There’s something about Vancouver that just feels so easy. Maybe it’s their cool art galleries, cinematic theatre experiences, splendid music scene, and the local food. And, don’t even get me started on their shopping scene. They don’t call Vancouver “the Manhattan of Canada” for nothing. 

The last time I was there, in early September, I was lucky enough to check out some local shopping boutiques in the neighbourhood close to my hotel. 

From unique vintage thrift stores to luxury boutiques that carry rare archives from iconic designers, here are the four best shopping places I wouldn’t want you to miss in this epic city. 

 

1) Once More: Luxury for less

A candy store for the ultimate fashion lover. If you’re short on time and only have the time to visit one store, then let it be this one. 

What’s so special about this store, you ask? 

You can find plenty of exciting vintage pieces from legendary fashion houses like Versace, Gucci, Comme des Garcons, Prada, Burberry, etc.  Everything about the store screams luxury at affordable prices, from classic and chic attire to their jaw-dropping shoe collection. I scored a steal deal on practically new red crystal-covered Valentino stiletto heels for half the retail price. 

 Melissa Dhu, the owner and the founder of the boutique, was so kind and welcoming. She took the time to explain the story behind every item in the store, most of which were from Melissa’s personal closet. In speaking with Melissa, I realized that the clothes, shoes, and bags we own have had a life before us, and if we take good care of them, they have a life after us. 

Sharing with you some pictures that I captured while at the store-

 

 

2) MINE & YOURS

 Dying for some red-soled little pieces of art or Jimmy Choo in your size? Voted as one of the Best Consignment Stores in Vancouver, keep Mine & Yours on your radar, and I promise you that you won’t leave disappointed. If you LOVE fine-quality things and don’t want to spend a fortune, then this is the store for you. I felt like I was in a fashion museum as some of the things at the store dated back to the 1920s. So cool!!

As you enter the store, you can feel a high-end boutique’s warm and chic ambiance. The shop is filled with cool pieces from every iconic designer you can think of at affordable prices. Thanks to this iconic boutique, our closets have never looked better!!! <3 Sharing some pictures that I took at the store-

 

3) Wildlife Thrift Store

An iconic family-owned & operated, Wildlife Thrift is a breath of fresh air and a cult favourite among the locals. Chic, a picturesque thrift store in the middle of Vancouver, you are guaranteed to find a unique variety of things, including clothes, video games, furniture, books, art, and other trendy finds, at shockingly low prices. I can promise you will find treasures that you might not have expected.

A brand with a strong philosophy of protecting and preserving mother nature for generations. In describing their brand values, they say, “we believe in one, single, simple concept: by recycling, we are not only able to preserve our environment but are granted the privilege of giving back.” 

If you’re still not sold on it, they donate to local charities that help those experiencing Homelessness & Mental Health issues. So if you feel bad about spending money on retail therapy, at least you are giving back to people.

4) Community Thrift and Vintage Frock Shoppe

Founded in 2011, Community Thrift & Vintage Frock Shoppe is a not-for-profit thrift store based in Vancouver. I loved quietly browsing all the beautiful one-of-a-kind vintage clothing and jewellery, which made it impossible to leave empty-handed. 

Even though prices on some items were high for a thrift store, it’s still worth checking out because you do find special and unique pieces that are hard to find in the malls.

They employ women in need from the local community to work in the business. And, since all their profits go towards supporting at-risk women in the Downtown Eastside (DTES), shopping here felt so sustainable and fulfilling at the same time. 

 

Are there any other stores that you would add to the list? Comment below I’d love to know and check them out on my next visit. 

 

xx

Yachna