My husband and I just spent two weeks on the West Coast, visiting friends and travelling to Vancouver, Whistler, Seattle and Victoria. The trip did not disappoint with gorgeous views, abundant wildlife — I had my first humpback whale sighting! — and zero humidity (Looking at you Toronto!). I’m all about sustainable style like making intentional purchases and outfit repeating, and packing well falls into that category so I don’t end up purchasing something wasteful! I was thankful I packed my entire summer capsule wardrobe because each piece was in rotation with the balmy days and cooler evenings.
While I’m travelling, I love to check out each city’s secondhand and ethical shops. Victoria was a personal favourite as it seriously reminded me of my hometown of Halifax, Nova Scotia on the east coast — except with much better weather and foliage! I was so impressed with the number of ethical shops and secondhand options in the city and we spent our time hopping from one store to the next.
Here are the stores I recommend for sustainable style and shopping ethically while in Victoria, British Columbia and encourage you visit. Bookmark for your next trip! 👇🏼
Ecologyst – 552 Johnson St
We popped into @ecologyst_ to check out its ethically made and timeless pieces with a west coast vibe. The brand uses natural materials, manufactures the majority of their products at their factory down the street from the retail store and has a lifetime mending guarantee. Highly recommend it!
Vintage After Death – 523 Pandora Ave
Head to @vintageafterdeath for your quintessential vintage experience. The store has lots of unique pieces with some contemporary options too — think vintage denim shorts and jackets. If you’re a local, you can also sell your preloved pieces (by appointment only).
Upcycle Collective – 517 Fort St #100
Hunting through vintage not your vibe? Try @upcyclecollective_ for curated contemporary and trendy items at reasonable prices. They specialize in consignment, slow fashion and quality goods brought to you in an inviting and aesthetic atmosphere. It reminds me of the @commonsort in Toronto.
Victoria Vintage – 105-561 Johnson St
Stop into @victoriavintage.ca for vintage streetwear, graphic tees and sneakers. I find vintage tees tend to go for a premium, especially if you’re shopping in a major city like Toronto or New York, but not here. Snag as many as your suitcase will carry! My husband snagged a vintage Nike windbreaker for golf.
Any others you’d add to the list? 🤍
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