bay, or take the aboveground overpass route to posh Holt Renfrew. Peruse the massive department stores, then pop by popular shops such as Apple, H&M and Sephora.
Finalists
Oakridge Centre;
Park Royal;
Metropolis at Metrotown.
Fine Art
Granville Fine Art
Head to Vancouver’s famed art district to find this popular South Granville gallery. The proprietors offer decades of experience and the collection ranges from Canadian masters to acclaimed American and European artists. Keep an eye out for works by The Group of Seven, Leonard Cohen and Ray Mead.
Finalists
Ian Tan Gallery;
Uno Langmann Limited.
Striped jacket from The Bay
Department Store
The Bay
Founded in 1670, this Canadian company—one of the oldest in the world—recently added some exciting elements to the downtown location: The Room, a high-end section dedicated to the crème de la crème of designer goods; and the largest in-store Coach boutique in North America. For holiday decor visit the Christmas Street department.
Finalists
Holt Renfrew;
Sears.
Antiques & Collectibles
Second Time Around Antiques
This Main Street shop opened in 1980 and is dedicated to antique and vintage furniture and decor. Search through over 740 sq m (8,000 sq ft) for that rare piece from the Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Edwardian or Art Deco era.
Finalists
Antique Warehouse;
Uno Langmann Limited.
Books
Chapters/Indigo
Spend an hour—or four—exploring this palatial, multi-level bookstore. Everything from cookbooks to architecture to language has a dedicated section, as do the hottest best sellers and magazines. Take the tots to the renovated kids’ section, then peruse the expanded gift and home decor area. Monthly author events.
Finalists
KidsBooks;
Book Warehouse.
China & Crystal
Atkinson’s
Find the perfect hostess gift, or outfit your own abode with Waterford Crystal or dinnerware by Iittala, Versace and Wedgwood. Linens, pottery, home decor and fragrances, too.
Finalists
Herzog China & Crystal;
Birks.
Jewellery & Watches
Birks
This Canadian jeweller and watchmaker has made covetable pieces since 1879. Big-name brands Rolex, Cartier, Gucci and Longines line the glass cases alongside the Birks collection of stellar diamonds, watches and pearls. On the upper lever find a large selection of fine home decor items.
Finalists
Tiffany & Co.;
Lugaro Jewellers.
Hit the water in style with a kayak from Mountain Equipment Co-op. Photo by KK Law
Athletic Sporting Goods
Mountain Equipment Co-op
This always-busy store celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Locals know it as MEC, and since it’s a co-op, every customer must buy a one-time $5 membership in order to make any purchases. Head there for everything from down jackets and wool toques to bikes, kayaks and portable cook stoves—for adventures both big and small.
Finalists
Lululemon;
Sport Chek.
Spas & Salons
Spa Utopia
Lie back, relax and let the massage therapist do all the work at this downtown waterfront spa. Book an entire day at the spa—for you, or with a plus one—and enjoy everything from medical facials to acid peels to body wraps to manicures and pedicures.
Finalists
Absolute Spa;
Aveda.
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
The busy and festive Vancouver Christmas Market
November 24 to December 24
The holidays are just around the corner, and to help kick off the season the Vancouver Christmas Market sets up shop in bustling downtown. Peruse the Bavarian-style wooden booths for everything from hand-knit sweaters to German tinker toys to elaborate glass ornaments. Afterwards chow down on a bratwurst or schnitzel, then warm up with a cup of glühwein—warm, spiced wine—or imported beer.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET (Nov 24-Dec 24). 11 am-9 pm. $5, 7-12 $2, under 7 free. Early-bird admission $2, 11 am-4 pm M-F. Queen Elizabeth Theatre Plaza, 600 Hamilton St. 604-924-4506. www.vancouverchristmas
market.com
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
Classic cases from Betty Hemmings Leathergoods
High-flyers, leave your mismatched bags at home and head to Betty Hemmings Leathergoods for top-quality weekend bags, suitcases and attachés. The red-hot Centenary Collection (pictured) has been Queen Elizabeth’s go-to luggage since 1947.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
BETTY HEMMINGS LEATHERGOODS 415 Hornby St. 778-329-4321. www.bettyhemmings.com
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
Glass jellyfish by Wayne Harjula, at Circle Craft Christmas Market
The always-popular Circle Craft Christmas Market returns for its 38th annual show from Nov. 9 to 13. You’ll find everything from eco-friendly clothing to handmade leather bags to gold and silver jewellery, thanks to the 280 vendors coming from across Canada. A conversation piece worth snatching up: the striking glass jellyfish (pictured) by Wayne Harjula of Mellon Glass Studios. After shopping, catch a glass-blowing demonstration then participate in a Ballz of Fire Workshop where you can design and create your own glass holiday ornament.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
CIRCLE CRAFT CHRISTMAS MARKET W-F 10 am-9 pm, Sa 10 am-7 pm, Su 10 am-5 pm. $12, s/s $8, under 12 free. Save $2 if you buy tickets online. Vancouver Convention Centre West, 1055 Canada Place. 604-801-5220. www.circlecraft.net
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
Photo by David Cooper
This thought-provoking play follows a young Quaker protesting the horrors of the Vietnam War. Fast-forward 36 years and it’s his daughter taking a stand in the wake of 9/11. At the Pacific Theatre until Nov. 12.—Jennifer Patterson
More information:
RE:UNION On Nov. 2, 1965, Norman Morrison drives to the Pentagon with his infant daughter, a jug of kerosene and a box of matches. Thirty-six years later, in the wake of 9/11, his daughter returns to confront the costly legacy of sacrifice (to Nov 12). W-Sa 8 pm. Matinees Sa 2 pm. $16.50-$29.50. Pacific Theatre, 1420 W. 12th Ave. at Hemlock. 604-731-5518. www.pacifictheatre.org
Touchdown! The renovated BC Place stadium welcomes the 99th annual Grey Cup
By Leszek Apouchtine, Jennifer Patterson & Sheri Radford
Photo courtesy BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo)
ROAR, YOU LIONS, ROAR!
“The Pride of all BC” plans to roar past the competition and play in the 99th Grey Cup this month at BC Place. The BC Lions, Vancouver’s professional football team, have called BC Place home ever since the stadium opened in 1983. They were forced to relocate for more than a season while the stadium was renovated, but returned to their home turf at the end of September to a near-capacity crowd of more than 50,000 screaming fans. (more…)
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Stay, Dine, Do
