(Carrying Made in Canada, Indie + Responsible Brands)

Canadian Shopping Guide

09.30.16

Hoor’eh’! It’s finally time to share this *UPDATED* post after years of compiling names, researching leads and refining my list of the best spots to shop in Canada. My goal for this list was not to simply mash together every Canadian maker, brand or designer that I came across or that someone mentioned, but rather to compile a comprehensive list of the ones I consider to be setting the bar high in terms of beautiful design, excellent craftsmanship and that I believe are helping to put Canada on the world map when it comes to great taste and style.

Style Bee - Canadian Responsible Shopping Guide


HOW DID THESE BRANDS MAKE THE LIST?

I focused on brands that are making their products in Canada with a careful selection of some that are producing elsewhere but based locally. I have either personally shopped from them or hope to one day. They all have a relatively minimal, elegant and timeless aesthetic, which as you know by now is 100% my jam.

For all the independent clothing and accessories lines I’ve included a short note about the collection, my favourite piece and the general price point ($ = $100 or less | $$ = $150-$350 | $$$ = $350 +). For Skincare, Homewares and Shops I’ve simply linked to the site and mentioned why it’s worth a look.

I’ve kept this list focused on womenswear but made note when menswear is also available. I opted to omit most ‘local’ boutiques across the country that despite looking great don’t offer online shopping. For the time being, I left out children’s clothing because that’s a whole other ball game and frankly way off my radar at the moment.


NOT IN CANADA? 

No problem! As far as I can tell alllmost these shops and designers ship internationally.


STYLE BEE CANADIAN SHOPPING GUIDE


Style Bee - Canadian Responsible Shopping Guide
CLOTHING

(In alphabetical order)

  1. AMANDA MOSS | I’m loving the simplified basics that have been added to this line lately. A fitted turtleneck is always a great staple. | $$ |
  2. BARE KNITWEAR | Truly one of my favourite Canadian brands and a go-to for extremely well-made, super cozy, gorgeous knitwear. I swear by their beanies all winter long. | $$-$$$ |
  3. BEES + BONES | I just came across this line recently and there are so many gems! Love the Daphne Blouse so much. | $-$$ |
  4. BETINA LOU |+ Menswear | I’ve got a couple of pieces from this Montreal-based line. Great for classic styles with contemporary details and a relaxed palette. They also curate lots of beautiful brands.| $-$$ |
  5. BETH RICHARDS | SWIM | Such a stunning swimwear line. I’m already saving for a one piece next Summer. | $$ |
  6. DAG + STACEY | Unique collection of elevated basics in comfy fabrics and fun prints.  | $-$$ | 
  7. ELIZA FAULKNER | This Montreal designer is known for her signature ruffle sleeves and tiered dresses. More my style is the Dolly Turtleneck, a gorgeous take on the classic, and the Pandora Dress is a major mood. | $$-$$$ |
  8. FORTNIGHT | LINGERIE + SWIM | Seriously stunning lingerie with sexy, supportive and empowering fits and styles. | $-$$ |
  9. FREE LABEL | Really beautiful and comfy looking basics with a clear focus on sustainable fabrics and thoughtful production. I wear my Andie Bra and Johnny Tee weekly.| $ – $$ |
  10. HOIBO | One of my all-time favourites. Stunning minimalist clothing and bags in the most gorgeous materials. I have this bag and it’s a work of art. | $$-$$$ |
  11. HORSES ATELIER | I personally think that HA this is one of the most swoon worthy Canadian lines. Mark my words that one day the Alchemical Coat will be mine! | $$$ |
  12. HUTCHISON | Easy going tanks, shift dresses and linen totes layering and weekend living. | $$ |
  13. IRIS | DENIM | Super rad line of made in Toronto denim featuring ultra high rises, vintage inspired fits and all the good butt day vibes. Very tempted to try the Edge of Seventeen Jeans. | $$ |
  14. KORINNE VADER | Elegant, unique, minimal styles in beautiful natural fibres and an earthy palette. Definitely explore this line if you’re a fan of ES or OC in the US. I’m lusting over the Forest Zelia Pullover. | $$ |
  15. LLOYD | UNISEX | LOVE this Vancouver based line so much. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting the designers and NEED this whole outfit. | $$-$$$ |
  16. MARY YOUNG | LINGERIE | My go-to for comfy everyday bra/undie sets. Mary uses such beautiful fabrics and her designs are super wearable and yet very come hither. Learn more about this rad line in this Behind The Design from earlier this Spring. | $$ |
  17. MILDRED HANDMADE | I love following this one woman show on Instagram and her pieces have such a lovely, relaxed elegance to them. The Ludlow overcoat and the Patricia Top are personal favourites. | $$ |
  18. MINNOW BATHERS | SWIM | So. Many. Good. Swimsuits!! | $$ |
  19. MUTTONHEAD | + Menswear | Mostly menswear but I’m more than happy to borrow from the boys, especially when it comes to their toques (that’s Canadian for beanie)!  | $ |
  20. M0851 | + Menswear | Classic and contemporary coats, bags and accessories designed to stand up to cold and wet weather. | $$$ |
  21. ODEYALO | Delicious contemporary basics collection. Everything looks so comfy and versatile. | $$ |
  22. OVATE | This beautiful and bewitching collection has been on my radar for so long. I love the Margot Linen Duster coat. | $-$$ |
  23. POWER OF MY PEOPLE | + Menswear | Classic button downs in beautiful colours of linen and cotton. The Friend shirt is my hands down fave. | $$ | (Also for Men!)
  24. SMYTHE | Sooooo this line is insanely good. They are known for their incredible blazers but I would do a lot of ridiculous things to get the Blanket Coat in my life. | $$$ |
  25. URSA MINOR | Another gem for elegant, understated, wearable styles in stunning shapes and fabrics. If you like Ilana Kohn or Miranda Bennett in the US check this line out for sure.| $$ |
  26. WORKHALL | Super cool concept collection chock full of unexpected shapes and fits in comfy, sustainable fabrics. Great for summer and sunny holidays. | $-$$ |
  27. YOGA JEANS | DENIM | These folks know how to make a seriously comfy and flattering pair of jeans! If you’re looking for a timeless high rise, dark wash, straight cut, take a look at the Emily Slim in Fearless. | $$ |

Style Bee - Canadian Responsible Shopping Guide

ACCESSORIES

(In alphabetical order)

  1. OPELLE | Bags | There is no secret that I LOVE Opelle. I’ll be sharing my new Meena bag soon and spoiler alert, it’s perfect! | $$ |
  2. MICHELLE ROSS | Jewelry | In case you missed it I shared a quick interview Michelle and a few amazing pieces from the new GAIA collection in Monday’s post. | $$ |
  3. HENDRIK LOU | Handknit Accessories + Clothing | I am seriously obsessed with this sweater and this bag. | $$ |
  4. BIKO | Jewelry | This line has been a favourite of mine since long before I started blogging. The FW16 collection just hit the shop and it’s SO GOOD. | $$ |
  5. EMMY TRINH | Jewelry | I’ve had the pleasure of adding a few of Emmy’s pieces to my collection and they’re instant favourites. The constellation trio necklace is a personal fave. | $$ |
  6. CADETTEJewelry | Gorgeous (and affordable!) line of minimal jewelry in unexpected geometric shapes. | $ |
  7. BOOKHOU | Bags | A crowd favourite for block printing and functionality. | $$ |
  8. ATTIC | Jewelry | LOVE this line so much it’s silly. In fact, my engagement ring was designed and created by ATTIC. They make everything in a super rad Guelph-based studio and use ethically sourced gems and recycled gold. The cigar ring is everything. | $$$ |
  9. GOOD NIGHT DAY | Handknit Accessories + Clothing | So many good beanie and chunky scarf options! | $$ |
  10. ELEVEN THIRTY | Bags | This cult favourite collection is made in Toronto and the hides and materials they source are just amazing. | $$ |
  11. FORESTIERE | Jewelry | I absolutely swoon over this jewelry collection. The natural colours, stunning textures and unique shapes are such a dream. | $$ |
  12. BARE KNITWEAR | Accessories (Responsibly Made in Peru) | This brand is amazing for so many reasons. Stunning sustainable materials, ethical production, minimal design combined in a super wearable way. I can’t wait to wear my classic beanie again soon! | $$ |
  13. HART & STONE | Jewelry | $ | FW16 Collection arriving soon.
  14. ERIN TEMPLETON | Bags | Total cult favourite (for good reason!) and definitely worth checking out! | $$ |
  15. POPPY BARLEY | Shoes (Responsibly Made in Mexico) | I love my ankle boots so much! They are ridiculously comfortable and well made. | $$ |

Style Bee - Canadian Responsible Shopping Guide

SKINCARE
  1. F.MILLER SKINCARE | Favourite lip balm for sure!
  2. WILDCRAFT | Love this line and their branding is on point.
  3. PROVINCE APOTHECARY Gorgeous products, packaging and fragrances.
  4. CLEMENTINE FIELDS Amazing sample program.
  5. DETOX MARKET CA Very comprehensive stock of the best all natural lines.
  6. WELL.CA | Great option for affordable green/natural products.
  7. TRUTH BEAUTY Local to Guelph!
  8. ARTIFACT Renowned for their masques.
  9. THE CURE APOTHECARY | Beautifully curated shop filled with all natural skincare and beauty. (Toronto local)
  10. GRAYDON | Love this line of all natural, Canadian made (and sourced!) skincare.
  11. BITE BEAUTY | Epic lipsticks, epic branding all made by hand in Toronto. (not 100% natural but made without: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates)

Style Bee - Canadian Responsible Shopping Guide

SHOPS

(Made in Canada + Vintage + Thoughtful Brands)

  1. ONE OF A FEW | Can I just have everything? I could very easily part with my entire savings in just one visit to this shop. Think Comey, Kamm, Manoogian, Callahan, Kohn, Building Block, Base Range and Black Crane. UGH!
  2. CHARLIE + LEE | Another West Coast gem carrying the best of both Canadian and International indie labels.
  3. GARMENTORY | You know my Garmentory love is very real. They make shopping boutiques from all over North America so easy. Free Shipping and get $20 OFF your first purchase! (Disclaimer: I get $20 credit when you buying something.)
  4. OLIVER + LILY’S | I had the pleasure of visiting this shop when I was in Van last summer and it’s absolutely dreamy! The owners are so lovely and the curation is seriously on point. Great option to pick up Clare V. bags!
  5. UNDONE | I did some damage here earlier this Fall and love everything I added to my underthings collection. They carry Base Range, The Nude Label, Pansy Co. and so many other ethical underwear lines.
  6. BIBELOT & TOKEN | Love this little shop and the owner B is a gem. Lot’s of great gifts and accessories.
  7. OUTPOST VINTAGE | Great vintage! (Guelph Local)
  8. HEY JUDE | More great vintage and thrifted gems. (Vancouver Local)
  9. KENNEDY PARK | Great selection of Canadian labels! (Guelph Local)
  10. BLUSH | This shop is a Guelph landmark at this point. Michele, Blush’s owner has single handedly upped Guelph’s style game over the last 10 years and she’s still topping herself with every season! Great selection of made in USA lines and some hard to find European collections too.
  11. GREY ROCK | Ethical, sweatshop-free fashion is at the core of this shop. (Guelph Local)
  12. NEW CLASSICS | Love this shop and how it’s making sustainability look as good as it should!
  13. GRAVITY POPE | Epic shoe selection. I bought my Mars boots from the Vancouver location last summer.
  14. ZANE | Bags, Bags, Bags and more Bags! Tons of made in Canada gems found here.
  15. SWEAT SOCIETY | Ethical activewear, yay! This is such a tough thing to find here but this shop has some awesome ethical international and made in Canada lines.
  16. EASY TIGER GOODS | This is definitely a can’t miss spot to visit if you’re ever in Toronto. This perfectly curated little boutique hosts so many hard to find gems from indie brands. Think Group Partner planters, Building Block bags and Dieppa Restrepo shoes.
  17. PRESENT DAY | Beautiful gift boxes filled with unique, locally sourced, responsibly made goods that have been curated perfectly. I especially love The Gent and The Lakehouse boxes but you can create custom ones too!

Style Bee - Canadian Responsible Shopping Guide

HOMEWARES

(Carrying Made in Canada + Responsible Brands)

  1. SPECK + STONE | Ceramics | Stunning hand thrown stoneware in neutral tones and glazes.
  2. LINDSEY HAMPTON | Ceramics | Sculptural, contemporary ceramics in intriguing shapes and colours.
  3. MJOLK | Furniture + Home Goods | I’m almost sorry to share this shop with you because it’s so good you’ll never be the same again. You need to see the owners’ home tour too.
  4. MÜR LIFESTYLE | Home Goods | Resistance is futile when it comes to me and this shop. I’ve been going a little bonkers buying goods for our kitchen from their new Fall collection.
  5. THE WANDERLY | Textiles | Great selection of affordable kilim pillows and rugs. Remember this post?
  6. RUG & WEAVE | Textiles | This husband and wife team importers (based in Guelph!) find the most beautiful vintage Persian, kilim, Turkish and Boucherouite rugs, not to mention their Moroccan collection of bags, mudcloth throws and latest addition of pillows. Stay tuned for an awesome giveaway later this Fall!
  7.  OLD FAITHFUL | Gifts + Home Goods | Whenever we’re in Toronto we try to swing by this place. It’s the ultimate gift shop and treat-yo-self stop.
  8. SOUVENIR STUDIOS | Gifts + Home Goods | Another swoon-worthy space in Toronto’s little Portugal. Impeccably curated and merchandised. (Toronto Local, online shop coming soon.)
  9. HOLD GENERAL | Gifts + Home Goods | I’m completely obsessed with this place. If I could become a shop instead of being human, it would be this one! Can’t wait to visit when we’re in Victoria next summer.
  10. CAMBIE DESIGN | Textiles + Home Goods | These gorgeous alpaca throws from Peru make the best gifts! They also have a line of scented candles that are delicious.
  11. ERA 66 | Furniture | Bespoke mid-century furniture based in Guelph. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting the women behind this brand and they are basically super-human. This sideboard is on our dining room dream list. (Guelph Local)
  12. JENNY RIJKE | Ceramics |This talented woman is a new mama so she’s taking a break but keep an eye out for her gorgeous, swirled clay work and pinch pots.
  13. YYY | Ceramics | Very cool ceramics and accessories line out of Montreal. I love their speckled stuff and this vessel is pretty much perfect.
  14. ATELIER ST. GEORGE | Gifts + Textiles + Home Goods| This one is new to me but looks incredible! Another great spot to visit next time I’m out west.
  15. STYLE GARAGE | Furniture | A gorgeous range of mid-century modern furniture, all expertly crafted in Canada. Our living room is basically entirely from this shop. (Toronto and Vancouver local but also avail. through other stores)
  16. SUNNYSIDE | Tea + Gifts + Skincare + Home Goods | This little boutique is local in North Vancouver but ships internationally.

Style Bee - Canadian Responsible Shopping Guide

Thanks for giving these Canadian folks a look!

I’ll be continuing to update this post as new ones make the cut so check back soon for more great responsible Canadian shopping options. In the meantime, check out MADE INLAND for even more leads!

If you have any suggestions that aren’t on the list please feel free to let me know in the comments. 


This post was not sponsored, nor is Style Bee directly affiliated with any of these brands. All opinions are my own. All images borrowed from Canadian shops.

Leave me a comment here!

  1. Thanks for the great shopping guide. Also, the images in this post are ready good.

  2. natalie says:

    Hello!!

    I love this list you have curated – You have a few of my favourites too.
    We are also a Canadian Made slow fashion brand based in Vancouver:

    Arraei Collective
    https://arraeicollective.com/

  3. This is such a great list of places! Thank you so much for including me. 😀 You’ve chosen some wonderful gems!

    xo, em

  4. b. says:

    lee!

    i just happened upon this now.

    THANK YOU!!!

    for being such a great support to my little shop & for just being plumb delightful!

    thank you, again, for everything!

  5. Jennifer says:

    oh! How wonderful to be listed!!! The Truth Beauty Company actually has two locations! We are actually in Waterloo too! And we happily ship all across Canada and the US! No shortage for Green Beauty – for anyone, ever!!!! And FYI, all our brands are North American made – if you care about the carbon footprint of what you are buying!
    PS. For all you lovelies loving this blog, here is an online coupon ‘StyleBee’ saves you 10% site wide! xoxo

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Jennifer! Thanks so much for saying hello and for this generous treat for Style Bee readers. Very much appreciated. I’ve only heard the most positive things about your shop and can’t wait to visit. (Can’t believe I haven’t yet!) All the best and chat soon! xo

  6. Sue says:

    Great list. I personally have five pairs of Poppy Barley footwear – and love every one of them! Boots, booties, ballerina flats, etc. they make a wide range of super cool footwear. I’d like to add Sentaler (Toronto) to your list. Duchess Kate was just seen in one of their wrap coats and the whole product line looks beautiful.

  7. Thank you so much for this article! I not only love finding unique items that are from Canada for myself, but I am also excited to possibly use the above ideas for sourcing for our boutique and gift shop here in Canada.
    Happy Shopping Everyone!
    Angela Boschee
    Runwayz Boutique

  8. Gabi says:

    This list is amazing, Lee! So glad to see Complex Geometries included 🙂

  9. Leigh says:

    Hi Lee. I’d love for you to check out a few Canadian brands I support – I think their aesthetic is in line with yours. Allison Wonderland and Pillar – based out of Vancouver (www.allisonwonderland.ca) and Jennifer Glasgow (www.jenniferglasgowdesign.com) and Valerie Dumaine (www.shopvaleriedumaine.com).

  10. Sarah says:

    Great, comprehensive list! I’d love to share with you the Canadian, family-run brand, ca va de soi, based out of Montreal. We specialize in classic, timeless styles, made in all natural fibres from the finest Italian yarns. We have 6 boutiques in Ontario and Quebec as well as an e-commerce site that ships internationally. Everything is designed in Montreal by the father who founded the company, and assembled in a small, family-run atelier in Hong Kong. I’d love to give you a tour of our Yorkville boutique as well as our brand whenever you are free to pop by the boutique!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks so much for the intro to Ca Va De Soi Sarah! The collection is stunning and you’re right, totally timeless styles and gorgeous knits. I will absolutely let you know next time I’m in Toronto and available to stop in for a visit. xo

  11. Hilary says:

    Oh, what a lovely thing to come back from vacation to! Thank you so much for putting this all together, it’s going to be a lot of fun going through it and making wishlists. 🙂

  12. Christina says:

    Hi Lee, thank you for the comprehensive list, I’ve been looking for a list like this forever! A few more resources to add to your AMAZING guide, these are all products I’ve either tried or purchased personally and was super happy with:
    – The Cure Apothecary in Toronto is a store that sells all-natural products sourced locally and internationally
    – Malachite + Elephant, an online store from Ottawa selling all-natural, handmade hair, skin and body products
    – Sade Baron, delicious body butters made in Toronto
    – Sudsatorium, all natural hair and body products from Ontario
    – Trust Fund Beauty, Montreal-based vegan, 5-free nail polishes and lipsticks with super funny names
    – Graydon Clinical Luxury, amazing skin, hair and body care line from Toronto
    – Mary Ginseng House, best acne products ever! Made in Toronto
    – BITE Beauty lipsticks? The company is owned by LVMH now, but their HQ are still based in Toronto and I believe their products are still made in Canada but I’m unsure
    – Tanya Heath Paris, luxury shoes with interchangeable heels, Canadian brand and incredible concept
    – Barber & Fritz, super awesome apothecary-style hair products from Vancouver
    – Michi NY, sexy and high-performing athleisure and fitness wear made in Canada
    – Zorah Biocosmetiques, Montreal-based line of natural cosmeceuticals with argan oil. Super popular in Quebec, non-existant in ROC
    – Kamelya, natural skincare from Canada, recently won a ‘Slow Cosmetics’ prize from the International Slow Cosmetics Association

    • Lee the Bee says:

      WOW! These are some great leads Christina, thank you! I’m looking forward to spending some time exploring these makers and brands and updating the list! Really appreciate you taking the time to point me in their direction(s). xo

  13. Kristine Vacola says:

    I’d like to vouch for Espy in Calgary http://www.espyexperience.com they have the most amazing stylists and carry many of the brands you’ve mentioned above. For anyone in/visiting Calgary it’s a great place to shop.

  14. SusieQ says:

    Preloved at http://www.getpreloved.com – Canadian designed and made and Eco-friendly.

  15. We’re so honoured to have made this list of amazing Canadian brands! Thanks so much for including us Lee <3
    Kyle and I are on the same mission of living the lifestyle that we advocate through Power Of My People – buying less, choosing thoughtful and well made items, and cherishing them once they are ours – so this list will be valuable to us as well 🙂
    Jessica

    • Lee the Bee says:

      My pleasure Jessica! Love what you and Kyle are doing/creating. Hope to add one of your beautiful shirts to my closet one day soon. Cheers! xo

  16. Mun says:

    Such a gorgeous selection of shops. So hard to resist of the beautiful things!

  17. Alex Chua says:

    This list is insane. So many great designers and shops (and just in time for the holidays!) Thank you so much!

  18. Michelle says:

    I’ve only recently moved to Canada but love supporting local brands. Thanks so much for sharing, it is a great list.

  19. Thanks so much for mentioning us!
    Being local Canadians ourselves, it was so hard to find ethical, responsible brands that would ship from Canada to avoid duty/fees/exchange rates etc. That’s why Sweat Society was born. We pride ourselves on finding top quality brands from Canada, and around the world, that don’t come at the cost of someone else’s wellbeing.
    So glad you found us <3

  20. Teagan says:

    Isn’t it fantastic how many amazing brands we have in Canada! You may have heard of these, but thought I’d share just in case!

    Sunnyside Tea & Home (Vancouver) https://www.enjoythesunnyside.com/
    Free Label Activewear (Vancouver) http://shopfreelabel.com/
    Encircled (Toronto) https://www.encircled.ca/
    Krista Norris (Toronto) http://kristanorris.com/
    We Are Stories (BC) http://www.wearestorieshandmade.com/collection/