Local Vancouver Clothing Brands
Strawberry Milk Mob
Strawberry Milk Mob is a locally owned swimwear brand based in Vancouver, and their bikinis are seriously adorable. The designs are diverse, catering to all personal styles, and I’ve heard nothing but great reviews. They make swimwear for everyone, so you and your partner could even rock a matching bikini and shorts set! The brand launched in early 2018, and its founder, Georgia Costello, skyrocketed to success after going viral on TikTok. They’ve done pop-up shops in downtown Vancouver before, and I can’t wait for their next one. The prices are reasonable, so if you’re planning a vacation or just prepping early for summer, this is a local brand you should check out immediately.
8th and Main
If you’re looking for that effortlessly cool, chic style, 8th and Main is a must-visit. They have an amazing selection of pieces, including vintage finds that give your wardrobe a timeless touch. Founded in 2003 in Victoria, BC, as a secondhand store, it has expanded massively over the years. Now, they carry a wide range of clothing and accessories. After a decade in business, they opened their 8th and Main store in Vancouver’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood. If you’re looking to elevate your style with trendy yet classic pieces, this is the place for you.
Roots
This one’s a Canadian classic—if you don’t already own at least one piece from Roots, what are you doing? I still have my Roots sweatpants from 2018, and they’re in amazing condition. Roots has been a staple brand in Canada for decades, offering everything from cozy loungewear to stylish bags for people on the go. While their prices are on the higher side, the quality and longevity of their products make up for it. For example, my mom has been using the same Roots bag for work every day for six years, and it’s still in fantastic shape. If you’re into timeless, high-quality Canadian fashion, Roots is the way to go.
Lululemon
Everyone knows this one, but did you know Lululemon is a Canadian brand? Even better—it was founded in Vancouver in 1998 by Chip Wilson! It’s wild to think that one of the world’s top athletic wear brands started here. While Lululemon is definitely on the pricier side, their pieces are durable and stylish. They recently dropped a leopard-print collection, and it’s absolutely adorable. Lululemon has been a go-to brand for years and has never lost its popularity. If you’re in the market for high-quality athletic wear, shopping locally at Lululemon is a great option.
Grocery Shopping: Supporting Canadian Brands
Buying groceries can be tricky when trying to support local brands—sometimes we unknowingly grab American products, and that’s okay! We all slip up now and then. Some of my favourite snacks are American-made, and while it sucks, there are always Canadian alternatives. Don’t stress too much—just be a little more mindful when shopping. Check the labels on your fruits and veggies to see where they’re grown, and opt for Canadian products when you can. That said, sometimes American brands are cheaper, and with the economy today, we all need to save where we can. No judgment here! If you’re looking to buy more Canadian-made groceries, here are a couple of places to start.
Real Canadian Superstore
Superstore is a great place to find Canadian brands, including the well-known No Name brand. They also carry a variety of locally made snacks and food products. One helpful tip—when you’re in the produce section, check the labels to see where your fruits and vegetables come from. Most of the time, there’s no noticeable difference between Canadian and American brands in terms of quality or taste. And if you’re an Optimum user, you can earn points while shopping, which is a nice bonus!
Shoppers Drug Mart
Okay, I have to admit—I love Shoppers Drug Mart. Do the rising prices sometimes break my heart? Absolutely. Do I still shop there? Without a doubt. While their skincare and body care products can be pricey, their sales are amazing when they happen. I could spend hours browsing the skincare and makeup aisles—I just love it. Shoppers is a Canadian staple, and I find it super convenient since there’s always one near me, whether at home or work. While it doesn’t have the grocery selection of Superstore, it’s perfect for grabbing a quick snack, a drink, or an everyday essential. If you’re in a rush and need something convenient, Shoppers Drug Mart is a great local option.
Shopping Locally: More Than Just Clothes and Groceries
These are just a few Canadian brands and local businesses to support, but there are so many more out there. We’ve mostly focused on clothing brands, but there’s a whole world of Canadian-made products—from food and drinks to beauty and home goods. If you’re looking for more local options, social media is a great place to start.
And beyond just shopping locally, why not check out a farmers’ market in your area? Farmers’ markets pop up all over the country during spring and summer, and they’re a great way to buy fresh, local produce while supporting small businesses. Plus, they make for a fun weekend activity! Put on a cute outfit, grab a coffee, and romanticize the experience—you’ll be supporting your community while having a great time.
At the end of the day, buying locally isn’t just about politics—it’s about supporting Canadian businesses and making conscious choices. Whether you’re picking out a new bikini, grabbing groceries, or looking for trendy outfits, there are plenty of local options that allow you to shop Canadian and feel good about it. So go explore, discover new brands, and enjoy shopping local!