As we continue moving through Gastown, West Cordova becomes the focal point. In only two blocks on 300/400, you’ll discover 11 clothing and accessories stores – each unique, special and potent; like a periodic table of elements for the fashion conscious. Experience one fully or an equation of many and create your own formula.
Named after the ruler of Halicarnassus – a Greek City-State and a colony of the Persian Empire) Artemisia is a women’s fashion boutique carrying US, European and local designers with a focus on unique, playful items that are both casual and dressy. Florals are the order of the day, seen on many of the dresses and accessories in house. You’ll also discover a pineapple theme sprouting up on a number of the fun pieces. The staff are helpful and friendly, and you’ll most likely find the perfect outfit for any occasion at this West Cordova boutique.
As eyewear stores go, Durant Sessions is perfectly accomplished. Housed in a space that induces calm, sensibility, style and order – our merchant, Eric Dickstein, has struck a gong that resonates the solid tonality of a feng shui heard throughout every nook and twist of the neighbourhood. In other words, this store is the bomb. Deep shelves line two heavy oaked walls of the shop, putting hundreds of styles at your fingertips. A large old wood table is the perfect spot to collect options and then pull up a chair to give them a try. Durant Sessions carries Ray Bans and Oliver Peoples, but there are also frames in store that you won’t find anywhere else in the city (or the country).
Ah Dutil! Endless swaths of denim, all lit up by warm sunlight radiating through towering lead windows. There are experts here – great staff that will guide you in finding the right fit, cut and style. A good pair of jeans should spend as much time with you as your best friend. A Gastown institution, Dutil has been here for about a decade and they are a denim specialty store, also selling shirts and belts. They carry their own brand of jean, Dutil, as well as other excellent lines from APC, 7 for all Mankind, Naked & Famous, Nudie, Cheap Mondays, Scotch & Soda and many more.
E:CLE is an independent boutique selling women’s clothing, shoes and accessories, with many lines coming direct from Korea. Not defined by any one idea, place, or label, E:CLE brings fresh and minimal pieces together with an experimental and trend-conscious style that will endure for many seasons to come. Brands include Among Seoul, Andersson Bell, Puma, Yuul Yie and Ilse Jacobsen.
Frank & Oak is a great clothing store. Made for guys and gals, they carry well-cut, nicely styled shirts and t’s along with suits, shoes and accessories. The clothing is always on trend, yet a style of their own and is forever affordable and fairly priced. Customer service is fantastic and if they don’t’ have your size, they’ll order it for you.
Environmentally conscious and committed to real change, ARC is an independent clothing boutique that sources brands doing notable things in the apparel industry within the realm of sustainability, ethical manufacturing, or giving back.
Inspired by travel, yoga teachings, and facts about the state of the world, founder Sarah Stewart has made it her mission to inspire confidence and positive change. The name ARC Apparel was inspired by Joan of Arc and the store sells women’s wear.
Vancouver based women’s swimwear line, Nettle’s Tale is one creative woman’s idea that went viral. The crowdfunded independent label has grown from online sales into a beautiful little brick & mortar in Gastown. Thoughfully designed and locally made, Nettle’s Tale is honest swimwear for the everyday woman. Owner and founder, Julia Church meets with women and ask’s them what they would like in a swimsuit. The results produce locally made swimwear for real bodies without compromising on quality or price. Nettle’s Tale sells tons of other cool stuff that’s Canadiana and West Coast adventure themed like pennants, little log cabin incense burners and wide brimmed fedora hats.
Previously located on Abbott St, Nouvelle Nouvelle happily calls West Cordova home. Nestled into the southwest corner of Cordova and Cambie, expect to find the usual high quality European and local brands along with new items from Stan Ray, Vetra (French workwear line) and plenty of flashy accessories, hats and a cache of soothing treasures from their apothecary.
For gents, Motherland is another must hit place to have on your list when you’re out shopping Cordova Street. Affordable and well styled, Motherland sells their own line of well-fitted shirts called National Standards, that stand the test of time in the wash and on the rack. Their in-house line also includes chino pants and t-shirts.
Since 2009, Rowan Sky has been putting shoes on the feet of locals and folks of all walks of life. They have styles for men and women from dressy to casual along with sporty and unique options. They are always well stocked and have a tempting little last pair sale section near the front of the house. They also carry a pleasing array of bags & wallets and other accessories.
Since 1999, The Block has been around on Cordova and has stood the test of time. This unique men & woman’s clothing store has been artfully curating its wares, gently meandering along the stream of trends, going with the flow yet never demanding that one should dress a certain way. Owner Jennifer MacKay delights in offering the best from International and Canadian designers, both established and emerging, with a focus on excellent customer service. They sell shoes, bags, jewelry, shades and hats and the change rooms are roomy.
