photo by Angela Mabray
A heart-shaped box of chocolates? A dozen red roses? C’mon now, you can do better than that for the man or woman you love. For something Cupid would classify as next level, head to one of these shops that prove Valentine’s Day gifts need not be tawdry and flowers need not be cliché. (more…)
Two examples of Toronto jewellers' fine work—in tourmaline by Anne Sportun, and onyx by Mark Lash
Whether for yourself or that special someone, the best jewellery is unique in both design and sentiment. Our January/February issue showed off some of the city’s most desirable baubles; the bespoke jewellers listed below are glad to apply their skills to help achieve your own vision of the perfect, sparkling piece. (more…)
photo by Joel Shlabotnik
Each week, our intrepid interns reflect on life and times in the big city.
Okay, I admit. I’m a hoarder. I hoard books. Most of them I never fully read. They just line my bookshelf and are leafed through every now and again. Outside of my own library, the English major in me goes a little crazy whenever I spot one of my favourite titles. But it has to be a used copy. For me, there’s no charm in picking up a brand new book with an un-cracked spine from a giant retailer. That’s boring. Used books, on the other hand, are fascinating. They tell their own stories in addition to the ones in their text. I love the smell of old paper and the yellow pages and the crumpled corners. And if there’s an old inscription inside? Jackpot!
These days, it seems like everyone is on Twitter. And why not? In 140 characters or less, you can connect with people and businesses that offer insider tips, tell you what’s happening in real time, and sometimes serve up great deals. That’s why we’re sharing who we at @whereottawa follow — and why we love them. By Misa Kobayashi.
@CanadasNAC
For entertainment, the folks at the National Arts Centre are tops. Their Twitter profile is alight with interaction between the NAC and arts and entertainment lovers, which shows the centre’s passion for connecting with its audience. Here you’ll find the latest news, plus neat features from the NAC’s blog, such as profiles and posts on what’s happening behind the scenes. They also do periodic Twitter ticket giveaways, so keep an eye out.
Heard on Twitter: @CanadasNAC What goes on in the mind of a composer? Watch this video to find out bit.ly/tyFjn1 #nacotour /JC
@Ottawa67sHockey
This is the place to go for hockey fans. Tickets are a steal ($12-$21.50), and Ottawa’s junior hockey team uses the account as a place to centralize the buzz surrounding the team. Here you’ll find tweets from players, fan comments, game news, recaps, and more. A very interactive space when you want to communicate with other sports fans.
Heard on Twitter: @Ottawa67sHockey Dalton Smith (@dsmitty33) scores the winner in the 6th round of the shootout and leads the 67′s over the Spirit 6-5!! #OHL #Go67sGo
Play Food & Wine
@playfoodandwine
Play Food & Wine is a fine dining restaurant known for its evolving selection of small plates, as well as its large selection of wines by the glass. It’s also a favourite among local foodies for the attentive service. The same attention is paid to the restaurant’s Twitter account, which is manned by the Wine Director and Senior Service Manager, Grayson McDiarmid. Drop him a line before your visit and he just might stop by your table to say hello, or let him know what you thought of the experience (he loves hearing from customers). McDiarmid’s other tweets include musings on the local food and wine scene, plus great new menu items or wines they’re trying out.
Heard on Twitter: @playfoodandwine: @laurendorphin @nanceTO We are always happy to have vegans. Our chefs get creative with what we call “vegan surprise” with local produce (more…)
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
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
Boxing Day (December 26) is sort of like Canada’s (tamer) “Black Friday”. It’s the day when prices are slashed and hard-core shoppers put on their walking shoes. And then replace them with brand-new shoes at 75% off.
If you happen to be in Canada’s largest metropolis this holiday season, mosey over to TorontoLife.com for a handy list of 25 Boxing Day sales in Toronto. Get your gift receipts ready! (more…)
Wool blankets by OLEANA, at Urbanity
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
Photo by Sharon Drummond
By Candice Walsh
You may have heard of hotel room tax, but how about a marketing fee or a liquor consumption tax? The fees and taxes you’ll face while travelling in Canada can be complicated, not least because taxes vary from province to province. (more…)
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
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.
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
Malls like the Toronto Eaton Centre go all out for the holiday season (photo by Rasheed Clarke)
Have you finished your holiday shopping yet? We know, finding gifts for everyone
on your list can be a daunting task. If you’re inclined to get all your shopping done in
one shot, the city’s premier malls and department stores offer multiple ways
to ease the experience.
TORONTO EATON CENTRE
Downtown’s largest shopping centre has cranked up its seasonal cheer with oversized snowflakes and giant silvery reindeer sculptures. The crowning gem is the Swarovski Christmas Wish Tree alight with more than 44,000 Swarovski crystal ornaments. In sight of this monolith, children can register to create their own holiday ornaments. Santa’s out in full force, too: bring your child to hear Saint Nick read a story, or schedule a 10-minute at-home Skype session with the jolly old man. Gift wrapping is available for a $5 donation benefitting the Children’s Wish Foundation. And when all your gifts are safely boxed and bagged, why not view the nearby Church of the Holy Trinity’s production of The Christmas Story? iPhone users can download the Toronto Eaton Centre’s mobile app to streamline their shopping experience.
YORKDALE SHOPPING CENTRE
Holiday stress often begins with packed mall parking lots. Yorkdale offers a remedy. The only shopping centre in the GTA to offer a mobile app for parking, which offers updates on your best parking bets every 15 minutes, plus streaming video of the mall’s upper deck lot. Yorkdale’s parking entrances are even equipped with electronic tabulators that note the number of spaces available, and valet parking is complimentary for MasterCard World cardholders. If you prefer public transit, visit with your TTC Family Day Pass and receive a $10 gift card when you spend $50 or more in the mall. Other bonuses include a complimentary coat check, Santa sightings, and a gift-wrap service.
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
From a Bosch stove to displays crammed with kitchen gadgets, The Bosch Kitchen Centre has been attracting serious cooks for 17 years. That’s when owner Ian Black (pictured) retired from the Air Force and opened his store with Bosch kitchen appliances front and centre. “We demonstrate everything. If somebody wants a bread demo, if somebody likes to see the dehydrators, they can come in and see it,” Black says. For cooks who need a tool to mix bread dough, shred coleslaw, or turn deer meat into sausages, the answer may be a Bosch universal kitchen machine—think of a food processor on steroids. The machines are guaranteed to last a lifetime. However, loyal customers often return for the latest attachments. Other high-quality European kitchen supplies include Kuhn Rikon pressure cookers, Fissler saucepans, Henckels knives and Staub’s cast-iron cookware. 105-2800 Pembina Highway, 204-275-2617.
The M Coat can be worn as maternity outerwear and two ways pre- or post-pregnancy.
Splurging on a maternity coat can seem wasteful, prompting all sorts of makeshift winter wear and exposed-belly dilemmas. Not ideal—especially if you’re planning a “babymoon” this winter. (more…)
Once a meeting place for fur traders, today The Forks—at the intersection of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers—is a top draw for travellers to Winnipeg. Buzzing with year-round events, the adjacent Forks Market also boasts many great restaurants and tempting shops. On the ground floor, stock up on old-fashioned candy at The Almond Tree, which also carries 10 flavours of popcorn and a large selection of spices. Walk up one floor for hand-blown bottle stoppers and sparkling jewellery at Bayshore Gifts in Glass (pictured). Cool cats satisfy their pop-culture cravings at Pylon. Choose between Betty Boop purses, miniature guitars, and record albums that double as art. For a taste of the far east, check out the matryoshka nesting dolls, amber jewellery and Fabergé-style eggs at SF Imports. Meanwhile, The Craft Cupboard stocks made-in-Manitoba souvenirs, including hand-shaped pottery, stained glass, exquisite quilts and stone carvings inside its 2000 sq. ft. space.
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.
By Carissa Bluestone and Shannon Kelly
Whether your friends and family are jetsetters or armchair travellers, you’re bound to find something on our list of gifts that they’d love. (more…)
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.
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