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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

Weekend Picks: Gift Givin’s

With Christmas day just around the corner, this weekend marks the last shopping weekend of the season. And, if you’re like most of us here at Where Edmonton, you’ve probably still got a couple of people on your list to buy for. Or, maybe even an entire list of people to buy for. Well, don’t fret because we’re here to help you score that little special something to slip under the tree this holiday season. We’ve highlighted some of central Edmonton’s most unique boutiques sure to have something for everyone on your list. And the best part? You don’t even need to brave those overcrowded and often stuffy malls to find that special gift. Our choices will have you saying hallelujah, not only for the fact that you were able to wrap up — pun intended — your Christmas shopping, but also for the fact you were able to keep your sanity while doing it — and even, dare we say, enjoying it!

124th Street
The charming character of 124th street is not lost when stepping inside the one-of-a-kind shops that line the street. From the art galleries and specialty stores to the fashion boutiques and fantastic eateries, 124th Street offers an array of local businesses sure to have that perfect present for you to give this Christmas.

The enchanting jewelry and accessories over at Miss Boss will definitely have that lady in your life aglow on Christmas morning. Betsy Johnson bracelets, Matt and Nat purses and Diesel wallets are just a few of the chic items that await at this quaint shop, where you’ll even be able to find some local pieces including Kiko Jewelry.

Got a little one you need to cross off your list? Drop in at Bosom Babies, a trendy children’s store filled to the brim with an array of goodies. From fascinating toys and adorable accents to charming clothing and stylish shoes, the lucky little one who receives any gift from here will definitely be in vogue this holiday season.

Music lovers? Check. Listen Records and CDs is an ecclectic music emporium that offers a fantastic selection of ethnic, funk, soul, rare groove, indie, electronic, dub, reggae, hip hop, and, well, petty much anything — music related, of course — under the sun.

High Street
You’ll find much of the same historical charm in the shops on High Street as the 124th Street boutiques. Similarly, this area offers some of the city’s best local clothing stores, eateries and specialty shops.

Lux Beauty Boutique is a beauty product heaven bursting at the seams with some of the most luxurious and hard-to-find items on the market. Glamour is the name of the game at LUX with brand names like Tokyo Milk, Lollia, Butter, and Bumble and Bumble lining the shelves.

For a slice of stationary heaven, stop in at Notables Stationers, home to a fine selection of stationary, journals, photo albums and writing instruments. The handcrafted Phasha and Moleskine journals are a glorious gift giving idea for both writers and non-writers alike.

Unique clothing for men and women, shoes, jewelry, and scarves are what you’ll find at Red Ribbon. An ecclectic selection of Canadian and international clothing lines call this shop home including TOMS, Free People, and WESC.

The Warehouse District
A short walk from the downtown core, 104th Street’s warehouse district is home to chic urban shops, historic warehouses turned residential lofts, and some of the most fantastic local fare.

A home décor dreamboat, Amrstrong29 is a great place to find something for the person who has everything. Many of the products are made to order and the shop even carries local designer Loyal Loot Collective.

Luxurious is one word to describe the pieces at Coup Boutique, but it sure isn’t the only one. This 104th Street shop offers an old-world setting and boasts timeless, classic wear for women.

If you’re searching for an eco-friendly gift, then Carbon Environmental Boutique is your answer. The retail store features environmentally friendly items that promote non-toxic living. Here, you’ll be able to find everything from kitchenware and children’s clothing to bed and bath items and home improvement and construction products.

Hot Shopping: A Fashionable Reason to Shop

Michael Kors scarves

Wondering why so many people have pink ribbons pinned on their lapels right now? Well, October is breast cancer awareness month, so it’s a prime time for fundraising and for showing support. Fashion joins the fight at Holt Renfrew, where purchases of the limited-edition, cashmere-and-wool-blend leopard print scarves by Michael Kors ($50, pictured) benefit the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation—celebrating its 25th anniversary.—Jennifer Patterson

More information:

Holt Renfrew, Pacific Centre, 737 Dunsmuir St. 604-681-3121.

www.holtrenfrew.com

Hot Shopping: Style By Design

Colourful wraps line the shelves at Chloë Angus Design

Local fashion designer Chloë Angus just opened her first retail location, aptly named Chloë Angus Design. This bright store also serves as a studio, so stop by to see the team in action as they sketch and sew. The colourful button wraps (pictured) are made in Canada and can be worn as scarves or shawls. Souvenir-worthy: the wraps with designs by First Nations artist Clarence Mills.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: A Stylish Statement

Gorgeous spirit wraps are a stylish souvenir

Local gal Chloë Angus inspires fashionistas of any age with her innovative clothing collection, flattering to women of all shapes and sizes. Her unique spirit wraps (pictured) incorporate beautiful imagery by Haida artist Clarence Mills. Pick up your piece of fashionable art at Frances Hill’s or Fine Finds, and visit www.chloeangus.com to see the many ways to wear it.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Show Some Pride

Keep warm with these 2010 Winter Games accessories

Keep warm with these 2010 Winter Games accessories

The Winter Games have been a long time coming. As the world waits with bated breath to see who takes home the gold, be sure to show your support by picking up some merchandise from The Olympic Store. You might not take home a medal, but these souvenirs seem like the next best thing.—Jennifer Patterson

Hot Shopping: Tie One On

TIE ONE ON

Uplifting apparel from Kaia and Me

Uplifting apparel from Kaia and Me

Local company Kaia and Me uses natural bamboo to create chakra-channeling, handmade scarves. With their positive messages, and colours to enhance your well-being, they’re a vibrant way to beat the fall blues. Pick yours up at Fine Finds or online at www.kaiaandme.com. Partial proceeds benefit local homeless shelters.—Jennifer Patterson