Toronto Shopping » Ladies & Mens Fashions

The Prada Swagger

Logan Steele — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:56:51 +0000

A little known fact about “the Devil’s” favourite designer is that for its first 65 years of production it was a struggling business. Founder Mario Prada had started out as a suitcase, handbag and trunk artisan in Milan in 1913. And, although the house received some recognition in both Europe and the United States, it had not truly come into his own.

As we fast forward to the 1970’s Mario had past on his legacy to his grand daughter Muicchia Prada. It would be her that would introduce haute couture to the primarily luxury leather goods manufacturer. By the 1980’s Prada had become truly a force to be recognized and reckoned with. Over the years the company’s innovative fabrics, simple but elegant designs, continuous reinvention and world class craftsmanship has solidified itself as one of the world’s premier fashion institutions. This once striving brand is more successful now than ever before.

Prada | 131 Bloor St. W | 416-513-0400
Hours: Mon –Wed 10–6, Thurs 10–7, Fri – Sat. 10–6

[mappress]

The “Diesel” Has Landed

Logan Steele — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 19:03:47 +0000

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

[mappress]

Christian Dior – “J’Adore Dior!”

Logan Steele — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 16:52:15 +0000

Born in Granville, Normandy on January 12, 1920. Christian Dior started his life in the fashion business in 1942, after completing his WWII service in the French Army. It was at this time that he joined the house of Lucien LeLong where he became one of its primary designers. It wouldn’t be until 1947 that Mr. Dior would establish his first collection Corolle (“Petal”). In which he was praised by Harper’s Bizarre’s Caramel Snow for constructing the “new look”, that consisted of more voluptuous and boxy shapes. This look would help to revolutionize the feminine silhouette and re-established France as a fore-runner in the fashion world. The house adopted the name of its founder many years later. And, is presently recognized globally for its ingenuity and overall prominence in the field of couturier.

Holt Renfrew | 50 Bloor St. W. | (416) 922-2333
Hours: Mon – Wed 10-6, Thurs – Fri 10-8, Sat 10-7, Sun 12-6

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Chuck Taylor – An “All Star” Original

Logan Steele — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 16:41:42 +0000

Without a shadow of a doubt, the undisputed basketball sneaker of all time has to be Converse’s All Star “Chuck Taylor” shoe. This shoe has gone through its share of up’s and down’s. And, has leaped in and out of fashion but, has yet to ever disappear into obscurity. As a matter of fact it is estimated that over 60% of all North Americans own at least one pair of All Stars.

Developed in 1917, the All Star was originally produced in brown canvas with a thin rubber sole. It wasn’t until the 1920’s that Converse would produce it’s most popular black and white model and its leather alternative. This was the birth of a phenomenon and was then that All Star would become North America’s first mass produced basketball shoe.

Now, all history aside the lasting influence of this shoe is worthy of Collegiate study. Think about it. How is it that a product, that has not changed or evolved from its original vision, can still be so relevant even to this very day? The only answer that is plausible is that Converse got it right the first time. And, it is for that reason I feel we should declare that the All Star shoe should be deemed as North America’s official sneaker (just a thought). As a matter of fact, I’m not even going to waste your time by telling where these kicks are available. If you seek them, then you shall find them.

Heartland Town Centre

Logan Steele — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:30:57 +0000

With more than 125 outlet stores which include – Adidas, Le Senza, Roots, Mexx, Tommy Hilfiger, just to name a few. There is no question why this mega complex is quickly becoming one of Mississauga’s favourite destination stops. This mammoth outdoor shopper’s paradise is ever growing. And, did I mention that they also have an Harry Rosen Outlet that carries a large selection of designer men’s formal, business and casual attire? It would seem next to impossible to not find what you need in the Heartland.

Heartland Town Centre | Mississauga | (905) 677-5480
www.heartlandtown.com

[mappress]

Tom’s Place

Logan Steele — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 22:04:26 +0000

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

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Talize

Logan Steele — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 21:43:03 +0000

The best way to describe this price chopper’s dream would be a combination of discount and second-hand store. It offers new, nearly new and vintage merchandise all under one roof. There are fantastic deals to be found for all members of your household on; designer brands, shoes, accessories, housewares, makeup… the list goes on. Talize also features sales on items purchased in quantity like hotel furniture, brand new household blinds, bridal gowns, stationery and more. Making it almost impossible to not find something you like.

Talize | 3100 Dixie Rd. | (905) 272-5858
Hours: Mon – Sat 9-9, Sun 10-5

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Versace – Toronto shoppers Versus Italian style

Logan Steele — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:34:16 +0000

Founded by the late ground breaking designer, Gianni Versace in 1978. Versace first opened its doors in Milan’s Via della Spiga and received near instantaneous recognition. The house spawned numerous divisions and affiliated businesses world wide which include – Gianni Versace Couture, Versace Jeans Couture, Versace Home Collection, Versus and Versace Collection. Although the house has experienced a widely publicized rough patch in store sales and overall annual revenue. Without question Versace has managed to attain a level of notoriety that very few current labels have yet to parallel. Despite my personal indifference to the line, even I can’t deny the labels magnitude in the global fashion forum.

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

Dolce&Gabbana / D&G – Where edge meets elegance

Logan Steele — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 15:21:24 +0000

Founded by Italian design duo Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana in 1985. The luxurious women’s line signature pinstripe pant suit and corset ted dress, has been seen worn by everyone from Madonna to Fergie. Although better recognized for their take on the feminine silhouette, the designers broadened their fan base with the release of the highly anticipated men’s collection and D&G in the early 1990’s. Like many successful labels, the fashion house also includes a thriving footwear, perfume / cologne, eye wear and accessory component. That has found its own band of followers the world over and Toronto is certainly no exception. (Also be on the look out for their D&G kids line. Why not start your childs fashion sense off at an early age?)

Holt Renfrew’s Last Call – Discount designer shopping

Logan Steele — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:50:03 +0000

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

[mappress]

Marc Jacobs – Finding Marc in the heart of the city

Logan Steele — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 15:29:28 +0000

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.

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

Logan Steele — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 17:33:45 +0000

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

[mappress]

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