Shop Hop: What You’ll Find Through the Red Door at Out and About

Fight your way through the Steam Clock crowds, and you might find yourself spit out in front of Out and About: step through its red doors for blissful escape from the throngs of Gastown tourists.

Opened in 2018, the boutique has since quietly built a cult following from those in the know on Japanese and European design. “We carry a lot of brands from these places that you don’t see a lot of here in Vancouver,” explains Cecilia Liu, who co-owns the shop along with her mother, Shelia Peng, and mom’s longtime friend, Angela Guan. Liu had some retail experience in her past, but Peng and Guan come from the corporate world, approaching retail from a fresh perspective. “It’s kind of a new venture for us,” she laughs.

But over seven years, the trio has homed in on something special—and what hasn’t wavered since the beginning is their impeccable taste. “We’ve got clothing for all seasons, but when it comes to the objects, we’re trying to find things you can use every day that are functional, practical and unique,” says Liu. You’ll find perfectly tailored short work jackets from Danton alongside slouchy denim barrel trousers from 7115 by Szeki, but also delightful Japanese stationery, alligator-skin wallets and the prettiest sake glass sets.

READ MORE: Inside Gastown’s Neighbour Women Shop

What you’ll also spot when you walk in is a little bit of history—the building is more than a century old, and the exposed bricks inside are original. A determined shopper will discover the staircase to the basement, where even more treasures (Japanese knit socks, chic poplin dresses) await. “A lot of people have been to the store a few times before they realize we have two floors,” shrugs Liu. “I don’t know how they miss it!” 321 W Cordova St. | outnaboutboutique.com

Our Favourite Picks from Out and About

Product picks from Out and About’s co-owner Cecilia Liu and our editors.

Liu’s Pick: Aequamente Dress 25135 ($598)

The drapey, waist-less floral dress is pure cotton and made in Italy. “It’s blue and white and summery feeling,” says Liu.

Liu’s Pick: Otani Momoko Blue Lotus Mug ($125)

“She’s a Japanese ceramic artist, and handmakes and handpaints her teacups. I really like the composition,” explains Liu. Each mug is one-of-a-kind.

Editor’s Pick: Saskia Diez Rebl/Diez Sling Ring ($268)

There’s something candy-like about the two baubles that mark either end of this sterling silver ring made in Munich.

Liu’s Pick: 7115 Szeki Unisex Elastic Trousers in Oatmeal ($310)

Comfy enough for couch time, structured enough to rock at the office: an elastic-waist dream come true.

Liu’s Pick: Épice Paris Udaipur Tote ($115)

The cutest way to upgrade your tote collection is with this chic, lightweight statement bag.

Editor’s Pick: Lapuan Kankurit Metsikko Wool Blanket ($245)

Finnish illustrator Matti Pikkujämsä sketched the owl featured on this pure wool blanket.

Editor’s Pick: Hannoh Wessel Saloma Shirt ($479)

Even though it’s made in Italy, this shirt nails the key to dressing like a Japanese fashionista: forget that sizing exists.

READ MORE: Coast Goods Brings the Vacation Vibes to East Van