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Toronto prides itself on having some of the finest shopping in North America. Indeed, most of the world's name boutiques have branches here, especially in the Yorkville area, where you can find such luxury labels as Chanel, Prada, and Cartier. For those a little leaner of wallet, you can join in one of Torontonians' favorite pastimes: bargain hunting. Locals wear discount threads like badges of honor and stretch their dollar at Winners—where overstocked and liquidated designer pieces and last-season fashions are slashed to a fraction of their original retail prices.
Toronto has a large arts-and-crafts community, with numerous art galleries, custom jewelers, clothing designers, and artisans. Sophisticated glass sculpture and Inuit art are ideal as gifts or for your own home. A few record stores are still going strong despite the dominance of digital music. The survivors’ trump card has been focused inventory and knowledgeable staff—head to Rotate This for alterative and indie music or Atelier Grigorian for classical and jazz. Bookstores such as Indigo have lounge areas where you can sip a coffee from the in-store café while perusing books by Canadian authors such as Alice Munro, Ann-Marie MacDonald, and Rohinton Mistry; don’t miss favorite independent Book City.
When it comes to department stores, all roads lead to Holt Renfrew on Bloor Street West, the epicenter of Toronto's designer shopping. A mere block east is the more mid-price department store The Bay. A second Bay can be found across from Eaton Centre, a sprawling shopping complex with multilevel parking in the heart of the city.
Established in 1972, Bakka Phoenix has the distinction of being the world's oldest science fiction and fantasy bookstore. The shop is home to several thousand new and used titles, with the selection catering to readers of all ages. Knowledgeable staff members are always on hand to help find what you're looking for (or suggest something new).
Snag deals on classic books and new releases alike at this multilevel used bookstore (short for "Books Magazines Video"). Comics fans will also be happy with the selection of single issues and graphic novels.
The best-dressed Torontonians clear out their closets at this consignment store, which always has something cheap and cheerful on the racks. Brands range from fast-fashion to vintage to designer; the eagle-eyed might even spot some Marni or Max Mara.
Shop alongside Toronto chefs for quality kitchen supplies—cheese knives, seafood shears, or unique showpieces like locally made wood cutting boards—at this multifloor shop that also hosts cooking classes.
Breezy, colorful, and wearable styles—from dresses and blouses to trendy accessories—fill this boutique, owned and operated by two sisters. You may spot brands like Levi's interspersed among pieces from their house line.
The art of the brassiere is taken seriously at this appointment-only bra-fitting boutique. Knowledgeable (but pretension-free) staffers host fitting sessions that typically last around 30 minutes. The massive selection includes sports, fashion, strapless, seamless, and nursing bras, plus sleepwear and experimental lingerie, in wide-ranging sizes and fits.
Decor enthusiasts should make a pit stop at this airy boutique in the heart of the Annex. Expect to find modern glassware, handmade ceramics, and charming art prints, plus taper candles and folding plastic storage crates in every conceivable color.
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