The Best Places in Vancouver to Shop for Jeans, Cool Shoes, Cozy Outwear and More

Whether you’re in the market for that perfect-fitting pair of jeans or a winter jacket that will hold in the heat, knowing where to go is half the battle.

Top: Native, Bottom left: Fluevog, Right: Kalena

Shoes

Vancouver loves shoes that march to a different beat.

John Fluevog: First, it was their out-there boot and shoe designs—one part Doc Marten, one part Bruno Magli, one part unicorn—who still reigns supreme for his made-in-Vancouver leather creations.837 Granville St., 65 Water St.Native Shoes: Then we got seriously egalitarian with these—initially foam-injected, all-weather slip-on kicks but now an entire line leading the sneaker-as-fashion trend.Sold WidelyKalena Shoes: And when we just have to have that made-in-Italy style, we get them imported for us.1526 Commercial Dr.  Boboli 

High-End

While downtown is all about chain brands, South Granville is where locals head for high-end boutiques.

Bacci’s is for you, if your tastes run Dries van Noten, Lanvin or Rick Owens.2788 Granville St.Boboli, designed by Craig Stanghetta, if you’re more Paul Smith, Maison Margiela or Stella McCartney.2776 Granville St.Want Apothecary, the Canadian upstart, sells their own exquisite line of bags, shoes and other soft leather goods.2956 Granville St. Shirt: Motherland 

Local Designers

Vancouver’s de facto uniform may be Lycra, but its local design street cred goes beyond yoga pants and high-tech sweats.

Herschel backpacks have made their way across the pond and are now found as far away as Liberty of London.Sold WidelyAritzia, the young, upstart womenswear brand originally born in Hill’s of Kerrisdale’s basement, counts Rockefeller Plaza in New York as just one of many outposts in its stable around North America.Various locationsMotherland sells its designed-and-made-in-Vancouver National Standards line, ideal for those in the market for a slim-fitting, youthful yet classic dress shirt.Various locations Left: Arc’teryx, Middle: Atmosphere, Right: Moncler

Outerwear

We may not live on the freezing plains of Saskatchewan, but we still need protection from the elements.

Arc’teryx: When it’s the wet we’re fighting off, nothing beats this local brand —which also has an under-the-radar-factory in North Vancouver.2033 W 4th Ave.Atmosphere Kitsilano: Where you can get a classic Canada Goose jacket.1625 Chestnut St.Moncler: Consider this new store in the upscale Alberni retail district for a French take on staying chaud.748 Thurlow St. Left: Reigning Champ, Right: RYU

Athleisurewear

Vancouver is the birthplace of athleisurewear.

Kit and Ace: When Lululemon’s Wilson family turned their attention to this brand, it was just a matter of time before it went global with the softest, coziest basics that look more sophisticated streetwear than workout chic.2235 W 4th Ave., 151 Water St.Reigning Champ: Another local brand, and their innovative hoodies, tees and sweats in muted tones of black, grey, navy and heather.2119 W 4th Ave.RYU: The newest local challenger comes courtesy of Marcello Leone (formerly of luxury boutique Leone), with cool technical workout wear like compression tights and moisture-wicking tops.1745 W 4th Ave. Bolder Denim

Denim

It’s not surprising that a city that embraces casual has a love affair with serious denim.

Dutil: The most exhaustive selection, from affordable Cheap Monday jeans to ultra-high end options, is found here.303 W Cordova St.Dish and Duer: For those who want a pair that moves like they’re yoga pants, head to this  local brand. Their proprietary technical designs make for the most comfortable cycling jeans you’ll ever own.118 W Hastings St.Boulder Denim: Brand new on the scene is this local Kickstarter phenom, which seeks to follow the flexibility lead with jeans that can be climbed in (and are also 100 percent waterproof for the first few washings).Read More About The Best New Fashion Places In Vancouver >>>>