As much as we love a chic jacket look, sooner than we know it, we’re going to have to pull out the big coats – as in, puffer coats, that is. Let’s face it: nothing does the job of providing warmth in even the coldest of conditions like a puffer coat does! Wearing a great puffer coat basically feels like you’re wrapped in a nice warm blanket on a cold wintery day, and who wouldn’t want that? Don’t let the cold stop you this winter by investing in a great coat that will actually keep you warm and cozy!
Shop these 8 puffer coats before winter
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Winter staple coat label Canada Goose is collaborating with sustainable “it-girl” fashion brand Reformation on an outerwear collection!
The 7-piece collection meshes everything we love about the 2 brands, together. The functionality and performance of Canada Goose put together with Reformation’s recognizable aesthetic and sustainability practices, create the outerwear collaboration of our dreams!
The collection features reversible vests, parkas, sweaters – and a scarf – a whole new category for Canada Goose. The vintage-style patterns and fun colours on the pieces give new life to what is typically known as traditional winter outerwear. The pieces are also crafted with responsibly sourced down and recycled fabrics, aligning with both brands’ sustainability efforts.
The pieces in the collection were made with the intent to be passed down for generations as implied with a “Loved By” label on the interior lining, which is such a nice touch!
The Reformation X Canada Goose collaboration collection will be available worldwide on Canada Goose and Reformations websites, as well as in select stores starting December 6. Set your alarms!
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Canada Goose has been launching a lot of great initiatives lately. From switching production to medical gear for Canadian hospitals to ramping up production to widen its support, we’ve seen a lot of positive action from the outwear brand.
And now, the company is launching a sustainable impact strategy.
In Canada Goose‘s first-ever Sustainability Report, the company has outlined five key commitments to lessen its impact on the environment. One of the most notable commitments is the outwear company’s plan to stop using new fur.
By 2022, Canada Goose plans to introduce reclaimed fur into its supply chain, which in layman’s terms, means that the company will be seeking out fur that’s already in the market instead of living animals. In addition to this, the company will also be launching a consumer buy-back program for fur in the upcoming months.
On top of the company’s new fur sourcing protocols, Canada Goose plans on being responsible down Standard (RDS) certified by 2021.
In partnership with Textile Exchange, the outerwear brand will be RDS certified at 100% of its facilities by 2021. Fabrics are also getting a sustainable upgrade. Canada Goose has committed to using 90% bluesign approved (a manufacturing process that ensures the lowest impact on people and the environment) by 2025.
Other initiatives set out include a goal of producing net zero greenhouse emissions by 2025 and eliminating single-use plastics in all Canada Goose-owned or controlled facilities.
“We have always believed in building a business that is good for our team, for the communities we’re a part of and for the planet, for generations to come,” said Dani Reiss, President & CEO, Canada Goose. “No matter how much we’ve done over the last 60 years, we need to do more – the world can’t wait.”
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Last month, Canada Goose announced that it would be pivoting its manufacturing strategy to lend its support to COVID-19 relief. And during the week of April 9, the outerwear brand delivered on its promise to hospitals across the country.
Now Canada Goose plans on ramping up its contributions to further help slow the spread of COVID-19.
“These unprecedented times call for decisive, collective action and now is the time for Canada to invest in Made-in-Canada solutions,” Dani Reiss, President & CEO of Canada Goose, said in a press release. “With one of the largest Canadian apparel manufacturing infrastructures in the country, we are uniquely positioned to re-tool our facilities and refocus our teams to produce a variety of personal protective equipment – and we are prepared to leverage all of our resources to do what’s right for our country.”
Over the next couple of weeks, Canada Goose will reopen all eight of its facilities and will see as many as 900 employees support the initiative.
On top of the 14,000 medical scrubs and gowns that Canada Goose promised at no cost, the outerwear brand will now be producing up to 1.5 million gowns, with up to 60,000 gowns per week, at cost for Canadian hospitals and medical centres.
The company plans to donate any unintentional profits made to COVID-19 relief funds.
Canada Goose will work closely with federal, provincial, and local health authorities to provide as much gear as possible to frontline workers and those in need.
In addition, the company is also taking care of its workers by using recommended social distancing protocols and safety regulations.
At times like these, we are so proud of companies like Canada Goose lend support to COVID-19 relief efforts.
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News of Canadian companies taking action during times of uncertainty adds a glimmer of hope to our days. And the latest Canadian retailer to lend its manufacturing facilities and team to the COVID-19 fight is Canada Goose.
On March 25, Canada Goose announced that it would pivot its manufacturing strategy to produce medical gear for frontline healthcare workers and patients across Canada. This includes making scrubs and patient gowns, which are high in demand across the country.
Canada Goose medical gear will be distributed to hospitals starting next week.
Canada Goose has committed two of its manufacturing facilities to the cause — one in Toronto and another in Winnipeg — with approximately 100 employees dedicated to the project. The company has set an initial goal of producing 10,000 units.
“Across Canada, there are people risking their lives every day on the frontlines of COVID-19 in healthcare facilities, and they need help. Now is the time to put our manufacturing resources and capabilities to work for the greater good. Our employees are ready, willing and able to help, and that’s what we’re doing. It’s the Canadian thing to do.”
Dani Reiss, President & CEO, Canada Goose
Inside the manufacturing facilities, Canada Goose will follow the recommended protocols to ensure the safety of its staff. This includes social distancing, limiting the number of employees in specific spaces, and increasing sanitation.
On top of it all, Canada Goose has started another project to help its employees during this time.
The Canada Goose Employee Fund was created on March 17 to provide assistance to employees who are impacted by store and manufacturing closures. Dani Reiss, Canada Goose’s President and CEO, has put his salary on pause for three months in support of the fund.
The company has also donated 1 million yuan to the Wuhan Charity Federation to help fight the COVID-19 outbreak in China.
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Now that we’re experiencing super cold temperatures, snow, and icy winds, the odds that folks are reaching for their parkas are incredibly high. If you don’t have a parka or are in need of a new one, then we highly encourage you to head to the new Canada Goose store that’s located at CF Sherway Gardens.
This new store, that’s open now, is called The Journey and it’s a retail concept that’s the first of its kind for Canada Goose.
“In retail, experience is everything – and trying on a Canada Goose jacket for the first time is a powerful experience. This new store amplifies that moment by creating an environment that digitally and physically transports people into the Arctic in innovative, surprising, and inspiring ways,” said Dani Reiss, President & CEO, Canada Goose in a release. “The way people shop is changing and I’m excited to be a leader in defining the future of retail.”
This fully immersive retail experience is one that needs to be seen in order to believed. Even entering the store itself is unique. Customers will walk through a “crevasse” which is the deepest part of a glacier. It’s there that they’ll walk over “ice” and hear the sound of ice cracking as they walk.
Walking through the crevasse is just the start of your experience.
You’ll then enter the Elements Room and it has 60-foot wide curved displays that project sweeping British Columbia landscapes. You’ll also inhale the sweet scent of the Canadian outdoors through a diffuser.
In this room, shoppers will have the opportunity to learn about the history behind the brand’s hero Snow Mantra parka through interactive red laser “hotspots” on the coats. Folks will simply touch a hotspot, and the screen behind the coat will share a fact about the coat.
Once you meet with your Brand Ambassador, you’ll head into the Gear Room where you’ll get outfitted in a Canada Goose Snow Mantra jacket. These are the same jackets that are standard issue, and are worn by those who visit Antarctica.
Once you’ve got your jacket on, you’ll head into the Cold Room where you’ll instantly be transported to the Arctic.
The Cold Room’s temperature is set at -12°C and it features floor-to-ceiling Arctic landscapes and actual snow on the ground. It’s there that you’ll really feel true warmth in a Canada Goose jacket.
The Cold Room offers two original films, which will change seasonally and are narrated by four-time Yukon Quest and Iditarod champion, Lance Mackey, and Indigenous activist and artist, Sarain Fox.
What else makes this store different? Well, believe it or not, this new Canada Goose store is inventory-free.
You read that right: there is zero inventory in the store. Visitors to the store can browse the full catalogue of Canada Goose products with the help of their Brand Ambassador. These knowledgable associates will help them select the perfect Canada Goose product for any adventure or environment that suits their lifestyle.
If you purchase your Canada Goose jacket before 1:30 p.m. and you live or are staying in the Greater Toronto Area, it’ll be delivered the same day.
The new Canada Goose store is now open at CF Sherway Gardens.
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In this day and age, stores and restaurants seem to be closing left, right, and centre. So whenever there are new openings, they become a thing to celebrate. This month, Toronto is being graced with a handful of new openings from restaurants and apparel, to gyms and even a spa.
Regardless of if you’re obsessed with all things new, or you’re looking for new spots to shop for holiday prezzies, these 6 new Toronto openings should definitely be on your radar.
ZWILLING
ZWILLING’s first Canadian flagship, located at CF Markville Shopping Centre, is the ultimate foodie destination. The 2,500 square foot spaces sits in the malls new ‘luxury fashion wing’ that includes other high end stores like Michael Kors and Coach. The store is focusing on giving customers a unique shopping experience by having the whole ZWILLING J.A. Henckels catalogue of products available to purchase. To further celebrate the new store, there are a handful of sweet in-store deals to take advantage of!
Province Of Canada
If you’re in search of a spot to get your hands on some actually cute Canadiana, then you’ll want to get your butt over to Province of Canada’s new digs at 1004 Queen Street East. The brand launched in 2014 and this space is the brands first bricks and mortar location. Expect to shop Province of Canada’s well-made basics, dresses, rugby shirts, toques, totes, and candles.
Canada Goose
Winter is in full force with temps steadily dropping so if you’re finding yourself without a warm parka, then it’s time to head to the new Canada Goose store at CF Sherway Gardens. This new location is part of the brands major expansion and it’s also the first store of its kind. What’s so cool about this store is that it features a cold room where you can actually experience your jacket keeping you warm in winter conditions. Plus, you’ll order your coat on a digital screen and it’ll be shipped right to your door!
Yves Rocher
If botanical beauty is your thing, then Yves Rocher should be on your radar. The France-based brand is known for how it uses active ingredients from plants in its products and it’s newest store just opened on December 4th at CF Sherway Gardens. It’s there that you can find Yves Rocher’s lineup of quality skincare, body care, haircare, makeup, and even fragrances.
Hammam Spa by Céla
Need a little pampering before the stress of the holiday season? The Hammam Spa by Céla just opened at Bayview Village and let us tell you: it has everything! In addition to being a tranquil escape, the space is beautiful and but offers a ton of different treatments like medical procedures that include injectables, laser, and skincare treatments. The spa also features faves like its popular Turkish Bath, Seed to Skin Ritual, and full body wraps using products by Céla.
Sweat and Tonic
If you have a gym membership, you probably feel guilty for wanting to try different classes. That’s why Sweat and Tonic needs to be on your fitness hit list. This new space just opened across from the CF Toronto Eaton Centre and it features a spin studio, hot room, and a HIIT room. S&T offers more than just fitness classes, too. Visit the Nutbar cafe for a snack or post-workout smoothie and even indulge in some self-care at the spa for a massage!
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This year, we saw a plethora of retailers shutter amidst the retail apocalypse. But where there are failures, there are always champions to look to in every industry — and in Canadian fashion, it’s Lululemon.
BrandZ, the world’s largest brand equity database, recently released its inaugural list of the top 40 most valuable brands in Canada.
Overall, the brands on the list are worth a total of $144 billion in 2019. But aside from financials, the study also took criteria like consumer trust into consideration, which helped break down the list into six different categories: Brand Contribution, Best Purpose, Most Meaningful, Most Different, Most Innovative, and Best Brand Experience.
Of the 40 most valuable Canadian brands, Lululemon ranked as the top fashion brand.
Despite recent brand closures, sixth on the overall list and first in the apparel category, BrandZ has Lululemon’s 2019 brand value at $7,578 million USD.
Coming in as 17th on the top most valuable Canadian brands list and second in the apparel category is Canada Goose with a brand value of $2,199 million USD. Aritzia came in third for the apparel category and 31st overall with a brand value of $684 million USD.
In terms of shopping, the retail category has 12 familiar names on the list.
Metro, Dollarama, Shoppers Drug Mart, Real Canadian Superstore, WINNERS, RONA, Foodland, President’s Choice, Sobeys, and Food Basics were all ranked in the top 40 most valuable Canadian brands of 2019.
Retail was actually one of the top most valuable categories, falling third after banks and telecom providers.
While many countries and businesses face uncertainty, BrandZ’s study just goes to show that Canada is holding up strong. And while some of our favourite retailers may be shuttering stores, at the very least, we have the top 40 to rely on.
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As we make our way into colder days, you’re going to want to bundle up. Toronto winters can be brutal, so it’s better to be prepared in advance and say hello to big, downy parkas. If your hunt for the perfect winter jacket has just begun, this is the perfect starting point for you. We know winter coats don’t always come cheap so if this is the year you’re looking for a new one, we have you covered.
Take a look at our list of 15 of the best places to buy winter jacket in the GTA and don’t worry — you can thank us later when you’re not freezing your butt off!
MEC Toronto
MEC Is known for making some of the best outdoor gear on the market. With friendly and knowledgeable staff, this is a great place to get your hands on a durable and practical winter jacket that will last you a few years at the least.
Sporting Life
Sporting Life is a mecca for all things snow related. The store’s winter coat selection is one of the best in the city, and it carries everything from high-end technical ski wear, to fashion-forward outwear that will make even the most seasoned fashionistas jealous. Sporting Life currently holds one of the largest Canada Goose collections and caters to the refined shopper who doesn’t mind shelling out several hundreds of dollars for a high-quality coat. What’s awesome about Sporting Life is that you can regularly find great winter jackets on sale that will help save you some coin.
L.L. Bean
A true destination for anyone obsessed with being outside, L.L. Bean is filled with everything you’ll need to stay warm while outdoors. In addition to all the cozy sweaters, boots, and flannel that the retailer is famous for, don’t forget to check out its well made winter coats, too. We couldn’t be more excited that the brand now has a location in Canada that’s situated at Oakville Place.
Aritzia
If there’s something Canadian retailer, Aritzia knows, it’s winter and the retailer has definitely upped its parka game within the last few years. Most of the parkas and coats you’ll find at Aritzia are from its house brands such as Golden by TNA, TNA, Community, and Wilfred Free, but they are without a doubt, warm as can be. Many of the jackets you’ll find are made of water-resistant material, have a removable vegan fur trim, are machine washable, and down-filled.
Lorne’s Coats
Lorne’s has been a staple in Toronto for decades and what’s great about Lorne’s is that it does one thing — sell coats — and it does it well. While the weather may dictate that you need a parka, often in Toronto it’s unnecessary if you’re a few minutes walk from the office. If you work in a typical office you need a business appropriate coat. Actually, we are going further than that everyone needs a dress coat, not just you office folks.
The North Face
Looking for a coat that’ll see you through the snowy season? You’ll want to get yourself into The North Face as soon as possible because in Toronto, you never know when winter will kickstart. If you think you need the heaviest jacket in the world to stay warm whilst outside, think again because The North Face has loads of coat options that are sleek, not bulky in the slightest, and won’t make you sacrifice warmth.
SOIA & KYO
If looking cute is just as important as staying warm, then you’ve come to the right place. SOIA & KYO has you covered with its well made and expertly designed outerwear that doesn’t skimp on the chic details. The brands sporty down-filled parkas are crazy warm, and the fit of the coat looks so high fashion! Not wanting to order online? Head to Square One to shop in person!
Vallier
A new label from Altitude Sports that’s out of Montreal is Vallier and it’s a name you’ll want to remember when shopping for all things winter weather. In addition to the ultra chic and warm parkas and down-filled jackets that the brand offers, make sure you layer up in one of its crewneck sweatshirts and sweaters for all the cozy vibes!
Value Village + Consignment Stores
If you’re looking for cheap and cheerful, Value Village and various secondhand shops around Toronto are always great to hit up. While considered “gently used” you can often find yourself a great unique jacket perfect for those who need more than one or two jackets to round out your style needs. Many great consignment stores have fabulous vintage designer coats that can help you stand out in a crowd. Going this route almost guarantees you won’t be standing next to someone in the exact same coat as you.
Winners & Marshalls
While it can be somewhat hit or miss, Winners and Marshalls are great options for the shopper looking to pick up a brand name winter coat without breaking the bank. The best part is that these stores restock merchandise frequently, so there’s a good chance you’ll score no matter when you go in to shop.
Joe Fresh
Joe Fresh is a great choice for the frugal shopper. If you’re in the market for a down-filled coat this is the place to go to grab one for under $200. These coats are crazy warm and will last multiple seasons so you really get a great bang for your buck.
Canada Goose
While definitely not cheap option, a Canada Goose jacket is well worth your buck if you’re looking to invest in a quality, made-in-Canada down jacket. Having been experts in luxury extreme weather outerwear since 1957, you can be guaranteed that the brands coats will last a lifetime and keep you warm in the chilliest winter temperatures. The brands newest collab is with luxury label Juun.J and it’s a collection that re-imagined four of its heritage pieces. Expect to see the same super warm jackets but with trendy exaggerated proportions and graphic silhouettes.
Nordstrom
If you’re looking for a place that has a TON of different styles to choose from, start your search at Nordstrom. Whether you’re looking for something functional or fashionable, the store has the best of both worlds, plus everything in between. Think quality Canadian brands, as well as other designer labels like Cole Haan and Ralph Lauren. Not to mention you can even enlist the help of a free stylist to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
Patagonia
If you consider yourself an adventurer, you might want to check out Patagonia. The brand is all about functionality and durability at its best. The brands sporty yet chic jackets are perfect for those wishing to spend a lot of time doing activities outdoors this winter. Known for its lighter jackets that are compact, water resistant, and insulated, you’ll get all the warmth without feeling like the Michelin Man.
Pajar
Montreal-based Pajar makes jackets that are both stylish and warm, and when we say warm, we mean you won’t freeze, even when it’s -30C outside. There’s a reason why Pajar has been highly revered in the winter wear world, and its quality, innovative technology, and craftsmanship prove why.
Nobis
If you’re in the market for classic fitted silhouettes and functionality, then Nobis has your back. The brands jackets will keep you safe and warm in pretty much all weather conditions, including wind, rain, snow, sleet, and hail. A big plus is that Nobis jackets can be home laundered, meaning you can save big money on pricy dry cleaning.
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Faux Or Foe? How Fur Jackets Are Literally Ruining Friendships Everywhere
A lot of things can break a bond between friends: competing for love interests, hectic schedules, differing life stages, opposing political views, and now seemingly more than ever, fur jackets are the culprit.
As the winter wind begins to roll in, so do some important decisions when it comes to winter coats – ones that could polarize groups of people and cause tension between friends. The big debate centres around fur-trimmed hoods on parkas and coats from some of the world’s largest outerwear brands.
Beloved by many, outerwear brands like Canada Goose, Nobis, Rudsak, and Mackage all feature fur in many of their styles.
While the fur detailing is a (pricey) added bonus to some shoppers, it’s no surprise that others find it truly appalling – and aren’t afraid to tell you so. I know one guy who didn’t make it past the first (very brief) date with a woman because she showed up in a Canada Goose parka with a coyote fur-trimmed hood. I know another woman who called out an acquaintance, making a mild scene in the process, when she showed up at her party wearing a fur coat.
In an extreme case, a friend of a friend essentially de-friended those around her who rocked fur on the regular, citing “differing core values.”
Even if a friend or family member doesn’t overtly criticize others for wearing fur to their face, pretty much everyone knows the type who will take to social media to slam the “terrible, horrible, insensitive fur wearers,” even if it means offending those closest to them in the process.
“I don’t think I would purchase a coat with fur on it now, but I do have a coat I saved up for maybe four years ago that has a fur hood that I wear on really cold days,” says Ashley, a Toronto 30-something marketing professional. “I have one friend who is extremely vocal about her anti-fur stance on social media, so – simply to avoid drama and conflict – I try not to wear it around her, even if it means freezing my butt off.”
Taking it a step beyond the realm of friendships, regardless of their viewpoint on fur, many wouldn’t take that fur coat out if the closet if they wanted to, out of fear of being judged by strangers on the streets, potential employers, love interests, and social media contacts.
To many people, wearing a fur coat in public is considered a major statement. That statement is that fur is fashion; a view that’s not in style for many.
In early 2016 – right before the anti-fur movement and mass veganism really began to dominate deadlines – a survey of 1,025 young people between the ages of 18 and 34 revealed that 66 per cent of young people did not feel comfortable wearing real fur.
Only 19 per cent felt comfortable doing so, and 15 per cent said that it depended where the fur came from. Personally, I wouldn’t buy a fur-adorned coat in today’s climate, but do have a few (very warm ones) from years ago that I’m not sure will see the light of day this year; frankly, I’m undecided.
“I think it’s a sensitive subject. I do think wearing a vintage piece is different than buying a new piece because it symbolizes recycling and waste reduction,” says Hannah, a 38-year-old human resource professional in Toronto. “But, I also don’t see the difference between wearing leather shoes, having leather bags, fur, or eating meat. It’s all the same to me.”
Naturally, opposing opinions about fur opens up this bigger, slippery slope-filled debate for those wanting to take it there.
Someone who feels attacked for wearing fur may be quick to call their fur-protesting bestie a hypocrite if he or she eats meat or consumes other animal products, or wears down, leather shoes, or leather jackets.
“I used to judge people who wore Canada Goose jackets,” says Emma, a 30-year-old Toronto creative director. “But then, I saw how much the brand supported remote and underserved communities in Canada’s north by donating large amounts of much-needed parka material, and I looked more into their ethical fur and down sourcing practices and sort of changed my stance.”
Both Canada Goose and Nobis have strict fur-sourcing practices in place, and outline this on their respective websites. For example, Canada Goose states that all down is a byproduct of the poultry industry, and that none of its ethically sourced fur is from fur farms, or endangered species.
However, For animal rights activists this doesn’t cut it.
Despite the well-documented backlash against fur (and, specifically, Canada Goose), the demand for things like coyote fur continues to soar thanks to the high-end parka industry, and neither Canada Goose, nor Nobis, are hurting for business.
It should be noted that both brands are listening to the changing consumer sentiment, and feature many items free of fur.
In particular, Nobis’ new fall/winter 2019 collection offers no shortage of warm, fitted, and stylish parkas that are fur-free. The majority of Nobis’ outerwear pieces are designed with removable furs, and faux-fur pre-order options are also available.
Canada Goose, Mackage, Nobis, and Rudsak also offer fur-free alternatives.
As the fur debate continues to divide, the number of options of warm synthetics available is growing. Today’s quality faux-furs look so similar to real fur that it’s tough to tell the difference.
Traditionally, however, while faux-fur may spare animals, it hasn’t exactly been the best for the environment because it requires more nonrenewable energy to produce and is often made from nonrenewable materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic.
In fact, faux-furs are said to take longer to break down than real deal furs. On the positive, the industry is constantly innovating to provide safer options.
For example, just this month, Stella McCartney launched a sustainable faux-fur jacket made from plant-based materials like corn.
Whatever your viewpoint is on it, the reality is that the great fur jacket debate has reached new heights in recent years; something that’s reflective in everything from powerful social media campaigns to the world’s most coveted fashion runways.
The fashion industry is strutting away from fur, one headline at a time; recently, brands including Prada, Versace, Burberry, and Gucci all swore off using fur.
Last year, London Fashion Week vowed to go fur-free. It’s only reasonable to assume that the stigma surrounding real fur will continue to grow – subsequently, so will the tension between friends.
Perhaps the solution – and one that will satisfy both the animal rights activists and the environmentalists, not to mention, save friendships – is to say goodbye to a fur-focused aesthetic in fashion all together.
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