If you’re lucky enough to escape the freezing cold this winter to a place where the grass is green, the palm trees sway in the humid breeze, and the water is warm, then there’s a good chance you need to stock up on new swimwear. Dipping in and out of the pool all summer might’ve taken a toll on your favourite bikini, and now you’re panicking to find one that fits and feels the same. Luckily, we rounded up 11 places to buy bathing suits online for a cold weather getaway that champion comfort, quality, size inclusivity, and style.
Read on to find out where you can pick up almost two weeks worth of vacay-ready swimwear that are just a few clicks away.
REVOLVE
REVOLVE has a wide variety of swimsuits and beach fashion pieces from different brands for you to shop right on its website. The shop always carries the latest trendy styles, so you can trust you’ll be looking chic while laying out on the beach.
Saltwater Collective
From ocean blue turquoise to sandy beige, Saltwater Collective handcrafts flawless swimwear basics. Sewn by local Toronto seamstresses, all Saltwater one pieces and bikinis are made out of sustainable fabrics like econyl yarn which is spun from wasted nylon fabric. There’s nothing better than wearing something that’s better for the water while you’re swimming in it, right?
Unika Swim
Also made in Toronto, Unika swimsuits are comprised of econyl yarn too. The brand was founded by Brazilian native, Betsy Campos, who was inspired by her heritage and how every beach bum’s swimwear reflected their style. Through Unika, Campos aims to empower women to recognize their individuality and feel confident in a swimsuit, which is now more possible with an in-store fitting at her Yorkville boutique.
Knix
To live “unapologetically free” is Knix’s motto, and its body-loving bathing suits allow you to do just that. The creators of seamless bras and functional underwear have now expanded into designing swimwear that fits cups sizes A to G and pants sizes 2 to 22. Plus, they’re wire and chafe free.
Aritzia
Incase you weren’t aware Aritzia now sells swimwear! Like the rest of Artizia’s inventory, its swimwear collection is full of elevated basics that will never go out of style.
Cult Gaia
Go ahead and conjure up a daydream of a countryside villa in the south of Italy, where the paintings are as plentiful as the spritzes and empty lawn chairs in the steamy summer heat. What would you want to be wearing? We’ll answer that for you and suggest an artfully designed one piece by Cult Gaia. It’ll live in your wardrobe forever.
Tropic of C
Founded by South African model and Victoria’s Secret Angel Candice Swanepoel, Tropic of C is a swimwear line that celebrates the female form and a life spent at the beach. Right down to the bamboo tags and biodegradable garment bags, it’s a true eco-brand. Tropic of C also uses a bioplastic derived from tree pulp to make the hygiene liners for the inside of bathing suit bottoms, which are completely compostable. Another one, for the planet.
Aerie
Just like its clothing, Aerie swimwear is all about making women feel good, inside and out. And with un-retouched models pictured in every style on their website, that’s exactly what the brand has accomplished. Its bathing suits are just as cute as its intimates and pyjamas, and they’re all available in cup sizes AA to DDD.
Everlane
Everlane is known for its sustainability efforts by partnering with ethical factories, using fine materials for its pieces, and creating timeless designs. Its swimsuit collection is no different! At Everlane you can shop a variety of staple swimwear pieces that are built to last, so you can take them with you on many vacations to come.
Hunza.G
Wondering where you’ve seen a Hunza.G swimsuit before? You might recognize the iconic Hunza dress that Julia Roberts wears in the most classic of rom-coms, Pretty Woman. Today, London-made Hunza.G bikinis are literally everywhere, and they’re the absolute comfiest. Even Hailey Beiber’s a fan.
Youswim
Youswim might make the most comfortable swimsuits ever, and we know that’s a bold statement to make. Though it’s possible, because the brands suits adapt to fit your body’s natural state of flux. If you’re a size 2 to 14, Youswim has got you covered – its suits are seven sizes in one. These suits are also ethically woven, dyed, cut, and sewn in England using European-sourced nylon and elastane.
Modcloth
Modcloth‘s bathing suits come in a full range of sizes up to a 34. The brand use of original patterns and vivid fabrics are seen in high-waisted and vintage-inspired designs that aim to represent all different shapes and styles. As they like to say, every outfit (or swimsuit) is an opportunity to express yourself, and there’s no way you can’t in a piece of Modcloth swimwear.
Left On Friday
If you’re looking for a suit with a little extra coverage, Left On Friday’s Italian-made Smoothing Dream Fabric is just what you need in your life. You can count on it to be compressive when wet and dry, hiding the appearance of cellulite and leaving a buttery feeling on the skin. Its snag resistant too because as LOF puts it, sometimes a girl has to sit on the pool deck – right?
Summersalt
Summersalt took over 1.5 million body measurements from 10,000 women to inform how its swimsuits fit. Now, if that isn’t a commitment to making every woman feel confident in their own skin while wearing one of the brands bathing suits, we don’t know what is. Summersalt’s brightly coloured fabrics and chic patterns make its swimwear perfect for the modern nomad who wants to look just as fashionable in her skivvies as she does on the streets.
Hunza G
Sometimes there’s nothing worse than finding the right sizing online, especially in terms of swimsuits. Hunza G is here to the rescue with its 80s-style crinkle-design fabrics that make its pieces one-size-fits-most! Seriously though, it’s like sisterhood of the travelling swimsuits.
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Ah, the classic mirror selfie. The appeal is everlasting and the phone cases are always changing. Among the likes of social media queens like Kylie Jenner and Bella Hadid, and Lucy Hale, it seems they’re sharing more than just friendships. If you look closely at their Instagram feeds, there’s a pattern you’ll notice — similar phone cases. Could their favourites be rubbing off on one another?
The answer: no doubt. When it comes to what kinds of phone cases celebs are obsessed with, they fall into 5 main categories: customizable, barely there, extra, personal, and designer. Nowadays, they’re just as much of an everyday accessory as a pair of earrings or statement-making socks. Read on to find out where you can get your newest staple wardrobe item inspired by the stars.
Here are 13 celeb-loved phone cases and where to shop them!
Category: Customizable
What’s the best way to ensure your friends don’t *accidentally* throw your celly in their bag? Making sure you’ve got a phone case with your name on it. Whether you inscribe it with your initials, a nickname, or a personalized message, a customizable phone case adds a unique touch to a uniform device, as well as an injection of your personality and style to any outfit or selfie. Remember what I said about Lucy Hale? Well, you can see from her Instagram post that she’s also on board with this trend. And let’s be real: it makes any phone infinitely cuter.
Best places to shop: BaubleBar and Casetify allow you to create the most adorable, high-quality phone cases that your gal pals will be envious of.
Category: Barely there
Sometimes, you just want your phone to go buck naked and let its ‘true beauty’ shine through. You could also opt for this style if you simply hate the look and feel of a bulky phone case, (the slimmer the better!), then a barely there phone case is for you.
Best places to shop: Amazon, for all the brands and all the deals.
Category: Extra
Just when you thought there couldn’t be anything more extra than the idea of a selfie, in walks a phone case that makes the whole situation even more extra. In the case (get it?) of famous Italian blogger Chiara Ferragni, that phone case is one filled with sequins.
Best places to shop: Amazon, Ban.do, and Casetify.
Category: Personal
Maybe it’s an empowering message, not-so-secret obsession (like the one displayed on Kaia Gerber’s Adam Driver-adorned phone case), or an inside joke. Either way, personalized cases are making a comeback on the ‘gram and they’re better than ever.
Best places to shop: Mundaze, Etsy, and KaseMe for an unrivaled number of design options.
Category: Designer
A luxury phone case can be a bit of a splurge, but it’s one of the least expensive things you’ll ever buy from a designer brand. Model Bella Hadid has shown her love for Moschino in a recent mirror selfie. Why not treat yourself to one?
Best places to shop: Saks Fifth Avenue, Farfetch, and Nordstrom… the list goes on.
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We all love a good shopping trip at H&M, know that you can still maintain your style vibe while showing love to other brands. With spring right around the corner, make sure that your closets are prepped with turn-of-the-weather staples and the best part is that you can shop all of these chic brands from home. From updated basics, to quality denim, these brands offer stylish selections just like our beloved H&M, but are still a little different and unique at the same time.
However, if you’re looking to switch up your shopping habits, here are 10 more brands to shop if you love H&M.
Nasty Gal
How-to describe Nasty Gal’s spring collection in three words: Sassy, rocker, chic.
Shop here for: Cheeky graphic tees, co-rd sets, a #girlboss biker jacket, and a special collection of Nasty Gal Vintage.
ASOS
How-to describe ASOS’ spring collection in three words: Flirty, sultry, and bohemian.
Shop here if: Your spring uniform consists of colourful prints, two-piece suits, and a wide array of rompers. Just look at the shade and texture of this fluffy, knit co-rd, aka the short set of our dreams.
Superdry
How-to describe Superdry’s spring collection in three words: Sporty, laid back, and practical.
Shop here if: You like having graphics and logowear, trendy yet seasonless Americana apparel, and sportswear on hand at all times. Or what about an oversized, white denim boyfriend jacket? We’re adding this one to cart, stat.
Encircled
How-to describe Encircled’s most recent collection in three words: Seamless, cozy, and versatile.
Shop here for: Stylish and sustainably made basics that can be jazzed up for the office, the ‘dressy sweatsuit’ (of everyone’s dreams!), a killer ‘un-moto’ jacket, and a Furstenberg-worthy dress.
Mango
How-to describe Mango’s latest spring drop in three words: Sophisticated, enduring, and relaxed.
Shop here if: You love quality, Meditteranean-inspired flowy fabrics, work-appropriate separates, and beautiful accessories, all for the modern woman with a penchant for classic, timeless pieces.
Topshop
How-to describe Topshop’s most recent spring drop in three words: Urban, playful, millennial.
Shop here for: Laid back streetwear, your new favourite pair of mom jeans, ’90s accessories and footwear, and so much more.
Banana Republic
How-to describe Banana Republic’s latest spring arrivals in three words: (Slightly) nautical, discerning, yet easygoing.
Shop here if: You need a reliable, business-casual clothing brand to shop from for spring-ready blouses, flattering one pieces, and versatile, length-appropriate dresses.
& Other Stories
How-to describe & Other Stories’ most recent spring additions in three words: Dainty, femme, antiquated.
Shop here for: All the spring pastels, feminine, vintage-looking tops and dresses, organic fabrics, and cruelty-free, sustainably made footwear.
Gap
How-to describe Gap’s latest spring items in three words: Spontaneous, comfortable, cheerful.
Shop here if: You can’t go without fuss-free denim, a form-fitting jumpsuit, and a midi dress for everyday wear.
Massimo Dutti
How to describe Massimo Dutti’s spring collection in three words: Polished, sensual, and breathtaking.
Shop here for: Ageless, elevated designs that are distinctly European in an Under The Tuscan Sun/Call Me By Your Name type of way. For spring, a trench coat to end all rainstorms, a shimmery organza blouse, and a pair of leather culottes is in order.
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In recent months, it seems that the internet’s fascination over celebrity houses has been reborn with a bombardment of “Inside the home of…” and “NFL star shows off his…” YouTube videos. We’re going to go ahead and assume that if you were as obsessed with MTV’s Cribs as we were, (cue the iconic clip of Usher’s bottled water and wine filled fridge), then you’ve probably already hopped back on the house tour watching wagon. With A-listers of all industries willing to share the nitty gritty details of their lives on social media now more than ever, a look inside their homes is revealing and infinitely more entertaining.
Here are 10 celebrity house tours that show how each star defines their style and ideas of true glitz and glam.
Dakota Johnson
Dakota Johnson (a.k.a Anastasia Steele) lives in the most serene ’70s inspired, vintage-clad Hollywood home complete with a record collection, and enough antique decor for the entire cast and crew of 50 Shades Of Gray to eat off of. In the mid-century modern house tour she gave Architectural Digest, Johnson proudly shows off an orange tree she planted in her hilly backyard and a hot tub with a birds eye view of the property, which looks like the perfect place to listen to some Fleetwood Mac on vinyl and get to California dreamin’.
Athena Calderone
‘Lifestyle Goddess’ Athena Calderone’s family home in Brooklyn might just be the most elegant, impeccably decorated, and designed brownstone on the block. With a striking black and white contrast playing a theme throughout the house’s lofty rooms, grand art deco moldings and furnishings in muted tones fill them while slabs of stunning pink marble make a surprise appearance on the walls of the bathroom. There couldn’t be a better place to Live Beautiful.
Shay Mitchell
Shay Mitchell, partner Matte Babel, and daughter Atlas share a sun-filled, Mediterranean-inspired abode with a heavy emphasis on Moroccan details. A collection of unique, imported vintage furnishings scored by interior designer Chad Wood add to the home’s warmth, including a cozy, studded leather couch that sits next to the main fireplace, and an authentic Moroccan orbed lantern. The cherry on top of this celebrity house tour is Atlas’ nursery — a mauve-y sleep haven that’s oh so feminine and calming.
JJ Reddick
If you’re a condo dweller, one look inside NBA shooting guard JJ Reddick’s warehouse apartment in DUMBO will have you envious over the amount of space he has. And not just space, but sheer charm. From the specially printed powder room wallpaper inspired by his wife’s favourite Louis Vuitton purse, to the remarkable Lacanche oven in the kitchen, to the view of the lake from the nearly 2,500-square foot terrace, Reddick’s place is a sight to see.
Dwight Howard
Perhaps the only thing more impressive in size than Dwight Howard is his $8.8 million Atlanta mansion. With 35,000 square feet, five kitchens, and a 14 car garage, the presence of Howard’s home is enough to make you ask yourself: what does one do with all that space? And believe it or not, there’s only one person that tends to the never ending grounds around Howard’s house. How do they do it all? We’ll never know.
Jonathan Adler & Simon Doonan
Designer Jonathan Adler and husband Simon Doonan live in a New York apartment that’s as fantasy-filled and colourful as Adler’s home collection. Between its grand structure and a ‘dark’, ‘clubby’ secret passageway that leads to the master bedroom, the artistic details are intentional yet effortless. Though the interior comes off as fun and cheeky, (similar to Adler’s brand), it’s also classical and luxurious, (also like Adler’s brand). It’d be hard not to fall down the rabbit hole at his place, but who wouldn’t want to?
Jeffree Star
With nearly 23 million views on YouTube, makeup artist, entrepreneur, and business mogul behind Jeffree Star Cosmetics, Jeffree Star, almost broke the internet at the beginning of 2020 with a tour of his new dream home. Complete with a ‘Willy Wonka-style’ glass elevator, a deluxe movie theatre, and its very own security office, the opulence of Star’s mansion is astounding.
Tan France
Now a host on Netflix’s smashing fashion design competition, Next In Fashion, Tan France of Queer Eye has skyrocketed to fame over to the past two years. And it appears that the English fashion designer and author’s styling talents have lent themselves well to curating a home fit perfectly for the Frances, as shown in Tan’s Open Door tour for Architectural Digest. If you’re familiar with his personal style as a result of binge watching Queer Eye, than you can probably agree that the France home is indicative of his fashion sense – it’s clean, sleek, and timeless.
Cardi B & Offset
Cardi B and husband Offset recently showed social media a sneak peek into their brand new dream house — a $5.8 million mansion in the ritzy Buckhead area of Atlanta. To ring in the New Year and celebrate their two year wedding anniversary, Cardi B and Offset purchased the 22,000-square foot mega-mansion that sits on 6 acres of land. It also comes equipped with five bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, an infinity pool, 1,800-bottle wine cellar, and underground shooting range. In 2020, this is what hip hop royalty looks like.
Steve Aoki
In Las Vegas, legendary electronic DJ Steve Aoki resides in a ‘mega playhouse’ that features an adult-sized foam pit, life-size figurines of Aoki himself, artwork by Banksy, a recording studio, a skateboarding half-pipe, and so much more. You’d think that with performing over 300 dance music shows, Aoki wouldn’t have the energy to mess around at home. Ironically, the nature of its design tells us that the exact opposite is true.
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Just when you thought you had winter wedding season figured out, done, and dusted, three more invitations have shown up at your doorstep the second that temperatures began to rise. When it comes to dressing up, a springtime celebration of love has its own set of pros: extra layers are no longer needed to protect you from the cold (goodbye, stockings!), open-toed shoes are most likely an option depending on the weather, a whole new colour palette is available to choose from, and the list goes on. With that said, a spring wedding presents a major con to those that are transitioning from their winter wardrobes with nothing but a repeat-wedding-dress to wear.
Finding a versatile, quality gown on a strict timeline that won’t totally break the bank (especially when you consider how many times you’ll rewear it) isn’t an easy task. And wouldn’t preparing for an event you’re supposed to enjoy instead of stress about be so much easier if you knew that you could go back to the same place, whenever you needed, to find another seasonal, figure-flattering design?
Right in time for the onslaught of warm weather weddings you’re bound to attend, we’ve got 12 go-to dress brands for you to buy from listed below. Express shipping, please.
Christy Dawn
The vibe: Mother Earth in either flats, sandals, or pull-on boots as to not sacrifice her personal style.
The venue: If there’s an indie band playing acapella covers by firelight and lanterns scattered throughout the grass, a Christy Dawn prairie dress will do the trick.
Rebecca Taylor
The vibe: Mediterranean dancing queen seeking her own Mamma Mia moment and hoping to look just as good in her gladiator sandals as she does in her mules.
The venue: Anywhere there’s a long dining table draped in white at sunset, an open dance floor, mineral-y white wine, and tapas being served by the seaside, a Rebecca Taylor design belongs.
Coach
The vibe: Sophisticated, life of the party kind of girl who’ll pull off wearing her wedding guest dress to her 10 a.m. business meeting the next day.
The venue: From a gothic cathedral to an intimate dinner in the red light of the bride and groom’s favourite neighbourhood dive, a Coach dress amplifies the atmosphere it’s worn in and smolders at the same time.
Ulla Johnson
The vibe: Globally-inspired goddess ready for a night in the dry, warm air at the indoor/outdoor cocktail reception.
The venue: Open desert, terracotta, and candles on cocktail tables are the major themes here, and a punchy, printed Ulla Johnson dress is all this picture needs to be complete.
Ever New Melbourne
The vibe: Feminine frock lover envisioning how many ways she can rework a new dress for a communion, graduation, or Easter brunch.
The venue: Wearing an Ever New Melbourne dress to a family-filled event where the crowd is small, pastels are as plentiful as the floral arrangements, and the atmosphere is laid back is a no brainer.
Spell
The vibe: Gypsy lady who’s only style philosophy is boho or go home.
The venue: If you don’t need to worry about wearing shoes throughout the entire ceremony and reception, a shifty Spell dress is the only adornment you’ll need. It’ll look pretty up against the light of the beach bonfire and colourful bohemian fabrics gently laid over the sand.
Alice + Olivia
The vibe: Chic yet playful, this bird’s as ready to break it down on the dance floor with your Papi as she’s able to discuss NYFW’s biggest mishaps with poise and a dirty martini in-hand.
The venue: An Alice + Olivia number makes the transition from classic Manhattan courthouse to Brooklyn speakeasy real seamless, real quick. Especially if there’s a photo booth and a velvet couch involved in the reception.
Kate Spade
The vibe: Slightly kitschy, colourful, and cute, she’s the most darling, vintage-inspired baby at the gathering.
The venue: Could there be a better designer to wear to a garden party? Not when a Kate Spade dress makes the biggest pop! against a backdrop of Easter-coloured flowers, mounds of sweet treats piled on a singular picnic table, and mismatched teacups.
Maje
The vibe: Outfitted in streetwear on the regular, the skater girl who prefers a simple dress for roominess can also be comfortable in her sandals or sneakers to avoid tripping down the aisle.
The venue: Between the quaint, semi-casual Los Angeles chapel and reception at The Beverly Hills Hotel, a Maje dress is fitting for an afternoon spent moving from one topiaried location to the other under the sun.
Sandro
The vibe: Timeless, elegant, and always playing with the boundaries between her wardrobe of streetwear and items she can wear to the office, this minimalist is least likely to fuss with her dress all night since it’s like a second skin.
The venue: Where there’s red checkered tablecloths, a cobblestone patio covered by a fabric awning, records playing, and cold orange wine by the bottle within a short walk of the train, a Sandro dress is reception ready.
Eloquii
The vibe: Whether we’re debating which bridesmaid is going to catch the bouquet or who’s shoes will come off first (the bride’s or the groom’s), one thing’s for sure: the queen in the sequin dress is bringing her attitude and her sparkle to the table.
The venue: An Eloquii dress shows up to the bought-out restaurant/bar and shows out on the patio complete with cocktail tables, chimeneas, and flannel blankets for when the night dips downs. (To be used once said Eloquii girl busts more than a few moves on the dance floor and kicks off her own shoes for the evening.)
Loveshackfancy
The vibe: That one flower child with a bit of southern charm.
The venue: Lace, doilies, fresh petals, and splashes of pink and blue inside a royal ballroom of sorts is where a Loveshackfancy gown fits right in.
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While living in Toronto, my vintage streetwear loving heart was always right at home in the west-end. Vintage shops dotted my former street, all with their own set of specialties; ’80s designer duds, sportswear, and graphic tees galore. Thankfully, the life cycle of a clothing item has become a larger concern amongst conscious consumers, and the vintage looks of the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s are back — big time.
Parkdale, Queen West, Bloor West, and Kensington Market offer not only the best and most unique selection of vintage streetwear in Toronto, but the vintage stores also provide the biggest bang for your buck.
Here are the 12 best places to shop vintage streetwear in Toronto.
In Vintage We Trust
Though In Vintage We Trust is currently closed for renovations, the store plans to reopen this month and promises its flyest ’90s sportswear yet. If you’re looking for the finest collection of vintage Raptors clothing, be sure to stop in and browse mint condition Coogi and North Face while you’re at it.
Public Butter
Before stepping foot into Public Butter, know this: you’ve got to like digging through overstuffed racks to find a piece of gold. Luckily, there are always some serious finds scattered throughout the store. You’ll see pretty much everything and anything inside Public Butter — from partially stained band camp tees, to letterman jackets, army surplus, and enough vintage denim to fill a whole second store.
F As In Frank
Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Patagonia, and Jordan — it’s all at F As In Frank and it’s all keeping you ahead of the latest streetwear trends, (which ironically, are going backwards in time). F As In Frank also always has a ton of rocker tees, flannels, and basketball jerseys to choose from.
Common Sort
Annex, Parkdale, and Riverside locations
With three locations across the city, Common Sort serves up a whole lotta goodness to vintage lovers everywhere. In addition to 90s streetwear, you’ll find gently used items from brands like Zara, Babaton, and even designers like Stella McCartney and Armani. Again, you’ve just got to be willing to sort through the racks to find a diamond in the rough.
Sub Rosa
Inside a navy house in Kensington Market that’s even more vintage than the clothing hung up on its walls, you’ll find Sub Rosa: a haven for worn denim and streetwear lovers alike. If your go-to outfit includes an oversized vintage sweatshirt, this is the place to visit. And if your favourite splurge-worthy item is a that’s-so-’70s tweed duster coat, this is also the store to shop.
House Of Vintage
For all your Western-inspired, genuine leather needs, House of Vintage boasts a premium collection of cowboy boots, chaps, jackets, belts, bags, and Harley Davidson apparel. That’s not all though because the store also has an exceptional array of vintage Levi’s in stock at all times as well as quality vintage sports attire. Be sure to take a look at what’s under the glass of the cash desk at the front of the store – there’s always a new vintage Gucci bag or Versace necktie hiding from plain sight, as well as beautiful sterling silver jewelry.
96 Tears Vintage
96 Tears’ new location on Bloor St. West is still a certified vintage gold mine, packed with leather, logowear on plenty of biker-style jackets, fur, denim on denim, and so much more. There’s no other way to leave the store than with a gently-loved piece that turns back time in the slightest, and turns heads on the streets too.
Nouveau Riche Vintage
A visit to Nouveau Riche is like taking a walk through a designer streetwear time warp – Moschino, Prada, Gianni Versace, and Emilio Pucci decorate the store in a kaleidoscope of colours. The shop’s offerings also span non-designer labels dating all the way back to the ’30s, though it’s a label lover’s paradise.
Chosen Vintage
Whether you’re looking for a classy new pair of coveralls or a moto-style jacket to keep you warm between seasons, Chosen Vintage is an adoringly curated collection of timeless streetwear and dress-appropriate options. Versace mom jeans? Check! Shop here for lots of fun ’80s glamour.
Vintage Depot
Kensington Market, Danforth, and Oshawa
With three locations across the GTA, great quality vintage streetwear is never too far away at Vintage Depot. Expect to find all of the brands you’re coveting like Polo, Champion, Nike, Lacoste, and more all in mint vintage condition.
Final Touch Vintage
Head to Bloor West to shop Final Touch Vintage’s selection of vintage streetwear with offerings from brands like adidas, Guess, Champion, Polo Jeans, and many more, as well as vintage jerseys.
Uncle Vintage
Another Bloor West destination to check out for vintage streetwear in Toronto is Uncle Vintage. Located near Lansdowne, this is a great spot to find vintage graphic tees, Nike, Patagonia, Tommy Hilfiger, Polo Jeans, and more. Just be sure to follow them on Instagram to keep up with when they’re doing new drops — their stock goes fast!
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Admit it – there are few things more comforting than a well-worn sweatshirt. You might even have a favourite that you’ve been dying to wrap yourself in since reading the previous sentence, and we know how you feel. A cozy sweatshirt is not only a staple in the wardrobe of “comfy clothes” we’ve built up over the years, but it’s also a completely acceptable item to wear everyday. Depending on fit and the way you style it, you’re able to take a sweatshirt from ‘casually grabbing coffee around the corner’ to ‘I can rock an Ariana Grande level sweater dress’ in about five minutes flat. So, is there a con to wearing a cozy sweatshirt? We can’t seem to think of one. All pros, baby.
Here’s 10 Cozy sweatshirts you can buy right now with no regrets.
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If you’re not already familiar with Consonant Skincare, let me introduce you to your new favourite line of all-natural personal care products from a brand that believes “what goes on your body, goes in your body.” Take oats for example – the star ingredient in the Consonant’s first-ever oil serum that’s as comforting for dry, sensitive skin as it is for dehydrated winter complexions that need revitalizing.
After years of clinical trials and reformulations, Consonant finally launched the newest additions to its skincare collection at the end of 2019 – the Vitamin E + Oat Serum and the Vitamin B3 + Zinc Serum.
What sets the new vitamin serums apart from the rest of the line is the option they give every user to customize their routine.
The intentions are simple: add them in and take them out as needed. For instance, using one to three drops of the Vitamin B3 + Zinc Serum once or twice or day will help to reduce redness and discolouration, resulting in a more even skin tone.
“We’re always looking to create what our customers need next,” said Erika Shwass, Science and Wellness Manager at Consonant. (And yes – she’s the gorgeous mad scientist in all of Consonant’s explainer videos.) “We noticed that people were looking for a solution for skin clarity and a solution for protection and moisturization, so we sourced the best ingredients to achieve those results: vitamins B3 (niacinamide) and B5 (panthenol), zinc, and oat. People wanted choices when boosting their routines. Now, they’re able to decide what they want with these serums and choose their own adventure.”
More than two years into a tumultuous health journey as a result of a major car accident, I’m thankful that my skin has remained fairly normal. However, it’s had small flare ups thanks to stress, hormonal ups and downs, and hospital stints that took me in and out of my routine.
Small areas of discolouration still exist along my cheeks, and minor congestion comes and goes after building up on my nose, chin, and sometimes, my forehead.
With that said, you can imagine why I was excited to learn about Consonant’s new vitamin serums. They offered all the things my slightly dry skin needed most at the time: healing, clearing, and hydration.
What happened next? Well, you guessed it – I tried Consonant’s new vitamin serums. Here’s what happened.
The Conditions:
Consonant has all kinds of detailed information on its website, including the results of the clinical trials it conducts for each one of its products. According to Schwass, a third-party carries out Consonant’s clinical testing to ensure there’s zero chance of a bias being reflected in the outcome.
I became curious about the panel results that were posted about the Vitamin B3 + Zinc Serum as well as the Vitamin E + Oat – after only two to four weeks of use, between 89 and 94 per cent of users experience major results. I wondered: could it be so?
As soon as I got my hands on the serums, I began using them in conjunction with one another for two weeks.
And I was careful to stick to the brand’s intentions when it came to how they were supposed to be applied – I only put on what I felt my skin needed day and night. On some evenings, either product was applied overtop of Consonant’s Maximum Glycolic Meta Serum (which I was also trying for the first time) and the Ultra Firming Organic Eye Cream (which works amazingly and is now a sole part of my regular skincare arsenal).
The Experience: Vitamin B3 + Zinc Serum:
Almost every night, I applied the Vitamin B3 + Zinc serum for clarity before going to sleep. I like applying a product that’s going to go to work on my skin at night, so it has all the time in the world to absorb and (hopefully) perform its magic to the best of its abilities without becoming exposed to the elements and the sun, or worse, obtrusive water and coffee drips that somehow escape my mouth. Did I mention that I’m a kluttz?
One thing I loved about the Vitamin B3 + Zinc was its texture.
Though it’s water-based, the serum left a semi-slick barrier on my skin that almost felt like a light oil. Interestingly, after massaging it in, you could see a leftover shine on my hands that would dissolve when it came into contact with water. This is because of the propanediol it contains – a hydrating, hydrophilic substance that moisturizes the skin since it’s attracted to water molecules. The Vitamin B3 + Zinc serum gets extra points for being fairly unscented and residue-less, leaving no oily mess on my MYK Silk pillowcases. (Skincare junkies – do yourself a favour and treat yourself to some.)
The Experience: Vitamin E + Oat Serum:
Since my skin tends to run on the dryer side (especially in the wintertime), I wake up most mornings feeling like it needs to be replenished – similar to how the body needs to be rehydrated with water after a night’s sleep. This is when the Vitamin E + Oat Serum came to my rescue; on the chilliest and most sleep-deprived days. It felt incredibly comforting when I would pat it into my skin before layering on my SPF. I was ready for the day!
The Vitamin E + Oat Serum also absorbed nicely without having to work it into my skin much at all, which is spectacular given the richness of the two-ingredient formula.
Even more enticing was its scent: pure oat, which lends itself to the serum’s potency. Even better is that the formula is gluten-free so it’s suitable for all my celiac friends.
The Results:
Within a week of using the Vitamin B3 + Zinc and Vitamin E + Oat Serums together, I began to experience some congestion that concentrated in the centre of my forehead. I took it as a sign that the serum was purging my skin of what was attempting to hide below surface level prematurely, though there were no visible signs of a bumpy texture beforehand.
When I mentioned this to Schwass, she confirmed that the clarity serum was simply working to improve the texture of my skin.
A few days later, the mix of small red bumps appeared to calm down and I gently extracted what my skin had expelled. I did the same for the congestion that lined my nose, and the buildup felt and looked as if it was much easier to extract than before. Overall, the Vitamin B3 + Zinc serum brought the blockages in these trivial areas to the very top layer of my skin, which truly improved its texture by helping clear the pores that needed some spring cleaning.
Following a full two weeks of using the Vitamin E + Oat Serum, the two largest advancements I noticed were a reduction in the appearance of tiny spots of discolouration, (like the blemish pictured on my jawline), and the hydration level of my skin.
I found that the renewal serum maintained a very effective moisture barrier throughout the cold winter days that actually crept its way below surface level and moisturized my face. Both of the benefits I experienced from using the Vitamin E + Oat Serum gave me even more reason to classify oats as one of my favourite skincare ingredients for all of its nourishing and anti-inflammatory and properties.
If you’re as interested in giving Consonant’s new vitamin serum duo a shot, read on for a glimpse into my detailed conversation with Schwass about how to use the products to achieve maximum results and so much more.
AB: The panel results for the B3 + Zinc serum and the Vitamin E serum report that most people saw results after two weeks of consistent use. For each serum, what would you say the most noticeable results are after two weeks?
ES: After two weeks of consistent use of the Vitamin B3 + Zinc, the most common visible results include decreased appearance of congestion and blemishes, reduction of redness, and overall increased luminosity. After consistent use of the Vitamin E + Oat the most common visible results include more moisturized-looking skin, elimination of dry patches and flakiness and improved skin texture. In both panel studies 90 per cent of people who used either the B3 or the E serum for three weeks reported their skin looked healthier and more radiant.
AB: For the Vitamin E serum – why oats?
ES: Oat oil is far more than just a carrier oil for lipid-soluble vitamin E. Oat oil is a functional ingredient as it contains over 35 per cent essential fatty acids including skin-loving, alpha-linoleic acid. Oat oil is known for its soothing properties, especially for mature, sensitive, or damaged skin (and ours is also certified gluten-free to keep it non-irritating for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities). Oat oil has great emollience, it penetrates the skin quickly and it is a good source of antioxidants. The result is more hydrated, healthy-looking, and illuminated skin.
AB: For those who’re used to the oil-free texture and appearance of Consonant’s original product range, what can they expect?
ES: We’ve always leaned into really natural healing oils, and the way that we mix them makes the finish feel matte. It doesn’t feel super slick, and you don’t get that sensation of oil. With the demand for more oil products and the fact that people now know not to be afraid of oil, we wanted to use the best, efficacious formula we could. We found that when you pair vitamin E with a naturally rich in vitamin E oil as a carrier oil, it’s going to deliver results better.
AB: What skin types would you recommend each of the serums to and why?
EK: Vitamin B3 + Zinc is formulated to increase overall skin clarity. It’s good for all skin types but great for those with congested, oily, red, and acne-prone skin. Vitamin E + Oat is formulated to increase skin renewal. It’s good for most skin types but great for mature, sensitive, dry, and damaged skin. While it’s absolutely not a rule, we see great benefits with the B3 + Zinc in our younger clients and E + Oat in our more mature clients.
AB: How would you recommend applying the serums for maximum benefit?
ES: We recommend applying the water-based B3 + Zinc first, followed by the oil-based E + Oat to maximize absorption. In addition to the benefits we see from the use of each serum on their own, there is also a synergistic skin benefit to the skin’s moisture barrier when the two serums are used together. This is as a result of the vitamin B5 within the B3 + Zinc serum and the oat oil in the Vitamin E + Oat serum. A healthy moisture barrier means more supple, healthy and smooth skin, even as you age.
AB: Why would you recommend using the serums together and who would you recommend them to?
ES: While these serums are to be used in a preventative and prescriptive manor, a person’s skin may benefit from using both serums at once to target a few skin concerns at the same time. A person with dry, redness-prone skin could benefit from both vitamin E as well as zinc. Similarly, a person with mature skin, who experiences breakouts may choose to use both serums in conjunction. Sometimes you just need skin clarity and renewal at the same time!
AB: How would you say the serums, (particularly the B3 + Zinc), fair for hyperpigmentation? There seems to be some confusion over the difference between hyperpigmentation and discolouration these days.
ES: Hyperpigmentation is complex and can be the result of several different physiological processes. Whether the hyperpigmentation is genetic, a result of sun exposure, age or scarring, changes how treatable it is. Most types of hyperpigmentation are not reversible. With some skin types, scarring from acne (especially the acute darkening of a blemish after sun exposure) can fade with time. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) has been shown to increase cell turnover and may help speed up this process. Some types of scarring pigmentation can also decrease in appearance with the application of vitamin E however, the Consonant Vitamin Serums were not formulated specifically to address hyperpigmentation. As with all of our products, we always want our clients to know the limits of topicals and remind them that great skin is about more than just great skin care. The best practice is always prevention, wear sunscreen, moisturize and start caring for your skin as early as possible.
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Unless you’d like to see this planet’s wildlife and environment continue to suffer as a result of improperly disposed cosmetics products, then it’s time to start recycling our empty beauty products properly. One way to do that is to check if the plastic container of a personal care product has a number 1 or 2 printed inside its recycling symbol, then it’s safe to go into your curbside recycling. However, if it’s not, we recommend searching for a retailer with a recycling program to ensure your empties are being disposed of without hurting the environment.
Here are 12 places to responsibly recycle your empty beauty products in Toronto.
L’Occitane en Provence
At 14 of its locations in Downtown Toronto and the GTA, iconic French brand L’Occitane en Provence partnered up with Terracycle so that customers can bring in used products to be recycled. You can even bring back empty products from other brands and receive 10 per cent off a new item from L’Occitane.
Pure + Simple
Every one of this downtown Toronto spa’s storefronts participate in a bottle return program, which allows customers to bring back their Pure + Simple and Holistic Vanity empties and gives them a dollar off their next purchase – per bottle!
TerraCycle Canada
One of the easiest ways to properly recycle your favourite eos, Weleda, and Burt’s Bees empties is by sending them into TerraCycle itself. Products from these companies can now be mailed to TerraCycle free of charge as long as you sign up online for a postage-paid envelope. You’ll earn points for every product you turn in which can be redeemed as a charitable donation to a school or nonprofit of your choice.
Deciem
Deciem has also paired up with Terracycle to offer the brand’s loyal following a recycling program at two specific locations in the GTA: the Toronto Exchange Tower and Square One in Mississauga. And don’t worry about having more than just Deciem products to recycle – the company accepts all beauty products and packaging.
The Body Shop
A brand with a long history of eco-consciousness, The Body Shop keeps TerraCycle bins at 10 of it’s Toronto stores so that customers can recycle their beauty and body products properly. Once Love Your Body Club members return 5 of their clean empties, they receive a $10 reward. Bonus!
MAC Cosmetics
Though you can only recycle MAC products through the brands Back to MAC program, you can receive a free lipstick upon returning 6 primary containers (think tubes, bottles, or eyeshadow pots) that your makeup came in. Keep in mind that they can be used, empty, or full, but they have to fall within the company’s required guidelines for return.
Kiehl’s
What could be better than receiving complimentary merchandise for recycling products you scraped the last bits of? At Kiehl’s, each time you return a full-size product for recycling, you’ll receive a stamp on a Reward Card. When you’ve earned 10 stamps, you can turn in your card and pick up a free Kiehl’s Travel Collection item.
Lush
You may have heard about Lush’s recycling program before — the brand has reportedly collected more than 3 million empty bottles since its beginning. When you bring back five empty, clean Lush pots, you’ll receive a free fresh face mask in exchange. And you can feel better about buying Lush products in the first place, since the brands containers are made from recycled plastics and former little black pots themselves. On the plus side, the company’s bath bombs, fresh face masks, lip balm, massage bars, solid scrubs, and perfumes can also be composted.
Aveda
Aveda partnered with recycling company g2 Revolution so that clients can bring in all packaging and accessories from the brand to its stores. They’re then recycled, reused or burned for energy recovery.
Origins
Origins actually created the first recycling program for cosmetic packaging in 2009, and its products are made from mostly post-consumer recycled materials produced by renewable resources. The company accepts products from any beauty brand at its brick and mortar locations as well.
Innisfree
With its first stand-alone store now open in Yorkdale Shopping Centre, Innisfree, a budget-friendly K-beauty brand specializing in all-natural skincare and makeup, has also teamed up with TerraCycle. Innisfree collects any of your empties in-store (and soon, online) in exchange for loyalty points. In addition to the Empty Bottle Recycling Campaign the company’s had in effect since 2003, nearly 13 million bottles have been recycled.
The Detox Market
You can now recycle your clean beauty products at The Detox Market, too! For every full-size empty product you bring in, the retailer will reward you with 10 Detox Points. Drop offs are limited to 10 products per customer.
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Every day we see sponsored posts and candid snapshots of social media’s biggest starlets sporting designer labels. Typically, a quick tap on Instagram’s “tags” icon will tell you whose clothes they’re wearing, but sometimes it doesn’t appear.
Ironically, the brands that today’s queens of pop culture are actually wearing about town (sans paid promotions) are often the ones we have to find out for ourselves.
But if you’re ever curious about models and celebrity’s best kept style secrets, looking at everyday snapshots of them wearing clothes they’re comfortable in is one of the easiest ways to discover the items you desire.
With that being said, here are 12 brands that celebrities Love to shop.
Sam Miro
As a major influencer and up and coming designer, Sami Miro is pushing eco-conscious clothing with her own brand, Sami Miro Vintage. Major fans include Jordyn Woods, the Jenners and Hadids, Hailey Bieber, Kourtney Kardashian, Normani, and Selena Gomez, to name a few. Specializing in sourcing and reconstructing vintage garments curated from around the world, Sami Miro Vintage is on the up and up. Shop Sami Miro Vintage for sustainable, one of a kind items that are great for everyday wear.
I.Am.Gia
As seen on the likes of Kylie Jenner, Winnie Harlow, and Bella Hadid, I.Am.Gia is another one of the brands that celebrities love to shop. It has skyrocketed in popularity since 2017. The Australian label’s teddy jackets and cargo pants quickly overtook Instagram after its launch, and now, the clothing company churns out new collections filled with bold statement pieces at a fast fashion pace. Shop I.Am.Gia for badass, body-hugging silhouettes that make a night out with your #GirlSquad extra spicy.
Mango
Spanish fashion brand Mango has been making a name for itself since 1984 by producing stylish, quality designs with a Mediterranean twist at low prices. Supermodel Irina Shayk and actress Diane Kruger have recently been spotted in head-to-toe Mango, and even Man Repeller founder Leandra Medine has co-designed a collection with the brand. Shop Mango for contemporary basics as well as one-off, standout prints and bedazzled pieces.
GCDS
Made in Italy, GCDS (a.k.a “God Can’t Destroy Streetwear”) is a repeat favourite of Dua Lipa, Megan Thee Stallion, and Chiara Ferragni. The brand’s logo, graphics, and playful slogans make it irresistible to young tastemakers, especially on Instagram. Shop GCDS for the coolest streetwear that gives a lasting impression.
Nonie
A Meghan Markle favourite, Canadian brand Nonie creates modern, ready-to-wear women’s clothing with an emphasis on tailoring. Ethically made in Calgary, Alberta, Nonie’s refined staples and classic trenches are essential to any #GirlBoss’s wardrobe. Shop Nonie for smart yet subtle “dress to impress” workwear and, of course, timeless pieces like the duchess’ favourite sleeveless ensemble. We’re proud that the Canadian-based Nonie is one of the brands that celebrities love.
Cherry
Los Angeles-based clothing label Cherry makes one of Hailey Bieber’s most cherished clothing items: a plain ol’ white tank with the brand’s logo scrawled across the heart. Using innovative cut and sew styles to stitch their designs in the heart of South Central California, Cherry’s clothes make perfect everyday streetwear choices. Shop Cherry for comfy monochrome basics and logo-adorned sweatsuits.
Quay
Sunglass brand Quay is well-loved by celebs like J. Lo and Chrissy Teigen, and the company’s trendy shades are taking the ‘gram by storm. For quality frames and lenses, Quay sunglasses are worth the bang for your buck. Plus, you can find your perfect fit on Quay’s website. Why worry about whether or not the glasses you ordered will be too big or small for your face? Shop Quay for your very own match made in shade heaven.
Reformation
When is dressing in sustainably and ethically made fabrics not cute? That’s a rhetorical question. Apparently, Kaia Gerber, Adele, Emily Ratajkowski, Kendall Jenner, and Bella Hadid think so too, which is part of the reason why they wear Reformation on the reg. Shop Ref Women for vintage inspired silhouettes, sultry silks, and dainty floral dresses that make you crave summer’s warmth.
Aritzia
Now that Hailey Bieber calls Canada home, it’s only fitting that she rocks an Aritzia Super Puff. It seems she may have Sofia Richie and the Kardashians hooked too, and even Meghan Markle’s on board. For carefully crafted casual wear and on-trend items, they’ve got it all, and its definitely one of the top picks for affordable brands that celebrities love. Shop Aritzia for one of the dreamiest puffer jackets around and elegant basics for any occasion.
Hunza G
The title of bathing suit of the moment goes to Hunza G, a London-based swimwear label with a whole lotta love from celebs like Kim Kardashian, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Hailey Bieber, Suki Waterhouse, and Dua Lipa. Their signature crinkle-stretch fabric makes every swimsuit unique and more than accommodating for the most active beach days. Shop Hunza G for one of the most comfortable swimsuits you’ll ever wear and one that’ll never go out of style so long as you’ve got sand between your toes.
Ivy Park
Beyonce’s latest collection for her activewear brand, Ivy Park, literally rolled right into the closets of Naomi Campbell, Cardi B, Reese Witherspoon, and many others, resulting in a totally sold out collection. Cargo style jumpsuits and vests, spandex, pinstripes, and buckled harnesses worked their way into the new line, making every piece as functional as can be. Shop Ivy Park, the next time it’s available, for bossed up athleisure fit for a #Queen.
Marine Serre
You see those cutesy little half moon prints everywhere? Yes, those are courtesy of Marine Serre. The Parisian label is a blend of ready-to-wear, leisurewear, and couture, or what they like to call “futurewear.” In early 2019, Beyonce donned a full Marine Serre ensemble featuring the little half moons we talked about, and soon after, other celebs were following suit. Jorja Smith and Kendall Jenner are fans, too. Shop Marine Serre for futuristic, upcycled sportswear that’s sure to get you a few double takes.
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