6 Best Shopping in Montreal, Quebec

In French they call costume jewelry bijoux de fantaisie, and that's exactly what you'll find here: a fantastic array of colorful crystal baubles. Elegant lines from Ginette NY contrast with the bold designs of Reminiscence Paris. The glass-walled boutique is easy to miss, as it blends into the surrounding building.

Stylish Hervé Léger dresses at two for C$500? Style-savvy cofounders Maryam Rafa and Angelica Koinis believe that women should look good and dress well without having to spend a small fortune. Designer denim and fabulous cocktail dresses and evening gowns for half off (or more) have built their reputation.

This cheerful boutique is a dream-come-true for owner Audrey Morissette, who adores all things whimsical and feminine. Uniting her love of fashion and decor, the shop is filled with pretty items ranging from jewelry to clothing to candles, as well as ceramics and other household items.

The Canadian equivalent of Tiffany's (with its own version of the iconic blue box) has been selling diamond engagement rings, exquisite jewelry, and fine crystal since 1879. Recently renovated and redesigned and now part of the new Hôtel Birks, the luxury jewelry store now contains partitioned boutiques within a larger boutique and sells items by brands such as Messika, Van Cleef & Arpels, Rolex, Cartier, and Breitling, in addition to Birks Collections. Even if diamonds or watches aren't on your shopping list, it's still worth a visit to the elegant new hotel and the seriously stunning Henri Brasserie Française (restaurant and bar lounge), serving French-inspired cuisine highlighting seasonal Quebec and Canadian products ( www.restauranthenri.com)

Whether you're considering a watch, diamond bracelet, or engagement ring, Château d'Ivoire might just have what you're looking for (as long as a significant price tag doesn't deter you). Brands at the newly built, ultra modern two-story veneration of all things luxury include Chopard, Piaget, Rolex, IWC, and Cartier, among others.

Walk the red carpet (literally) beyond the black-and-white marble exterior into an elegant room filled with precious jewels. Founded in Montréal more than 60 years ago by a Swiss master jeweler and goldsmith, Kaufmann de Suisse is known for its flowing bands of gold and platinum. The posh, yet friendly family-run boutique recently expanded to include a VIP Philippe Patek corner, showcasing wares from the exclusive Swiss watchmaker.