Americana has become a ubiquitous aesthetic across the globe, but Canadian trend-makers have made way for a look that's all our own. You know the one: it involves flannels, plaid, toques and really fine leather boots. Throw in some heavy wool blankets, outdoor-inspired decor, and a set of antlers and there you have it: Canadiana in all its glory. Get in on the look at these Canadiana-inspired apparel and decor shops.
With outdoor-themed artwork and heavy antique wood displays, this Parkdale clothing and lifestyle store inspires sentiments of Canadiana the moment you walk through the door. Find home décor goods like the camping-friendly North Standard enamel mugs, or “Smells Like Canada” camp candle, as well as a selection of HBC blankets and throws. It’s also the spot to find your seasonal batch of plaid button-downs, flannels, denim, canvas goods, and a host of eclectic accessories. Also check out the oh-so-cute baby onesies branded with the North Standard cartoon bear. Bonus, pick up a copy of National Geographic's guide to Canadian parks.
This Roncesvalles clothing and decor boutique stands proudly on a business model of sustainable design and local manufacturing practices — in their words, “keepin’ it local since 2009.” Apart from their ethical approach that keeps design and production jobs in Canada, Muttonhead’s stock is also steeped in that outdoorsman-meets-urbanite Canadian aesthetic. Whether it be a down-filled quilted vest, wild horses themed Pinto throw, or vintage-style Japanese denim jacket by Montreal-based brand Naked and Famous, Muttonhead is your go-to for pieces that you can wear beside the campfire, or on the Ossington Strip.
Some of the basic tenets of Canadiana have been derived from HBC, North America’s oldest company. The legendary red, yellow, green, dark blue and white striped pattern pioneered by the centuries-old department store continues to be an emblem of Canadian life, whether it's found on a toque, pair of mittens, or the infamous wool throw. With multiple locations across the GTA (several in Toronto proper), anyone can get modern versions of the iconic Canadian print on a slough of items that range from to-go water bottles to peacoat button-up jackets.
What was once the anything-but-simple hotel gift shop of the Drake Hotel has expanded to an independent shopping experience unto itself. The original Queen Street West location has been providing Torontonians with eccentric Canadiana since 2004, from Mountie-themed cocktail napkins, to O’ Canada music boxes, to haute maple syrup sampler sets. Their second, sans-hotel location in North Toronto hosts the same one-of-a-kind treasures alongside a flawlessly curated selection of Canadian-designed apparel, unique jewellery from local and Canadian designers, accessories, and more.
This upscale Junction boutique has built its brand by specializing in locally made and designed menswear and lifestyle products, hosting a talented mix of Toronto apparel and accessory designers. Footwear designer Broken Homme provides the selection of rugged lace-up leather boots, while 18 Waits’ selection of denim blazers, bandanas and short-sleeve button-ups channel a vintage Canadian look. Facial hair aficionados will beeline to beard-care products by Crown Shaving Co., while those in the scents-for-men market will gravitate to specialty colognes by Province Apothecary or musk-jasmine candles by Brennan Michael.
Since 1971, this outdoor emporium has stocked all the gear you’ll need for climbing, camping, and general outdoor existence in any Canadian landscape, west to east and north to south. Toronto’s King Street location is the favoured spot to find everyday apparel basics alongside sporting goods divided by athletic activity, be it running and fitness, snowsports, climbing, or yoga. Plus, get expert-prepped for your next outdoor adventure with life-saving gadgets and accessories like solar-powered outdoor watches, light-weight camping stoves, water purifying kits, or bear-resistant food containers.