There’s something magical and exciting when you’re visiting a city as stylish as Montreal. You have the opportunity to step away from the conventional suburban shopping malls, where everyone dresses the same, and venture out into the fashionable unknown.
This city is teeming with trendy clothing and accessory boutiques, and when you stumble into one it’s like opening presents on Christmas Day as a kid; you’re excited, happy and shocked at the amazing fashion finds before you. From shops which carry vintage Levis jeans to upscale retailers whose shelves are lined with well-known brands, such as Alice + Olivia, the city caters to any and all tastes. Montreal is after all the other fashion capital of Canada; here are 10 boutiques you must visit when you’re in the city.
Billie Boutique (1012 Avenue Laurier Ouest) “ Stepping into Billie is akin to being in a store found on the set of Sex & the City; it’s well lit, spacious and equipped with glamourous change rooms worthy of snapping a mirror selfie. Whether you’re trying on pieces from J Brand or Tibi, you’ll find it difficult to leave here without one or two items in your shopping bag.
é§a va de soi (1062 Avenue Laurier Ouest) “ é§a va de soi creates luxurious and fine knits that can be worn 24/7. Designed in Canada and manufactured in China, the store’s lacquer wood walls are filled with an assortment of dresses, t-shirts and sweaters that are guaranteed to become a wardrobe favourite.
Citizen Vintage (5330 Saint-Laurent Boulevard) “ Many people have preconceived notions of a vintage stores housing old and dusty clothing rammed to the roof. However, Citizen Vintage debunks this notion with its airy and well-curated wares of clothing and accessories for men and women. The prices will also make you and your wallet quite happy.
LOWELL (5364 Saint-Laurent Boulevard) “ LOWELL offers shoppers a cornucopia of well curated clothes, house wares, art and accessories from designers both locally and internationally, from brands such as Dusen Dusen to Alternative Apparel, all in its general store type setup.
General 54 (5145 Saint Laurent Boulevard) “ General 54 was started by Jennifer Glasgow and Dan Lacroix. Located in the city’s Montreal’s Mile End district, this laid back boutique carries more than 60 brands from Canadian designers across the country such as popular jewellery line Biko to clothing by 3rd Floor Studio.
Unicorn (5135 Saint-Laurent Boulevard) “ ˜Versatile’ is the word we use to describe the wares found inside Unicorn. The store carries an assortment of clothing catering to the women who love feminine dresses or who have an affinity for jeans and a t-shirt. Brands from local designers, like Montreal-based Melissa Nepton and Betina Lou, to international brands like Cheap Monday line its shelves.
1861 (3670 Saint-Laurent Boulevard) “ Looking for the perfect frock to wear to your friend’s summer wedding this year? Go to 1861. The boutique carries glamorous dresses and separates at price points which cater to all budgets. From A-line silhouettes to lace gowns, and vintage-inspired body con dresses they have a little something for every lady looking for the perfect find.
Onze (4151 boulevard St-Laurent) “ With three locations in Montreal (on Saint-Laurent Boulevard, Saint Denis and Saint Hubert Roads) Onze store sells vintage-inspired fashions and accessories by local and international designers. Their self-named in house line Onze is a popular choice for shoppers and other items available for purchase will knock your socks off and keep your wallet happy.
Tres Chic (1069 Laurier Ouest, #2, Outremont) “ Started by Angelica Koinis, this é¼ber stylish boutique has been in business for more than five years and is the go-to place for finding the perfect day or evening dress. This is definitely a spot for ladies who love luxury, especially when they discover high end brands such as Prada and Balmain hang from its racks.
Olivia (1455 Rue Peel, Suite 142) “ Opened in 2005 Olivia is located inside Les Cours shopping centre in Downtown Montreal. The shop caters to the hip and trendy crowd. Here, you’ll find pieces such as affordable shift and body con dresses for day to night wear, as well as cozy hoodies for moments at home.
