Simons, the Quebec-based fashion retailer, has officially announced two brand-new locations coming our way! Soon, Toronto locals will no longer have to take the trip to Mississauga’s Square One to shop at Simons, with new stores opening at Yorkdale Shopping Centre and CF Toronto Eaton Centre!
In case you aren’t aware, Simons was founded in 1840 as a family-owned dry goods store. It has since grown into a popular fashion retailer offering a wide assortment of sought-after styles and brands, with 17 stores across Canada!
The two new stores, set to open in the fall of 2025, will mark the retailer’s 18th and 19th locations in the country.
“Despite current economic challenges in the retail landscape our sales growth in Mississauga has steadily increased since opening and is up by more than three per cent over the last fiscal year. This demonstrates our understanding of our GTA clients’ preferences and signaled to us that now is the time to offer Torontonians the distinctive art, design, and fashion experience that only Simons can deliver.” Shared Bernard Leblanc, President and CEO of Simons.
Both new urban Toronto stores will offer customers the same personalized service and curated boutique shopping experiences they have come to expect from Simons – including Canadian-designed exclusive collections for men, women, and the home.
Each collection will be presented and organized in separate, boutique-style zones, along with a range of well-known brands and designer pieces.
We can’t wait for the new Simons stores to open in Toronto!
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Leather pants have seriously become all the rage these days and for good reason. The versatility of these bottoms is exactly what you need as a staple piece in your wardrobe. Dress them up with a chic blouse or down with your best hoodie, either way, you’ll strut the streets in style.
Here are our fave leather pants to shop for under $200.
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If you’re anything like me, every year you wait until the last possible minute to finally invest in a winter coat — and even when you do, you’d rather not splurge on one if you can help it.
Even though in Canada, it’s winter, for what feels like three quarters of the year, bringing yourself to spend more than a hundred dollars on a single item, for what is quite possibly, the worst season of the year, can be nearly impossible.
Having to bundle up for nearly six months isn’t exactly something most of us look forward to. The good news is, there are a few stores that have your back when it comes to saving you money and keeping you toasty warm this winter.
Here are The Best places to shop affordable winter jackets under $150.
H&M
H&M is a reliable, inexpensive, one-stop-shop for just about all of our clothing needs, including seasonal outerwear. When the temperature starts dropping below zero, H&M is a good place to grab some gear to protect you from the cruel, unforgiving Canadian winter, if you’re on a budget.
SD Pick:
Sport Chek
Sport Chek is the place to go for all sportswear and outerwear equipment. The store has name brands like Columbia, Burton, Under Armour, and more. There’s a huge variety of options for you to browse through.
SD Pick:
Garage
Garage is another affordable go-to for women’s attire. The Montreal-based retailer has a variety of affordable jackets for under the $150 mark. From sherpa fleece aviator jackets that’ll keep you warm with a little layering to more classic puffer styles, Garage is an overlooked spot for coats that’ll keep you cozy during cooler months.
SD Pick:
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, to cozy outerwear, you’re going to find something that you love.
SD Pick:
Gap
Gap has been a staple brand in everyone’s closest for years. Affordable prices yet great quality are the characteristics that this company holds. Find essentials for everyday and for every occasion.
SD Pick:
Simons
Simons has a reputation for being on the more expensive side and for carrying countless brands that one might consider to be less economical than H&M and Garage. Although that is true to an extent, Simons also carries high-quality styles that are durable, warm, and won’t break your bank. This season, you can shop winter jackets for as low as $59.95.
SD Pick:
Mountain Warehouse
Mountain Warehouse has been developing outdoor clothing and equipment since 1997. The company designs and produces its own products so that everything is exclusive to the brand. Great quality clothing for exploring the outdoors.
SD Pick:
Hudson’s Bay
Hudson’s Bay is as Canadian as they come, and is an absolutely classic place to shop for just about anything. Whatever it is you’re looking for, Hudson’s Bay definitely has it. Not only can you find a winter jacket for well over a hundred dollars if you wanted, you can also find affordable winter jackets for well-within your budget. Brands such as TOPSHOP, Noize, Vero Moda, and Only, to name a few, have trendy puffer jackets and peacoats starting at $79.99.
SD Pick:
ASOS
ASOS is known for its vast selection of fashion-forward apparel and accessories, and the online retailer also has a bevy of affordable winter jackets to choose from. Online you can find peacoats, puffers, teddy coats, anoraks, and other cold weather styles for under $150. Not to mention, they have petite, tall, maternity, and plus sizes to shop. The only caveat is that you can’t try before you buy, so keep that (and its $22.40 return postage fee) in mind before you make your purchase.
SD Pick:
Joe Fresh
Joe Fresh brings the elements of modern style to life in essential designs known for their easy polish, exceptional value and thoughtful details. They deliver the building blocks of personal style in categories spanning apparel, accessories, footwear and beauty. With collections for women, men and children, it makes shopping for the whole family convenient, fun, and affordable. Joe Fresh is also proud to offer extended sizes with select women’s styles ranging from XS-3X and 2-22.
SD Pick:
Macy’s
Macy’s is a massive fashion retailer which carries high-end and affordable brands. Now that it has a Canadian site, you can shop all of the goods without paying crazy shipping rates.
SD Pick:
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Shoes. We can’t live without ’em, but sometimes the ones we want come from across the border and the price isn’t always worth the pick.
Luckily, whatever your guilty shoe pleasure, there’s an online Canadian shoe shop to feed your fix! These stores won’t charge you duties, and most even offer free delivery!
Below we’ve rounded up some of the best online Canadian shoe stores for every price point and budget.
StyleDemocracy
As North America’s leading warehouse sale company, you can expect to find some killer deals on shoes and more on shop.styledemocracy.com. The online store, which runs like a flash sale site, features a rotation of some of the world’s top brands for up to 80% off. Online warehouse sales happen a few times a month, so be sure to sign up for the email list to be notified about which online warehouse sale is next!
Little Burgundy
Based in Quebec, Little Burgundy has stores scattered across Canada, but you can also shop their selection of footwear and accessories for men and women online. You’ll find a wide selection of styles, from sneakers to heels to sandals and boots, from coveted brands like Nike, Sam Edelman, Vans, Michael Kors, and many more. Little Burgundy offers free shipping on orders $69.98 and up, or free shipping on orders delivered to your preferred store. Returns can be made within the year in-store as long as the merchandise is unworn and in new condition with the original receipt.
Heel Boy
We’ve got big love for this independent footwear retailer, which has stores in Toronto and Kingston. Men, women, and kids’ footwear and accessories are available in this Canadian online shop, with brands like Hunter, Lucky Brand, Dolce Vita, Franco Sarto, Ted Baker, and more. Canada-wide shipping is free on orders $150 and up or on orders delivered to your closest store. Returns can be made in-store or by mail within 14 days of the shipping date. After 14 days, online orders can be returned for an online store credit or exchanged in-store.
L’intervalle
If you’re looking for staple shoes for your fashion-forward closet, L’intervalle has you covered. The Montreal-founded footwear retailer has quickly expanded with stores across Canada, but you can find its entire selection online. There you’ll find a large selection of footwear and bags for both men and women, made in places like Spain, Brazil, and Italy. L’intervalle offers free shipping on orders $200 and over (the average price point is about $150), and full refunds are offered on full price footwear within 14 days of delivery.
The September
The September is a mecca for designer shoes. This women’s only online shopping destination carries brands such as Aquazurra, Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Stuart Weitzman, and more. Prices on this website start at around $150. Canada-wide shipping and returns are free for orders over $100. Unworn and undamaged merchandise can be returned for free within 30-days of the purchase.
Globo Shoes
This online shoe shopping destination is a part of the ALDO Group family and originates from Montreal. It’s best known for its quality footwear for men, women, and children at affordable prices, with almost all footwear prices under they $100 mark. Globo also carries a selection of handbags and accessories. Free shipping is available on orders $60 and over. In-store pick-up is also available for those who have a Globo Shoes location near them. Returns on unworn and undamaged footwear can be made within 60 days of the purchasing date.
Getoutside
Getoutside is based in Toronto and has been around for over 20 years. The retailer’s flagship store is at Queen and Spadina, and its selection online is just as good as in-store. Getoutside carries footwear for men, women, and children, plus accessories like hats, socks, laces and shoe care. Brands on its roster include Converse, Blundstone, Veja, Sperry, Frye, Red Wing, Keds, and more. Free shipping is available on all orders $39.99 and over, and if you join their mailing list, you can get an extra 10% off. For extra sweet deals, don’t forget to check out the clearance section, which features footwear for up to 80% off.
Hudson’s Bay
Hudson’s Bay‘s online shoe shop is your one-stop shop for footwear. The iconic retailer has everything from high-end luxury brands like B Brian Atwood, Sophia Webster, Badgley Mischka, and Kate Spade to active lines like New Balance, Hunter, Puma, Nike, and more. It has an unbeatable selection of footwear for men, women, and children at all price points. Shipping is free on all orders over $99. If you’re not happy with your purchase, you have up to 30 days for a full refund. Shoppers also have the option to ship orders to their nearest store and return merchandise to the store nearest them.
Browns Shoes
This Montreal-based, family-owned shop has been around for over 70 years. Prices at Browns Shoes run on the higher end and range from $90 to $1500. Brands you can expect to find on Browns Shoes’ online store include Giuseppe Zanotti, Michael Michael Kors, adidas, Hunter, Steven Madden, Ted Baker, and more. Browns offers free shipping on all orders. If your shoes don’t fit, regular priced merchandise can be returned within 30 days in-stores or by mail.
NRML
If you’re looking for a pair of sneakers, NRML is a great place to look for both men and women. The Ottawa-based retailer is known for its collection of hard-to-find kicks, everyday staples, and exclusive releases. Brands on NRML’s roster include Nike, adidas, ASICS, Vans, and many more. While they don’t offer full refunds, they do offer exchanges or store credit within 30 days of purchase, and finding something you like won’t be too hard. If you can’t find the sneakers you’re looking for here, be sure to check out the rest of our favourite Canadian spots to shop sneakers.
SSENSE
Montreal-based retailer SSENSE is another Canadian go-to if you’re looking for high-end luxury shoes. Brands they carry include Maison Margiela, YSL, Alexander Wang, Christian Louboutin, Fendi, Givenchy, and more. Canada-wide standard shipping is absolutely free, and returns in the original condition and packaging can be made within 14 days of the delivery date.
ALDO Shoes
ALDO Shoes is a real Canadian mall staple. The Montreal-based retailer offers footwear for men, women, and kids online, as well as accessories like jewellery and bags for men and women. Get free shipping on orders $70+ when you order to your home, or completely free when you ship to an Aldo store of your choice.
Call It Spring
Another retailer part of the ALDO Group family is Call It Spring. The footwear destination is completely vegan and is the place to go for on-trend footwear on a budget. They offer free shipping on orders $60+ and no hassle returns in-store and online.
Gravitypope
Another great Canadian online destination for footwear is Vancouver-born Gravitypope. The high-end boutique offers clothing, beauty, and accessories, but their shoe selection is the real draw. Find brands like Dr. Martens, Veja, See By Chloe, Clarks, Comme Des Garcons Play, Frye, and more for men and women. Free shipping is offered on orders of $300+ and ranges between $15.95 and $20.95 for smaller orders.
Simons
Another Canadian department store worth checking out is Simons. The Montreal-based retailer features in-house lines and a variety of name brands, including Moschino, Nike, Converse, Paul Smith, and many more. Items can be shipped straight to your home and for free when you ship to the store. Full refund returns can be made 30 days from the receipt date and within 10 days for sale items.
La Canadienne
It seems like all good things for our feet come from Quebec! One more Montreal-based retailer to have on your radar is La Canadienne. While the prices for footwear are on the higher end — prices start at around $350 — each pair of shoes sold at La Canadienne are handcrafted in Canada and Italy. Standard delivery is completely free and full refunds are offered on unworn or defective merchandise within 21 days of receipt date.
119 Corbo
With a location in Yorkville, Toronto, 119 Corbo is where designer enthusiasts go to shop. The shoe collection boasts designers like Rick Owens, Jil Sander, Dries Van Noten, and more. If you’re looking for sleek and chic styles, check 119 Corbo out.
Capsule
Obsessed with being on top of the sneaker game? Capsule has over 30 brands to search through for the latest pair of kicks to snag. Browse the site, you won’t be disappointed by the selection.
John Fluevog
If you’re looking to add some fun and unique shoes to your wardrobe, then you have to check out John Fluevog’s site. There are many unique shapes and designs, you won’t even know where to begin. These shoes are literally a piece of artwork on your feet.
Maguire
This Quebec-based brand has two retail stores in Canada, but you can shop Maguire online, too! The styles featured are designed in Montreal and ethically manufactured in factories across the globe. Each style is made in a limited run, so if you see something you like, act fast!
The Last Hunt
The Last Hunt in another Quebec-based store, but it focuses on discounted footwear for your active life. If you’re looking for a great deal on hiking boots or running shoes, you can find deals of up to 60% off for brands like The North Face, Merrell, ASICS, Saucony, and more here.
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The holidays are the time of year to wear all your sparkly, glittery and most extra outfits. Not only do you want to turn heads at all of your upcoming soirees, but also, why the heck not? If you’re not one to go all out in full sparkles, then at least add a touch of glam to your outfit through jewellery. A fabulous pair of fun, sparkly jewels can easily add oomph to any ensemble. Wondering where to find such pieces? Then keep on reading.
Here are 5 places to buy fun and sparkly jewellery this holiday season!
ARMED
If you’re in the market for jewellery that’ll make a real statement, you’ll want to check out ARMED. With two locations here in TO, one on Dundas West and another in Parkdale, glitzy jewellery is never too far away. Owned by self-taught jewellery designer Desiree Girlato, ARMED is all about owning each day and living in the moment, never saving your best jewellery for a special occasion. Plus, with its stunning pieces, why would you want to?
Shopbop
Over here at StyleDemocracy, we have a thing for online shopping and if we’re being honest, it’s usually done at Shopbop. This online retailer is known for its insane selection of designer and contemporary brands and it’s always meticulously curated, too. The jewellery selection here is always on point and we guarantee you’ll be able to find a piece you love, no matter your style.
Nordstrom
A great one-stop-shop option is mall fave, Nordstrom. Seriously though, is there anything you can’t find there? The store obviously has an amazing selection of everything from apparel, and cosmetics, to accessories, and of course, jewellery.
Simons
While there may only be one Simons store nearby at Square One, you can always shop the retailer online from the comfort of home. What we love about Simons is that the store houses designer brands but it also has a great selection of more affordable brands too if you’re not in the mood to spend big. Plus, you can also score gems from local Canadian brands, too!
Swarovski
We know what you’re thinking — Swarovski just has decorative crystal pieces that look like what’s on your grandparents shelves. Well first of all, how dare you, and second, you’re sorely mistaken. In addition to the beautiful home accents, Swarovski also has a major selection of trendy jewellery that is just waiting for you. One piece we love is the brands Tarot Magic Earrings!
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Looking to buy a new and trendy handbag for the upcoming holiday season but have no idea where to start? With bags coming in (literally) every shape, size, and colour, it can be easier said than done to find the perfect one, but hopefully this list will get you off to a good start. Whether you’re after a chic evening bag, a fanny pack, or an everyday tote that’s a fave of Meghan Markle, it’s all here.
With options available at various price ranges, you don’t always have to spend big to get a great bag. However, if you’re looking to splurge or are wanting a designer bag for the holidays, we have you covered here, too.
Here are 10 trendy handbags that we’re loving right now!
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Fall is one of my favourite seasons for many reasons. I won’t bore you with all of them because we’d be here all day, but between sweater weather, falling leaves, and pumpkin spiced lattes, is all the shopping that comes with the crisp, turning weather. While I always have wardrobe essentials hanging in my closet, I’m always on the hunt for new pieces that can help revamp and spice up my fall wardrobe. That’s why when I was challenged to update my fall wardrobe for $250 at Square One, I was super excited to get started.
Located in Mississauga, Square One isn’t the same mall that folks may recall from days past. Square One is Ontario’s largest shopping centre as its 2.2 million square feet. The mall is known as a tourist destination and it’s even open on statutory holidays. In addition to having a fabulous assortment of stores for the whole family, Square One recently opened its Food District that houses a variety of popular restaurants and even hosts cooking classes.
When I set out to complete this fall wardrobe shopping challenge at Square One, I wasn’t quite sure where to start. Should I hit my tried and true mall faves like Zara and H&M, or do I experiment and check out stores that I didn’t shop as often? With the huge store selection that Square One has, I decided to give the more lesser-loved (to me) stores a go.
The first store I popped into was Ann Taylor and if you’re thinking that it’s just a store for those who work in an office, then think again. While Ann Taylor does have a brilliant selection of workplace staples, what you need to know is that’s not where its offerings stop. The store also houses beautiful sweaters, shoes, jewellery, luxe coats, dresses, and more. The first thing I noticed upon walking into the store was a cheetah-print cardigan on one of the mannequins.
After feeling how cozy and soft the fabric was, I knew I had to have it. Not only would this cardi be great over a turtleneck for those super cold winter days, but on more mild days it would look fab over a simple tee. This was definitely the item I was most excited to add into my fall wardrobe.
The sweater was originally priced at $192, I scored it on sale for just $97.
The next store I decided to peruse was Aritzia. Even though I don’t shop at Aritzia as often as I used to, it’s a store that I’ll always pop into. While I didn’t find any clothes here, I did find a fabulous wide brim wool hat that I absolutely fell hard for. I wouldn’t necessarily call myself a hat person, but I do have a straw hat that I love to wear in the summer, and I’ve always wanted a great fall hat. In my crazy new hat excitement, I forgot to catch a pic of the hat in-store but I wore it (and my new Ann Taylor cardigan) to a media event the next day and got lots of compliments!
The hat retailed for $48.
Next on my list was a pair of jeans and after trying on denim in a few stores to no avail, I decided to head into one of my mall staple stores, Zara, to see if there was anything for me. I tried on a few pairs of different styles, and one that really worked well for me was the retailer’s Mom Jean cut. In addition to the high waist, a straight cut is most flattering on me, and I love that the jeans weren’t too long on my petite frame. Best of all, these jeans were just $45.
It wasn’t just a pair of jeans that I copped at Zara. I also managed to find a beautiful black bucket bag, too. One thing you should know about me, if it’s not obvious already, is that I always gravitate toward black clothes and accessories. I’m not saying that I only wear all black, but I really have to make a conscious effort to wear a pop of colour. Going with this pattern, my go colour for accessories is black and that’s why I opted for this chic purse instead of a bright red one that I saw in-store as well.
If you can believe it, this super expensive looking bag costs only $45!
One thing about Square One that you need to know is that there’s a huge Simons store. The only other Simons location in Ontario is in Ottawa, so if you’re not down for a road trip, this is the mall to come to.
Last on my fall shopping list was those trendy pearl barrettes that I’ve seen all over Instagram lately. Knowing that Simons houses a vast selection of trend forward items from designer apparel and handbags, to dresses and fabulous jackets, I knew that it would have exactly what I was on the hunt for. And I was right.
I found these super cute barrettes and they retailed for just $15.
In addition having a really strong store selection, Square One is a very beautiful mall to stroll around. In case you were keeping up with my total, I came in right at my budget which was $250, which for me is a very successful experience shopping for my fall wardrobe.
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With winter coming to an end (fingers-crossed), it’s time to invest in some light outerwear to help you transition into warmer temperatures. Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank this year as there are plenty of cute and affordable options available from many of our go-to retailers.
To help you get a head start on your spring wardrobe (and as a signal to Mother Nature that we are sooo done with winter) we’ve put together a handy list of 11 transitional jackets you can shop for under $100.
Long Techno Crepe Bomber Jacket
Image: Simons
Florals for spring? Groundbreaking. All sarcasm aside, this jacket from Simons is super cute…brb while I click “add to bag” asap.
Buy it: Long Techno Crepe Bomber Jacket, $89.95, at Simons
Enchanted Garden Fluid Bomber Jacket
Image: Simons
This floral bomber gives us some serious Gucci vibes (also for $89, it’s much cheaper than anything you’ll find at Gucci).
Buy it: Enchanted Garden Fluid Bomber Jacket, $89.00, at Simons
Floral Embroidered Bomber Jacket
Image: Bloomingdale’s
Another floral bomber for spring because you can never have too many.
Buy it: Floral Embroidered Bomber Jacket, $49.44, at Bloomingdale’s
Contemporary Satin Jacket
Image: Forever 21
We love this lightweight satin bomber from Forever 21 (and the fact that it looks more expensive than it actually is).
Buy it: Contemporary Satin Jacket, $43.90, at Forever 21
Baby Got Back Distressed Denim Jacket
Image: Nasty Gal
As all Canadians know, a good denim jacket is a spring essential. Thank goodness the style on this one is already distressed, because I’m totally going to wear it 24/7 come patio season.
Buy it: Baby Got Back Distressed Denim Jacket, $90.00, at Nasty Gal
Gettin’ Warmed Up Faux Shearling Denim Jacket
Image: Nasty Gal
With a faux shearling lining and collar, this jean jacket is perfect for those spring days when you still wanna sport the jean, but need a little extra warmth.
Buy it: Gettin’ Warmed Up Faux Shearling Denim Jacket, $90.00, at Nasty Gal
Double-Breasted Trench Coat
Image: Forever 21
Everyone needs a good trench in their spring jacket rotation, and this olive one from Forever 21 just screams “buy me and you won’t regret it.”
Buy it: Double-Breasted Trench Coat, $52.90, at Forever 21
Nude Oversized Waterfall Duster Jacket
Image: Missguided
This nude duster jacket is the perfect light layer to wear over a fitted dress for a night out (and we know Kim K would approve).
Buy it: Nude Oversized Waterfall Duster Jacket, $74.00, at Missguided
Lyla Grey Scuba Waterfall Jacket
Image: Pretty Little Thing
Between the pretty colour, flattering fit, and the fact that it’s under fifty dollars, this short grey trench checks all the right boxes.
Buy it: Lyla Grey Scuba Waterfall Jacket, $44.00, at Pretty Little Thing
Contrast Zip Raincoat
Image: Simons
A lightweight rain jacket is a must for spring, and thankfully this one from Simons is both functional and cute.
Buy it: Contrast Zip Raincoat, $89.00, at Simons
JDY Padded Floral Jacket
Image: Asos
A puffer coat for spring may seem like an oxymoron, but for us Canadians, bipolar spring temperatures are just as predictable as death and taxes. Thankfully, this lightweight coat still has a touch of spring with its pretty floral pattern.
Buy it: JDY Padded Floral Jacket, $54.00, at Asos
Which jacket would you wear this Spring? Share with us in the comments.
Featured Image: Instagram/@maisonsimons
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With each spring comes a revival of life – flowers bloom, the sun emerges, warm weather returns and everything just seems brighter… Unless, you’re in the retail industry. In retail, spring signals the restructuring of the Canadian retail landscape from sector bankruptcies. After a long harsh winter, especially like those in Canada, some retailers don’t make it through. Look at Express, BCBG, Bebe, Payless and American Apparel, just a few major retailers who have all pulled out of the Canadian market within the last year.
One of the main, undeniable reasons is e-commerce. The reality isn’t that people aren’t shopping at malls anymore – they are, and retail spending continues to grow at a meager but steady pace – however, other trends have surpassed shopping malls.
Logo-driven brands, like Hollister and Abercrombie, that thrived in the early 2000s when coolness was measured by the size of the logo on your sweater, simply became uncool at an alarming rate. Logo-driven clothing was replaced with vintage fashion, something that can’t be found at local malls.
Abercrombie & Fitch (Image: Instagram/@aidanknicholson)
Also, why even go out to a mall and buy new clothes when you can purchase them online from the comfort of your own home? You can basically get anything and everything you’d ever want or need on Amazon nowadays. The rise of e-commerce, coupled with the oversupply of malls, has come to change the face of shopping for the average consumer.
Millennials have also focused their spending elsewhere. Rather than going on a shopping spree, they are spending their money on travelling across the globe and nights out with friends at fancy restaurants.
These factors lead to more and more mall spaces being orphaned by those retailers leaving Canada’s fashion market, but the situation may not be as bad as some may fear. It may seem like some sort of retail apocalypse is taking over in which shopping malls are following the dinosaurs to impending extinction, but that’s just not the case.
There are still people who go to malls because they enjoy the experience of shopping. Back in the day, the only way to shop was to go to the mall. Now, there are multiple ways to shop meaning shopping malls have taken a back seat, but they haven’t gotten out of the car completely.
The recent series of fashion failures does not signify the end of malls, but rather an opportunity for growth, making way for new retail stores and multiple expansions to the Canadian fashion market.
Multiple new retailers are filling the empty mall space, including many Canadian brands such as Canada Goose, Simons and Aritzia. In addition, newer foreign retailers are increasing their presence in Canada’s market including Uniqlo, Samsung and Christian Louboutin.
Inside Canada Goose’s Yorkdale store (Image: Grayson Miller)
There’s no denying that the current retail market is a bit rocky, but Canada is still doing much better than the US. Retailers are lucky that per capita retail penetration has been – and still remains – lower in Canada than the US. According to a study from the Retail Council of Canada, per capita penetration of shopping malls in Canada is 16.5 square feet per person, compared with 23.6 square feet per person in the US.
But it is also important to note that malls are more than just malls nowadays. They’re a place of retail-tainment; a place of both shopping and entertainment. People no longer just go to a mall to buy a new shirt, they go for an experience. They want to see a movie, go out for dinner and buy that new shirt all in one place.
Does this change what malls once were? Yes, but it’s a good kid of change. With the use of ambience, emotion, sound and activity that retail-tainment introduces, it actually gets customers further interested in the merchandise and in a mood to buy. Does it take away from the overall retail experience? No. In fact, it adds to a whole new shopping experience.
Malls aren’t dying, they’re just changing.
Do you agree that the death of malls is not coming? Let us know in the comment section.
Featured Image: CF Toronto Eaton Centre via Instagram/@jasonskung
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Owning a self-grown business is pretty cool… owning a self-grown business while you’re a wife and mother, and growing that business exponentially in a year’s time, now that’s badass. Canadian accessory designer Caroline Néron fits that caliber of boss lady. The type where you’re like, ‘she is for sure bionic.’
Beginning her career in acting and singing, the Quebecer had an innate passion for accessories and fashion. “I found myself inspired to create a jewelry line after a trip to Las Vegas. I wanted to have control over my career, and in acting and singing it’s quite difficult.”
Three weeks later she launched her first collection in major retailer Les Ailes De La Mode and only a year later in Simons. Néron is now the CEO for her namesake company, which includes jewelry and accessories for women, men and tweens.
Introducing Caroline Néron
While originally starting off with women’s jewelry, Néron comments that it was a very natural transition into handbags and accessories. “I am always adding to my brand, exploring different avenues and finding holes in the market that complement my current collection and make sense for my customer.”
It’s certainly not a bad approach to business considering the size of her current company; 20 boutiques in Canada, a few hundred distributors worldwide and an online store. Not to mention the fact that she’s a judge on the Quebec version of Dragons’ Den.
“I think you need to be passionate about what you’re pursuing but also put it into action. It’s hard to stay motivated if you’re not passionate about what you’re doing.” Pretty solid proof that doing what you love is not a cliche.
And while being driven and good in business is essential, producing products customers love is just as important. “Glamour with a Bohemian Spirit is the essence of my brand,” Néron says. One look at the pieces and the two design qualities are an obvious match.
Caroline Néron’s TW runway show
The current collection pulled inspiration from different eras. Models at Toronto Women’s Fashion Week (TW) walked down the runway dripping in layers of chains and pendants. “Victorian to Ancient Greece, with an exploration of elements such as hammered metals, silk threads, agates and other precious stones.”
“My goal here was to show my creativity and emulate how glamour can be an individual state of mind while still maintaining your free bohemian spirit.” It’s an effortlessly cool look that would elevate any outfit.
One of the most interesting pieces and Néron’s favourite from the new collection is the Wish Box necklace. “The necklace relates to how I have always written my goals and ambitions and used visualization as a tool for self-realization.” Wearers can write their prayers, secrets or wishes on a piece of paper and place it inside the box, affirming one’s goals and offering incentive to produce the changes necessary to make the wish come true. Whether you’re superstitious or not, Néron’s ideology hits home.
Torontonians can find Caroline Néron in several boutiques across Ontario including Cupido, Noinkee’s Boutique, Heffernan’s Jewellery, and Muse Boutique as well as her website. Néron also has plans to open a store in Toronto in Spring 2018. Keep your eyes on this Canadian brand — Néron is well on her way to having a global business.
Learn more about Caroline Néron here.
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