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
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.
Bird decorations from Homesense
Cheep Cheep Cheer
Even those who believe the holiday season is for the birds can’t resist adorable felt owls from Homesense ($4.99). Find more seasonal decorations that won’t break the budget at Sears and Christmas Street in The Bay.—Sheri Radford
More information:
HOMESENSE 493 Robson St. 604-683-4406. www.homesense.ca
SEARS Pacific Centre, 701 Granville St. 604-685-7112. www.sears.ca
THE BAY 674 Granville St. at Georgia. 604-681-6211. www.thebay.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.
The Swarovski tree and giant reindeer at the Toronto Eaton Centre (photo by Rasheed Clarke)
Each week, our intrepid interns reflect on life and times in the big city.
It’s amazing how Toronto residents go nuts at the first sight of snow. All it took was a few flakes falling yesterday morning for #snow to become a local trending topic on Twitter. That dusting didn’t really stick around, but the imminent arrival of the white stuff (along with the much-maligned early sunset) means it’s the time of year to test the power grid with millions of twinkling lights at the city’s festive displays.
The most unique setup I’ve seen so far has been at the Toronto Eaton Centre. While the mall is usually home to artist Michael Snow’s famous fiberglass geese, a few massive silver reindeer have found their way inside to graze near the Swarovski crystal wish tree. The spindly, sparkly creatures scattered throughout the shopping centre are part festive holiday decoration and part contemporary art installation, made up of dotted lights, shimmering ribbons and colourful stars. My colleague Alex, though, did point out that shoppers strolling into the Eaton Centre via the Yonge Street entrance near Roots are greeted by a giant reindeer’s derriere.
The Bay's holiday window display—along Queen Street west of Yonge (photo by Rasheed Clarke)
Venture a few steps south of the Eaton Centre and you’ll find The Bay’s holiday window display, which depicts Santa and his elves preparing for the jolly old man’s flight later this month. I had to press my nose against the glass to fully appreciate each vignette’s intricacies—like the nutcracker dolls being assembled in Santa’s workshop and the tiny stuffed animals peeking out of his sleigh.
Just about a couple of blocks away from The Bay, the lights get brighter and the spectacle gets bigger at Nathan Phillips Square. Skeletal trees sparkle, the skating rink shines beneath a blanket of golden lights, and the city’s Christmas fir towers in bands of green, red and white beside the violet glow emanating from the City Hall buildings. It was cold and rainy and deserted on the night I dropped by, but the scene had a certain serenity. That’ll change, of course, when skaters and other winter revellers fill into Nathan Phillips Square later on this month. Perhaps when the snow really starts falling.
—Rasheed Clarke
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.
photo by Allison Woo
It’s hard to think of a more apt pairing than that of the nation’s oldest department store, The Bay, and its new restaurant, Bannock. Named for the flatbreads brought here by Scottish explorers—and adapted by Aboriginal peoples—this Canadian-casual eatery is at home within The Bay’s flagship Queen Street location, and offers both dine-in and take-out menus for a busy downtown clientele. Bannock ($12 to $14), of course, is a featured dish, alongside robust regional fare such as venison chuck chili ($15), wild sockeye salmon ($19) and pulled-pork tourtière ($16). If you’re in a rush, grab a gourmet sandwich to go, but do take a moment to admire the warm, woody surroundings, highlighted by pine and hemlock reclaimed from a more than 100-year-old wharf.
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
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.
3. Medieval Times
1. The wonder of liquid nitrogen ice cream from Colborne Lane prepared tableside.
2. Catching a live performance by the iconic Liza—with a z—Minnelli on October 28.
3. Jousting knights on horseback at Medieval Times.
4. Seeing the city on two wheels with the rental of Bixi Bikes; return them to many conveniently located docking stations in the downtown core.
5. Serpentine sculptures handmade by Native Canadian artists from Eskimo Art Gallery. (more…)
Galion nail polish by NARS
Let’s face facts: fall colours are getting predictable. This season, trade in oranges and yellows for the bright blues and soft neutrals of the NARS fall collection (“Galion” nail polish, pictured). These luxurious cosmetics are loaded with star power—celebrities Madonna and Sienna Miller favour the flashbulb-friendly line. Stock your make-up bag at Sephora or The Bay.—Jill Von Sprecken
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
Kidrobot for Swatch
The countdown’s finally over for the launch of the Kidrobot for Swatch line of timepieces. The always-cool Gent watch comes decorated with designs by eight different Kidrobot–partnered artists (MAD’s Shout Out; pictured), leaving fans chomping at the bit for a piece of this arty arm candy and the collectable vinyl Dunny toy that comes with it. Time’s a tickin’ so head to The Bay or Swatch before it’s too late.—Jennifer Patterson
Give a jolt to your tired wardrobe with a fun summer dress from Banana Republic
Wondering what to wear to an upcoming summer celebration? Whether it’s an outfit for a wedding, beach or dinner party, Where’s got you covered. Grab some gal pals and head to Banana Republic for a wide range of both mini and maxi dresses (including the linen/cotton strapless dress, pictured). BCBG’s cutting-edge designs are perfect for glamorous nights. The Bay’s chic White Space on the third floor sits chock-a-block with party-friendly finds, or head down the street to Holt Renfrew for designer labels aplenty—a must for star-studded soirees.—Jennifer Patterson
This cute bag from DKNY is a perfect summer staple
Looking for that perfect piece of arm candy to carry throughout the summer months? Stop by DKNY for seriously stylish purses (including the vintage leather round satchel, pictured) or head to Michael Kors for classic totes and clutches. For a wide selection of everything from beach bags to evening bags, visit the multitude of racks at Holt Renfrew and The Bay.—Jennifer Patterson
White Spot founder Nat Bailey coined the term "carhop" and created the world's first carhop tray (photo circa 1950s). Photo courtesy White Spot
Back in 1936, when the Where brand was created, Vancouver was a much different place. Construction hadn’t yet begun on the Lions Gate Bridge. Granville Island housed nothing but factories that made industrial items such as paint, cement and machinery. And sliced bread hadn’t yet been introduced here (that came in 1937). But a few things haven’t changed over the years. In 1936, folks were already dancing the night away in the Commodore Ballroom, watching the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra perform, enjoying Triple O burgers at White Spot (pictured), shopping at The Bay and snapping photographs in front of the Hollow Tree in Stanley Park.—Sheri Radford
It’s been a year since the 2010 Winter Games invigorated Vancouver, but their spirit lives on
By Sheri Radford
The Richmond Olympic Oval. Photo by KK Law
Even though the 2010 Winter Games are long over, ways to relive the experience abound.
Visit the Olympic Cauldron downtown, which was lit on the opening night of the Games by hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. A picturesque reflecting pool now surrounds the cauldron. It is situated next to the west building of the Vancouver Convention Centre, which was completed in time for the Games and was used throughout as the main media centre. This eco-friendly building and its green roof (complete with four beehives and a full-time beekeeper) have won several awards for design.
Hop on the Canada Line SkyTrain, which was also completed just prior to the Games and which whisks visitors from the airport to downtown in 26 minutes. While in Richmond, visit the Richmond Olympic Oval, where speed skaters competed during the Games. This stunning, environmentally friendly building now houses an array of fitness facilities.
Pull on a pair of Olympic red mittens. If yours have worn out—or you weren’t lucky enough to snag any during Games fever—pick up a similar pair of maple-leaf-adorned mittens at The Bay. Proceeds go to the Canadian Olympic Foundation.
Olympic Cauldron in Jack Poole Plaza. Photo by Sheri Radford
If you’re searching for the perfect Quatchi, Miga, Mukmuk or Sumi souvenir, you’ll find the mascots’ smiling faces in Gastown’s many souvenir shops. To complete your Olympic coin collection—or catch a glimpse of some Olympic medals—visit the Royal Canadian Mint pop-up shop downtown on Granville Street. It’s only here until the end of February, but don’t worry: line-ups are shorter than the eight-hour waits common during the Games.
Olympic fever in Vancouver? It still burns on.
The downtown segment of what is arguably Toronto’s coolest street becomes an even cooler destination as winter arrives.
View You Are Here: Queen Street West in a larger map
Kids can learn about animation in the NFB's winter wonderland workshop
HOLIDAY MOVIEHOUSE Edging into the Entertainment District you’ll find the National Film Board’s Toronto Mediatheque, an education centre and library of Canadian flicks that can be watched for free at one of many digital viewing stations. Like what you see? Sign up for a Winter Wonderland workshop, where kids (ages 6 to 13) can create animated films of their own.
DESIGN DEN Just north of Queen West is the distinctive facade of the Umbra Concept Store, the design company’s only standalone location in the world. Not only does this retail space feature the firm’s entire line of modern, affordable home products, it also showcases designers at work. For the holidays, nearly 100 brand-new items are on offer—perfect for stocking stuffers.
Chef David Lee oversees the action at Nota Bene (photo by Nikki Leigh McKean)
BOUNTIFUL BITE Nota Bene stands out on a section of Queen Street otherwise stocked with bars and Indian buffets. The stylish yet casual restaurant provides the perfect atmosphere for both intimate dinners and larger, more boisterous celebrations. For a winter warm-up, be sure to try chef David Lee’s Yucatan hot and sour soup, or pasta with hearty rabbit ragu.
MUSICAL GEM Home to some of the city’s top operatic and dance productions—including the National Ballet’s The Nutcracker, opening December 11—the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts is a local landmark. From street level it strikes a staid stance, but inside it’s a marvel of design. Take a docent-led tour on most Saturdays to learn more about the building’s architecture and incredible acoustics.
Marvel at The Bay's detailed holiday window displays
WINDOW SHOPPING Massive department store The Bay has eight floors of fashion, furniture, fragrances and more—something for everyone on your holiday gift list. As Canada’s oldest corporation, this store is an iconic part of our national history. The flagship location continues a Toronto tradition, too: each year its Queen Street frontage features intricate window displays with seasonal scenes.
GATHERING PLACE City Hall’s two curving towers overlook Nathan Phillips Square, an outdoor hub for concerts and cultural events. The multipurpose site offers something to look forward to when temperatures drop, as its reflecting pool turns into a public skating rink. Even in winter the square is bustling—the annual Citytv New Year’s Eve bash is just one can’t-miss activity.
Japanese cuisine at ShuRaku Sake Bar & Bistro. Photo by KK Law
1 Lululemon stores, all of which offer free yoga classes every week.
2 Spying the giant tree at English Bay all lit up for the season.
3 The Lamplighter. This Gastown pub celebrated its 85th birthday last month.
4 Decking the halls with adorable holiday decorations from HomeSense.
5 Maple-leaf-adorned red mittens, ideal for winter and just $10 at The Bay. Proceeds go to the Canadian Olympic Foundation.
6 Stocking up on swimwear for holiday getaways at Just Cruisin’ Shoppe. (more…)
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Stay, Dine, Do
