Winter may not officially begin until December 21st, but the persistent frost nipping at your nose signals the winter chill is already here. Make your travels in the chilly weather a bit easier and head to the quaint streets of Victoria to check out the city’s burgeoning shopping scene and a few of our favorite boutiques.
With an array of winter jackets, warm boots and cozy scarfs, these trendy, unique shops have everything you need to stay warm this season, cross some holiday shopping off your list and look good while braving the elements.
Check Out the Iconic Contemporary Style of Still Life
For the fashion-savvy, Still Life needs no introduction. Located in the heart of Victoria’s shopping district on Johnson Street, the iconic boutique carries modern, quality threads for both men and women from smaller international fashion designers.
This winter, browse and shop unique garments you’ll be thrilled to add to your closet, whether that be swatches of grey and creams for the lovers of all things neutral or vibrant reds and greens for those who like to stand out in a crowd. Be sure to check out the extensive collection of Menswear sprucing up one wardrobe at a time this season with outerwear, accessories, and sneakers.
(Insider tip: Take a look at their website for sales throughout the season!)
Dabble in Diamonds at Violette Boutique
Whether you’re looking for delicate staples to complete your daily look or alluring pieces that evoke conversation, you truly will find it all here.
Representing Canadian-made products by local designers and brimming with sparkle, it’s a no-brainer that this shop lands in our top four places to spend some cash. From shiny silvers to glamorous golds, Violette Boutique has served Victoria with exceptional tiny treasures since 2005 sure to age as beautifully as you do.
Browse collections from Leah Alexandra, Little Gold, Pyrrha and Violette studio as you shop a selection of dazzling hoops, rings, necklaces and trendy finds, making for the perfect indulgent treat or gift for a special someone.
And if that’s not enough, pick up a variety of trendy and classic claw clips, totes, candles, and beauty products.
Find it All at Spank Clothing
With unique collections for every season, Spank Clothing supports Canadian and independent brands, including their house label, Lost & Found. From brunch with friends to a day at the office to late-night cocktails, find it all in one place. (Seriously – it’s almost too good to be true!)
Splurge on wide-leg trousers, quality denim, casual dresses, and go-to night out tops completing your winter wardrobe for all occasions. Stay a little or stay a while and see why Spank Clothing is sure have your arms full while justifying your versatile picks with confidence.
Explore Sustainable Cozy Comforts at Glam and Fame
Glam and Fame, once our best-kept secret, yet placing bronze this year in Best of Victoria, is a true treasure located on Government Street. With a philosophy emphasizing fair working wages, eco-friendly materials, size inclusivity and impeccable quality, we don’t think you’ll need much convincing to pay them a visit!
When it comes to building the capsule wardrobe of your dreams, you’ll have no shortage of options. With sizes ranging from small to 3x, browse a variety of winter knits, loungewear and patterned A-line dresses, with a curated collection of European linens and Terry Cotton. Turn heads for all the right reasons with classic styles cultivated in timeless and breathable garments where style meets sustainability.
When you’re on the hunt for a cozy winter coat, sturdy boots or a stylish scarf, holiday shopping in Victoria proves that you don’t have to rely on big box stores to get what you need. Explore the city’s independent boutiques and you’ll find an abundance of winter outerwear that will keep you toasty and warm while looking stylish.
FRS Clipper Recommends:
- Now that you are armed with the gear to stay cozy and warm all winter, bundle up and spend an evening exploring the colorful, dazzlingly array of lights covering The Butchart Gardens on the Holiday Lights Tour.
- After spending the day shopping or exploring, warm up with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate at one of our favorite Victoria coffee shops.
Feature Photo: Evan Kirby