Shop Canada - Part 2
In this second post of my "Shop Canada" series, I felt I had to lead with this image of me wearing this beautiful vegan leather trench from Canadian designer, Hilary Macmillan (you'll read more about the brand below). I bought this 4 years ago and it makes me smile every time I wear. Even more so these days knowing that, not only does it make me feel fabulous...it's also from a homegrown business!
I'm hi-lighting 5 Canadian brands that are smaller and perhaps lesser known than the more mainstream stores outlined in my first post. You may already be familiar with some/all and this could be a reminder to have them on your radar.
Perhaps some of these brands are new to you and you may be inspired to check out their websites to get a sense of their overall brand/aesthetic. Next time you have a focused shopping list, one of these may come to mind as a new option to consider...
A sampling from the Canadian brands listed below - all links can be found here.
This Canadian brand originated in Vancouver and quickly became a favourite of both men and women in the denim market. Duer focuses on "creating modern jeans and pants that meet the needs of the active with performance, comfort and style". Lots of great denim options, elevated casual pants, jackets and fun pieces like this jumpsuit shown in the above roundup. Duer has some really interesting and technical fabrication options that are worth checking out. Side note: my husband absolutely loves his Duer jeans and more chino style pants. You can shop on-line or there are physical stores in some larger cities across Canada.
Good Canadian option if you are a fan of: Levi's, Gap, Everlane, Madewell
This Canadian brand originated in Toronto and ethically manufactures its sustainable clothing brand in Egypt and Portugal. The line focuses on timeless, everyday essential pieces for both men and women. I have to add - I also love their chic, minimalist style. The brand has clothing options that work well for casual, elevated casual, some fabulous work basics as well as some chic dressier pieces. Kotn has become a mid-sized brand and now also has some physical stores in the US, though remains Canadian owned. It's caught the attention of so many stylists in my International personal stylist network which gives it bonus points in my mind! You can shop on-line or there are physical stores in Vancouver and several larger cities across Canada.
Good Canadian option if you are a fan of: Gap, J Crew, Banana Republic, Everlane
Founded in Montreal, Frank and Oak is another fabulous sustainable option for men and women with beautifully made clothes to suit your everyday life getting dressed needs. The brand describes itself as "luxurious comfort" yet doesn't have the pricepoint of a luxury brand. Stylish basics. You can shop on-line in addition there are 2 stores in here Vancouver as well as in Toronto and Montreal.
This is also a good Canadian option if you are a fan of: Everlane, J Crew, Banana Republic, Madewell
This fashion-forward Toronto based brand has so many fun pieces. If you want to infuse a little interest and something unique into the wardrobe, this is one I always love to check out. High quality, cruelty free fabrics and inclusive sizing. I absolutely LOVE their outerwear (as shown above), but so many other fun garment types particularly if you are looking for interest pieces for workwear or going out. I find this brand easy to shop on-line, but you can also shop in-person in Toronto.
Good Canadian option if you are a fan of: Anthropologie, J Crew, Kate Spade, Eloquii
This local brand was recently just brought to my attention and it seems like a real gem so I felt it worth sharing. For those who are interested in timeless basics and a capsule wardrobe approach this brand is great to have on the radar. I like these words from their website "From the beginning, we've designed all of our items to be the core of your capsule wardrobe. Our clothes are made to be your forever-favourites - key pieces that will be your wardrobe companions throughout your style evolutions." Size inclusive brand ranging from XXS - 3X. On-line business only, but very good shipping policy with free returns and exchanges.
Good Canadian option if you are a fan of: J Crew, Eileen Fisher, Club Monaco (now US owned), Banana Republic, Gap, Everlane
I should note that while these are smaller brands than the ones I noted in my first Shop Canada post, I walked along West 4th in Kitsalano (Vancouver) yesterday and Frank and Oak, Kotn and Duer all have physical shops in that main shopping area (alongside SO many Canadian jewellery and footwear brands - which I'll tackle in my next post...stay tuned!).
I'd love to know if you try any of these - and, of course, if you have some Canadian faves!
Comments