When it comes to shopping for a new season, you’ll likely have to visit multiple stores in order to curate a perfect selection suited to your style and needs. The odds are, you won’t be able to walk into one shop and completely update your wardrobe in that visit, nor should you want to! Different brands specialize in different items, and having a great roster of stores to visit on rotation allows you to explore your personal style more and shop the best from all categories. In honour of the new spring season, we decided to take a trip to the mall (Square One, if you were curious), to find the best of spring fashion. From wardrobe basics to trendy accessories, here’s where we shopped…
Here’s where we went shopping for spring!
Lululemon For Tenniscore
Tenniscore is a huge spring fashion trend this year! Even Zendaya is on board, taking Tenniscore to a whole new level while promoting her new movie, Challengers. While visiting various stores at the mall, we noticed a ton of tennis-inspired apparel, from pleated skirts to collared shirts, and Lululemon did it best (in our opinion). Since Lulu specializes in activewear, its tennis-related items were not only cute but also made for performance! Why not get a tennis skirt you can actually play tennis in, after all?
Old Navy For Spring Prints
If you’re looking to get your hands on some fresh spring prints on a budget, Old Navy has you covered! From pretty floral dresses to colourful tops, we saw a variety of spring-inspired prints and colours while browsing its racks.
Mango For Event Wear
Mango has been absolutely killing it lately, constantly providing luxe-looking apparel at a relatively accessible price point. Its pieces aren’t super affordable by any means, but in terms of special event wear, we think it has some great options! We’ll be keeping these pretty pink dresses on standby for wedding season.
Levi’s For Denim
You really can’t go wrong with a fresh pair of jeans from Levi’s! We’re investing in some lighter denim washes for the spring season, so of course, we had to check out Levi’s. Shopping for jeans can be a tricky business. You can find them for cheap and cross your fingers that they’ll hold up, or invest in a luxury pair and hope you never ruin them or change sizes. Levi’s is in that sweet spot in the middle, providing high-quality denim at a fair price.
Uniqlo For Spring Basics
When it comes to spring basics, we’re getting it all at Uniqlo! The store is practically dedicated to wardrobe staples if you ask us. We saw a variety of t-shirts, linen button-ups, trousers, tanks, and so much more while shopping its extensive selection.
Aritzia For Cozy Sweats
You may have noticed by now, but sweat sets are having a major moment, and Aritzia approves. Aritizia’s Sweatfleece line proves that sweats can, in fact, look chic. We may just need a set in every colour to get us through the spring season in ultimate comfort.
Dynamite For Going Out Tops
We don’t care what anyone says. Going out tops will always be in style. Whenever we have a night out on the horizon, you can bet we’re giving Dynamite a visit. It always has plenty of tops worthy of styling to go out on the town. It even has a category specifically called “Going Out Tops.”
Urban Outfitters For Festival Fashion
Festival season is here! Whether you have a festival coming up or simply love the boho aesthetic, Urban Outfitters is the place to shop. While at UO, we saw a wide variety of trendy boho styles, from crochet knits to long flowy skirts to fun accessories and so much more.
Frank & Oak For Stylish Workwear
Workwear doesn’t have to be boring, especially if you shop at Frank & Oak. The store was full of stylish options that could easily be appropriate for the office and then even drinks afterward. It’s giving quiet luxury minus the luxury price tag!
Ever New For Spring Dresses
If you’ve yet to step foot into Ever New, now is the time! We were so impressed with its selection of spring and summer dresses! They made us feel like we were on our way to the Hamptons. Whether you have an event coming up or are on the hunt for a trusty spring dress to have on rotation, Ever New is worth a visit.
Simons For Trendy Accessories
Let’s be real; there isn’t a whole lot that you wouldn’t be able to find at Simons. The place is huge and carries a vast variety of brands! That being said, one of our favourite sections in the entire store is where the accessories can be found. Simons always has a ton of on-trend and classic accessories to shop under its own house name as well as other brands. From hair clips to statement earrings to bags, we shopped it all.
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Come on Barbie, let’s go party! The World of Barbie attraction is officially making its debut in the GTA on July 22.
The 30,000 square-meter interactive installation is located at 199 Rathburn Road West in Mississauga (in the same parking lot as Square One).
We got to take a sneak peek of the spot and it’s seriously so awesome. It feels as though you’re walking through a giant Barbie playset—bring on all of the nostalgia.
As soon as you enter, you’re greeted by a giant foundation with the Barbie emblem. You’ll get to take look at the Barbies and Dreamhouses that were created throughout the years that date back to 1959 and 1962.
Hop into the massive Camper Van or even tour Barbie’s lifesized closet. Many of the rooms are also inspired by some of the careers she’s had like a scientist, music producer, astronaut, and more
Plus, once you’re done walking through the attraction, you can make a stop at the Barbie Dreambuilder to purchase and create your own customized Barbie set to take home with you!
This is the first stop on the World of Barbie tour before it goes across North America, so take this opportunity to relive childhood memories and revel in her lifestyle.
Grab your tickets at TheWorldOfBarbie.com to enjoy this experience before it’s gone!
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We all know that January tends to be a pretty slow month between the post-holiday blues, dark and gloomy skies, and the fact that the month seems to just drag on. In case you’re looking to perk up, you’re never too far from some exciting newness if you happen to reside in Toronto or the GTA. While not many stores are opening this month, there is a whole ton of restaurants to check out, and even a sweet spot to grab an uber relaxing facial.
Keep reading for 6 new and exciting Toronto openings to know about!
Holts Cafe
We know that Holt Renfrew on Bloor Street has been undergoing major renovations but opening on January 22 is Holts Cafe and we couldn’t be more excited. If you need a break from shopping the store’s always chic offerings, Holts Cafe is where you need to be for either brunch, lunch, dinner, and even tea service. Wondering what you can expect to order? Word has it that the menu will be focused on contemporary Canadian cuisine.
Fuwa Fuwa
If you thought regular pancakes couldn’t get any better, wait until you try Fuwa Fuwa’s fluffy Japanese-inspired souffle pancakes. The chain just opened up a new location at Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga. The new location is currently in its soft-launch phase but will have a grand opening this Saturday, January 18.
Aburi Hana
Speaking of Japanese food, Yorkville’s newest upscale restaurant Aburi Hana is now open and let us tell you, it’s everything. While you won’t find your basic spicy tuna roll here, you can expect an innovative dining experience during one of its two 15-course dinner service menu.
Lobster Burger Bar
Attention all seafood fans! There’s a new spot in Toronto to indulge in lobster and it’s situated right on King West. Lobster Burger Bar is a 7,000 square foot lobster lover’s paradise that offers everything from lobster nachos and lobster rolls, to lobster bisque, lobster burgers, and of course whole steamed lobsters.
Popa
Serving up a tasty combination of Macanese, Balinese, and Burmese flavours is Popa, that’s located at Bayview Village in North York. Popa is the place to go if you can’t decide on if you’re wanting Indian-style soup, curry, or Chinese-style noodles. Either way, whatever you order is bound to be absolutely delicious!
Temple of Beauty Facial at The Detox Market Yorkville
While The Detox Market in Yorkville isn’t new, what is new and exciting is that you can now head there to get a super relaxing facial. The spa space at The Detox Market opened just a few days ago and it’s the first place in Canada where you can experience Odacite’s Temple of Beauty facial. The facial consists of the brands triple cleanse method and Crystal Gua Sha facial massage. You’ll leave looking oh-so-glowy and feeling amazing!
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With the big day of giving just around the corner, there’s no better time to get your holiday shop on.
But whether you’re a seasoned pro or last-minute novice, finding the perfect gift isn’t always the easiest thing to do. In fact, no matter how many times you’ve been shopping before, it doesn’t always prepare you for the chaos of shopping in December.
This year, Canadians are estimated to spend an average of just over $1500 — that’s a big chunk of change, no matter how big your wallet.
But luckily, we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeve to help you navigate your way through the Toronto’s holiday shopping madness, and it all starts with your CAA Membership.
In 2019 alone, CAA Members in Ontario have saved approximately $32.8 million dollars.
And with over 124,000 partner locations and services, it’s likely you already have the perks in your area.
If you don’t have a CAA Membership, don’t fret! You can join now. Not only will a membership give you peace of mind when it comes to driving, but sweet deals for travel, movie tickets, entertainment, and your favourite retailers.
Shopping over the holidays with CAA Rewards is the ultimate way to get your shopping done in a cheap and effective way. Here are our pro tips on how to make the most of your membership:
Take advantage of the perks available at Toronto Premium Outlets
If you’ve been to the Toronto Premium Outlets, you already know that the centre is almost always busy. Luckily, your CAA Membership is all you need to make slipping into the outlets easy.
CAA Members have reserved parking spots at lot B near the North East side from now until December 29, so finding a parking spot during the busiest shopping season is one thing you don’t have to worry about.
In addition to parking, CAA Members also get a complimentary Savings Passport, which can be picked up at the lot or at Guest Services by showing your CAA card. This Savings Passport will get you special discounts at retailers like Puma, Roots, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Ted Baker London, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Grab A Tourist Privileges Pass At Two Of The Best Malls In The Greater Toronto Area
In the GTA, Square One and Yorkdale Shopping Centre are two of our favourite malls to visit. Both malls are massive, and with tons of shops, entertainment, and eateries to check out; you’re bound to cross off everything on your shopping list with a visit.
CAA Rewards has partnered with Square One and Yorkdale Shopping Centre for an extra enticing offer. Just take your CAA Card to any Guest Experiences Kiosk and you can get a free Tourist Privileges Pass and reusable tote bag! As a CAA Member, you get access to this card without having to be a tourist!
The Tourist Privileges Pass is your secret weapon for holiday shopping in the GTA, and there are two ways to use it. The first way is to show your Tourist Privileges at participating retailers for exclusive discounts. At Yorkdale Shopping Centre, you have access to sweet deals at retailers like DAVIDsTEA, Levi’s, Hunter Boots, Oak + Fort, MUJI, and NYX, to name a few.
The second way to use your Tourist Privileges Pass will actually make you money. Just spend $200 or more at participating retailers, take your same-day receipts back to any Guest Experiences Kiosk and you’ll get a $20 gift card at the mall you’re visiting. We don’t know when this deal will end, so hurry before it’s too late.
Save At Select Retailers, No Matter Where You’re Shopping
Outside of Square One and Yorkdale Shopping Centre, there is an impressive list of retailers that CAA has partnerships with, you just have to look them up! All of the retailers are listed on the CAA Rewards website, but a few of our favourite places to score deals include RW&CO and The Source, which you can save at online or in-store.
Keep Fuelled While Shopping
There’s no denying that shopping is a workout — from jumping from store to store, to lifting all of those shopping bags, you’ll need some fuel to keep you energized.
Luckily, there are a number of different eateries where your CAA card can score a bite to eat at a discount. Feel like something quick? Grab some New York Fries for 10% off. Craving something a little more hearty? Indulge in a full course meal at 10% off at The Pickle Barrel.
Shop Online And Avoid The Chaos Of Malls
If mall shopping isn’t your thing, you can still use your CAA Membership as a way to earn money online, without ever leaving the comfort of your own home.
CAA members are able to earn CAA Dollars by shopping online with preferred partners. In layman’s terms, that means the more you spend, the more CAA Dollars you’ll make. You can earn up to 10% back in CAA Dollars when you shop through the CAA Rewards website.
All of your CAA Dollars can go to good use and be used on some incredible things, including renewing your CAA Membership, booking hotels or travel, buying movie and attraction tickets at CAA stores, gifting a CAA Membership, and more.
The perks that come with a CAA Membership are never-ending.
And having one is sure-fire way to save money over the holidays and throughout the year. So what are you waiting for? Sign up for a CAA Membership now if you don’t already have one.
Terms & Conditions
Trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. Restrictions and conditions apply for each participating partner offer. Partners and/or offers are subject to change without notice. For full details, visit www.caasco.com.
To earn and redeem CAA Dollars, you must be a current CAA Member in good standing. For more information on CAA Dollars, please visit www.caasco.com/caadollars.
© 2019 CAA Club Group. All rights reserved. Serving Members in Southern and Central Ontario and Manitoba.
® CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association.
In the month leading up to the holidays, the city brings on the festive cheer! From beautiful Christmas trees and twinkling lights, to fun local markets and more, there is so much to discover across the GTA in December.
One event we’re particularly excited for is the Merry & Bright Square One Holiday Market.
On from now until December 24, the market can be found on level two, right next to UNIQLO.
Inside, you’ll be transported to a festive wonderland, complete with larger-than-life candy installations, an IKEA-sponsored DIY workshop, local vendors, and more.
Square One guests can also visit the market for parcel and coat check, as well as gift wrapping.
To free up your hands during your visit, parcel and coat check are complimentary. And once you’ve found all of your gifts, gift wrapping services are available by donation, with all proceeds going to Epilepsy South Central Ontario.
There are tons of fun experiences to be had for you and your family.
So don’t miss out on them! Snap a picture with a gingerbread house or under a candy cane arch, or take part in one of the workshops where you can DIY scrunchies, learn calligraphy, create your own gift cards, and more.
And don’t forget to snap your experience because you could win big!
While you’re there, share your Merry & Bright Square One Holiday Market experience and tag @shopsquareone on Instagram with the hashtag #thatONEmoment to be entered into a draw to win prizes like IKEA gift cards, Annie Sloan mini project packs, and a SMEG stand mixer, to name a few.
The market is plenty of fun for the holidays. Don’t believe us? Take a peek inside the Merry & Bright Square One holiday market below.
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The winter has endless opportunities for fun, but it can be daunting trying to find the right activity for your family. There are hundreds of markets and outdoor festivals taking place this winter, but let’s not forget about all of the family-friendly fun to be had indoors while staying cozy.
We have rounded up 8 Family-Friendly Indoor Outings To Go On This Winter.
The Dr. Seuss Experience
Located across from Square One in Mississauga, The Dr. Seuss Experience is an interactive installation that will take you on an imaginative experience through nine different popular Dr. Seuss books. On now through January 5th, 2020, the experience is suitable for kids of all ages and children under age three get in for free!
Cineplex Community Day
For this year’s 9th Annual Community Day, Cineplex is offering movie-lovers the chance to enjoy a morning of free, festive movies! Cineplex concession items including popcorn, soft drinks, and select candy will be sold for just $2.50 each, with all proceeds from donations and select concessions going towards the Boys and Girls Club of Canada. Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The Second City Improv Showdown
From December 13th, 2019 to January 5th, 2020, Hotel X Toronto is partnering with the comedians from The Second City Toronto to host a holiday show appropriate for the whole family! The hotel has a 250-seat cinema, and the 60-minute show can be seen multiple times as the plot is ever-changing. In this type of show that’s 50% improv and 50% scripted, anything can happen!
The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays
With showings from January 1st, 2020 to January 5th, 2020, the whole family can check out this mind blowing illusion experience. This is the show for you if you love magic with illusions including, escapes, close up magic, mentalism, and more, this show will not disappoint!
Toronto Marlies Game
The Toronto Marlies focus on making every game a family-friendly experience. With many games offering the first 3,000 in attendance free takehomes like player bobbleheads and rally towels, kids are in for a ton of excitement. If you don’t happen to be one of the first 3,000 fans, you can still check out Marlies Alley 90 minutes before puck drop. Marlies Alley is open for every game (outside of school days) and features interactive games such as bubble hockey, hockey shooting challenge, foosball, and more. Get tickets here!
The InterContinental Toronto Centre’s Gingerbread Build With Habitat For Humanity
This year, the InterContinental Toronto Centre asks you to join them for a free afternoon while you build your #HabitatSweetHome by assembling a gingerbread house with decorative icing. This one day event will take place December 6th, 2019 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Register for your gingerbread kit now!
Winterlicious
Perhaps one of our favourite events of the year, the annual Winterlicious celebration will include over 200 restaurants all across Toronto. From January 31st, 2020 through February 13th, 2020, make sure to check out a prix fixe lunch or dinner at one of Toronto’s hot spots.
Mariposa Santa Brunch Cruise
For one day only, on Sunday December 8th, 2019, join Santa Clause for a magical brunch cruise aboard the Northern Spirit and experience fun for the whole family! Enjoy 2 hours of cruising through the Toronto Harbour with Santa and his elves while enjoying an all you can eat buffet. Plus you and the fam can score a complimentary family photo with Santa!
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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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Thanksgiving weekend is finally here! It’s time for a much needed long weekend and everything else the Thanksgiving holiday brings, usually including tons of food and quality time with the people around us. It seems we all spend Thanksgiving doing different things and having different traditions. No matter how you usually spend your Thanksgiving, there thankfully is tons to do in Toronto over the long weekend (and they’re free!)
Here are 6 super fun free things to do in Toronto over the Thanksgiving long weekend!
Toronto Pumpkinfest
Where: 70 Canuck Ave, North York
When: October 12 – 14, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Toronto Pumpkinfest is running all Thanksgiving weekend long, with activities to do for all ages! The festival has tons of fun things to do whether you’re spending time with your family, having a fun day out with friends, or want something to do with your SO, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. Pumpkin Fest features a pumpkin patch, different rides, plenty of food and other vendors, contests, and of course the Big Pumpkin. This festival is sure to spice up your Instagram feed with all the fall vibes!
All Vinyl Everything
Where: 1150 Queen Street West
When: October 13, 10 p.m.
If you’re looking for something to do to celebrate having Monday off, check out All Vinyl Everything that’s happening at Drake Underground. Featuring DJ Darrel, DJ Agile, Mista Jiggz, and Mensa, it’ll be a vinyl-tastic evening. If you’re in the mood for some great music and a good time, you can join in on all the fun for free, but just make sure you RSVP first!
Brewer’s Backyard – Torontober Fest
Where: Evergreen Brickworks – 550 Bayview Ave
When: October 14 – 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Brewer’s Backyard – Torontober Fest is a fun beer festival happening this Thanksgiving Monday! This fest is featuring multiple different breweries, 9 to be exact, so you’ll have tons of great brew options to try. The festival will even have some amazing food choices and we’re betting that there’ll be something for everyone! If you love beer and a good time, it’s totally worth checking out.
Early Rubens at The AGO
Where: 317 Dundas Street West, Toronto
When: October 12 and 13, 10:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
While the AGO is closed Thanksgiving Monday, but is open the Saturday and Sunday of Thanksgiving weekend. The AGO offers free admission to those who have an annual pass, and to anyone who is 25 and under and to Indigenous folks. This Thanksgiving weekend, the AGO is debuting the exhibit: Early Rubens. Visiting the gallery is a great way to occupy your time and also experience some great art, history, and conversation with the whole fam!
Go For A Nature Walk
Nature walks and hikes are a simple and quite refreshing activity you can do over the long-weekend. Toronto is the home of some great scenic trails – and they’re all free to check out! If you’re looking for something to do this Thanksgiving weekend, you should definitely take some time to visit a local trail. After all, fall is a great time to appreciate the nature and beauty we are surrounded by! Plus, it’s a great way to walk off a heavy and rich meal.
FUJIFILM Printlife Photo Exhibit
Where: Square One, Mississauga
When: October 7 – 13
If you’re willing to track a little bit outside Toronto, FUJIFILM is holding an exhibit at Square One to showcase prints of those who entered its print contest. The exhibit ends Thanksgiving Sunday, so if you want to check out the cool prints, now is the time!
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Step into a mall in 2019, and you may not think much has changed over the last five years. Malls are still relatively busy, with kids still hanging out in the food court, and people spending weekends and evenings milling about. But, with the rise of online shopping, and the fact that everything is at the click of your finger, in-person retail has taken a dive. While I love to score all my fave items online at great prices, sometimes there’s nothing like wandering a mall with no purpose in mind, and a little bit of extra money to spend. Even better, if the mall has something worth seeing in person. With the current retail trends, malls have really had to up their game to entice people to leave their houses, and spend, which means appealing to what people love about online experiences, and catering to types of events you can only experience in-person.
Here are 6 ways malls and retail stores are adapting to current retail trends.
Influencer Meet & Greets
Instagram/@tecpandora
It’s one thing to have a top influencer chat about how great a certain mall is, but it’s another to invite people to come and meet them at the store. One store in particular is doing a lot of this — Pandora is working with top Toronto influencers to host sales events that bring people in-store to meet their fave IG personalities. The store hosted Summer Style Sessions with local influencers at a variety of malls across Canada, and they’re happening on a regular basis.
Instagrammable Activations
Instagram/@blondehanes
Malls are appealing to everyones love of Instagram by curating fun activations that’ll get folks into its doors for photo ops. We’re already loving pop-ups like HideSeek, so it only makes sense that malls are taking cues from this trend. Plus, some are even inviting influencers to hang out and share the experiences. Sounds like a great reason to head to the mall!
Personalized In-Store Demonstrations
Instagram/@wseatoncentre
It’s becoming more and more common for stores and malls to invite artists into their spaces to provide live, in-store demonstrations of their work. Stores at your local mall are often always hosting masterclasses or workshops where you can pick up new skills. William Sonoma at Toronto Eaton Centre hosts baking workshops with industry pros. This is a great, intimate way for people to meet local artists, and even take something special home with their purchase.
Hosting Local Markets
View this post on Instagram
One of the reasons so many people aren’t spending as much money at malls is because they’re making more of an effort to shop local. Malls have so much space, so it actually makes a lot of sense to utilize the unused space to support local businesses and artists. Shopping centres like Scarborough Town Centre are building these markets around specific holidays, such as Eid. This is a great way to shop for special gifts, and support local designers and makers in the community at the same time.
Offering Unique Workshops
Instagram/@embiria
Offering unique experiences such as workshops, allows shopping malls to bring in new guests that may not have been previously reached. Last Christmas, Square One partnered with Embiria to put on a series of unique wellness workshops, enticing shoppers to hangout in the Holiday Market space, and bringing new shoppers into the mall.
Providing Space For Community Events
As I mentioned before, malls have a lot of unused space that can be used for a variety of activities. Dixie Outlet Mall is utilizing a big piece of unused space for its Dixie Living Room. The mall hosts a variety of events there and you can also rent out the Living Room space, for FREE!
Featured Image: Instagram/@filipajackson
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At the end of 2018, Canadian beauty enthusiasts were blessed with the news of a brand new cosmetics store.
Morphe Cosmetics, a brand that is revered by beauty gurus and makeup artists across North America, opened its first store in Canada at Square One Shopping Centre in Mississauga in December 2018.
Known for its super affordable price-points, quality products, and influencer collaborations, Morphe’s first Canadian store is what makeup dreams are made of. The bright space, which is perfectly situated near Sephora and MAC Cosmetics, spans over 4,660-square-feet.
Large M’s line the wall, with black shelving and displays that show off Morphe’s collection of lip glosses, eyeshadow and cheek palettes, lashes, setting spray, brushes, and more.
Each influencer collection has its own special section.
Whether you’re on the hunt for Morphe’s exclusive collections with James Charles (who recently flooded the mall with fans) and Jaclyn Hill, or looking to shop your favourite influencer’s top picks, you’ll find them all at Morphe’s Square One store. Each Morphe-affiliated influencer has its own dedicated spot in the store.
Fans of Jeffree Star will be happy to hear that they can shop the beauty guru’s namesake brand in person at the Morphe store. No longer do GTA beauty lovers have to order the collection online, they can touch and swatch the collection of eyeshadow palettes — like Blood Sugar, Thirsty, and more — for themselves.
Morphe’s newest collection of foundations lives in the centre of the store.
With store associates armed and ready to swatch, Morphe’s new Fluidity full-coverage foundation is available to shop. The collection features a vast range of 60 shades, with four different categories of undertones (neutral, cool, warm, and olive) and five levels of hues (light, medium, tan, rich, and deep) to ensure a better-than-perfect match.
Take a peek inside the Morphe Square One store below.
All images by StyleDemocracy
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