From craft microbreweries to eclectic handmade decor, Vancouverites love their small businesses and independent retailers. There is a huge demand within the city for clothing, furniture, food, and beverages that were crafted in small batches, made by hand, or selected with precision and care. Small clothing boutiques are among Vancouver’s favorite small businesses and you can find them on every block and in every neighborhood. There are shops that import from Europe, shops with a fantastic selection of plus size clothing, and shops that have the best in alternative and rockabilly styles. For something a little more unique than the mass produced threads of the biggest fashion retailers, check out some of these boutique clothing stores around Vancouver.
1.
Two Hearts Clothing
Two Hearts Clothing is owned and operated by Jenny Yen, a local Vancouver fashion designer. The store stocks Jenny’s in-house brand, Cici, as well as other local and international brands. When carefully curating her selections, Jenny chooses environmentally friendly fabrics such modal and Tencel. She also selects fabrics with a certain degree of stretch so customers with any body type can enjoy the perfect fit.
2.
New World Designs
For retro-inspired fashion, New World Designs is the place to go. They stock vintage reproduction brands such as Collectif, Voodoo Vixen, Hell Bunny, Bettie Page Clothing, and other great retro style brands. You can find jewellery from local designers and other adorable accessories that will help you finish off your look. They carry sizes from XXS to 4X and are inclusive to any fabulous fashionista who wants to rock that sexy pin-up look.
Middle Sister
Located in the Kitsilano area, Middle Sister is locally owned and globally inspired. Linda, the owner, is a middle sister who established the boutique out of a desire to express herself and help put the focus on others so they can do the same. Her racks are stocked with hard to find gems from Korean and Canadian fashion labels as well as some that are exclusive to this boutique alone.
4.
Much & Little
Much & Little is a boutique clothing store that also supplies a collection of accessories, household wares, stuff for kids and babies, and books and stationery. They source their clothing from local and independent designers as well from hard to find European and Australian brands. They put a heavy focus on providing their customers with timeless styles and high quality craftsmanship.
5.
8th & Main
8th & Main was started in Victoria, on Vancouver Island, as a vintage clothing store called Flavour. They printed their own tees and for awhile they stocked mostly American Apparel. They opened up a second store in Vancouver but for awhile that store had no name until a customer suggested they just use their address. Now 8th & Main stocks a wide range of brands and has opened a second location of the same name on Granville Street.
6.
Barefoot Contessa Boutique
Barefoot Contessa Boutique is owned by Eva De Viveiros, an enthusiast of everything beautiful, old, and forgotten. Within her shops exists a warm atmosphere of inspiration, good feelings, and pretty things. Here you’ll find not only gorgeous dresses and articles of clothing but also gifts, decor, and other lovely items.
7.
Scout Boutique
Another pin-up, retro style clothing boutique worth checking out is Scout Boutique. They provide clothing and sizes that will fit snugly and attractively on any body type. Whether slender or curvy, they can offer something that will make you feel bold, fabulous, and drop dead gorgeous. Along with their pin-up style dresses and vintage clothing you’ll also find accessories, jewellery, and home decor.
8.
One of a Few
One of a Few features thoughtfully curated clothing and accessories by designers from all over the world. The styles they stock are sophisticated yet distinctive, allowing their customers to select pieces that will compliment their existing wardrobe while adding something intriguingly unique. They curate their collection using well known designers as well as some who are new and only just emerging onto the fashion scene.
9.
Woo to See You
You can find Woo to See You in their Main Street store or over at their Yaletown location. Rather than curating their stock by specific designer, they choose their clothing selections based on style. They only purchase their inventory in small amounts and you’ll always see new inventory rotating through their racks. The accessories they supply are chosen to match the styles of clothing they offer and are usually handmade and locally sourced.
10.
CityLux Boutique
CityLux Boutique began as a mini clothing shop out of founder Sunan Spriggs’ office and a year later it moved to its current location on Howe Street. They stock the latest in luxe and party fashion with a wide selection of dresses, tops, skirts, shorts, pants, and even outerwear. At CityLux Boutique, they strive to help women embrace their own style while finding the perfect outfit to make them feel confident, glamorous, and beautiful.
You don’t even need to be all that into fashion to appreciate the apparel you’ll find in these smaller shops. Whether you’re looking for a style that’s uncommon, want to find something no one else has, or you just like the idea of supporting the small businesses in your community, these boutiques are some of the best shops to check out. You’ll discover garments and accessories that each possess their own unique personality while also helping local store owners in the process.
