I’d been to Japanese dollar store Oomomo a few times, but I hadn’t bought much, other than a few craft supplies and treats. I was excited to see how far my $50 would go here to update my kitchen, and to my surprise, and excitement, most of the products in the store are only $2. There are some products priced upwards of $20 as well, so just make sure you’re looking for the price tag before you cash out.
After taking a walk through Oomomo, I knew that I would get the most bang for my buck by updating my kitchen.
There was what seemed like an endless supply of kitchen gadgets, plates, and bowls, and other random kitchen accessories. I love cooking and baking, so I was stoked to get started!
One of the first things I gravitated towards was a canvas pop-up basket that I immediately wanted to put a plant in. However, my mom recently told me how she keeps all her baking supplies in a basket so that she can easily put things away.
That little tidbit had me heading over to the baking aisle to see what I could find!
I love making cookies, so I picked up a couple of different rolling pins and a stamping device so I can put little words into the dough. I also grabbed a scraper, which is great for cutting cookie bars and a candy thermometer because I’ve burnt caramel one too many times.
Caramel isn’t the only thing that I’ve overcooked on occasion — my partner and I have been talking about the need for a meat thermometer for a while now. We’ve recently done a lot of BBq-ing, and there’s nothing worse than tearing your chicken apart to see if it’s cooked. We also love to host friends and make charcuterie and cheese boards, so I picked up this cute wooden board as well.
So far, everything I had picked up was $2, so I was barely halfway to the end goal! This was a major score after shopping at more expensive dollar stores for so long.
My partner and I were huge fans of bento boxes in Japan and I’d always wanted to own one, so I did not hesitate to grab two adorable bento boxes from Oomomo’s large selection. I also grabbed some silicone muffin holders for putting snacks inside the box, or separating other types of food.
I’ve seen a trend online in using different types of boxes for snacks and also as bento boxes and there were a ton of them around the store that could also work for this sort of thing! Pro tip: I’ve also heard they’re great for keeping kids entertained on long flights.
Finally, I had just a few more things on my list.
We’ve had this really cute tea pot for a long time, but no teacups to match. I wanted to find something that complemented the stone look, but wasn’t too matchy. I grabbed two really beautiful stone cups so we can have tea all the time! I also grabbed two bowls that I may end up DIYing later.
Also, what’s a trip to a Japanese dollar store without grabbing a treat? I put some chocolates in one of the bowls for our guests to enjoy next time they are over. But, if I’m going to be completely honest with you, those chocolates are loooong gone.
Can you believe I got all this for less than $50?
That’s right. I came UNDER budget. Not too shabby considering I got some pretty sweet stuff. With so many more international dollar stores opening, I can’t wait to see what the other dollar stores have to offer!
All Images: StyleDemocracy
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If you live in Toronto, you most likely have a strong love affair with dollar and variety stores, because, real talk, living in the city isn’t getting any cheaper. Being able to find low cost kitchen supplies, cooking ingredients, cleaning supplies, and anything related to adulting, is a definite win. Not to mention, you’ll almost always leave with some strange, but wonderful odds and ends! After scouring the city with $1.00 signs on the mind, we compiled a list of dollar and variety stores that have just about anything you are looking for.
Check out 6 of the best dollar and variety stores in Toronto below, and hit up one of these locations the next time you need to pick up supplies.
Dollarama
Instagram/@_jyotsna
The amount of things you can find at Dollarama is seriously amazing from makeup and kitchen utensils, to cleaning supplies and all seasonal decorations and party supplies. While there are many locations in Toronto, not all are created equal, as certain stores get limited products.
Miniso
Instagram/@miniso.canada
Miniso, the Japanese-inspired lifestyle store, has opened up multiple locations across Canada, and we’re not mad about it. Carrying a wide range of products including health & beauty, stationary, electronics, and more, the retailer takes a low-cost, high quality approach with its product lines. You can find a snapshot of our favourite products from Miniso that are under $10 here, some highlights being face masks, makeup brushes, notebooks, and water bottles.
Oomomo
Instagram/@oomomo_bc
Oomomo is one of the latest Japanese dollar stores to open its doors to Canadians. While the GTA store is a little bit outside the downtown core at Don Mills & Lawrence, it’s definitely worth checking out. The retailer doesn’t sell anything over $12, and while its shelves are stocked with just about everything, it also carries the popular 100-yen Daiso line.
Sanko Trading Co.
Instagram/@toronto_tonto
There might be only one small location, but this little Japanese variety store is a favourite of many in the Queen West neighbourhood. Selling ceramics, cooking ingredients such as soy sauce, Japanese noodles and teas, lunch boxes, tea pots, and gifts, the store has a wide range of groceries to choose from. If you’re out in about by Trinity Bellwoods you won’t miss Sanko due to the super colourful mural on the side of the building.
Your Dollar Store With More
Instagram/@yourdollarstorewithmorelv
Similar to Dollarama, you can expect to find the same range of products at Your Dollar Store With More. A quick search on Instagram will give you an idea of what the dollar store chain is offering: electronics, cleaning supplies, kitchenware, party supplies, as well as cheap gift cards. Your Dollar Store With More has multiple locations across the city so you’re bound to find one close to you.
Metro Paradise
Yelp
If you frequent the Yonge/Adelaide neighbourhood, Metro Paradise is a great store to check out! It essentially has every random item that Dollarama has, along with cheap clothing, such as hoodies, pants, and even skirts. The store even has a better selection of winter accessories like gloves and hats, when compared to other dollar stores. Check out the store’s Yelp page and you’ll see what I mean.
Featured Image: Instagram/@oomomo_bc
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Looking for some new threads to give you those cool festival vibes? We
Living in a city like Toronto means that there’s never a shortage of new restaurants, stores, and fitness studios to visit. The only downside is that with all the openings that happen, that it can be hard to stay on top of what’s new and notable!
Luckily, we’ve made a handy guide to some of the most impressive openings in Toronto this June. Take a peek at a few new places to get your eat, shop, and sweat on at in the city.
Oomomo First Markham Place
Instagram/@emagto.ca
Oomomo, the massive Japanese variety store that opened its first Ontario location in Don Mills, recently opened a second Ontario location! Located at First Markham Place, the store stands at 25,000-square-feet, making it Oomomo’s biggest location yet. Shoppers can expect to find everything from housewares, arts and crafts, stationary, beauty, and snacks all at affordable prices, as well as limited time pop-up stations that will transport shoppers straight to Japan.
The Parlour
Instagram/@theparlourrestaurants
King St. West has a new hip hang out, coming to the city all the way from Vancouver. Known for its “East Coast edge and West Coast hospitality,” The Parlour specializes in upscale, unpretentious eats that are meant to be shared with friends and family
Throughout the years, the Canadian retail landscape has seen its fair share of ups and downs.
From major launches and comebacks, to the closures of longstanding, heritage brands, 2018 saw many impactful events that reshaped how Canadians shop. Take a peek at some of the most important stories from this year below.
1. Toys “R” Us Is Closing U.S Stores — Can Canadian Stores Survive?
All of your favourite childhood stores have been slowly closing. Toys “R” Us announced on Wednesday that is will close 180 stores in the United States. According to the Toronto Star, while the president for Canadian Operations reassured customers that its business as usual in Canada, many insiders believe that Toys “R” Us won’t last. Continue reading.
2. Management At Pacific Mall “Deeply Disturbed” To Learn Counterfeit Goods Are Being Sold
Instagram/@paul_sherwood_
News broke that Pacific Mall in Markham, Ontario is one of the biggest offending retail locations when it comes to the distribution of counterfeit goods in North America. In a press release from the mall, management said they were “deeply disturbed and disappointed” by the news. Continue reading.
3. Once-Popular Brand Mexx Is Set To Make A Canadian Comeback
Instagram/@mexxofficial
The Dutch fashion brand will be re-launching in Canada and is looking to recapture what they once had in the Canadian retail landscape. At one point, Mexx stores were located in almost every major Canadian mall and operated more than 100 stores nationally. Continue reading.
4. It’s Official: Toys “R” Us Has Been Saved By A Canadian Company
Instagram/@gothgirlgonemom
Toys “R” Us Canada is currently reassuring consumers that although the American Toys “R” Us brand is pretty much all closed up, the Canadian arm, now owned by a Canadian company, is looking to recapture consumers and the brand is back in full-force. Continue reading.
5. Nine West Officially Declares Bankruptcy
Instagram/@offersunderthesun
Reuters is reporting that U.S. footwear and apparel company Nine West Holdings Inc filed for bankruptcy on Friday last week. The brand announced that it would sell off its Nine West and Bandolino footwear and handbag business to Authentic Brands Group. Continue reading.
6. The Largest Asian Shopping Centre Will Be In Markham
Move on over Pacific Mall, there’s a new king in town and it’s already being coined “Canada’s largest Asian shopping centre.” The mall called King Square Shopping Centre is located at 9390 Woodbine Ave in Markham. Continue reading.
7. Nordstrom Rack Is Open On Bloor
The flagship is located at One Bloor, and has the biggest selection of on-trend clothing, footwear, and accessories for men, women, and kids. Its floor to ceilings windows make it a bright and extremely pleasant shopping experience. Continue reading.
8. DSW to Shutter Canadian Footwear Chain Town Shoes
Iconic Canadian footwear chain Town Shoes is set to be closed down after a stellar 66 years in business. Town Shoes currently operates 38 stores across Canada, and according to industry insiders, this may cause problems for mall landlords as another departing chain will cause significant vacancies in malls across the country. Continue reading.
9. Canadians Will Now Be Able To Buy More From The U.S. — Duty Free Limit Raised from $20 to $150
Instagram/@polina_kennedy
The new U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement will actually benefit Canadian shoppers that enjoy cross-border shopping or ordering from American online sites. One of the interesting aspects of the new agreement will increase the de minimis threshold for duty-free shopping. Continue reading.
10. American Apparel Is Back In Business With A Focus On Inclusivity
Instagram/@americanapparel
It was a sad day back in early 2017, when iconic fashion brand American Apparel went bankrupt and announced it would shut down its stores. But hot on the heels of a successful relaunch south of the border, the brand announced its plans for international e-commerce expansion earlier this year, setting its sights on Canada. Continue reading.
11. Bombay Company And Bowring Brothers Collapse In Debt
We’re sad to be saying farewell to Bowring Brothers and the Bombay Company, along with all their fantastic sales. Apparently, the home decor chains in Canada will be moving into liquidation mode after their Brampton-based parent company filed for creditor protection. Continue reading.
12. Gap Plans To Close Down Hundreds Of Flagship Stores
Twitter/@CoresightNews
Gap Inc. is struggling with its flagship company, as it continues the fight to stay on top. The brand told analysts that it will soon be shuttering hundreds of its global Gap stores. Right now, the company is seeing 20% of sales and growing online, and 30% in its most profitable outlet stores, while the remaining flagship stores are bringing down profits. Continue reading.
13. Aritzia Opens Its First North American Outlet Store
Facebook/Toronto Premium Outlets
As part of the Toronto Premium Outlets expansion, Aritzia launched a new outlet store — it’s the first of its kind in North America, and the store is joining 130 other outlets in 500,00-square-feet of outdoor shopping space. Continue reading.
14. Miniso Has Filed An Application For Bankruptcy
Twitter/@joannachiu
In the height of Canada’s love for Japanese retailers, it seems like not all retailers are performing as well as they seem to be. Miniso Canada’s parent company Miniso International Hong Kong Ltd. and Miniso International (Guangzhou) Co. Ltd. have allegedly filed an Application for Bankruptcy Order in the Supreme Court of British Columbia.
15. Inside Toronto’s New Japanese Lifestyle Store Where Everything Is Under $12
Oomomo opened their doors at Don Mills and Lawrence earlier this month. The store is the second in Canada, while the first opened in Edmonton, Alberta just last year. Despite only being on the market for a short period, Oomomo has seen massive success. Continue reading.
Feel blessed because 2018 was a huge year for store openings! Following closely in the footsteps of 2017, international retailers like Muji and Uniqlo continued to expand, while brands like Oomomo and Nordstrom Rack set up shop for the first time.
And while the number of new international retailers may have slowed down, it’s clear that their Canada-wide takeovers haven’t. 2018 was the year of store expansions and off-price retailers, with Japanese dollar stores and Nordstrom Rack ruling the market.
You can guarantee that the top 11 store openings of 2018 are worth a visit.
Designer Shoe Warehouse
Instagram/ @dswcanada
Off-price retailers really had a moment in 2018, including Designer Shoe Warehouse who opened three new stores this year. According to Retail-insider, the company opened one in Edmonton, while the other two stores opened in the GTA bringing DSW’s North American store count up to 27 on March 1st, 2018. The new stores also include 1,500 square feet dedicated to women’s handbags as it grows its accessory business. Watch out! Before you know it, DSW will be your new go-to for off-price accessories too.
Aritzia Outlet
Facebook/Toronto Premium Outlets
During the fall of 2018, Aritzia opened its first North American outlet right here in the GTA. The store opening was part of the Toronto Premium Outlet’s much-anticipated expansion, and was joined by other new and exciting outlets like Gucci, Prada, Jimmy Choo, and more.
Nordstrom Rack
Image: StyleDemocracy
Nordstrom Rack is essentially Nordstrom’s version of Winners or Marshalls where you can expect to find incredible deals (up to 70% off) on some of the most coveted brands including Theory, Kate Spade, Rebecca Minkoff, Ted Baker and more. With six stores across Canada including the downtown Toronto location, get ready for more! Nordstrom Rack has made it clear they’re not slowing down anytime soon – expect to see up to 15 new stores in the next several years.
Levi’s Flagship
Instagram/ @levis
While Levi’s may already be one of our favourite denim brands, the retailer just opened their first downtown flagship store at CF Toronto Eaton Centre this summer. Although stores like Urban Outfitters and Aritzia distribute Levi’s, the flagship has several perks. Here, you can find Levi’s Authorized Vintage for the first time in Canada, not to mention tech-supported touch points with call buttons. Shopping has never been made easier.
Miniso
Instagram/@miniso.canada
Miniso burst into the scene beginning in 2017, and since then has opened countless Canadian stores. The brand even announced their plan to open 500 stores in Canada within three years, with their latest store openings happening this fall in Quebec, Vancouver, and Ontario. While the name Miniso might not spark the same surprise effect, expect to continue seeing news about one of Dollarama’s biggest competitors.
Uniqlo
Image: StyleDemocracy
Another one of the biggest international retailers to enter Canada and continue opening stores at an unbelievable rate is none other than Uniqlo. While Torontonians got the first taste of the affordable apparel retailer in 2017, the Japanese lifestyle brand just opened four more stores between the months of September to November of this year. The first store opening took place in BC, while the others graced the GTA area (Vaughan Mills, Markville, and Mississauga)… I think it’s safe to say that Canadians aren’t getting tired of Uniqlo yet.
Asics
Instagram/ @asicscanada
Queen Street West is renowned for having some of the coolest shops in Canada, including Asics’ first North American stand-alone store. Along with the innovative store being a whopping 4,400 square ft, it also houses two of the Asics family brands: ASICS and ASICSTIGERTM. The first of its kind, the Queen West store introduced Canadians to the new direction of the brand when it opened its doors to the public this past March.
Casper
Instagram/ @casper
Casper, one of the most innovative sleep companies out there, opened their first “Casper Sleep Shop” at CF Sherway Gardens this past summer. The location no doubt signals the brands initiative to interest premium shoppers meaning the brand will likely continue to expand into more upscale malls. My, my has Casper come far since 2016! They recently opened a Queen St. West location, too.
Oomomo
Image: StyleDemocracy
Apparently, the Japanese dollar store craze can only get crazier. Oomomo is the newest international variety store to enter the Canadian market, however, the main difference being that Oomomo carries the ever-popular brand Daiso. Having two Canadian stores as of now (Edmonton and Toronto), the retailer has plans for a major Canada-wide expansion. Check out our inside look at the Don Mills and Lawrence store here, and get excited.
OVO Store
Instagram/@hieuzus
If you’ve been keeping up with SD news, then you’ll know that OVO’s newest store was a major hit. Opening in Square One Shopping Centre this past November, the store represents the third GTA-installment. If you don’t believe the hype, just check out the crowd that showed up to support our boy Drizzy at the Mississauga store opening. Clearly, OVO still hasn’t lost its status as it continues to grow in North America.
Muji Atrium
Twitter/@neverfallapart
Muji was BIG news in 2017, so it’s no wonder that the brand decided to make another splash in 2018… just in case you forgot. Introducing Muji Atrium, situated across from the Toronto Eaton Centre, the new store is not only the flagship but is also the largest Muji store outside of Asia. Don’t believe us? It’s 19,000 square ft and has special features like a coffee counter, aroma bar, and digital printing service. Muji Atrium is truly impressive.
Featured image: Instagram/ @karen.is.me
With retailers like MUJI, Miniso, and Uniqlo on the rise, Torontonians can’t get enough of Japanese retailers. And luckily, there’s a new store in town that will give shoppers their fix.
Oomomo opened their doors at Don Mills and Lawrence earlier this month. The store is the second in Canada, while the first opened in Edmonton, Alberta just last year.
Despite only being on the market for a short period, Oomomo has seen massive success.
Japanese for “a big peach,” a symbol of good fortune and luck, Oomomo sits at a whopping 13,000-square-feet. And there’s no doubt that you’ll have luck finding what you need here.
The retailer carries almost everything. From stationary and craft supplies, to beauty and health products, to kitchen and homewares, and of course, snacks, Oomomo is a haven of Japanese products.
From wall to wall, 95% of the products you’ll find in store are imported from Japan. While some items are made in China, the store’s owner, Mimi Lam, assures me that each and every product has passed Japan’s regulations and adheres to Japanese standards.
When entering the store, shoppers are immediately immersed in Japanese culture.
Situated front and centre, shoppers are welcomed by Oomomo’s Japanese kitchenware section. Here, you’ll find everything from chopsticks and pots, to bowls and plates, to sake bottles and tempura baskets.
Mimi tells us that, so far, the Japanese kitchenware has been a big hit, attributed to its affordability. Each item in the section ranges between $2 and $6.50.
Another popular section is the beauty and health department.
Shelves and racks are packed to the brim with hair accessories and extensions, beauty tools, makeup wipes, and more. Of course, popular Asian beauty products like false eyelashes, invisible eyelid tape, and sheet masks can be purchased here, too.
As we make our way through the aisles, Mimi points out one of Oomomo’s most popular beauty products: a hair mascara by SALON de PRO, which is used to cover up grey hairs.
Other top sellers include Oomomo’s selection of slippers, which range between $2 and $5, and face masks. The latter of which comes in an array of different sizes, materials, and styles — something that’s harder to find in North American stores, but very popular in Asian cultures.
Oomomo prides themselves on their selection and price — nothing is over $12.
Two things that are guaranteed at Oomomo is choice and affordability. Most items are under the $5 mark, and any items in store that don’t have a price tag are just $2.
When it comes to options, Oomomo has plenty. Take, for example, another popular area of the store: the clothing storage section. Shoppers can choose from a wide variety of different styles and sizes, as well as vacuum or zipper sealed.
Making our way across the store, behind the kitchenwares section is Oomomo’s plastic storage area. “If you can’t find the storage you’re looking for here, I don’t think you’ll find it anywhere else,” Mimi laughs. And she’s not wrong. The entire back wall and adjacent displays are covered in plastic bins, containers, and trays of all sizes, colours, and design.
Near this area, you’ll also find utility items like screwdrivers, clamps, and measuring tape. There’s also an area for unique home decor.
The other half of the store is arguably the most exciting…because that’s where shoppers will find all of the delicious food.
Colourful Japanese snacks fill the shelves. Chips, candy, Poppin’ Cookin’ sets, drinks, noodles, matcha, and more live here.
While some of the more popular items were sold out from the grand opening, Mimi assured us that all items across all departments are regularly restocked.
Some items are only stocked until sold out, and then new items are brought in.
So, if you see something you like, it’s best to snatch it then and there, ’cause you never know if it’ll be back.
Japan’s affinity for food is dotted throughout the store, with some of the more popular stationary and craft items being food-related.
Collectible erasers shaped like bento boxes, sushi, fruit, vegetables, and desserts, as well as food-themed sticky notes are among the more popular stationary items.
Adjacent to Oomomo’s massive selection of carefully curated stationary are other fun Japanese-imported items like toy sets, piggybanks, and beach accessories.
The craft section is a DIYers dream come true.
Here, shoppers will find materials that can be used for scrapbooking, knitting, and gifting, as well as party supplies like banners and other decorations.
The final section of the store is where you’ll find pet and garden accessories.
If you’re looking for quality, fun and unique Japanese items, you’ve gotta visit Oomomo.
While there are only two locations in Canada right now, Oomomo will be opening a second Ontario location in Markham next spring.
The retailer’s expansion plans don’t stop there. Two more locations — another in Edmonton and one in Vancouver — will open this December. While there are no set dates, Oomomo plans on opening 20 to 30 locations across Canada.
Until then, visit Oomomo at 896 Don Mills Rd.
Take a peek at more photos from inside Oomomo Don Mills below.
All images by StyleDemocracy.