Swimwear is by far one of the hardest things to shop for — it’s right up there with jeans and bras. Finding the perfect swimsuit that is both trendy and economical is hard enough on its own. Add in finding one that’s of good quality and actually fits, well, that’s a whole other story.
Here are Canadian swimsuit brands to keep on your radar for summer.
Saltwater Collective
Saltwater Collective is manufactured closest to home — right here in Toronto. The brand prioritizes the body-type and size of the everyday woman, catering to actually realistic figures. Saltwater’s swimsuits are made of high-quality fabrics that come in bold as well as unassuming colours. The bottom line is that this swimwear brand carries some of the trendiest yet practical bathing suits on the market!
Selfish Swimwear
Selfish Swimwear is geared towards the less modest with swimsuits being trendy, reasonably priced, alluring, and playful. These swimsuit designs are all about being sexy and in these cheeky looks, you’ll definitely be turning heads while you’re laying by the pool this summer.
Beth Richards
Beth Richards is a Vancouver-based swimwear company started by designer, Beth Richards, hence the brand’s name. All of her designs are manufactured right here in Canada, and they’re made with the environment in mind! Beth Richards’ goal is to produce as little waste as possible, and some of its pieces are even made out of recycled materials. Expect to shop monochrome bikinis and one-pieces that are simple, yet still chic, as well as a few more extravagant looks if you’re looking for something a little bolder.
Anna Kosturova
If you’re on the hunt for some true bohemian beachy vibes, look no further than Anna Kosturova. Based in Vancouver, this is the ideal swimwear line to bring out your inner hippie. This line is known for carrying high-quality crochet pieces — with a price point around $100-$250.
Knix
Joanna Griffiths has revolutionized the intimate apparel industry with Knix, a Toronto-based brand that’s designed to make women feel more comfortable in their own skin. Not only does the company carry its infamous underwear and bras, Knix also has a lovely line of swimwear!
Left On Friday
The Vancouver-based brand, Left On Friday, is serving up all of the summer looks. The Canadian swimsuit brand believes in a life where nothing holds you back, especially your swimsuit. Its designs will keep up with you all day long, whether you’re swimming or surfing.
LONDRE
Not only are LONDRE‘s styles super cute, but it also places a major focus on its environmental impact. So far, LONDRE has recycled over 200,000 plastic bottles off of streets and beaches into their sustainable garments offering. Plus, all of the water used in the process is able to be reused into new materials.
Mimi and August
Mimi and August is a Montreal-based ethically-made apparel brand with an exclusive swimwear line carrying sizes XS to 4XL! Its swimsuits were created and designed to include all women. While browsing, you can expect to find unique prints on full-piece and 2-piece swimsuits, which are designed to fix and match how you please.
Visual Mood
Visual Mood was founded in 2026, right here in Toronto! With the aim to provide both stylish and comfortable swimwear for women, the brand offers beautiful silhouettes and prints that you’ll never want to take off – and they’re even made of sustainable materials! If you want swimwear with a romantic feel, look no further!
437
Another Toronto-based swimwear gem is the viral brand 437! After doing a semester studying abroad in Europe, 437 founders Hyla and Adrien noticed a gap in the swimwear market when they weren’t able to find any bikinis that flattered their bodies. After graduating, 437 was born. The brand has since grown to have over 320K followers on Instagram, popularly known for its staple swimwear.
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If you’ve ever wished that you could shop local and support your favourite Canadian brands, all under one roof, this is your chance! The bi-annual pop-up event, INLAND, is back for its 10th year, this time, at Toronto’s Eaton Centre!
INLAND’s spring 2024 pop-up will take place at CF Toronto Eaton Centre from May 9th to 12th, on the mall’s third-floor luxury level, next to Sephora. Over 40 of Canada’s most celebrated fashion designers and creators will be available to shop!
Since launching in 2014, INLAND has showcased over 500 Canadian brands and makers from across the country, encouraging shoppers to explore and shop local talent.
The vendor line-up will showcase women’s and men’s apparel, swimwear, jewellery, footwear, bags, and more, showcasing some of Canada’s most visionary brands.
“It’s a great time for fashion and retail because we are all in a “rethink” frame of mind, taking a closer look at what we buy and why we buy it. This is why I’m thrilled to be marking our 10th anniversary at CF Toronto Eaton Centre, bringing local design to one of Canada’s busiest shopping destinations. The intent is to disrupt what shoppers typically experience at the mall and hopefully encourage new thinking about both style and consumption,” says Sarah Power, founder and director, INLAND.
INLAND is also partnering with Fashion at The Creative School, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), allowing TMU students to showcase their collections alongside esteemed brands.
INLAND Pop-Up Hours & Location:
Where: CF Toronto Eaton Centre, 3rd Floor, Beside Sephora.
When: Thursday, May 9 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday, May 10 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Saturday, May 11 from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday, May 12 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
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As we’re the festive season is quickly passing us by, you’re likely trying to finish up your holiday shopping! It can be quite overwhelming with the endless options to gift to your loved ones, so why not narrow it down and shop Canadian? There are so many awesome Canadian brands on the market that will check off everyone’s wish list. Some of these brands are super well-known, while others may be new to you!
Here are our fave Canadian brands to shop for gifts this holiday season.
OKAYOK
OKAYOK was launched in September 2017 by fashion designer Adrienne Butikofer. The brand creates quality, sustainable, creative goods for all kinds of people, produced locally in Toronto. OKAYOK’s playful designs are the ideal gift, celebrating bold printed graphics and true Canadian craftsmanship! Its socks are the perfect stocking stuffer.
Nudestix
Cruelty-free, clean, multi-functional, and Canadian. What’s not to love? The beauty brand Nudestix was founded by sisters Ally and Taylor Frankel with the mission to provide makeup products that provide a “nude but better” look. The brand is known for its multi-purpose products, such as its Nudies collection, which are designed to be applied on the face wherever you wish. Any beauty lover would appreciate a gift from Nudestix!
Mejuri
Since being founded in 2015 in Toronto, Mejuri has grown to be a widely trusted jewellery brand known all over the world. Mejuri provides luxury jewellery at a reasonable price point, releasing new designs each week! It has a ton of classic gift-worthy options to shop for the holidays for both him and her.
Smash + Tess
Smash + Tess has gifts suitable for the whole family! From its bestselling cozy rompers to its cute accessories, you can surely cross some loved ones off your list while shopping the Vancouver-based brand.
Roots
Roots hardly needs an introduction as it has been a Canadian staple brand since 1973. But – just in case, Roots is a Canadian outdoor lifestyle brand that has been offering heritage and quality (and comfort) for generations! Its sweat sets, PJs, and cozy socks are all classic gift options!
Devi Arts Collective
Devi Arts Collective is a women-led jewellery brand born out of the inner-desire and willful purpose to connect with people. Through high-quality craftsmanship, the products are created by sourcing recycled and refined silver and gold, and ethical gemstones. Shop gifts under $70 here and gifts under $40 here!
Lambert
Contemporary, fashionable, and affordable, Lambert’s bags and accessories are made for people on the go who aren’t willing to compromise ethical and sustainable standards for the trendiest of styles. Lambert’s bags and accessories are Canadian-designed, PETA-certified, and authentically stylish.
BonLook
BonLook offers so many incredible designs and styles of frames for everyone’s personal taste. You can shop for sunglasses and prescription glasses, as well as non-prescription too. Glasses always add a nice elevated touch to any outfit, so give the gift of style this year to your loved ones!
Aritzia
Aritzia is a well-known retailer that makes some pretty trendy items with a minimal twist. It offers a mix of casual wear as well as super chic pieces. The brand makes for a perfect holiday gifting choice that’ll fit seamlessly into everyone’s wardrobe.
Easy Tiger Goods
Easy Tiger Goods is a lifestyle concept store that specializes in beautifully designed and well-made products. These products include home décor, accessories, jewellery, and other interesting knick-knacks. The brand curates a selection of goods that are made with integrity by creators, to ensure high-quality pieces.
LEZÉ The Label
LEZÉ The Label was founded in Vancouver back in 2017 by Tanya and Karen. The Canadian brand was created on the basis of wanting workwear that’s recycled, comfortable, and chic, all at the same time. Plus, sustainability is definitely at the forefront of the brand’s practices and manufacturing processes.
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If you’re looking for a fresh wardrobe upgrade, what better way to do it than by supporting local Canadian Toronto designers and labels? Canada is full of incredible, talented designers creating unique pieces that you won’t be able to find anywhere else! From celebrity-approved labels to designers you may have never heard of before, we’ve rounded up 7 Toronto brands that you should definitely have on your radar!
Shop & follow these designers and labels!
MAYER
Toronto designer Ross Mayer founded MAYER in 2018, fuelled by his passion to create collections that meld masculinity and femininity, without restriction. At MAYER, you’ll find everything from sequin cardigans to luxurious shirts, perfect for special occasions. All of its pieces are made to be unisex, and you can shop online on in-store on Bloor Street West in Toronto.
Ellie Mae
Ellie Mae founded her self-labeled brand in 2014 with the goal of creating effortless one-of-a-few pieces, designed to remain in your wardrobe season after season. The brand began with a fringe leather jacket with the phrase “This morning, with her, having coffee”, famously spoken by Johnny Cash, and has since grown into the brand it is today, offering seasonal collections featuring Ellie’s unique and recognizable luxury flare. Shop the collection online or in-store in Toronto!
Sandy Bottom Swimwear
Growing up in St. Luca, Sanya was always surrounded by the tropical landscapes of the island. Sparking her appreciation for beachwear. Now the swimwear designer is based in Toronto, having founded Sandy Bottom Swimwear with the vision to make women feel fashionable, radiant, and sexy through her swimsuit designs. The swimsuits are made by master artisans from around the world, making every piece feel like you’re wearing actual art.
Horses Atelier
Founded in 2012 by best friends and novelists Claudia Dey and Heidi Sopinka, Horses Atelier built a name for itself thanks to its perfect-fitting jumpsuits, quality wardrobe staples, and artful designs. Every piece is ethically and sustainably sewn in downtown Toronto, and you can experience the label’s designs in person at its Walnut Street location!
Lesley Hampton
Lesley Hampton is an Indigenous-owned, women-led, size-inclusive, Canadian clothing and accessory brand based in Toronto. Founded by Lesley Hampton herself! The self-titled brand is known for creating high-quality fashion of eveningwear and occasionwear as well as athleticwear and leisurewear. Often highlighting Indigenous design elements.
Sid Neigum
Sid Neigum is a Canadian fashion designer who lives and works right here in Toronto! Sid’s designs have notably been spotted being worn by Kylie Jenner and Hailey Bieber – so it’s safe to say it has a celebrity stamp of approval. While shopping the Sid Neigum website, you’ll find everything from red-carpet-worthy dresses to state-making wardrobe staples.
Hayley Elsaesser
Once upon a time, Hayley Elsaesser had a boutique on Queen West in Toronto. Although the store itself has closed, you can still shop Hayley Elsaesser online, worldwide! Hayley’s designs are known for their unique, bold prints, loud colours, and nostalgic references. The brand strives to be inclusive, body-positive, and artistic, all while not taking itself too seriously.
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It’s always the perfect time to include new pieces in your wardrobe, especially when they’re from Canadian brands. From a variety of trendy sweaters, chic jackets, essential trousers, and more, you can’t go wrong with any of them. You need to have these Canadian brands on your radar the next time you decide to shop. Stay trendy and chic with these pieces, season after season.
Here are Canadian Brands To Add To Your Wardrobe.
Kotn
The Canadian brand Kotn is a fan favourite for those minimal yet super chic pieces for men and women. Ethically made from authentic Egyptian cotton, the quality is seriously remarkable. You need to grab your wardrobe staples from here.
Kuwalla Tee
Kuwalla Tee prides itself on being eco-friendly and minimizing waste, without compromising quality, style, comfort, and affordability. All of the brand’s packaging is made from recyclable and biodegradable material and it’s also a proud partner of 1% for the planet!
Liberty Clothing
At Liberty Clothing, its mission is to produce Eco friendly clothing and high-quality products that inspire consumers to make sustainable choices. From t-shirts to pants, the brand carries a variety of affordable ethical clothing including hemp merchandise.
Lambert
Contemporary, fashionable, and affordable, Lambert’s bags and accessories are made for people on the go who aren’t willing to compromise ethical and sustainable standards for the trendiest of styles. Lambert’s bags and accessories are Canadian-designed, PETA-certified, and authentically stylish. Made from PU leather (polyurethane), Lambert is changing the vegan leather world with its multifunctional bags that are made to last!
Smash+Tess
Vancouver-based company Smash+Tess has changed the game for comfortable day-to-day. Its pieces can transition seamlessly from working from home to working in the office.
Vitae Apparel
Vitae Apparel is an awesome Canadian brand that is a go-to for athletic-wear and loungewear. The material is so soft and luxe, you’re going to be choosing these pieces all the time. It’s also very focused on building a community to empower women.
Tentree
Tentree is dedicated to finding and sourcing the most sustainable fibres and materials available. The brand takes great pride in finding better, healthier, and more eco-progressive solutions for its customers. In addition to placing such a large focus on amazing materials, tentree plants 10 trees per every item purchased. How cool is that?
Mayana Genevière
Mayana Geneviere, founded by Nadine Woods, is a fast-growing luxury lingerie start-up that is BIPOC female-founded and owned. All of its garments are ethically made, using sustainable fabrics in Toronto. The brand creates one-of-a-kind, eco-friendly undergarments that empower women through supportive fit and conscious design, allowing them to feel beautiful, comfortable, and equally sensual. Most notably, MG is home to the world’s only bra that women can nurse with, without a clasp.
Dynamite
I’m sure you’re quite familiar with this Canadian company. Dynamite is an awesome women’s brand that has a variety of clothing for every occasion. From dressy outfits, to luxe loungewear, you’re going to find something that you love. Go check out its sister store, Garage, as well!
Viberg
Viberg’s number one priority is quality. Specializing in men’s shoes, the brand creates footwear made to last and withstand the test of time.
Eliza Faulkner
The Canadian brand has super feminine classic pieces that are perfect to add to collection. Created with wonderful textures and colours, Eliza Faulkner is definitely a brand to keep an eye out for.
Andrea Iyamah
Andrea Iyamah, owned by Nigerian fashion designer Andrea Iyamah, is a clothing line strongly inspired by colour, ethnic cultures, nature and design elements that stay true to creating authentic clothing. The brand not only sells clothing, but also gorgeous swimwear and accessories.
Maguire
Maguire is a women’s footwear and accessories led by two women. Each and every designed featured in stores or online are designed in Montreal and made at hand-picked manufacturers in Canada, Ethiopia, Greece, Italy, and beyond to ensure quality and a transparent price.
Raised By Wolves
Established in 2008, Raised By Wolves had a goal of putting streetwear on the map for Canadians. With super cool designs and patterns, the brand has definitely succeeded.
Ursa Minor
Ursa Minor is a Canadian brand created in Montreal. Minimal and simple is the main focus for this company. The brand uses very high quality fabrics for each of its garments such as linen, organic cotton, and renewable, eco-friendly fibres.
LEZÉ The Label
LEZÉ The Label was founded in Vancouver back in 2017 by Tanya and Karen. It was created on the basis of wanting workwear that’s recycled, comfortable, and chic, all at the same time. Plus, sustainability is definitely at the forefront of the brand’s practices and manufacturing processes.
Ahiri
Ahiri is a Canadian womenswear label providing elevated basics and trendy staples designed to be worn with your existing wardrobe. All Ahiri items are designed in Toronto and the brand just started selling on Amazon, too!
Lesley Hampton
LESLEY HAMPTON is an Indigenous-owned, women-led, size-inclusive clothing and accessory brand based in Toronto, Ontario. Founded in 2016 by Lesley Hampton herself, the brand is known for creating everything from high-quality athleisure to formal evening wear.
Aritzia
Aritzia doesn’t need much of an introduction with the popularity the store/brand has achieved since opening. Aritzia carries a variety of its own brands as well as other popular brands, including Levis. It’s a major go-to shop for elevated basics.
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Pride Month is a wonderful time to really place an emphasis on supporting LGBTQ+ communities. Of course, we need to be celebrating and showing love to all people all year long, but we can take this as a reminder to reflect. We’ve rounded up our fave LGBTQ+ locally-owned businesses that you can browse and check out. Feel free to DM us on Instagram for any additional recommendations!
Here are LGBTQ+ Canadian-owned businesses to support all year long.
Craig’s Cookies
Craig’s Cookies are definitely a staple in every cookie lover’s dream. There are now five locations in Toronto which include The Village, Parkdale, Leaside, Leslieville, and Yorkdale.
SOAP
SOAP is a Canadian queer-owned apparel company with a social mission to give back to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Not only does it sell premium quality apparel, but 5% of all profits go toward supporting queer charities and advocacy groups.
Toni Marlow
Toni Marlow is a statement undergarment brand founded by Jaymin (Jalisa) Luces-Mendes in Toronto, Canada back in 2015. It places a major focus on using high-quality fabrics and paying attention to detail so that your body is getting exactly what it needs. Toni Marlow is all about inclusivity and finding the right pieces to feel confident.
Bean Around The World
Native to British Columbia, Bean Around The World has 23 locations all around the province. It seeks out the best beans around to offer a delicious cup of joe.
Dew of the Gods
Dew of the Gods is definitely a beauty brand to keep on your radar. Browse all of its products to get your glow on all day every day. It purchases carbon offsets for the air and ocean transport of products, as well as selects packaging made with previously-recycled components and materials. Dew of the Gods promises to always feature LGBTQ+ people in all of its marketing to partnerships—how awesome is that?
Glad Day Bookshop
Glad Day Bookshop is the first queer-focused Canadian bookstore and the oldest queer bookstore worldwide. It first opened in 1970 and continues to offer the widest possible selection of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, two-spirit, and queer literature.
Little Rainbow Paper Co.
Based in Calgary, Alberta, Little Rainbow Paper Co. welcomes all people. The business also focuses on queer and quirky, LGBTQ cards and prints that help us celebrate our lives and relationships in meaningful ways. Plus, check out the super cute pins that are available too!
TRU Tattoo
TRU Tattoo Studio’s objective is to create a safer, sustainable, and functional space for Black, Indigenous, racialized, Queer, and Trans tattoo artists. The studio provides a space where anyone and everyone can feel safe getting tattooed. The shop’s artists also specialize in tattooing Black and dark skin.
Ladies Love Units
Ladies Love Units, founded by Kevin and his partner Willie, was founded on a mission to provide Kevin’s sister, who was diagnosed with cancer, a realistic-looking wig or unit that didn’t need glue to stay on to help her regain confidence. The duo put their heads together and handcrafted a one-of-a-kind wig, fully customized for the wearer – and soon after, Ladies Love Units was born. Today, they continue to offer clients an exclusive, full-service experience that is unmatched in the industry.
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Who better to shop clothing from than the ones we get our fashion inspiration from? When you think about it, influencers become successful based on the trust we have in their taste and recommendations, because they know what they’re talking about within their niche! Not to mention, the nature of being a fashion influencer, is inherently testing out a lot of different clothing. Perfectly preparing them to know exactly what they value in any garment – making them experts in their craft by way of experience. So it totally makes sense that some influencers have taken their career to the next level by creating their very own brands and labels and it’s no surprise to us the success these fashion brands have reached!
Keep reading to check out some notable influencer-owned fashion brands!
Uncle Studios
Uncle Studios was co-founded by Toronto fashion influencer Allegra Shaw in 2017. The brand started with the vision to create the perfect t-shirt. Some time has passed since then and now Uncle Studios has a selection of timeless, foundational pieces that can be styled in a multitude of ways. Not to mention its branding is unsurprisingly superb. Not only can you shop Uncle Studios through its website, but it’s now available in-store and online at Holt Renfrew, so you now have the opportunity to try on select pieces.
Rouje Paris
Paris It-girl Jeanna Damas founded Rouje Paris in 2016 ultimately inspired by the women whose lives she marveled at as a child. Rouje is the Parisian-style lover’s dream and provides everything we could want in both beauty and fashion, to become our very own self-established Parisian It-girls. Rouge was first and foremost inspired by women, and it translates within its pieces. “I like the idea that when a woman is wearing Rouje, we notice her first, then what she’s wearing.” – Jeanne Damas.
Song of Style
One of the fashion blog OG’s is none other than Aimee Song, who took what started as a passion project and eventually turned it into a fashion line, Song of Style with Revolve. While shopping the Song of Style brand on Revolve, you can expect to find an array of elevated basics with playful details of colour combinations and textures.
Something Navy
Something Navy, founded by fashion-blogger Arielle Charnas has evolved from a style blog to a fashion, lifestyle, and media brand. Something Navy aims to celebrate personal style by creating thoughtful designs with real women in mind. While shopping the brand, you can expect to find pieces that reflect Arielle’s personal style and aesthetic, offering timeless staples, statement accessories, and trendy pieces.
Are You Am I
Are You Am I is one of those labels, that you may not even know was founded by an influencer since it has such a large brand presence on its own! However, it is fashion blogger Rumi Neely behind the creation of Are You Am I. This influencer brand has a collection of individual pieces that stand alone instead of releasing full collections. The pieces have an overall feeling of romance and femininity.
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The start of a new season presents the opportunity to start fresh, and there’s no better place to begin than in your closet. Luckily for Torontonians, countless brands call Toronto home, making it easy to shop locally while supporting homegrown talent. So, whether you’re looking for an entirely new wardrobe, timeless pieces that go with everything, a few on-trend items, or your next work-from-home uniform, you’re sure to find some faves!
Here are Toronto-based brands to revamp your wardrobe with.
Ellie Mae Studios
It’s safe to say that if Ellie Mae isn’t on your radar already, it will be now. The effortless luxury womenswear brand features collections designed and produced under one roof in Toronto, each thoughtfully made with exceptional craftsmanship in small batches with grace and care.
Province of Canada
Province of Canada is a Toronto-based sustainable clothing brand that ethically makes organic cotton apparel up to extended sizes here in Canada. It offers super soft and comfy sweaters, sweatpants, accessories, home decor, and so much more.
Hoi Bo
Founded by designer Sarra Tang in 2007, this sustainable womenswear label offers classic yet simple everyday pieces with a unique twist that are all made right here in Toronto. You can shop the brand directly in the heart of the Distillery District in Downtown Toronto.
Uncle Studios
Co-founded by Allegra Shaw and Shirin Soltani in 2017, Uncle Studios creates high-quality, timeless foundational pieces, with a focus on playful styling, while creating a sense of family both online and in real life. Uniting function and form, their garments are thoughtfully designed to take their community through their day-to-day lives.
Horses Atelier
Horses Atelier is a woman-founded and woman-run brand that makes gorgeous feminine pieces that are handmade in Toronto using natural fabrics sourced from family-owned mills in Italy and Japan.
Kotn
For those more design-conscious, Kotn is designed in Canada and made in Egypt. Known for its ethically produced, high-quality, everyday pieces for men and women, Kotn is a certified B Corporation company, meaning it meets a list of verified environmental and social standards. With each purchase, Kotn invests in the creation of jobs, infrastructure, systems, and education to alleviate poverty and create shared, sustainable growth for the communities the brand is a part of.
Good For Sunday
If you’re a sucker for leisurewear, look no further than Good For Sunday. Featuring a 90s-inspired aesthetic, this collection spans everything from oversized hoodies and tees to comfy sweatpants made with sustainable materials that have been designed and made here in Canada.
Hilary Macmillan
The eponymous brand is known for its cruelty-free and size-inclusive collection of contemporary womenswear that features versatile pieces in timeless silhouettes. What we love about Hilary MacMillan is that the brand caters to women of all shapes, with sizes ranging from XS-4X.
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Since the early 1900s, brave women have been standing up for the rights of future female generations. And as we continue to strive for stronger gender equality, there’s no better time to celebrate female-owned businesses than all year long. While we celebrate groundbreaking women every damn day, we wanted to share a collection of Canadian female-owned businesses who inspire us to work harder and live bolder.
Here female-owned businesses to support.
Pivot Skincare
Made in the heart of Toronto, Pivot Skincare is a Canadian company to keep an eye out for. Created by Cindy Berg and her three daughters, this brand is all about using natural products on your face. Keep your skin moisturized and glowing all year long with clean ingredients.
WAXON Laser + Waxbar and South
Lexi Miles is a truly passionate female entrepreneur and beauty expert with two businesses under her belt. After realizing there weren’t any businesses offering high-end and efficient waxing services at competitive prices, she left her career in management consulting and started WAXON Laser + Waxbar in 2012. Today, WAXON offers hair removal services including waxing, laser, brows, tinging, and lash lifts at locations nationwide, with plans for further expansion. But if Lexi wasn’t busy enough, she also recently launched South, a clean, intimate below-the-belt line for women made with high-quality, PH-balanced formulas, and clean ingredients. The collection includes products like fresh wipes, intimate skin cleanser, ingrown hair serum, and more.
ARMED
Unapologetically bold and made-in-Toronto, ARMED began as a jewellery line in 2011 and has been flourishing ever since. Desiree Girlato, the owner and designer, has grown her brand into a lifestyle with two stores in the city: Dundas West and Parkdale. So not only does Girlato design jewellery that women can arm themselves with day-to-day, but you can shop reimagined vintage from her line The Rove, homewares by ARMEDhome, or pop by ARMEDbeauty for services like nail art, lash lifts, spray tans, and more.
Poppy & Peonies
Poppy & Peonies is a gorgeous handbag and accessories brand founded in Toronto. Created to offer practical purses, yet still keeping it trendy and chic. Pieces are designed to be worn a bunch of different ways so you can have a variety of looks with just one bag! We love a versatile moment.
Knix
Plain and simple, Joanna Griffiths has revolutionized the intimate apparel industry with Knix, a Toronto-based brand that’s designed to make women feel more comfortable in their own skin. Joanna launched Knix back in 2013 with underwear that could handle “little leaks,” and today, the company carries a range of products including tops and bras, underwear, nursing tanks and bras, and loungewear that celebrate every inch of a woman’s body.
KENT
The undergarment company is setting the intimates bar ultra high. Made from organic pima cotton, which is free of pesticides and toxins that are normally found in our underwear. The best part is, not only are they sustainable, but they’re also super comfy.
Brunette the Label
Founded by Miriam Alden in early 2014, Brunette the Label is a clothing brand based in Vancouver that is sold in over 700 stores in Canada and the US, while also quickly growing in Australia and Europe. The brand first started with its iconic ‘Brunette’ and ‘Blonde’ sweaters and now carries everything from hoodies and jackets to bottoms and accessories, appealing to all ‘babes’. Since its inception, the female-owned brand has collaborated with a variety of brands including Juicy Couture, Garnier, Coveteur, and Goop. Plus, on International Women’s Day, the brand is donating 100% of online sales to the charity One Girl Can.
BonLook
The well-known brand, BonLook, skyrocketed in popularity a few years ago, but did you know that it’s Canadian? The company was created by Sophie Boulanger in 2011 who wanted to offer designer inspired frames at a much lower cost, in which she most definitely succeeded.
Spinco
Michelle August has always been an avid athlete, playing sports from when she was little to playing varsity basketball in California. But when she returned home in 2014, she realized she truly missed the team atmosphere, which led her to turn her passion for fitness into a business, and launch SPINCO, a cycling studio in her hometown of Kelowna, BC, when she was just 22 years old. Today, SPINCO is Canada’s largest indoor cycling studio, with 13 studios across the country, with the plan to open 20 studios in total by the end of the year.
Ellie Mae Studios
With a loyal fan base that spans Sophie Trudeau, Gigi and Bella Hadid, Gwen Stefani, Miley Cyrus, Alessandra Ambrosio, Mila Kunis, Jen Atkins, and Kate Beckinsale (just to name a few), there’s a reason why women are obsessed with Toronto-based Ellie Mae Studios. The namesake brand embraces high quality fabrics, local production, and nostalgia to make one-of-a-few pieces that are as unique as the women who wear them.
Mejuri
If you have yet to own something from Mejuri, chances are you’ve seen your favourite celebs or influencers post about it on social media. Founded by Noura Sakkijha in Toronto in 2012, Mejuri is a direct-to-consumer jewellery brand that’s made by women for women. With a focus on fair and accessible prices, female-owned Mejuri carries timeless pieces that are both understated and striking, with its collection ranging from thin gold bands and classic small hoops to dainty pearl earrings and wearable diamonds.
Hey Babe Cosmetics
As a twice-widowed mother of three, Nicole Abbott knows a thing or two about resilience and strength. Following the passing of both her husbands, Nicole wanted to show her children that they could follow their dreams even through life’s most trying times. She found solace in creating her dream makeup line in honour of both husbands and founded Hey Babe Cosmetics. Each product in the collection, which includes lipstick, shimmer powders, eyeshadow palettes, brushes, and more, is non-toxic and paraben and cruelty-free, made and manufactured in Toronto.
Jenny Bird
If you’re a lover of modern and minimal things, you need to check out Jenny Bird. The brand has such beautiful accessories that will compliment any outfit. Layer the necklaces, bracelets, or rings, for a trendy moment, or wear each piece on its own, either way you’ll love them.
ai Toronto Seoul
Founded by Hannah Kim, her mother, and her two sisters, ai Toronto Seoul is a family-run, sustainable fashion brand that uses entirely vegan leather for its beautiful range of PETA-approved handbags and accessories that are made in Seoul. The stunning collection includes totes, work bags, clutches, bucket and cross-body bags, backpacks, card cases, hair accessories, and more.
Callula Co.
Nerissa Jawanda first had the vision for Callula Co. when she realized there was a gap in the sunglasses market for women with smaller or more narrow faces, many of whom (like Nerissa) were limited to shopping in the children’s section. Today, the female-owned brand makes premium quality sunglasses in on-trend shapes and hues that help its customers feel confident and look beautiful. Callula Co. is fully women-run and operated, working with women in all aspects of its business including product design, photography, production, and more. In celebration of International Women’s Day, Callula Co. has teamed up with Toronto-based graphic illustrator Rachel Joanis to launch a limited edition capsule of three t-shirts featuring inspiring sayings and illustrations for women. On March 8th, 100% of proceeds from the collection will support Dress for Success Toronto.
437 Swimwear
Founded by besties Hyla Nayeri and Adrien Bettio, 437 Swimwear was designed for real women with real bodies, with each swimsuit embracing a woman’s curves. Every style is made with a meticulous cut and luxe fabric in an attention-grabbing print or colour to give you an extra boost of confidence so you can look and feel your absolute best. The brand’s figure-flattering, minimalistic styles will have all eyes on you, whether you’re at the pool or the beach.
LEZÉ The Label
LEZÉ The Label was founded in Vancouver back in 2017 by Tanya and Karen. It was created on the basis of wanting workwear that’s recycled, comfortable, and chic, all at the same time. Plus, sustainability is definitely at the forefront of the brand’s practices and manufacturing processes.
Glass House Cosmetics
Created and self-funded by two powerhouse women, Kait Smith and Sara Bulhoes, Glass House Cosmetics is an example of side hustle gone right. The brand first launched a luxury lip gloss that sold out instantly. It’s now expanded to selling blushes, mascaras, powder, and more!
Azur Fit
Founded by Erin Ward-Williams, formerly a yoga teacher, Azur Fit is built on the philosophy of “elevating activewear for women who want to feel confident in clothes that compliment the female form”.The brand’s full range of activewear offers a wide variety of styles such as leggings, crewnecks, hoodies, sweatpants, and shorts in select materials and colors. Azur fit consists of thoughtful designs with its matching sets of tone-on tones, flattering cuts, and beautiful color palettes – that will take you from the gym to the office and the street.
Encircled
Encircled understands that the transportation of clothing between countries during the production process overseas creates quite a large carbon footprint for companies. To act against this, the brand reduces its footprint by knitting and dying over 50% of its fabrics in Toronto. The entire studio also uses recycled packaging, FSC-certified paper, and eco-friendly cleaning products.
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Due to global lockdowns and restrictions, it comes as no surprise that many retailers have had no other choice but to shutter doors. However, there are actually a handful of brands that have not only expanded throughout Canada but have fully re-entered into the Canadian market after previously going out of business. Now you can enjoy some of your fave brands again without having to pay for duties!
Here are brands that have now re-entered Canada.
Mexx
Back in 2018, Mexx announced that it had plans to re-open in Canada with its own standalone shops, but unfortunately, those plans never came to fruition. Now, the Dutch fashion retailer is partnering with Walmart, to be stocked in Walmart stores and on the online site. You can expect comfy classics and chic pieces for both men and women at affordable prices.
Forever 21
Forever 21 is officially making a return to Canada with physical stores.This may come as quite a surprise since the brand shuttered all of its locations across the country after filing for bankruptcy in 2019. The Toronto company, YM Inc., established a partnership with the brand a couple of years back and was able to create the Forever 21 e-commerce site for Canadians last year. A handful of the previous Forever 21 spots that were turned into either an Urban Planet, Urban Behaviour, or Stitches, will once again be transformed back to a Forever 21. Confirmed Forever 21 spaces in Canada are in Vancouver and in Windsor, Ontario.
Lucky Brand
After filing for bankruptcy and shuttering all operations throughout the country last year, the company now has major plans for expansion with the assistance of Thriftys Family of Brands. A total of ten store locations of Lucky Brand have already opened which include stores at Vaughan Mills, Square One, and Metropolis at Metrotown. Another two retail spaces will open soon at Polo Park in Winnipeg and at CF Shops at Don Mills in Toronto. Plus, due to the partnership with Thrifty’s Family of Brands, Lucky Brand products will also be available at certain Bluenotes locations too.
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