Louis Vuitton Has Still Got it
by Logan Steele · 1 Comment
Louis Vuitton | 111 Bloor St. W. | (416) 968-3993
Hours: Mon–Wed 10–6, Thurs – Fri 10–8, Sat 10–6, Sun 12-5
Louis Vuitton was founded in 1854 in Paris, France. At this time it was primarily a trunk manufacturer, gaining such immediate recognition that it was forced to expand its operation and relocate its factory to Asnieres by 1860. Needless to say this was the beginning of what would later become one of the world’s first luxury and designer brand producers. International recognition wasn’t far behind and L.V. quickly became the luggage standard for royalty, diplomats and the elite. 1892 marked the demise of the company’s original founder and ushered in its takeover by his son, Georges. Georges is credited with developing the now iconic “L.V.” monogram after facing bouts with inferior imitators. This symbol would become one of the best known in marketing history as the company propelled itself to even greater heights.
What I love about this particular label is that it has never seemed to have lost its momentum and focus. Considering, it could be argued, that L.V. is the first luxury brand, that’s saying a lot. The label is so beloved in its hometown of Paris that a law was enacted ensuring that anyone seen selling or carrying an imitation will face immediate confiscation. How crazy is that? All you L.V. fake owners consider yourself warned! Even today there are limits placed on how much L.V. product a tourist can buy in the span of a visit, and it is not uncommon to be approached by other tourists who may ask you to buy bags for them because they have exceeded their limits. Believe me, it happened to my wife and me on our last visit to Paris. It was very dodgy: a couple had handed us a picture of the desired product and was proposed giving us the money to go and get it for them. If this isn’t an indication of a world gone Vuitton mad, I don’t know what is. My point is, L.V. hasn’t lost a single step and is just as relevant as ever.
1998 would be the beginning of the era of Marc Jacobs, who was brought on board by Georges son, Gasto-Louis. What can you say about the brilliance of this coupling? Marc Jacobs had just come from a very successful relationship as the Head Designer of the American brand, Perry Ellis, and was highly regarded as the man who brought “grunge” to the runway. It seemed like he had just the right amount of edge to modernize the veteran luxury label. And it worked. Since the partnership, L.V. has received record-breaking sales and is seen worn by everyone imaginable, from debutante to derelict. The luggage, tote, handbags and all accessories are unceasingly innovative. The clothing line is unbelievably progressive and continuously, season after season, reminds the world of how being fashionable can become an everyday occurrence. I love this line. And, if you are ever in Paris, do yourself a favour and check out the newly renovated flagship store on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. It is stunning and the ambiance reads more like a museum than a retailer. It is fully worth the fifteen minute line up that is often present at the store’s entrance way. What can I say? The Parisians know what they are doing where fashion is concerned.
This brings us to the Louis Vuitton store here in Toronto. I must say the atmosphere seemed very proper and reminded me more of a library than that of a designer boutique. I did find it a bit stuffy. Don’t get me wrong, the store’s interior is breathtaking and would no doubt please any die-hard L.V. connoisseur. The security staff make their presence known and make you feel slightly reluctant to touch or pick up any item, possibly in fear of the “you break, you buy” policy being swiftly enforced. But I must say they have a great selection of not only the expected L.V. bags, but also its clothing collection. This thrills me because I find this is often the component most noticeably missing from a lot of the other high-end stores in the city. The staff was surprisingly very helpful and was willing to take the time to show me around. I wasn’t expecting them to bend over backwards; however they did extend the courtesy of answering my questions. If you have been to some of the other boutiques on Bloor, you know exactly why I’m bringing up this point. Overall I enjoyed my experience at L.V. and would put it on a to-do list for Toronto destination shopping.
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Nomadic Refuge
by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Have you ever found yourself somewhere, that you have past by time and time again, and once finally there, wonder why it had taken you so long? Well that describes my love affair with, Nomad. Sister store to both Goodfoot and Ransom (I’ll get back to this point in a minute). This edgy men’s boutique is home to some of the rarest denim and overall high-end street labels in the city. As well as some of the coolest male jewelry and accessory selections, to boot. Nommes de Guerres, Commes des Garcon, Supreme, Icerok, Simon Miller Jeans, are just a hand full of the designers offered in this very unassuming retailer. Toronto’s shopping just got interesting.
This store was actually recommended to me, about three years ago, when I had mentioned to a friend that I was on the hunt for a pair of Adidas Y3 sneakers. They said, at the time, “That was only only place that came to mind that even carried the brand”. I had asked them, “Where the store was located?” And, was surprised when they had replied, “Beside Goodfoot and underneath Ransom”. Now, these two stores I was very familiar with and had frequented. So I was puzzled on how it was I could have missed this gem. I made my way over, and just like an answer that was under your nose that whole time, there was Nomad. Believe me, there was far more than just Y3’s to hold any ones interest. So, I guess, the moral of my story is: don’t make my mistake and find you way to Nomad sooner than later.
Nomad | 431 Richmond St. W. | (416) 682-1107
Hours: Mon – Sat 12–7, Sun 12–6
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Jac’s Flash
by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Who could have guessed that a simple conversation on a beach in St. Bart’s would have given birth to one of Toronto’s hottest destination shopping spots? Father and daughter team Geoffery and Jaclyn Genovese opened Jacflash in late September of 2007, all spawning from their mutual love and fascination with fashion and its ever growing trends. This hot spot quickly began to gain a buzz and has already catered to the style needs of such celebrities as Jessica Alba, Jake Gyllenhall, Shanae Grimes, among others.
The store flourishes due to the amazing buying eye and tastes of its owners. Bringing such exciting labels as: Endovanera, Alice and Olivia, Transit, Jac by Jacflash and Operations (just to name a few) into the impeccably designed two thousand square foot space. Which also hosts a music lounge where you are welcome to listen and purchase the works of local and unsigned artists. This shop’s demographic is as varied as its selection. And, you’d be pretty hard pressed not find something there for all, from teen to adult. As one of the new kids on the block Jacflash has already proven itself as a force to be reckoned with.
I know that I sound a bit bias when I speak about Jacflash but, bear in mind that I did work there for ten months in its first year. Which in itself is odd because from a service industry back ground, I had swore never to work in a retail environment. No disrespect to all the sales associates out there. I got a lot of love for what you do and what you have to put up with, trust me. Where was I? Oh yeah, Jacflash. I often refer to it as a rock star’s closet. I remember before working there I had stumbled upon it while walking down Queen West, shortly after it had opened. I stopped at the window and thought to myself “When the hell did this get here?” and “What’s the name of this place?” I was in awe of the clothes and how stylish the mannequins were merchandised, both male and female. I remember saying something to my wife, along the lines of ; “I can see myself doing a lot of damage here”. Me being such a compulsive shopholic, she knew exactly what I was getting at.
Weeks down the road, a good friend of ours was offered the position of managing the store and had later proposed I come with. She said “they were looking for a male sales associate with a sense of both style and fashion to run the men’s section”. And, seeing that she played her words so nicely to my ego, how could I possibly have said “No”? After a quick interview with Jac and her father, I was in. To make a long story short; I learned a lot about the retail game and I did do a lot of damage. I don’t think I saved a penny while working there but, my wardrobe certainly didn’t suffer for it. Thanks Jac! If you are or even aren’t in the area, I would highly advise you drop by and see what all the hype is about.
Jacflash | 1036 Queen St. W. | (416) 516-8766
Hours: Mon – Sat 11 – 7, Sun 12 – 5
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There’s Something About Sydney’s
by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Now, I will go on record as saying as far as men’s boutiques in this city goes, Sydney’s is currently my favorite. This very simply merchandised, well laid out retail nook. Is everything the modern male shopper could ask for. Very straight to the point garments.
Owner, Sydney Mamane (a former film costumer), provides his patrons with classical styled pieces that truly embrace the aesthetic of the male appearance and silhouette. Originally carrying both men’s and women’s clothing. This boutiques has recently fixed its focus on bringing back style to the well dressed man. Clothing and footwear designers the likes of: Shipley and Halmos, Rick Owens DRKSHDW, Rokin, F-Troupe, Opening Ceremonies among others. Are all found in this grounded but upscale men’s shop.
Like most great finds in the city, I happened to find myself inside this shop by mere chance. I was investigating some of the newer spots that had popped on Queen West, when I came across this one. At the time Sydney was still in the midst of putting the final touches to his store but, was gracious enough to have it opened to the public. The store was decorated in a classic tailor shop decorum with, fabric shears displayed on its wall and measuring tape throughout its modest layout. It had most definitely sparked my interest. That, and the fact that he was carrying my favorite men’s designer at the time Daniele Alessandrini, that was only available at a very select few locations within the city.
Sydney’s knowledge of the clothing and manufacturing business is so extensive that, you’ll feel completely satisfied with any and all of your well informed purchases. Since that day, I have often found myself poking my head in to see what’s new and he never disappoints. His selection is always sharp and concise to what’s happening in the now, and upcoming. Plus, where else can you go to get custom made denim? Go in and see what I mean.
Sydney’s | 795 Queen St. W. | (416) 603-3369
Hours: Mon – Wed 12–7, Thurs – Fri 12–8, Sat 12–7, Sun 12–6
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Gucci Schmoochi
by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Founded by Guccio Gucci, the House of Gucci started in 1906 in Florence, Italy, as primarily a leather goods operation that catered to horsemen in the 1920’s. The house, as modern times progressed, began to make luxury luggage pieces as the world traded in their horses for horseless carriages. It was at this point that its founder opened up his first store in Rome on Via Condotti. By 1947 Gucci had become a buy-word amongst Europe’s upper echelon society. And, by the 1950’s had evolved the brand to also include handbags, shoes as well as ties. Unfortunately Guccio would pass away in 1953 leaving behind an empire for his family to maintain.
By the 1960’s the Gucci empire had adopted the “GG” logo and had branched out into the U.S, Hong Kong, Korean and Japanese markets. Gucci was now a status symbol and was widely seen on the arms of Hollywood’s A-listers and the affluent. However, its success would meet harder times as it journeyed into the late 1980’s market and would eventually be partially sold by Maurizio Gucci in 1993 to Investcorp in efforts to save the struggling house.
Now, when I personally think of Gucci my mind immediately references the 1990’s and the era of, my fashion hero, Mr.Tom Ford. Who had been recruited after an immense success as the Creative Director of Yves Saint Laurent (in which Gucci had bought in 1999). Tom Ford, then, Gucci’s Creative Director, was accredited as single handily bringing the brand back into the forefront of designer fashion and luxury goods. And, out of near bankruptcy. By reinventing and rejuvenating the then dying label, Mr. Ford established his legacy. His accomplishments, even to this very day, cannot be replicated. Tom Ford finally went into business for himself and developed the highly anticipated self-titled line. (You may even want to visit Tom Ford’s Fan Page)
Although the Gucci Store in Toronto is beautiful without any question. I personally found it overrun with handbags, belts, shoes and accessories. And, had only traces of collection and ready-to-wear pieces. I guess it may have been an attempt at maintaining the original vision as developed by its founder. Who knows? Although I had received a half hearted greeting, the staff was, to be kind, unaccommodating and seemingly reluctant to approach. That was, if they did not feel your encounter would generate and guarantee a sale. Commission is a bitch but, you would expect a sales associate that can potentially make as much as they do at Gucci, would be a bit more receptive to acquiring a potential new client.
Just as a side note; I’ve been to the flagship store in Paris and was attended to far more conscientiously than I was here. There is absolutely no comparing that gorgeous architecturally superior retail environment, to the measly three thousand square foot, box of a set up, that we house here in Toronto. And, yes they did carry Gucci’s full line, women’s and men’s. That being said, the product is still fantastically inventive and classic.
Don’t let my jaded review stop you from experiencing it for yourself.
Gucci Toronto | 130 Bloor St. W. | (416) 963-5127
Hours: Mon–Wed 10–6, Thurs –Fri 10–7 Sat 10 – 6 , Sun 12 –5
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