Shop Canada - Part 1

We are in such a strange, uncertain time. Though I always advocate for shopping our closets, NOW feels like a particularly good time for making new outfits with what we already have!

If you do need to add some new pieces to add to your wardrobe and want to avoid supporting US brands at the moment, I know options can sometimes feel limited if you want to send more love/$$ to Canadian owned lines.

I've been working on a comprehensive list of Canadian apparel brands/lines. While the ones listed in this post are Canadian owned or based businesses, most manufacture largely outside of Canada. I've tried to check where their manufacturing is happening (my goal was to focus on primarily outside of the US at this time) as well as what types of factories they are using. That being said, it's up to you to do your due diligence and dig a little deeper if you want to learn more about a particular brand's manufacturing practices.

Because there is a lot to cover, I'm starting here with more mainstream stores/chains and will follow up in upcoming days with some lesser known or more specialized brands. I'll also do a separate roundup of foootwear and accessory options.

Department store option: Simons

While the Hudson's Bay is likely the more well-known/iconic Canadian department store (and is definitely an option!), Simons is one that many people may not be as familiar with. I love to shop here for both for myself and with my clients, or when supporting my clients with some on-line shopping.

Simons originated in Quebec City in 1840 and there are several brick and mortar stores across Canada. In BC, we. have one in. West Van at Park Royal and there have been some whisperings that Simons may take over some of the old Nordstrom space downtown (my fingers are crossed!).

Simons has a great range of well-priced, good quality in-house brands that are size inclusive and that cater to all ages. Great options for men/women, accessories/footwear as well as a home decor. It's a lovely one stop shop with clothing that will suit so many style personalities.

While Simons does carry other brands outside of their house lines (some of which will be American), there are many options at this department store where you can steer clear from US brands if that is on your radar at the moment.

Note: Simons does have a small designer section. However, if you are in the market to shop designer; I would recommend Holt Renfrew as they have an overall luxury feel/experience.

If you don't live near a physical store, on-line shopping with a Canadian brand is so much easier as you don't need to worry about all those extra duties!

**Simons is great to check out if you are a fan of Macy's or Nordstrom.

Some inspiration from Simons - find links to pieces here.

Canada has many moderately priced, stylish chain brands that you are likely familiar with, but that may not be your first go-to...but they are worth another look (either in person or on-line)...

5 Canadian chain stores to have on your radar:

RW & CO: Offers versatile pieces that translate well for work, home and social activities. Serves men and women and has a size range from XXS-XXL. RW is owned by Reitmans - a longstanding Canadian institution.

**Good Canadian option if you are a fan of: Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, Gap, Loft, and it occasionally has some J Crew feeling pieces

Reitmans: Tends to be a slightly lesser price-point than RW & Co but generally in the same clothing category. Includes everyday basics, wardrobe staples and some special occasion pieces. Catering to women. of all ages with a fabulous inclusive size range to 3X.

**Good to check out if you are a fan of : Talbots, Loft, Express

Oak & Fort: Clothing for women & men as well as homeware department. Great if you want elevated basics, workwear pieces that don't feel too office-y, as well as clothing for social outings or hanging at home. They really aim to suit a range of lifestyle options. If you lean more minimal in your style this could be a good brand for you, though garments will suit a range of style personalities - it's all in how you wear them! Size range goes to an XL. Oak and Fort also has some stores in the US.

**Good alternative to look at if you are a fan of: Banana Republic, J Crew, Club Monaco (note: while Club Monaco was a Canadian founded company, it's been bought out by Ralph Lauren so now is a US owned business).

Joe Fresh: While Joe Fresh has ventured into the US, they are still a Canadian owned company. The general feel is modern (but not too trendy) with a sense of polish all for great value. They also have fabulous active and outerwear options at such an affordable price-point and inclusive sizing. Added bonus: you can knock off your grocery and clothes shopping at the same time!

**Good to check out if you are a fan of: Gap, Old Navy or doing combined grocery/clothing in places like Walmart or Costco!

Dynamite: This brand has recently improved its quality and style game the past few years. It's a favourite of many stylists in my International network. It is a Canadian owned and founded company, but has some stores Internationally though the majority are still in Canada. Great for doing a quick update in your wardrobe with more trend focused pieces, but the brand isn't entirely trendy. Downside: they aren't as size inclusive as I would like to see at this point with most garments ranging from XXS- XL.

**Good Canadian founded option if you are a fan of: Express, Loft, & Other Stories, Abercrombie. Note: this also has Zara and H&M vibes, both brands that are not Canada-founded, but also not US.

Some Canadian owned brand inspiration - find links here.

Two Canadian chains I left off the list: Aritzia & Lululemon

These Canadian founded brands are icons! You likely have shopped them and they remain fabulous options. I left these off the above list because Lululemon now describes itself as a Canadian-American multi-national company. Aritzia still seems to be primarily Canadian owned despite having US stores, but their website indicates that they do a significant amount of manufacturing in the US in addition to many other worldwide suppliers.

One final but important note: By no means am I any sort of expert on trade/manufacturing etc. Also, there is no judgement if you want to continue to shop your favourite US brands! This roundup came to mind as many people have expressed interest in re-thinking their shopping options given the current climate.

Stay tuned for my list of smaller Canadian based brands - some real gems I'm excited to share!