Vancouver shops for summer essentials
What’s the best part of summer, you ask? Why, shopping for new warm weather gear, of course! Prepare for Vancouver’s rain-free days filled with beach visits, camping, parties and barbecues by visiting these local boutiques, which offer the latest in summer essentials including sandals, bathing suits, sunglasses, towels and more. [Photo credit: iStock.com/ GOTO_TOKYO]
Granville Island Hat Shop
4-1666 Johnston St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3S2Make a statement this summer with a sunhat that’s as fashionable as it is sensible. A Granville Island institution, this chic shop has provided Vancouverites with handmade, quality hats for decades. Venerable staff truly know their stuff here; simply describe your vision – whether it’s a straw hat for berry-picking or cloth cap for getting wet in – and they’ll source a hat that matches your needs as much as your face shape.
Urbanity Shop Corp
2412 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3G6Picture this: you’re leaving the beach, dressed in a simple tunic that’s at once covered-up, cool and airy – and perfect for throwing over a bathing suit on your way to dinner. Achieve this easy-breezy look at Urbanity, where all-natural, organic dresses, scarves and tunics hail from Scandinavian design houses. These minimal garments may be pricey, but that’s because they’re built to last many summer seasons.
Tilley
1750 Broadway W, Vancouver, BC V6J 1Y1Almost everyone knows of Tilley’s iconic canvas hats; durable, lightweight and water-resistant, they’re ideal for travelling, hiking, fishing, camping, and pretty much every other summertime activity. Historically, these ubiquitous hats were known more for functionality than fashion appeal; however, modern versions now come in multiple colours, styles and fits to appeal to a wider demographic – even Millenial adventurers.
Barefoot Contessa
3715 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3N8This Mount Pleasant boutique knows that summertime is synonymous with wedding season, as is evident by their impressive collection of colourful, fashion-forward cocktail dresses. Go here to find the perfect fun, flirty dress for any wedding or party, and complement your look with a piece of local jewellery. This beloved whimsical boutique has many gorgeous and affordable pieces to choose from.
Mountain Equipment Co-Op
130 Broadway W, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1P3For polarized sunglasses that won’t break the bank, look no further than Mountain Equipment Co-op, where display cases near the front doors carry top-of-the-line shades, with most priced at less than $100 (unless it’s Ray Bans you’re after, of course). MEC’s in-house line is especially affordable, with such stylish models as the Asmita Polarized and Ace Aviators costing just $32 each.
Lord's Shoes
2932 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3J7Ditch your flip-flops for a day and visit Lord’s summer sandal collection, which is never standard, and always vibrant and quirky. This South Granville shop carries some of the most comfortable sandals in the city, with perks such as arch support and extra heel cushioning for long walks in the sun. From sequined sliders to platform wedges, these sought-after shoes are the work of Fly London, WONDER, FitFlop, David Tyler and many more renowned footwear labels.
West Elm Market
2915 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3J6Regulars flock to West Elm Market for eclectic homewares such as soy candles and throw pillows – and these are lovely, of course – but next time you visit the South Granville shop keep your eyes peeled for large, decorated tote bags, which are ideal for summertime strolling downtown or at the beach. Among them, leopard-print and leather versions, with stunning gold details.
