There’s tons of reasons to skip the big names and hit up the local shops Toronto has to offer. Maybe you’re a serial mall avoider but you can’t find your last pair of underwear. You hate getting lost in Winners but your socks are filled with holes. Perhaps your sister’s birthday was weeks ago but you can’t find anything good online. Maybe you just really care about supporting cool locals and their goods. Here’s 8 local shops Toronto shoppers should definitely check out!
GOOD NEIGHBOUR
This little converted bungalow is adorable from the street. Once inside, you’ll find a great selection of clothes, accessories, and house trinkets. It’s an ideal place to hunt for a super unique gift!
Where: 935 Queen St E
SHOPGIRLS GALLERY BOUTIQUE
All Canadian, all the time. This shop’s perfect for chic outfits that can go from work to the weekend. Additionally, they’re keen to help you shop for pieces that complement your shape, so none of that awkward sausage jean situation.
Where: 1342 Queen St W
OVER THE RAINBOW
This family-owned spot is a great place to snag a staple pair of jeans. Also, Meagan Markle frequented here in her pre-London days, so you know they’re quality.
Where: 101 Yorkville Ave
LIKELY GENERAL
The owners here set out to create an inclusive space where anyone and everyone could find something they loved. Browse the collection, and then grab a quick tarot reading before you go! The salesperson at Walmart probably wouldn’t do that.
Where: 389 Roncevalles Ave
SYDNEY’S
If the guy in the department store doesn’t understand your weird arm to body ratio, go here. This men’s clothing and tailor offers bespoke, made-to-measure clothes unlike anywhere else. Sydney himself may pop out to help you find the perfect new suit!
Where: 682 Queen St W
THE NOOKS
Formerly DESIGNnook, this is every handmade good in Toronto under one roof! There’s no better place to pick directly from the collections of artisans. From soaps to jewelry, even the picky ones can find something they love here!
Where: 2038 Danforth Ave
COOL GREEN AND SHADY
The founder of this boutique floral shop is a Toronto local with a major love for flowers. She set out to create beautiful arrangements, originally running the shop with only the help of her hubby. Now, you can get flowers for weddings, special events, or that special someone with the help of her sweet local staff.
Where: 601 Kingston Rd, Suite 105
HART & HIVE
Hart & Hive is not your typical local clothing shop. Find one-off jewelry pieces, furniture items, and home items. Where else are you going to snag an acoustic cellphone amplifier that looks like a record player? Nowhere.
Where: 353 College St
If you spend your money local, it stays local. Nothing makes a new pair of jeans feel better than knowing you’re boosting our economy and helping local shop owners do their thing!
