Your weekly guide to the city’s retail scene.
EVENTS
■ Valentine K, a Toronto label of vintage-inspired cashmere sweaters, is holding a trunk show at DEW (1553 Bayview Ave., 647-436-1232) from Oct. 18 to 21. Designed by former Fashion Television alumnus Lauren Waters McLachlan, the knitwear collection comes in 15 different colours and prints (including a newly introduced woven houndstooth) and with the line’s signature leather patchwork arms and trim ($325–$425). Three different styles are available: The Best Friend Pullover, The Carolina Sweater (a longer pullover), and a cardigan.
■ Get a complimentary natural-makeup application with the purchase of $50 or more in green beauty products at The Detox Market (367 King St. W., 416-548-9879) from Oct. 20 to 23.
■ Attend the debut of Myths in Existence, the latest collection from Toronto Speech jewellery designer Michael Mercanti on Oct. 23. It’s also the launch of Speech’s online shop. Mercanti—whose gritty, raw designs have been worn by Grimes and Florence Welch—says his new pieces ($100–$180) are inspired by “modern symbolism and music.” The party will be held at V (702 Queen St. W.) and runs from 7–11 p.m., with a performance by Montreal-based indie pop band TOPS. Oysters and drinks will be served. RSVP to natalie@ssspeech.com.
OPENINGS
■ Managing your fashion finances might get a little easier with the opening of Marshalls’ first downtown location on Oct. 18. The off-price retailer of brand-name and designer fashion has moved into a heritage building at 126 John St. in the entertainment district. The store offers clothing, accessories, and footwear at up to 60 per cent off regular prices. It also houses an in-store boutique dedicated to teens called The Cube. Thousands of new items are delivered weekly and no two stores carry the same merchandise. (There are over a dozen locations in Ontario.) Marshalls is owned by TJX Companies Inc., which also operates Winners and HomeSense.
SALES
■ Call time for the fall edition of the Canadian Alliance of Film & Television Costume Arts & Design Movie Wardrobe Sale is 9 a.m. on Oct. 20. The location: Pinewood Toronto Studios (225 Commissioners St., Bouchette Street entrance). The scene: the sale of vintage and contemporary fashion and costumes from locally shot film and television productions. Starring: more than 30 costume designers, stylists, retailers, wholesalers, and inventory from industry rental houses. Admission: $5. The sale wraps at 5 p.m.
■ Explore a treasure trove of eclectic collectibles (some museum-quality) at the Absolutely Vintage Clothing Show and Sale in Leslieville on Oct. 20 from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Occupying the three-room historic Maple Cottage (62 Laing St.), this bi-annual sale is a top-notch mix of antique and costume jewellery, accessories, ephemera, textiles, and clothing for both men and women. Showcasing the extensive collections are a trio of veterans—Gadabout, Eclectisaurus, and Angela McCool—and a new vendor: Madeleine Colleran of Phoenix Vintage, who re-works vintage clothes using traditional patterns and methods.
■ Independent retailer Leah Eyles, owner of Scout, is hosting a customer-appreciation night on Oct. 18 to celebrate her store’s first birthday. Drop in to the adorable Roncy gift shop (405 Roncesvalles Ave., 416-546-6922) between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. for snacks and refreshments and receive a 20 per cent discount on everything in the store. Scout specializes in handmade goods such as letterpress cards, jewellery, housewares, items for mother and child, handbags, and accessories from Canadian designers like Kerri Westlake, Noujica, and Isak & Inger.
Know of any sales, store openings, or closings? Email thedrop@thegridto.com.
