Shopping local is a long-time tradition that Toronto shoppers hold dear. With an array of boutiques dotting the trendiest fashion neighbourhoods, Canadian designers stand proudly above and beside the greatest global brands.
Toronto’s posh Yorkville neighbourhood boasts an infinite list of amazing fashions. If Canadian designs are your priority, come to try on the designs of Fidelity Denim, Wings + Horns, Canada Goose, Mackage, Foxy Originals and more. The shop is frequented by Toronto’s trendiest and has even been voted best denim shop.
Step into this shop for a taste of Canadiana. While perusing the collections, you’re bound to catch yourself humming the national anthem. In trading post style, the boutique offers rugged outdoor wear, woolly sweaters and an array of Canadian-made goods and accessories. Cast against the all-wood interior are designs from Minnetonka, OSC Cross, Birds of a Feather, Sasha Eillenna and classic Hudson’s Bay.
GotStyle is a leading menswear store in Toronto catering to dapper guys who like to dress well. Their two downtown locations boast complete wardrobe selections from tees to full suits and stylish outerwear, and often host special fashion events. Along with recognized brands, GotStyle showcases a Canadian collection including Bustle, Christopher Bates, Lipson and Naked Underwear. You’ll also find tailoring services and an on-site barbershop offering stylish cuts and hot shaves.
Michelle Germain owns this Parkdale indie shop that boasts all Canadian designs, taking her passion to a new level after previously working at a large Canadian retailer. Along with its clothing selection, Shopgirls also stocks arts and crafts, jewellery and small house wares. Go online to shop from home and check out the innovative “Shop by Shape” method. Discover some of Canada’s favourite ready-to-wear, indie-inspired designers: Danielle Zippan, LaKrause, Denis Gagnon, Eve Gravel and Maudlin & Joy.
With three boutiques across the city, Fresh Collective offers hand-picked Canadian labels from independent Toronto designers. The emphasis is on building your personal wardrobe on a foundation of unique and versatile pieces that reflect your personality and can be worn at different events throughout the year. Designers work closely with the store to host events and trunk shows and exchange customer feedback.
Before launching her own collection, owner Jennifer Ziliotto Durand worked in Chanel’s Paris studios. If that’s not excuse enough to stop by this local designer’s boutique, then you may need to revisit your style priorities. She brings contemporary looks that are trendy yet simple. Using prints and bold colours, Ziliotto hopes to unmask her customers’ inner style.
Found on the Ossington strip, Jonathan+Olivia is a renowned boutique. Often visited by international celebrities and tastemakers, the shop’s popularity continues to grow. Offering the latest collections from some of fashion week’s top designers, Canadian designers also hold a prominent place. DL Eyewear, Horses, J+O Family sit alongside top names, such as Alexander Wang and ACNE Studios. For top fashion pieces, this hip boutique is a must-see.