Top Edmonton shops for new Edmontonians to check out
Are you new to Edmonton? You’ve likely already visited our humongous mall. If you’re in need of retail therapy and are wondering where to find the best locally-owned shops, here’s an eclectic rundown of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing stores, as well as other fun shops to check out. [Image credit: iStock.com/Peter Chernaev]
Zocalo
10826 95 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 2E3This unique flower and gift shop with a café breathes life into Little Italy year-round. Whether you need fresh-cut blooms for your special event, or are just shopping for decorative vases and gifts, you’ll love the bright, cheery atmosphere and friendly staff. End your visit with a shot of Italian espresso surrounded by the warmth and beauty of the greenhouse.
Shades Of Grey
10116 124 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 1P6Not to be confused with Shades of Grey Tattoos on Whyte Avenue, this women’s boutique on 124 Street carries hard-to-find lines in a wide range of prices. The clothing you’ll find here is timeless and something you’ll treasure and want to wear for years. Come here to find cute layered tees by Cooper & Ella, denim from J Brand and everyday casuals from Bella Luxx.
Helm Clothing The
10145 104 St Nw, Edmonton, AB T5J 0Z9For the fashionable man who appreciates the beauty of a fitted suit, The Helm is a men’s boutique where you can buy made-to-measure or custom-bespoke business attire, as well as casual weekend wear from brands around the world. Custom fittings use quality fabrics sourced from distinguished mills and can be ready in a little over a week.
Audrey's Books Ltd
10702 Jasper Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 3J5What’s not to love about an independent bookseller who supports local authors? This store boasts reasonable prices, well-organized sections and staff with a deep knowledge of literature both local and global. Books by Canadian authors that may be shoved in the back at big chain book stores are displayed prominently at Audrey’s. Drop by for one of their many readings and events.
Prettiest Present Inc
12433 102 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 0M2With an apt name like Prettiest Present, you’ll find unique gifts and home décor items, plus jewellery, gifts for pet-lovers, baby items and handy kitchen gadgets. With reasonable prices, you’ll probably end up buying a gift for yourself, too. With two levels of gift goodies to browse through, don’t forget to pick out pretty wrapping paper, ribbons and bows to complete the package.
gravitypope
2-10442 82nd Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A2An Edmonton original since 1990, gravitypope has been a fixture on Whyte Avenue with their unique collection of footwear and clothing. Where else can you find such a wide selection of colourful Dr. Martens, Campers and Fluevogs? The business has grown so that now the Whyte Avenue location focuses on shoes and a second location on Gateway Boulevard holds their clothing and accessories.
Old Strathcona Antique Mall
10323 78 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1N8The Old Strathcona Antique Mall is filled to the brim with vintage treasures, retro kitchenware, nostalgic posters and toys from your childhood. You can easily spend the afternoon here leisurely strolling through two floors of antiques. Be prepared to leave with an armful of goodies.
Head Shoulders Knees And Toes
12418 102 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 0M1This independent children’s shoe, clothing and toy boutique is owned by three enterprising sisters. If you’re looking for quality children’s shoes that may live to be handed-down more than once, HSKT is the place to look. They also carry a wide assortment of casual wear, outerwear and wooden toys.
Blackbyrd Myoozik
10442 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A2It’s comforting to know that independent record stores are still alive in Edmonton in the age of downloads and mp3s; you can still speak with an actual human being face-to-face about music! Blackbyrd is one of the oldest record stores on the scene, and they carry a wide selection of vinyl, turntables and CDs for all types of music lovers. Pick up concert tickets here to support local music venues.
habitat etc
10187 104th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0Z9With its focus on local or handmade goods, habitat always has interesting clothing, home décor, accessories, stationery and gifts for guys and gals not found elsewhere, such as t-shirts proudly emblazoned with YEG and Alberta themes. Located on the 104 Street Promenade, along with The Helm, habitat also hosts a variety of crafty workshops where you get all the supplies needed to create your own DIY project like terrariums.
