Toronto Shops: February report

A fabulous denim debut, a new label named Gret-a, our hit list and more.

By Sarah Casselman

Fashion Notes: Rosy future

Finally, tortured tootsies are a thing of the past. Orthopedic surgeon and shoe designer Taryn Rose has launched her spring collection exclusively at Davids (66 Bloor St. W., 416-920-1000, davidsfootwear.com). With trends like leopard prints and architectural and origami styles incorporated into her ever-expanding line (Dane shown, $500), we agree with Oprah that this brand will be a blooming success.

Fashion Notes: Luxe line

British-based company Bamford & Sons has flown across the pond and landed exclusively at Holt Renfrew (50 Bloor St. W., 416-922-2333, holtrenfrew.com). This spring marks the launch of the Bamford handbag collection, sure to be as sumptuous as the clothing line, which includes dream-worthy details, like art deco–inspired embellishment and pleated silks.

Fashion Notes: Jean therapy

Look for the debut of denim line Naked & Famous to cause a flashbulb frenzy. Canadian-made with specialty Japanese fabrics, these blues boast amazing fits and price points (from $100). FASHION has fallen in love with the silk-denim style, just in time for Valentine’s Day. At Over the Rainbow (101 Yorkville Ave., 416-967-7448).

Photography by Natalie Castellino.

Fashion Notes: Getta Gret-a

Perfect for the girl who doesn’t want disposable fashion or to pay designer label prices, the Gret-a line offers a variety of easy-care, easy-wear pieces. Designer Crystal Siemens includes unique elements, like über-cool photo prints, that truly make this fledgling fashion collection a cut above the rest. At Finn (1 Yorkville Ave., 416-961-0101) and Zola Shoes (45 Avenue Rd., 416-922-8688; 1726 Avenue Rd., 416-783-8688).

Photography by Frank Heckers.

The Hit List

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The Bay has sprung into action this spring with the addition of a few new and exclusive brands to its roster of runway-inspired labels. Expect lust-worthy looks such as Three Quarter’s ribbon-belted trench ($185) and Walter’s sequin-trimmed shift dress ($365) to make a splash.

And speaking of getting wet—slip on a pair of Swims galoshes ($130, at Holt Renfrew, 50 Bloor St. W., 416-922-2333). They provide a stylish solution to combatting the city’s slushy streets and are the best way to protect our fave pair of Pradas.

And what is the word on the street these days? Designers Stephen Wong and Kirk Pickersgill of Canadian label Greta Constantine have developed quite the red-carpet relationship with songbird Nelly Furtado. The duo’s goddess gowns have been among Furtado’s fave picks for recent award shows, concerts and music videos. Consider it the perfect pairing of sass and style.

Swarovski welcomes the return of wrist candy with its spring collection of couture-calibre bracelets. Worn as singles or stacks, these sparkly stunners (from $425) are sure to turn heads.

Visit the new location of sexy lingerie lair Secrets From Your Sister (560 Bloor St. W., 416-538-1234, secretsfromyoursister.com) for a surefire way to grab your guy’s attention. Stock up on bras and knickers, ranging from second-skin neutrals to naughty noir, from collections like Chantelle, Princesse Tam-Tam and Betsey Johnson. Happy Valentine’s Day, my stylish vixens.

Shown: Fashion market editor Sarah Casselman. Photography by Gabor Jurina. Hair and makeup by Jordana Maxwell for Judy Inc.