The “Diesel” Has Landed
July 28, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
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Diesel has finally opened up its very own flagship store right here in downtown Toronto. The 30 year old luxury denim house has found itself a new home in a gorgeous 7,700 square foot, two-storey paradise located in the ultra fabulous Yorkville district. The store offers the latest cuts and collections for man, woman and child. And, is sure to meet the fashion needs of all in our great city.
Diesel Store Toronto | 92 Yorkville Ave | (416) 968-3335
Hours: Mon-Wed 10-6, Thu-Fri 10-8, Sat 10-7, Sun 12-6
Tom’s Place
June 25, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Established in 1958 inside Toronto’s historic Kensington Market, Tom’s Place has definitely stood the test of time. This shop offers a huge selection of business / casual wear, custom clothing, outer wear and formal attire for both men and women, all at very reasonable prices I might add. With many more years left under its belt, Tom’s Place is certainly worth a visit.
Tom’s Place | 190 Baldwin St. | (416) 596-0297
Hours: Mon – Wed 10-6, Thurs – Fri 10-7, Sat 9-6, Sun 12-5
Branded Boutique
June 25, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Branded Boutique offers its customers designer men’s and women’s fashion at a considerable savings (a 40 – 85% savings to be exact). Lines such as; Rock & Republics, Ed Hardy, Seven, True Religion and more can all be found within this urban outlet’s quarters. Conveniently located in downtown Toronto’s Fashion District, this is a great place for those fashionistas on a budget.
Branded Boutique | 161 Spadina Ave. | (647) 436-7135
Hours: Mon – Fri 11-7, Sun 12-5
Harry Rosen Outlet – Men’s wear for less
March 19, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Now, I’m not exactly sure why they call it the “Heart Land” considering that there is not a whole lot out there besides a Tim Horton’s, gas stations and strip malls. However; one thing I can definitely give my testimonial to is the Heartland Town Centre and most notably the Harry Rosen Outlet. Finally an outlet for men that desire to update as well as add flare to their existing wardrobe and at a fraction of the original cost, I might add. Their selection of designer suits and sport coats alone is worth the trip to Mississauga. Not to mention dress shirts, shoes, casual wear, accessories, outerwear… I can’t see how you could be possibly disappointed by your visit. Hugo Boss, Burberry, Lacoste, Marc Andrews, Belstaff are all here if you are willing to hunt through the stores seemingly endless racks of men’s wear. Gentlemen you have been informed now go forth and be stylish.
Harry Rosen Outlet | Heart Land Town Centre | 5985 Rodeo Dr. Mississauga On. | (905) 890-3100
Hours: Mon – Fri 10–9, Sat 9–6, Sun 11–5
Holt Renfrew’s Last Call – Discount designer shopping
March 19, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
What more can be said about Holt Renfrew’s Last Call besides – don’t walk, run and check it out. Any shopper that seeks amazing deals by even more amazing labels, will find themselves overwhelmed at the outlets new location inside the mammoth Vaughan Mills Mall. You name the label Last Call probably has it, that’s assuming you don’t mind buying off season, from Boss to Cavalli it is all there awaiting your discovery. Dolce and Gabbana and Fendi priced at a fraction of its original suggested retail price, the list goes on and on. I couldn’t think of a better excuse to escape to the Burbs.
Vaughan Mills Mall | 1 Bass Pro Mills. Dr. | (905) 886-74444
Hours: Mon – Sat 10–9, Sun 11-7
Marc Jacobs – Finding Marc in the heart of the city
March 19, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Hailed as being one of New York city’s favorite sons, Marc Jacobs 25 year career as a designer has influenced the way the world views glamour and practicality. Jacob accredited as the man who single handily brought “grunge” to the runway during his tenure as the Head Designer for Perry Ellis. Can also add being Americas youngest designer to ever be recognized and awarded by the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) in 1987. His self titled line as well as its ready to wear offspring Marc by Marc Jacobs, have flourished and has quickly become one of the most sought after and co vetted designs in the global market. So desired in fact that many imitations and knock-off have spawned worldwide. His work with the legendary house Louis Vuitton, have surpassed any and all expectations. And, generated record breaking sales for the power house label.
As “in demand” as Marc’s clothing are unfortunately, Toronto has limited locations in which the designers work are available. I don’t think we will see a Marc Jacobs boutiques anytime soon but, here are a list of some retailers that carry the line. If you seek, you will find.
Holt Renfrew | 50 Bloor St. W. | (416) 922-2333
Hours: Mon – Wed 10–6, Thurs – Fri 10–8, Sat 10 -7, Sun 12-6
Sherway Gardens | 25 The West Mall | (416) 621-9900
Hours: Mon – Fri 10–9, Sat 9:30–6, Sun 11-5
Yorkdale Mall | 3401 Dufferin Street | 416-789-5377
Hours: Mon – Fri 10 – 9, Sat 9:30- 9, Sun 11 – 6
Corbo Boutique | 119 Yorkville Ave. | 416-928-9898
Hours: Mon. – Wed. 10–6, Thurs. 10–8, Fri. – Sat. 10–6, Sun. 1–5
Holt Renfrew – The definition of high end shopping
March 4, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
First and foremost let me start off by saying, that even I can’t believe that I have not written a specific post about Holt Renfrew, until right now. My apologies for my oversight. I guess in my efforts to enlighten the public about all our other amazing retail destinations, I had forgotten the most obvious of them all. Holts is what high end shopping is all about, that is assuming you have the budget to back that (at times) crippling bill you will inevitably receive upon your purchase. There is no end to the designer label cavalcade you’ll find in this institution of Canadian consumerism. You name it Holts has it; LV, Prada, D&G, Marc Jacobs just for starters and without breaking a single sweat. This is THE cutting edge retailer for our great city. Enough said.
Holt Renfrew | 50 Bloor St. W. | (416) 922-2333
Hours : Mon – Wed 10–6, Thurs – Fri 10–8, Sat 10-7, Sun 12-6
Sherway Gardens | 25 The West Mall | (416) 621-9900
Hours: Mon – Fri 10–9, Sat 9:30–6, Sun 11-5
Yorkdale | 3401 Dufferin Street | (416) 789-5377
Hours : Mon – Fri 10–9, Sat 9:30-9, Sun 11-6
Top 10 Boutiques for Men
March 4, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Now, I know as a Man it may seem a bit more of a challenge to get out there to update your wardrobe, especially for the upcoming Spring / Summer season. The idea of going from store to store to find that updated fashion item, may seem equivalent to going out of your way for a colonic. It’s a pain in the ass and wipes you out. Well, fellas I am here to eliminate the hassle of shopping for yourself and provide you with a Top 10 list of some retailers that will cater to your on going quest to be both stylish and masculine. (And, many of them are located on Queen St. W., I don’t know how I could make this any more convenient?) And, men try to have some fun out there, shopping isn’t all bad, just ask your female counter part.
10. Lileo
Lileo | 55 Mill St. (at Parliament St.), Bldg. 35 | 416-413-1410
Hours : (Fall–Winter) Mon – Sat 10–7, Sun 10–6 (Spring–Summer)Mon – Wed 10–7, Thurs – Sat 10–9, Sun 10–6
9. Got Style
Got Style | 489 King St. W. | 416-260-9696
Hours : Mon –Wed 11–7, Thurs – Fri 11–9, Sat 11– 7, Sun 12-5
8. Jacflash
Jacflash | 1036 Queen St. W. | 416-516-8766
Hours : Mon – Sat 11–7, Sun 12–5
Jonathan + Olivia | 49 Ossington Ave. | 416-849-5956
Hours : Mon – Sat 12–7, Sun 12–5
Kamakazi Boutique | 781 Queen St. W. | 416-304-0887
Hours : Mon – Wed 11–7, Thurs – Fri 11–8, Sat 11–6, Sun 12-6
5. Sydney’s
Sydney’s | 795 Queen St. W. | 416-603-3369
Hours : Mon – Wed 12–7, Thurs – Fri 12–8, Sat 12 – 7, Sun 12 – 6
4. Buckler
Buckler | 700 Queen St. W. | (416) 551-8441
Hours : Mon – Fri 12–8, Sat 11–7, Sun 12–6
3. Nomad
Nomad | 431 Richmond St. W. (at Spadina) | 416-682-1107
Hours : Mon – Sat 12–7, Sun 12–6
Next Door | 433 Queen St. W. | 416-593-6267
Hours : Mon – Wed 11–7, Thurs – Fri 11–8, Sat 11–7, Sun 12–6
Due West | 431 Queen St. W. (at Spadina) | 416-593-6267
Hours : Mon –Wed 10–8, Thurs – Fri. 10–9, Sat 10–8, Sun 12–7
1. Boomer
Boomer | 309 Queen St. W. | 416-598-0013
Hours : Mon – Fri 10:30–7, Sat 10:30–6, Sun 1–5
Does “Got Style” Truly Have Style…?
January 17, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
Gentlemen this store serves as example that when it comes to shopping, women do not have all the fun. As implied in the name, this is the boutique for the man that has truly got a strong sense of their own personal fashion. What can I say? With lines such as Tiger of Sweden, House of Howe, Bustle (just to name a few). Plus, custom tailored suits and shirts. And, a pampering lounge for that man who needs a bit of extra attention. I would say? It is pretty hard to go unnoticed once you’ve done yourself a favor and pay Got Style a visit. Can’t we all use a little more style in our lives?
Got Style | 489 King St. W. | (416) 260-9696
Hours: Mon–Wed 11–7, Thurs–Fri 11–9, Sat 11– 7, Sun 12 – 5
Winners – A Shopaholic’s Hidden Gold Mine
January 14, 2009 by Logan Steele · Leave a Comment
For over a quarter century now (26 years to be exact) Torontonians have enjoyed the benefit of discount designer shopping thanks to the mega retailer Winners.
Winners originally opened its doors in our fair city in 1982. This bargain hub houses appealingly priced seasonal clothing & accessory items. If you have a keen eye and a little persistence, Winners can be a shopaholic’s gold mine. You can come out with some amazing current looks for much less (up to 60% less) than their normal retail prices.
I myself am a huge fan of this chain and have found everything from a Valentino Red wool blazer to a pair of Costume National sneakers, which I had purchased at a fraction of their original retail cost.
When shopping at Toronto Winners, note that not all stores are created equal. They don’t all carry the same stock and some just seem to carry more hidden gems than others. I actually find the less-frequently visited locations possess the greatest chances at finding designer gold.
Here are my Top 5 Winners locations within the Toronto area.
1. Winners | 57 Spadina Avenue at King | 416-585-2052
Those of you who live in the downtown core may be wondering why I’ve even bothered to bring up this location. Granted it is small and often looks like a band of looters have just paid it a visit. However, if you find yourself there, I recommend a trip to their men’s denim section and shoe department. You may be pleasantly surprised.
2. Winners | 4-3090 Bathurst Street at Lawrence | 416-782-4469
This particular location carries a lot of great items, the perk being that it is just outside the city core. This means that your fellow “townies” have not had the opportunity to pick through it. You’ve got to love those neighbourhood communities–sometimes they just don’t know the goldmine they’re sitting on!
3. Winners | 3-110 Bloor St. West | 416-920-0193
For all the hype surrounding the opening of this location two years ago, and seeing that it is smack in the heart of Bloor St. West’s fashion strip, this store can be very hit or miss. At times it seems plentiful; at other times just plain pitiful. But, if you are willing to pop your head in, on a more consistent basis, you will come across the odd unbelievable deal that will be worth your efforts.
4. Winners | (College Park) 444 Yonge Street | 416-598-8800
This runner-up very rarely disappoints. Just the size of this location alone guarantees you a successful hunt. At times it can seem overwhelming but if you are willing to go through its countless racks, you’re bound to come out victorious.
5. Winners | 35 – 45 Front Street East | 416-362-0213
A lot of you out there may not even be aware that there’s a Front St. location. Well, there is one and it’s actually a great looking store with some spectacular finds. I have personally seen items from such lines as Prada, Gucci, Alexander McQueen and Costume National (to name a few) stocked in this location. I’ve hardly ever come out empty-handed.
Consider yourself “in-the-Winners-know” now. You’re welcome! 
Louis Vuitton Has Still Got it
November 16, 2008 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
November 12, 2008 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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