Independence day: Indie clothing boutiques in Vancouver
The independent spirit is alive and well on the West Coast, and Vancouver’s fashionistas embody this in their wardrobe choices. It’s easy to avoid the generic chain stores and shopping malls in favour of locally made and designed clothes, but you do have to dig below the surface. Here, just a handful of some of Vancouver’s top independent clothing boutiques.
One of A Few
354 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B6Established in 2005, One of a Few curates beautiful and thoughtful clothing, footwear, bags and objects from creative designers around the world. Supporting both well-known and emerging labels, they seek products with value, artistry and beauty. This Gastown shop appeals to those with distinctive and sophisticated tastes.
Tenth & Proper
4483 W 10th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6R 2H8Located in Point Grey Village, this charming boutique carries beautifully designed and crafted clothing for women. With a varied selection of Canadian and European labels, you’ll find tailored jackets and well-made skirts and blouses, along with classy dresses and accessories. Treat yourself to a quality investment piece for your wardrobe.
Little Dream Apparel Articles For People
13-1666 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3S2It’s easy to understand how this women’s clothing shop has such devoted regular customers. With unique fashions created by stylish locals, whimsical jewellery and plenty of personal attention from their friendly staff, you can’t go wrong at Dream. They’ve been showcasing Vancouver-based designers since 1993 in their Gastown headquarters and at their sister shop, Little Dream, on Granville Island.
Twig & Hottie
3671 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3N6Stepping into Twigg & Hottie's earthy and minimal Main Street shop is like easing into a comfortable, well-designed outfit. So it’s not surprising that they support local, sustainable and Canadian designers, and stock three of their own house labels. Once you slip into their world, it’s hard to leave.
El Kartel
104 Pender St E, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T3A staple of Vancouver’s art and fashion scene, El Kartel carries exclusive brands from all over the world and showcases local and international artists. Browse the racks of urban graphic street wear to a soundtrack by in-house DJs at either of their Granville-shopping-district or Chinatown locations.
Front & Company
3772 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3N7This legendary shop on Main Street has been around since 1993 and continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Originally a consignment store for women’s and men’s clothing, Front and Company now also offers new accessories such as hats, jewellery and footwear. They also carry fun novelty gift items.
