The best shopping in Vancouver

As other record shops fall one by one, vinyl fans still flock to Red Cat's two locations (the original is on Main Street) for an eclectic selection of music and highly knowledgeable staff. The shop is named for a very large cat named Buddy, who was a fixture at the shop—and even inspired a concept album (My Name is Buddy) by guitarist Ry Cooder—until his passing in 2006. 

Sure you can find Lululemon all over the world, but the yoga-slash-athletic wear chain started in Kitsilano in 1998, so the West 4th location is definitely worth a visit. Get your yoga pants and running gear here.

Another iconic, Vancouver-born brand, John Fluevog has been known for its unique, well-made shoes since its namesake designer co-founded the company in 1970. The flagship location in Gastown feels like an art gallery, which is fitting as the shoes are works of art. While they may be a little pricey, these shoes will last and are sure to make a statement.

Whether you’re looking for a new piece of furniture or you just appreciate exceptional design, Inform Interiors in Gastown is worth a visit. The company is owned by Niels Bendtsen, designer of the Ribbon chair that is now in the permanent collection of New York’s Museum of Modern Art. Browse classic and contemporary furniture, lighting, home accessories, and a bookstore dedicated to architecture and design.

Book lovers can’t get enough of this eclectic shop, which carries new, used, and rare books. The classics are well represented, but spend some time poking around the 9,000-plus books to find some of the more eccentric titles on offer. Pro tip: Follow The Paper Hound’s Instagram account for pics of rare titles alongside clever commentary.

Main Street is full of trendy, locally-owned shops featuring Canadian designers, but we like the selection at local staple Eugene Choo. The shop features a range of Canadian designers and curated unisex threads that range from casual to classic. The shop is also housed in a cottage that used to be a  small mercantile. 

This independent lifestyle concept store started in 2004 as a pop-up shop featuring quality goods from around the world. Now with multiple locations, The Latest Scoop offers a curated selection of women’s fashion, home décor, furniture, and gifts with an eye towards beauty and affordability. The pop-up vibe remains, as inventory is constantly changing.

If you're looking for the perfect pair of jeans, Dutil Denim is your best bet. The huge selection of denim includes premium brands and a range of styles, sizes, shades, and even denim types (raw selvedge, eco-friendly and the like). Attentive staff are there to help you get the best fit, whether you prefer boot-cut, skinny, or relaxed.

This Gastown shop features contemporary men’s fashions from top international brands, many of which aren’t available anywhere else in the city. Prices are on the higher side, but you won’t find a better selection of clothing, shoes, belts, and accessories. There’s even a selection of candles, perfumes, books, and magazines to complete the vibe.

Ming Wo has been in business since 1917, although the original Chinatown location closed in 2020. All the more reason to pay a visit to the other two spots. Marvel at the extensive selection of knives, pans, bakeware, and other cooking accessories as you dream of being as talented as the Vancouver chefs who have shopped here for generations.

Brands like Gucci, Dior, Balmain, and other top designers are the standard at this chic, high-end Canadian department store. Treat yourself to top names in shoes, accessories, handbags, and beauty. You’ll find fashions for both men and women, and personal shopping assistance is available if you need a second pair of arms. 

Head to Devil May Wear for fashionable intimates that are both sexy and sustainable. In addition to unique, eco-friendly lingerie, the shop offers a selection of women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, and home goods. Most products are made locally in their Main Street studio, and the shops offer the broadest range of sizes possible, with free small alterations available.

Located in a historic 1903 building in Gastown, Old Faithful Shop’s airy, modern interior sets the stage for beautiful, well-designed home goods that are destined to become the trusty, go-to pieces that you can rely on for years. Find kitchenware, lighting, bath goods, furniture, pantry items, and more, all designed to last.

Hill’s Native Art has one of the largest collections of First Nations and Inuit art in North America, with authentic pieces from emerging and internationally-renowned Native artists, representing each Northwest Coast tribe. Take your time while examining a variety of prints, carvings, totem poles, paintings, jewelry, crafts, and clothing. It’s a beautiful shop to browse and a great place to find uniquely Canadian art for the home.

This beautiful boutique on West 4th in Kitsilano carries a large selection of stylish shoes for men and women in elegant digs. With '60s Sputnik chandeliers hanging overhead and large marble tables displaying the goods, you’ll want to take in the atmosphere while browsing for the perfect pair. A footwear institution, Gravitypope started in Edmonton and has grown to include several locations that also sell clothing and accessories.

This outdoor store’s motto is “Go play outside,” and they’ll help you do that. Vancouver is a top destination for outdoor activities, so for the best ski, snowboard, and bike selection, Comor Sports has you covered. The staff are all outdoor enthusiasts, so you know you’ll get just what you need for your next outdoor adventure.

This longtime favourite on Main Street features high-quality consignment clothing, vintage jewelry, collectibles, and antiques alongside unique gifts and items for the home. Never stale or stagnant, the consignment inventory always matches current trends.

This clothing shop has been in business since 1914, and the building still has the vintage feel of an early 19th-century shop. Though it’s proud of its history (it is owned by a third generation of the Hill family), Hills of Kerrisdale’s merch is thoroughly modern, with top fashion brands for men and women. Stop in for a bit of history and a great shopping experience.

Mid-century modern decor is the specialty at this East Vancouver shop, but you’ll also find vintage furniture, fixtures and housewares from the 1920s to the '70s. Pick up some tiki mugs or an art deco piece to add a bit of kitsch to your home.