Yorkdale’s Thomas Sabo flagship may not be so charming

Haven’t heard of the German jewellery brand? Fair enough. We’ve only written about it once since its products hit Canadian boutiques in 2009. But they’ve definitely been around, lurking in the showcase shadows, wooing editors, throwing tasteful parties at Ultra and, for good measure, intimate gatherings in ironic Junction furniture shops.

So, when Thomas Sabo announced the April opening of its first Toronto flagship (there are already stores in Edmonton and Montreal), we think we may know why the buzz isn’t palpable. Tiffany & Co.’s silver dynasty is just down the hall, and Sabo’s punk-lite sterling offerings peak at their “Charm Club” line ($14–$124; ultimately, just another trendy charm bracelet). Even though Sabo is endorsed by Proactiv pop tart Katy Perry, we just don’t think there are enough gems to predict a retail riot. We also can’t see a Givenchy-clad waif eating a croissant outside their window, which is obviously the mark of any jeweller’s success.