Name: Convey Sells: International designer labels Contact info: 754 Queen St. W., 416-363-7676, shopconvey.comHours: Sunday–Monday, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesday–Wednesday, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Thursday–Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Convey is Queen West’s latest cool-girl shopping destination. Despite being born in the ‘90s, owners Jennifer Shotbolt and Daniela Figliomeni have a ton of luxury retail experience under their belts (at places like Dior and Michael Kors). After noticing a demand in Toronto for more international labels, the two trekked to Australia Fashion Week to suss out new labels that fit their aesthetic: trendy without trying too hard. If the store’s name seems abstract, it’s on purpose (as is the bare mannequin in the window). “It’s a nod to fashion as an outlet for expression,” explains Figliomeni. “What message do you want to convey?”
The majority of the labels in the store are from Down Under—and aside from one exception, this is the only place in Toronto you’ll be able to find them. The mix of clothes—cut-out dresses, minimalist outerwear, comfy athleisure gear—is super-chic without being intimidatingly fashion-forward. Items like metallic loafers or pleated leather skirts rely on subtle detailing to elevate everyday looks. “It’s important to us to play on contradictions,” says Figliomeni. “Especially between masculine and feminine.” One of our favourite designers in the boutique who does just that is Man Repeller—approved Georgia Alice, who showcases floaty crop tops alongside tomboyish denim robes. Though prices are pretty steep, shoppers can still pull together an outfit for under $500.
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