The coolest gear for commemorating Canada’s 150th birthday
If you haven’t already noticed, this upcoming Canada Day is a slightly big deal. To celebrate our country’s 150th birthday, marketing agencies from coast to coast have come up with a whole whack of patriotic products, many of which involve red dye. But a few local brands have made some extra-special stuff. Here, our favourite non-kitschy Canadiana gear.
Smythe’s extremely soft alpaca fur sweater was hand-knit by a women’s collective in Bolivia—and is guaranteed to keep you cozy around any Canada Day campfires. $350. Available at Holt Renfrew.
Hermès designer Alice Shirley painted the whimsical wilderness scene depicted on the brand’s limited-edition silk twill scarf. $425. Hermes.com.
The Drake General Store recruited influential Canadians to design T-shirts for their One Fif Tee project (with proceeds going to a charity of their choice). This is fashion designer Tanya Taylor’s abstract take on the Canadian flag. $48. Drakegeneralstore.ca.
Toronto basics brand Kotn collaborated with the Nature Conservancy of Canada on a line of crewnecks and sweatshirts embroidered with “True North” or “Outsider.” They’re sold with four-packs of other patches for further customization. $85. Available at Holt Renfrew.
Tuck Shop Trading Co. collaborated with NYC label Poolside on a series of straw totes—including this particularly patriotic one—designed by the Toronto brand and handwoven by a women’s collective in Morocco. $195. Tuckshopco.com.
With tailoring inspired by Kate Middleton and gilded maple leaf detailing, Smythe’s Canada 150 blazer is a sophisticated way to celebrate. $795. Shopsmythe.com.
The Bay’s portage-themed patch can be sewn on any backpack, tote or denim jacket. $4. Thebay.com.
Tuck Shop also worked with Moroccan rug store Mellah to create two perfectly cottage-y carpets, designed in Toronto and hand-knotted in Khenifra, Morocco. $70 per square foot. Available through Tuck Shop or Mellah.
Local jewellery shop Studio1098 handmade sterling silver cufflinks in the silhouettes of Canadian provinces. $300. Studio1098customjewellery.com.
