Local's guide: Canada's best vintage and boutiques
Canada offers up unique experiences that you won't find in any guidebook -- you just have to know where to find them. To help you explore like a local, we've asked friends from across the country to share their top spots and experiences from the cities they call home. Bundled by interest or passion, consider this your local's guide to traveling through the country's vibrant cities and boundless wilderness.
Thanks to Joann Pai, Kael Rebick, and Callum Snape for their local tips.
Canada’s fashion scene spans rare high fashion boutiques and secret vintage hideaways. Dressed up or casual, locals and travelers can always find totally unique apparel.
Haven - Vancouver
High Japanese fashion for men
Haven is a menswear boutique in Vancouver's historic Gastown district and is a destination for rare and exclusive threads. Think high-quality pieces from Japanese designers and stylish, unique clothing you can't find anywhere else in the country. Our local insider warns it's easy to get lost sifting through the high-quality collections -- but risk is often worth the reward.
Frank + Oak - Montreal, Vancouver, Edmonton, and Toronto
A Canadian staple
Founded in Montreal, Frank + Oak started out as an online menswear brand. Now, they operate shops in Montreal, Vancouver, Edmonton, and Toronto, bringing their stylish and affordable men's and women's clothing to locals. Their sweaters are a must for every Canadian's wardrobe.
SalvEdge Boutique – Calgary
Where old meets new
With two locations in Calgary, this consignment store will make you rethink second hand. With a variety of high-end items for men and women, you'll definitely be able to find a treasure at SalvEdge. Plus, they offer an event called Sip & Shop, where you can do just that - have a drink and buy your next favorite piece (or two).
The Future of Frances Watson - Toronto
Funny name, serious fashion
The Future of Frances Watson may sound like a strange indie film, but the men's and women's boutique curates the finest clothing from local designers, plus an impressive selection of raw selvedge denim jeans that will last for years. The unique collections mean that you'll never sport the same look as anyone else back home.
Ok My Dear Vintage - Moncton
Don’t say ok, say yes
If you're looking for a mix of quirk and cute, Ok My Dear Vintage is it. A curated boutique of knick knacks, art, and clothing, this shop in New Brunswick is home to stellar finds for just about everyone. They offer a constant stream of new picks and the staff here also offer A+ service. So, we suggest you just say yes to thrifting when you're on Canada's east coast.
Eyelet Dove - Winnipeg
The finest and fanciest
A Winnipeg staple since 1978, Eyelet Dove has you covered when it comes to undressing. Focused on the best lingerie and swimwear, every local knows this is the spot to find your next underpinnings. The best part of the experience (besides all of the luxury delicates)? The service - make sure you ask for Mindy. If you're looking for something to go over your new purchase, head next door to Therapy Boutique for everything from jeans to ball gowns.
Courage My Love - Toronto
A quirky vintage institution
Courage My Love has been selling awesome vintage clothing since 1975 in the historic and diverse Kensington neighborhood. It's our local tipster's go-to spot for vintage finds.
WANT - Montreal
Where you'll need everything
Part-clothier, part-apothecary, WANT offers top-tier, high-fashion clothing and accessories for men and women. WANT focuses on Swedish designers who use minimalist lines and beautiful neutral fabrics. The service and selection is unprecedented in the City of Saints.
Front & Company - Vancouver
The destination for vintage wearables
If you're looking for a huge selection of awesome vintage apparel and accessories, stop by consignment store and gift shop Front & Company. Locals love the constantly changing merchandise and their fun shop next door that sells stationery, knick-knacks, and gifts.
Bungalow - Toronto
New and old for your wardrobe and home
Bungalow sells both classic vintage apparel and stylish new clothing in their Kensington, Toronto shop. Bungalow also offers amazing furniture and housewares at super reasonable prices. It's a perfect mix of new and old.
Clark Street Mercantile - Montreal
Rustically casual
Clark Street Mercantile might be full of vintage vibes, including its gorgeous stone building and exposed wood ceilings, but their selection of men's clothing is distinctly now. The shop's line uses high-quality craftsmanship to make sophisticated flannels, outerwear, and casual apparel.
High fashion, whimsical vintage, and high-quality clothing is found in abundance at men's and women's shops and boutiques across Canada. Local designers, especially, have made an impression on the country's fashion scene. When your friends ask where you got that awesome outfit, make sure you tell them it's from Canada.
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