Toronto Shopping » Toronto Shopping

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

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Yonge/Mount Pleasant (Uptown East) – Uptown’s shopping nook

Logan Steele — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:00:11 +0000

Revered as an ideal place for a niche shopper to spend a day, Mount Pleasant offers a great neighbourhood appeal. With a variety of home decor, clothing, specialty and antique shops, it is easy to see why so many families find themselves up and down this strip. Located in Toronto’s upper east end, shopper can be prepared to be fall in love with this quaint part of the city.

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Gerrard St. East (Little India) – Great food, great deals

Logan Steele — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 11:00:18 +0000

Gerrard St. East offers its customers not only a great cultural experience but also, great cultural shopping. Known to Torontonians as “Little India” (the section of Gerrard between Woodbine and Coxwell), this part of town is a goldmine of authentic Indian cuisine, traditional clothing, specialty grocers and a variety of other services. Without a doubt there are some great deals to be found here.

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Danforth (Greek Town) – A taste of the city

Logan Steele — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 11:00:13 +0000

Affectionately referred to as “Greek Town” by Toronto residents, this Danforth strip offers a large array of restaurants, cafes, boutiques and retail shops. Home to many Greek families and evidently housing the largest Greek community in North America the Danforth is truly one of our city’s treasures. Shoppers can expect to find all that they desire from fashion to family needs. A great place to spend a sunny summer afternoon.

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College St. (Little Italy) – There is nothing “little” about this area

Logan Steele — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 11:00:23 +0000

Settled by the Italian community in the early 20th century, Little Italy has since become one of the city’s most beloved and frequented areas. Considered as Toronto’s Italian gateway this amazing pocket (bordered by Bathurst St. and Dufferin St.) offers both culture as well as a fantastic shopping experience. Its visitors can expect to find countless cafes, restaurants, grocers, specialty shops and of course retailers all within reach of this College Street district. Its truly a part of town like no other.

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King St. West – Toronto’s up and coming hot spot

Logan Steele — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 11:00:05 +0000

Now, for all the many great things that I can say about this part of town for example; its world famous theatre / entertainment district, restaurant / cuisine variety, endless bars, lounges and clubs. Unfortunately, one thing that I can not say is that it is a major shopping destination for this city. Although there are a handful of notable boutiques (Got Style being the most notable), fantastic furniture / home decorum retailers and is an area constantly developing. I would manage the expectations of its visitors by saying; King West, for the time being, is more of a place to show off your wears as apposed to purchasing them. However as a side note; keep in mind all the great shopping opportunities that are popping up in Liberty Village located between Strachan and Atlantic just off King West.

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Queen St. East (Leslie Village) – Neighbourhood feel, retail appeal

Logan Steele — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:00:47 +0000

This ever evolving part of town is going under a major cosmetic transformation. Once not thought of as a viable retail option, Leslie Village is starting to change the tune of its recent visitors. With many small neighbourhood boutiques and specialty shops popping up all over this area, Toronto may soon have to prepare for the new kid on the retail block.

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Bloor / Yonge (Central Toronto) – TO’s shopping crossroads

Logan Steele — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 17:12:52 +0000

Bloor / Yonge offers its shoppers two fabulous shopping strips and countless retail options. Bloor St. alone has all the major chains and designer brands anyone can desire. From Prada to the The Gap its all available on Bloor, I guess that you could refer to it as Toronto’s own “Magnificent Mile” well, kilometer. And, what more can I say about this portion of Yonge St. that has not already been said? There are literally dozens of boutiques for all tastes and needs. Overall this is a “must shop” district. Enjoy!

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Fabio

Logan Steele — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 22:11:02 +0000

Catering to the needs of Toronto’s fashionable male since 1973, Fabio is an institution of style. The newly re-invented shop still carries a large array of discounted men’s designer clothing and accessories. Proving that the 30+ year retailer has not lost a step. With a large selection of men’s suits, dress shirts, sport coats etc. Who says European fashion needs to be expensive?

Fabio | 170 University Ave. | (416) 364-2480
Hours: Mon – Sat 10-6:30, Sun 11 – 5

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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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