| Fashion
Men and Women's Fashion
Men's Fashion
Women's Fashion
Activewear
Vintage and Consignment
MEN AND WOMEN'S FASHION
H & M
No more schlepping to the ’burbs now that H&M has finally opened its
downtown location in Holt Renfrew’s old digs.Fellas, look for a collaboration
with Comme des Garçons founder and head
designer Rei Kawakubo this fall. 633 Granville St, Downtown
PREVIOUSLY HIGHLIGHTED
ADIDAS ORIGINALS
Based around heritage designs, the Originals store
carries riffs on retro Adidas athletic wear—think three-stripe
track suits, preppy-chic blazers and polo shirts, and
our favourite, the Safety line based on Japanese city
worker uniforms from the 1970s. Don’t miss Stella
McCartney for Adidas, featuring tailored shapes inspired
by her ready-to-wear line. 848 Granville St., Downtown,
778-371-9117
AMERICAN APPAREL
Consider American Apparel your one-stop shop for casual
weekend wear. Not only do you get long, light cotton
T-shirts cut for actual human beings (as opposed to
short and wide children) but the store practices sweatshop-free
labour. They also carry a great line of boy-cut underwear
and cotton wraps that do double duty as tops and scarves.
2242 W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano; 872 Granville St.,
Downtown, 604-685-5904; 3070 Granville St., South Granville,
604-484-9447
BANANA REPUBLIC
The look is more traditional than trendy, more work
than play. It's the place to find a crisp white shirt,
classic black wool trousers, linen-blend chinos, ultra-soft
pima cotton golf shirts and basic cashmere sweaters.
Jewellery and buttery-soft leather handbags are more
au courant, and at end of season, priced to sell. 1098
Robson St., Downtown, 604-331-8285; Pacific Centre,
Downtown, 604-688-1630; Oakridge Centre, 604-267-3741,
plus three other locations in the Lower Mainland
BANG ON
The revised, repackaged make-your-own T-shirt shop that
we first saw in the ’80s. Match T-shirts with
a decal of your choice, be it a rock tribute, a flashy
graphic or a joke. 961 Robson St., Downtown, 604-602-0371
THE BAY
Why are we sending you to Canada’s oldest department
store? Because at the downtown store, on the fourth
floor, you’ll find the best lingerie selection
in the city. Look for designer lines such as Hilfiger,
Calvin Klein, Claudelle and Dim—deep discount
sales are almost always on. On the third floor find
Canadian by Design, a boutique oasis amidst the chaos.
Buyer Ruth Ho has brought together an impressive selection
of labels: Montreal’s Vex, Toronto’s Lida
Baday and Logic, and locals Jacqueline Conoir and Tension.
674 Granville St., Downtown, 604-681-6211 and Oakridge
Centre, 604-261-3311
BEDO
At Montreal-based Bedo, even the most basic pieces have
a unique cut and finish. With their asymmetric tops,
knitwear and cool prints, focus is on the detailing,
and the price is just right. 2997 Granville St.,
South Granville, 604-734-1390; 776 Granville Street,
Downtown, 604-694-2336
THE BLOCK
The Block has long been a customary stop on a girl’s
tour through Gastown, and their men's range of casual
wear will have bored boyfriends rejoicing. Labels like
Adidas and Lacoste will now amuse the lads while the
girls flip through racks filled with Heather Martin’s
line Mono, Built by Wendy and Jenny Hellström and
Isabelle Dunlop, The Block’s in-house line. Their
shipment of Loeffler Randall shoes and boots (yes, the
ones that Cameron Diaz has) are beauties. Come fall,
they’ll even boast the debut of the clothing line.
Guys can take a peek at the Rogue’s Gallery necklaces
and tees while their gals purr over the treats. 350
W. Cordova St., Gastown, 604-685-8885
BOBOLI
An elegant boutique that caters to the Shaughnessy set,
Boboli is the exclusive distributor in Vancouver for
Roberto Cavalli designs and carries lines like Bluemarine,
Issey Miyake, Missoni, Car shoes and Valentino accessories.
Service is impeccable. 2776 Granville St., South
Granville, 604-257-2300
CLUB MONACO
Club Monaco is the most reliable place for runway knockoffs,
accessories like slouchy handbags, wide belts and hosiery,
and work clothes that fit the dress code without sacrificing
style. We're still mourning the loss of its lifestyle
sister store, Caban, but the fashion show must go on.
1034-1042 Robson St., Downtown, 604-687-8618; Pacific
Centre, Downtown, 604-687-5550, plus one other location
in the Lower Mainland
DADABASE
It's all London-style cool here, from hammer-and-sickles
in the window to bulbous Orbit clocks to avant garde
art installations. Streetwear for either sex includes
the house line of cotton-twill jackets and wide-leg
shorts. Updated argyle appears on zip-front sweatshirts,
while comic-print sleeves worn from wrist to upper arm
revive the ’80s. Here’s where you’ll
find the world-famous Government Clothing designed by
Dadabase owners Mo and Ignacio. 183 E. Broadway,
South Main, 604-709-9934
DKNY
Donna Karan's ready-to-wear collection is known for
tailored silhouettes and decidedly urban sensibility.
Guys in need of a wardrobe update should check out their
well-cut, preppy Carnaby blazers and classic leather
boots and loafers. For women, we're partial to the Pure
line, a collection of super-soft deconstructed basics
in neutral tones—lightweight cashmere shrugs and
cosy cableknits ideally suited to our damp climate.
2625 Granville St., South Granville, 604-733-2000
DUTIL
With over 50 lines, and sizes ranging from 23 to 34
for women, and 27 to 40 for men, Dutil is THE stop for
denim. All the buys are heavily edited to include only
the best line and fit from each brand. Summer’s
jean? Grab a pair of coloured denim. Selection is your
friend with Small Town ($288) featuring red, electric
blue and purple, and Cassette ($268) with teal, yellow
and white. All the Euro kids are wearing them. 303
W. Cordova St., Gastown, 604-688-8892
EL KARTEL
El Kartel is Robson’s outpost for all things designer
on the skate scene. Funky tunics by Anzevino+Florence
pretty much sum up the look L.A. scenester celebs wear
on nights out at Teddy’s or Koi. Guys can get
their kicks from the New Balance Super Team 33 limited
edition runs—available only at 33 stores worldwide.
The Pendelton-inspired plaid and stingray pair ($249)
are especially noteworthy. El Kartel 121A-1025 Robson
St., Downtown, 604-683-2171
ENDA B
Men and women who have to dress like grown-ups head
to Enda B to get outfitted by classic, if conventional,
business attire by Stelmann, Kenneth Cole, DKNY Active
and Fornarina. Also stocks the largest selection of
DKNY bags in Canada, so wear comfortable shoes. 4346
W. 10th Ave., West Point Grey, 604-228-1214
ERMENEGILDO ZEGNA
Ermenegildo Zegna has combined high-fashion
and high-tech with a new lightweight Solar Jacket which
recharges your mobile phone and iPod using a solar
panel inset into the collar. Pacific Centre, 700
W. Georgia St., Downtown, 604-681-7988
EUGENE CHOO
An archetypal shop representing hipster Main Street,
as we know it now. A brother and sister team run the
unisex fashion store selling the best of Vancouver’s
designers, well-chosen Pendleton wool mill plaid shirts,
Swiss-made Freitag messenger bags and clutches and the
popular French label, A.P.C. The single vision of quiet
style extends into the ever-changing offerings of tabletop
items like handmade toys and books, or women’s
hats and shoes. 3683 Main St., South Main, 604-873-8874
FRENCH CONNECTION
It’s like all your favourite designers (Marc Jacobs,
Stella and Pucci) wrapped up in one store. And no, it’s
not Fred Segal’s (think much lower price points).
French Connection hits all the right notes this season,
good for both boys and girls. 1150 Robson St., Downtown,
604-682-1978
GLOBAL ATOMIC
Edgy street fashion from local artists, the States and
the U.K. (think Merc bags, Government tees, GAS, Fly
London shoes) trip in to boost our city's style metre.
Check out the organic clothing line Re-Geu, an architectural,
form-fitting line. 1006 Mainland St., Yaletown,
604-806-6223
GOON PACK
Carrying designs by locals Paper Bird, Evolt, and Main
and Hastings, Goon Pack’s inventory is painstakingly
crafted and handpicked for the trying-without-trying
Vancouver hipster. Graphic tees for boys and hoodies
by local label Sodom & Gomorrah are all one-of-a-kind.
109 W. Cordova St., Gastown, 604-602-8119
HILLS OF KERRISDALE
Established in 1914 as a dry goods store, Hills has
evolved into an upscale department store, a Kerrisdale
landmark and a Vancouver institution. The atmosphere
may feel old school, but the inventory is most definitely
present day: there are Pumas at the front, an Aritzia
boutique in the back and a Blue Ruby jewellery counter
in the middle. 2125 W. 41st Ave., Kerrisdale, 604-266-9177
HOLT RENFREW
Holt’s gorgeous, double-in-size space offers an
unparalleled shopping experience. All the players are
here: Balenciaga, Burberry, Chanel, Chloe, Dolce &
Gabbana, Gucci, Miu Miu, Prada, Valentino, along with
dozens more. The new World Design Lab showcases under-the-radar
designers—snag a signature piece before the Lindsay’s
and Paris’ get their claws in. Shoppers of more
modest means can enjoy the expansive makeup counters
and the wonderful selection of fine hosiery. 737
Dunsmuir St., Pacific Centre, Downtown, 604-681-3121
JONATHAN & OLIVIA
Jonathan & Olivia stocks denim-friendly lines from
Sweden’s Acne Denim and Cheap Monday (all Cheap
Monday jeans are just $75). Owner Jackie O’Brien
carefully edits the season’s collections as she
would construct her own wardrobe, meaning she’s
also got plenty of trend pieces to update staples. A
varied selection of denim cuts, from super-skinny to
straight-leg, support Jackie’s sales philosophy
that people should wear what flatters them, regardless
of the latest fads. 2570 Main St., South Main, 604-637-6224
KOMAKINO
Komakino’s early-’90s Berlin underground
theme means the store changes location annually. Campbell
McDougall has expanded his impressive collection of
international labels (Ann Demeulemeester, Dark Shadow,
Yasuhiro Mihara) to include Tokyo’s Number 9,
Rick Owens Mainline Collection, Raf Simons (he of the
super skinny black garbardine one-button suit) and hand-made
Spaghetti Western boots by Gianni Barbato ($850). 100-1
Alexander St., Gastown, 604-618-1344
LEONE
The setting is impressive: an Italian streetscape brought
indoors, complete with soaring cathedral ceilings and
an expansive corridor lined with exclusive designer
boutiques like Burberry, Dior, Dsquared, Gaultier and
Versace, among many others—there's even a cappuccino
bar. But it's service that truly sets Leone apart. There's
valet parking, after hours shopping by appointment,
expedited alterations for out-of-town shoppers, and
service is available in 11 different languages. Brava!
757 W. Hastings St., Downtown, 604-683-1133
L2
L2 has a range of lines for men and women, from Tavernitti
jeans to L.A.M.B. Our highlight would have to be the
selection of men’s and women’s Y3 by Yohji
Yamamoto. Simple street wear inspired by ’70s
athletic wear: the black tank dress with Adidas triple
stripe at the hem is a must-have. Sinclair Centre,
350 Howe St., Downtown, 604-685-9327
LIFE OF RILEY
The jaunty chapeau has returned from a 50-year hiatus,
and Livity Outernational, makers of eco-friendly fashions
(usually heavy on the eco and light on the fashion),
have stumbled upon a winner with these recycled-material
straw hats ($49). 3697 Main St., South Main, 604
876-7655
MANUEL MENDOZA
Manuel Mendoza, known primarily for his exquisite evening
gowns and bridal dresses, is also an experienced haberdasher.
While the raw silk burgundy number we saw in his studio
might not be to everyone’s taste, he has access
to a wealth of England’s finest wools in more
traditional patterns: you could spend weeks just running
through his swatches. 692 Seymour St., Downtown,
604-681-0183
MEXX
Mexx reopened in 2006 after a complete overhaul, and
while we were never greatly impressed with their stock,
we were blown away by their ties ($59 - $29 when on
sale). In fact, we could hardly tell them apart from
high-end Izod ties that sell for nearly three times
the price. The men’s department is still on the
main floor, so just ignore the stairs going up. 1119
Robson St., Downtown, 604-801-6399
MICHAEL KORS
Canada’s first free-standing Michael Kors store
opened in August 2007 in Oakridge Mall, with a full
range of accessories (how we covet those bags!) and
men’s and woman’s ready-to-wear pieces.
Alongside the labels minimalist, celeb-favoured designs
will be a full line of fragrance and beauty products.
Oakridge Centre, West 41st Ave. at Cambie, 1-866-733-5677
MOULE
Proof that the prairies produce more than wheat and
NHL stars, Moulé sells men’s and women’s
clothing (running the spectrum from casual to dressy:
Odyn jeans, cool cocktail dresses, men’s Penguin
shirts) plus home accessories (affordable Umbra pieces
or LSA glassware, and collectable Alessi). The Winnipeg-based
chain should be your first stop in an 11th-hour panic
for the perfect gift. Find Seven Ports painted, glazed
vases, Tozai Homes copper bowls, Phuze handmade martini
sets ($85 per glass), and a rainbow of leather passport
covers and luggage tags ($29) by Abas. But our favourite?
The Italian Momo watches (from $595), as in the automotive
company that makes accessories like stick shift knobs
and steering wheels. Cool. Round the corner and find
Lomo cameras (the low-tech camera with a subculture
following), jewellery and scented hand creams, or bikinis
and underwear. The new kids section on the lower level
already has a cult following amoung Kits yummy mummies.
1994 W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 604-732-4066; Park Royal
South, West Van, 604-925-3679
OBAKKI
A pretty bag without functionality is about as useful
as Paris Hilton on community service. Enter Obakki’s
little number. Long straps mean it goes from shoulder
to hand exactly the way Coco herself wanted it, and
the cell phone and iPod pockets mean no digging. (Added
value: the lining is a muted soft green so you won’t
lose anything in the black abyss.) Fashion by Genevieve
Graham and David Wallace. 44 Water St., Gastown,
604-669-9727
OCCUPIED
For the perfect postworkout or preworkout outfit, shop
here. The tees and sweatshirts designed by owner Miss
Jenelle are adorable and practical. Full of the cutest
toys, with a large selection coming from Japan. Check
out the sprinkled doughnut with smiley faces toy ($16)
or the tampon doll ($12). 221 Abbott St., Gastown,
604-605-3322
PLENTY
There's plenty to love about this Vancouver chainlet:
on-trend local labels in a variety of price points;
Propaganda, their cute (and affordable) store line;
shoes and boots by Irregular Choice, Fly London, and
Camper, handbags by Montreal's Matt and Nat and at the
flagship store in Kits, baby items by some adult favorites
like Seven, Adidas, and American Apparel. Ladies and
gents, you really can't go wrong here. 2803 Broadway,
Kitsilano, 604-736-4484; 1107 Robson St., Downtown,
604-689-4478, plus two other locations in the Lower
Mainland
RICHARD KIDD
Richard Kidd is a veritable cathedral of minimalism
(someone is loathe to clutter the two tiers and the
amazing views with actual merchandise). You’ll
find kicky couture numbers from Balenciaga, Tsumori
Chisato, Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen. The
casual men’s line Aesthetic Industrie has a sharp
edge that tailors to most tastes. While there might
not be much on display, what there is is mighty impressive.
65 Water St., Gastown, 604-677-1880
SAND
While overrun with restaurants and cafés (Hapa
Izakaya being the latest and greatest arrival), the
intersection at Cornwall and Yew had no retail stores
to speak of, until Sand opened its doors earlier this
year in the dead space behind Malone’s. Here you’ll
find clothing for men and women from Industry and Lifetime
Collective, bikinis by Gsus and Aaron Chang, buttery-soft
leather purses from local label Sienna Ray, and pimped
out shades like Spy Optics’ limited-edition Diamond
Glace ($4,000). There’s also a great collection
of Phaidon art books like Fresh Fruits ($49), a series
of Tokyo street fashion portraits. 2202 Cornwall
Ave., Kitsilano, 604-733-4818
SHELLY KLASSEN
Shelly Klassen’s feminine frocks, from her
Blushing Designs label, are perfect for the marathon
wedding season just around the corner. Visit Klassen’s
sweet boutique (which just celebrated a first anniversary)
at 579 Richards Street. Downtown, 604-709-3485.
TENTH AND PROPER
Miss Coquette owner Leanne Dunic's second store carries
stylish basics for men and women, including an in-house
line of tees, Property, made by the same company that
does basics for Prada and Jil Sander. 4483 W. 10th
Ave., West Point Grey, 604-222-1115
YOU AND WHOSE ARMY?
Illustrative graphics on Ningnong T-shirts make reference
to iconic Vancouver symbols, like the Woodward’s
W in the rain. At You and Whose Army?, 385 Water
St., 604-684-9292
VASANJI
Vasanji imports street wear from Europe for men and
women, as well as home-grown designs. Check out labels
like Butterfly Dropout’s trendy line of casual
tee’s, or Apartment, a Columbian line of funky
but casual pants, belts and tops for men, as well as
Custo from Barcelona. Large selection of Steve Madden
shoes. 1012 Mainland St., Yaletown, 604-669-0882
VETRINA
What’s a girl to do when she’s needing diamonds
on the soles of her shoes? Vetrina’s collection
of Giuseppe Zanotti and Cesare Pachiotti awaits. (Listen
up, brides-to-be: this is your chance to indulge, so
forsake the satin-dipped monstrosities and cash in on
your chance to bling out). Sure, home fragrance sticks
are now all the rage, but Vetrina was the original purveyor
of our fave Italian brand Culti. And did we mention
the racks and racks of Italian designer clothing lines
for men and women? 525 W. Georgia St., Downtown,
604-632-0132
WEAR ELSE?
Victorinox Swiss Army’s hi-tech, military-inspired
clothes are functional (water-repellent fabrics, multi-tool
pockets), and look like a million bucks. At Wear
Else?, Oakridge Centre, 604-266-3613
WINNERS
The patient bargain hunter will do well here. Rifling
through dozens of racks takes time and attention, but
the savings—20 to 60 percent off retail prices—make
it worthwhile. New merchandise is added daily, ranging
from $5 tees to $350 trench coats, and though ladies
may swear that the store’s name is a cruel misnomer
when it comes to the shoe department, gentlemen can
take heart that amazing, well-nigh impossible deals
are to be had. The day we found a pair of D&G kicks
on sale for $180 and Versace lace-ups for $250, it was
love. 798 Granville St., Downtown, 604-683-1058,
plus 13 other locations in the Lower Mainland
ZARA
They are known for their spot-on (and thrifty) rip-offs
of whatever has just pranced down a European runway.
So all you need to know is that the Spanish chain Zara
receives new stock every Tuesday and Friday. Some styles
make one shipment only: act swiftly. 1056 Robson
St., Downtown, 604-677-8489; Metrotown Centre, 604-484-6095
Back to the Top
MEN’S FASHION
BROOKLYN CLOTHING CO.
Besides its impressive selection of jeans, Brooklyn
Clothing Co. is home to some of greatest men’s
street accessories to be found around town, most from
local designers. The front counter is jumping with belt
buckles made of recycled bike chains, silver jewellery
by Deucalion (Pyrrha’s men’s line), wooden
wrist cuffs by Woodever and distressed leather murses
(yes, a murse is a man-purse). 418 Davie St., Yaletown,
604-683-2929
DUKE'S NORTHSHORE
Lest the man in your life be afflicted with the fashion
atrocities that caught up with your father (read: khakis,
denim shirt, sports socks), have him shop at Duke’s
Northshore. Definitely Hawaii- and California-influenced,
but decidedly not for teenage boys, this is the place
to find a maturely edited selection of button-up shirts,
jeans, shorts, and T-shirts (including one that says
“Old Guys Rule”) by the biggest surf labels
including Hurley, Billabong and Quiksilver. Ask yourself:
are you or your Volvo too serious for a dashboard hula
girl ($13)? We thought not. Park Royal North, West
Van, 604-913-7846
HARRY ROSEN
Impeccably-dressed, knowledgeable sales staff guide
you through this up-market emporium's classic men's
wear labels including Brioni, Canali, J.P. Tilford by
Samuelsohn, Versace Classic and more fashion-forward
lines like Hugo Boss, Armani Collezioni, Ermenegildo
Zegna, Cole Haan and Dolce and Gabbana. If your budget
is slimmer than an Etro tie, check out the Harry Rosen
private label, a line of simple, high-quality wardrobe
staples. Pacific Centre, Downtown, 604-683-6861;
650 W. 41st Ave., Oakridge Centre, 604-266-1172
HEADQUARTER
Headquarter supplies designer sneakers and art toys
to devoted collectors looking for rare footwear like
Adidas Adicolor high-tops in sleek white patent leather
($185) or Nike Opium Air 180s with neon and camo details
($200). Kidrobot Munny toys ($35) pack a visual punch
with their minimal design and come with customizing
tools and accessories like Clockwork Orange-style bowler
hats. 1232 Burrard St., West End, 604-688-0406
IE
Guys won’t miss out on any of the action in this
’hood. ie ensures the fellas are covered. The
Nooka watches ($175) come in a range of colours from
orange to yellow, purple, army green, grey and white.
They carry coveted lines Y3 and Uppercut and also feature
Japan’s cult status Porter bag by the Yoshida
Company ($75-$530). 227 Carrall St., Gastown, 604-685-1435
LACOSTE
A nautical homage to Brittany was the inspiration behind
the Lacoste men’s collection—think tight
and tailored corduroy jackets, slim-fit trousers, and
leather bombers with shearling collars. Oakridge
Centre, 604-263-1221.
MARK JAMES
In a neighbourhood known for its lazy jock so-called
style, men's wear store Mark James stands out. Dolce
& Gabbana, Hugo Boss and Zegna are all represented
and here’s a bonus: the first-class customer service
matches the upscale collection. 2941 W. Broadway,
Kitsilano, 604-734-2381
RAY RICKBURN
Clever fellows know that Ray Rickburn is a one-stop
shop for a preppy-chic, head-to-toe wardrobe. Think
Fred Perry, Paul Smith, Penguin and Lacoste. What’s
really notable is the store’s collection of accessories:
Juicy Couture cufflinks ($130), Ted Baker ties ($95),
and tan loafers by J. Shoes ($165). There’s Otis
boxers, too, so all your assets are covered. 2100
W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 604-738-9177
RODEN GRAY
Comme des Garçons cologne ($108), Filson’s
stylish cotton twill duffel bags ($238), and local label
Wings+Horns are just some of the exclusive goods available
at the new menswear boutique Roden Gray. 231 Cambie
St., Gastown, 604-689-7302
Back to the Top
WOMEN’S FASHION
ARITZIA
Brian Hill's fashion-forward boutiques began as an off-shoot
of the family business (see Hills of Kerrisdale) and
have become something of an obsession among women aged
15 to 30: they come for denim labels like Seven, Juicy
and Rock & Republic and popular house brands like
TNA (casual sweats that have since spun off into their
own chainlet), Talula Babaton (preppy separates that
are office-friendly), Talula (less office-friendly,
more Friday night-friendly) and Wilfred (a line of refined,
grown-up pieces). Small selection of footwear includes
Havaianas flip flops, and Ugg boots. 1110 Robson
St., Downtown, 604-684-3251; Pacific Centre, Downtown,
604-681-9301; Oakridge Centre, 604-269-0892, plus three
other locations in the Lower Mainland
ATOMIC MODEL
Model, actress and recording artist Milla Jovovich was
a triple threat even before she and fellow model Carmen
Hawk teamed up to design a clothing line. Jovovich-Hawk,
known for its urban take on country coquette, distills
incongruous inspirations like haute couture and bohemian-chic
into spectacular little frocks and evening gowns. 1036
Mainland St., Yaletown, 604-688-9989
BAREFOOT CONTESSA
Owner Eva de Viveiros doubled our pleasure when she
expanded her Barefoot Contessa boutique and gave us
more of what we love: Michael Kors, Nougat and Blushing
Designs. The shoe selection has also expanded as has
everything fab for Fido (capelets from Ruff Ruff, tees
from Dirty Laundry). Retro jewelry and romantic ephemera
look straight out of the shop’s namesake, a 1954
Hollywood film starring Humphrey Bogart and Ava Gardner.
3715 Main St., South Main, 604-879-1137
BASQUIAT
Owner Christina Linden (yes, wife of Trevor) stocks
chic separates, feminine dresses and silky camisoles
from Dondup and We Are by Relay. Blue Deep’s fitted
jackets with appliqué detailing look great over
a simple dress or jeans and a tee. We also love the
swimwear from Las Vegas label Vitamin A. In a city where
it’s as hard to score decent men’s shoes
as it is to score on Luongo, we were particularly smitten
by pieces from New York-by-way-of-Paris designer Jean-Michel
Cazabat. (The ladies’ selection is equally divine.)
1189 Hamilton St., Yaletown, 604-688-0828
BODACIOUS
For zaftig females tired of wearing funeral black, Bodacious—a
muumuu-free zone—is a godsend. Svelte friends
under size 10 will look longingly at the cute and colourful
dresses and pants—some new, others previously
enjoyed and all affordable. Many items are available
via pre-order. 4393 Main St., South Main, 604-874-2811
CATTIVA
Cattiva remains a mecca for fashion-conscious city girls
looking to grab the next new thing. Look for denim lines
like Seven, Juicy and Paige Denim and an excellent,
well-chosen selection of belts, bags and jewelry. It’s
NY meets LA on South Granville. 2665 Granville St.,
South Granville, 604-608-1141
CHINCILLA
Avoid factory-produced garb at all costs: that was the
mandate owners Jessica and Amy had in mind when they
scoured the world for unique one-offs —the store
carries exclusive international imports like Israel’s
Anna K, whose pre-loved tops are a cross between Charles
Dickens and prima donna Goth. Their in-house line, named
after the store, features light cotton motorcycle jackets
and beautiful handcrafted lace tops that promise buyers
an inimitable look for any event. 330 W. Cordova
St., Gastown, 604-687-8809
FAB
Browsing the overstuffed racks of Fab is like taking
a crash course in what labels are hot, right now. Tops
by C+C, Ella Moss and Splendid are extra long in the
sleeves and body, made for layering. Fab boasts the
most comprehensive selection of jean brands in the
city
(True Religion, Fornarina, Naked & Famous, Yanuk)
but this is the one store you won’t find Sevens
or their Citizens of Humanity counterpart—“because
everyone else has them,” says the owner. 2177
W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 604-734-0139
HANA RAY
Named after the owner’s daughter, Hana Ray sells
surfer-chic clothing, shoes, bags, swimsuits and accessories,
as well as deliciously fragrant Jaqua bath and body
products; we love the Chocolate Mint flavour. 3068
Highland Blvd, North Van, 604-985-8511
HUNT & GATHER
Local designer Natalie Purschwitz sews her vibrantly
coloured, nouveau-mod pieces right in the store, which
doubles as her atelier. We loved her cropped wool jacket
with kid leather trim ($200) and vest ($165) with side
snap closure, both in a saturated shade of peacock blue.
New pieces added almost daily. 225 Carrall St.,
Gastown, 604-633-9559
JC STUDIO
Get yourself on the e-mail list for the open houses
at JC Studio, home of local label Jacqueline Conoir.
The open houses are a veritable bazaar of all that is
new and hot on the local scene. Shoppers can try on
pieces from the Jacqueline Conoir collection and jewellery
from local designers, and get makeup consultations,
all while sipping a glass of chardonnay. 46 W. Sixth
Ave., Kitsilano, 604-688-5222
LARK
Lark has moved to bigger and better digs as official
dealer of Jorg & Olif Dutch city bikes—their
well-edited clothing collection (think Kulpa, Bertoni,
Soia & Kyo and Drykorn) is a perfect fit. 2315
Main St., South Main, 604-879-5275
LIQUID
About 75 percent of the fashion sold at this Kits boutique
is locally designed, including Allison Wonderland’s
collection of funky, Japanese influenced line of casual
wear. We like OK47’s collection of pretty pieces
with a smart flare. Liquid also sells lines from South
Africa (Ancient Spirit) and the U.S. (Free People).
Dresses, skirts, jeans and memorable tops of all kinds,
plus the kind of personal attention and advice larger
stores almost never provide. 2050 W. Fourth Ave.,
Kitsilano, 604-737-1600
MISCH
Our favourite need-a-fabulous-outfit-in-one-hour-or-less
boutique continues to impress by carrying lines direct
from N.Y.C. and L.A. like Inhabit and Alexander Wang.
Look for Vanessa Bruno’s French influenced line
offering feminine and all-wearable pieces, plus fabulously
match-able shoes, bags and accessories from Loeffler
Randall. 2960 Granville St., South Granville, 604-731-1017
MISS COQUETTE
Owner Leanne Dunic stocks the city’s best selection
of dresses by Nougat and Sinequanone; Philippe Matignon
tights; vintage wallpaper cards by Sydney designs ($18);
and fragrance by Shelley (our favourite is Tiramani,
blending jasmine, citrus and musk, $34-64). Jewellery
by Made Her Think is delicate and feminine with an edge—we
loved the Erin Dolman’s one-of-a-kind pendants
with miniature maps, birds, seeds and feathers inside
($250-$300). 4372 W. 10th Ave., West Point Grey,
604-221-2888
MOONCRUISE
Berlin-based indie designer Esther Perbandt creates
elegant but edgy basics, like this cotton Work Dress
($350)—we also love her draping, cowl-neck hoodie.
235 Cambie St., Gastown, 604-685-9575
NOUVELLE NOUVELLE
Amy Renee York and Mishel Savinkoff’s Nouvelle
Nouvelle stocks vintage boots, recycled leather bags,
and these Aztec-inspired tops ($99) by Like Sunday,
made from ultra-soft pure bamboo. 209 Abbott St.,
Gastown, 604-639-9888
NOW AND THEN
A spin on the lifestyle boutique, the shop sells old
and new handbags, casual clothes, shoes and cool home
accessories. New Evisu bags go for $55 to $90; used
records for as little as a buck. Also spotted: Superman-motif
flip flops, $15, modern lamps, $65 to $150. 1986
W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 604-738-0382
OLIVER BARRET
You’ll come across the odd tank-top or tee, but
they’ll be adorned with a funky design or artsy
pattern—the focus here is on dressing up. Find
wall-to-wall designer labels like Ingwa Melero, Issa
and Nougat. The Village at Park Royal, B5-940 Main
St., West Van, 604-926-6677
ONE OF A FEW
Love to find that special piece that no one else has?
It’s done for you at One of a Few where the premise
is obvious, no doubt. Check out their in-house line,
Nine, a collaboration between Dace Moore (of Dace) and
owner Michelle Rizzardo. Balloon button-up dresses,
tuck-in blouses for high-waisted pants and high-waisted
bubble skirts. All in limited runs made of all-natural
fabrics. New-to-Vancouver lines with a downtown, feminine
appeal (Porridge, Fremont and Emphasis) provide sweet
accents to your wardrobe at reasonable price points,
while J Brand jeans and Sue London’s super-comfy
ballet flats ($155) are day-to-day staples. Check out
local Ashley Watson’s handmade bags and wallets
($24-$250) made from recycled leather. 354 Water
St., Gastown, 604-605-0685
OQOQO
Stylish wardrobe basics that are environmentally conscious
and totally patchouli-free? Horray for Lululemon’s
new line Oqoqo, starring the softest form-fitting tanks
and tees, made with soy and organic cotton and perfect
for layering. Look for more structured pieces made
from
bamboo (the fabric mimics a slinky jersey knit), as
well as fitted jackets, short trench coats and trousers
for men and women. 2123 W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano,
604-732-6188
PLEASANT GIRL
At Pleasant Girl check out labels by Dagg and Stacey,
a Toronto duo focused on graphic designs; Toronto’s
OK47 pretty and playful basics of colourful tops, bottoms
and dresses; Hylas and Nymph, the Vancouver label offering
cropped pants and jersey knit tops; and an amazing selection
of locally designed jewellery set the stage. All of
the hardware in the store—shelving units, chairs,
lamps—is also for sale. 2541 Main St., South
Main, 604-677-4024
PLUM
This locally based chain recently celebrated their
20th anniversary with the release of a new line of
dresses
called Simone. Pastel hues, voile patterns, cute empire-waist
cuts…we know what you’re thinking (Plum
has been known for little more than the most basic of
basics), but trust us, it’s time to revisit. 2799
Granville St., South Granville, 604-737-0246; 2290 W.
Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 604-733-0603; and other locations
across the Lower Mainland
RAYA
At Raya, cutting-edge denims and club wear get a splash
of colour here and gash to the leg there. T-shirts
appliquéed
with rough petals nod to the '80s, while polka-dot-pretty
Lucy Love dresses evoke ’50s ingénues.
Matrix-cool shades, sophisticated Souldaisy designs,
studded hipster belts. A saucy girl's one-stop shop. 1395 Commercial Dr., 604-254-5073
RK
Power dressers take note. Waisted jackets, voluminous
sleeves, and fine wools are all part of rk’s Sinfully
Noir collection at their first west coast boutique.
Oakridge Centre, 604-266-0275
SCOUT
If you can rock this season’s mini or bubble dresses,
head to Scout, where there’s a great selection
of Rachel Zoe-approved numbers. They carry a ton of
Voom silk dresses, as seen on Cameron Diaz. 152
E. Eighth Ave., South Main, 604-879-7903
SMOKING LILY
Known for silk-screened T-shirts and pillows, Victoria-based
Smoking Lily now extends its winsome designs to velvet
bike bags, stretch-denim skirts and Mao-look jackets.
Where else can you find silk-chiffon scarves sporting
helicopters or vinyl bags with a cute, dead-bunny cutout
or Pierre Trudeau's mug on a pair of knickers? The Lady
Sparrow tunic ($94) is a mid-thigh-length Japanese cotton
dress with an elastic collar that can be worn up at
the neckline or off the shoulder. Smoking Lily,
3634 Main St., South Main, 604-873-5459
SPANK
Spank carries an impressive selection of local favs
like Chulo Pony, but owner Jana Sehic also delivers
exclusive boutique lines from L.A. and eastern Canada
(think Voom dresses by Joy Han and Montreal’s
Kitchen Orange denim). And did someone say great shoes
for under $100? We did, we did! Spank’s got the
goods with styles by JC and Seychelles. Royal blue or
fire-engine-red pumps, both in patent, are our picks.
The vegan Matt&Nat bags deserve a nod as well, especially
the Jorja Fox tote (try the canvas and dark brown trim
colour way). 1027 Commercial Dr., 604-255-1131;
2082 W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 778-371-1305; 856 Granville
St., Downtown, 604-677-3202
TNA
TNA started as in-house line of workout wear (sweats
that come in hot pink or baby blue, plus really short
shorts, etc.) and casual clothes sold by Aritzia. But
it took on a life of its own, especially among young
teens. Naturally, the brains behind Aritzia (Brian Hill)
opened TNA, the boutique, and expanded the offerings
to include denim lines like Juicy, Chip and Pepper and
Seven. 2899 Granville St., South Granville, 604-714-5927
TWIGG&HOTTIE
A Main Street mainstay, the boutique is owned by local
designers Glencora Twigg, Christine Hotton and Jessica
Vaira and stocks three house labels and pieces by 50
Canadian designers and counting. Look for Glencora's
tailored wardrobe staples (selling under the twigg&hottie
label), best-selling Marzio Fiorini’s line of
recycled rubber jewellery out of Brazil and simple,
sterling silver jewellery by Mindan Gunther-Moore. 3671
Main St., South Main, 604-879-8595
TWO OF A FEW
Knits by local label Kersh, super-soft tees by American
Vintage, adorable dresses by Isabelle Dunlop, and this
ladylike number by Lover ($249) are at Two of a Few,
356 Water St.,Gastown, 604-605-0630
Back to the Top
ACTIVEWEAR
ANNA KOSTUROVA
Local swimwear designer Anna Kosturova’s
trademark crochet bikinis landed on the cover of this
year’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Check
out the latest colours and cuts, as well as her gossamer
wrap dresses, tunics, and tops at Annakosturova.com.
PREVIOUSLY HIGHLIGHTED
KARMA
Some days Lululemon blankets the city with an almost
communistic uniformity. But this is still a democracy,
and you do have another choice for yoga wear. Try Karma,
for example. The colour palette is more muted, and the
style details make the clothes more wearable outside
the yoga studio, which is the point. 2066 W. Fourth
Ave., Kitsilano, 604-731-7747
LOTUSWEAR
Known for their emphasis on fashion-forward cuts (see
the trademark Shiva short and Pava roll-down boy short),
Lotuswear has also introduced a yoga appropriate, but
perfect for the beach, line of swimwear. 2131 W.
Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 604-738-7168
LULULEMON
Even if you’ve never done a sun salutation or
downward dog you’ve seen your fair share of derriere
encased in Lululemon pants. For the essential yoga and
workout gear, in a variety of cuts, styles, lengths
and colours, you needn’t look much further. 1148
Robson St., Downtown, 604-681-3118, Oakridge Centre,
2113 W. Fourth Ave., Kitsilano, 604-732-6111; 925 Park
Royal Village, West Vancouver, 604-921-6125; Metrotown
Centre
MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT CO.
A one-stop-shop for everything you’ll need for
time spent in the great outdoors. For the first-time
nature explorer to the advanced mountain climber, there’s
something, if not everything, for everyone. 130
W. Broadway, 604-872-7858; 1341 Main St., North Van,
604-990-4417
SECOND WAVE
First generation surfers and sk8ers (who actually have
the money to spend on a new O’Neill wetsuit, 32
snowboard boots or RVCA hoodie) feed their insatiable
stoke at Second Wave. Pop in and catch a few minutes
of Tofino-based Jeremy Koreski’s surf video Shrink.
139 Lonsdale Ave., North Van, 604-986-9283
VATA BRASIL
In July ’05, the store introduced colourful, one-size-fits-all
Brazilian workout-wear to the city’s women. Now
husband and wife Mario and Ananda Gomes, both members
of the Canadian diving team, have recently welcomed
their new men’s line offering 100 percent polyester
tracksuits, running shorts, tee’s and speedos.
Look for comfortable fits in a variety of colours. 420
Richards St., Downtown, 604-689-7325 and 791 Park Royal
North., West Vancouver, 604-921-7324
Back to the Top
VINTAGE AND CONSIGNMENT
DELUXE JUNK
Deluxe Junk is the crème of local vintage selection.
A well-edited collection of delovely gowns from the
’20s, ’40s, ’50s awaits: a particular
white crepe floor-length dress is reminiscent of the
pink Chanel Nicole Kidman donned for the 2005 Oscars.
310 W. Cordova St., Gastown, 604-685-4871
DISCOLLECTION
Get a custom fit on your vintage finds at Discollection
where owner Kimberley Nelson will tailor any item in
her store to your liking. She’ll transform a muu-muu
into a mini-dress, or take up the hem on a pair of men’s
trousers to create a perfect pair of clam diggers ($25-50).
Owner hand-sews the Kdon line of fashion forward street
wear and cute dresses for women in the back of the store.
324 W. Hastings St., Downtown, 604-331-1244
DREAM APPAREL
Dream’s range of men’s and women’s
clothing attracts in-the-know hipsters looking to snag
local designers’ pieces before they’re famous
and pricey. Those who have already made themselves known,
like Allison Wonderland and Dust designer Heather Young,
are well represented, too. Over the past few seasons
bikinis have been making a bigger comeback than Demi
Moore (and she made hers in one). Local designer Eden
Rausch of Cuchè offers 10 new styles for the
season—all hipster cut to glorify any body shape.
The collection even includes a generously cut short-short
for the retro gal, and two Riviera-worthy one-piece
numbers. 311 W. Cordova St., Gastown, 604-683-7326
FRONT & COMPANY
It’s a simple concept: two unisex fashion store
fronts linked, new and trendy on one side, consignment
and vintage on the other. Impulse-buy accessories and
underwear are strategically planted to catch your eye
as you head for the cashier. 3772 Main St., South
Main, 604-879-8431
MIDTOWN
Sarah Graves opened Midtown in 2005 and has worked slavishly
to bring in the best of the city’s reworked, restyled
and refurbished. Death, Disorder is one of the store’s
best lines and features rocker-style ink stenciled collage
tees and v-necks ($45). 438 W. Pender St., Downtown,
604-682-6441
RETRO ROCK
Modern style innovators like Kate Moss and Karen O aren’t
pulling together their eclectic fashion statements just
by shopping at posh boutiques. They’re mixing
old with new, and high-end looks with a little grunge
for that perfect combination of dishevelled elegance.
At Retro Rock, you’ll find the means to their
aesthetic with a great selection of rock concert T-shirts,
fitted leather bombers, gently faded silk kimonos and
colourful shift dresses that look great dressed down
with a scuffed-up pair of riding boots. 590 Davie
St., West End, 604-872-7665; 3553 Main St., South Main,
604-872-7667; 2240 Commercial Dr., 604-872-7670
SHINE
Who says that a clothing store has to stick to one category?
Shine deftly combines second-hand picks (some vintage,
some not) with local design and the odd bargain-priced
sample. 2970 W. Broadway, Kitsilano, 604-738-0738
SOLID THREADS
A secret source for stylists and the wardrobe staffers
in the movie business who need top vintage clothing,
like an old Perry Ellis track suit, or some other blast
from the past, fast. 2-3851 Main Street, South Main,
604-872-1929
TEMPLE OF THE MODERN GIRL
The Golden Peanut is an actual peanut in its shell,
electroplated with gold and suspended at the end of
a golden chain ($18). Shake it and you can still feel
the peanut rattling inside. It’s silly. It’s
goofy. It’s just plain nutty (sorry), but we love
it. 2695 Main St., South Main, 604-630-8656
USED
Plucked from a warehouse of goods collected by Cherry
Bomb owner Craig Doyleover the years, Used has one of
the city’s most glamorous and affordable shoe
collections. The racks are packed with delicate stilettos,
flashy lamé platforms and must-have cork wedges
and cloth espadrilles – one of the biggest selections
of vintage shoes in the city. 831 Granville St.,
Downtown, 604-694-0322
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