Aritzia got its start in 1984 as a boutique inside family-owned and operated small-scale department store Hill’s in Vancouver. It quickly flourished – and voila! There are now 23 locations in Canada (with 2 more in the U.S.), each one serving up the latest trends and styles. 

As I walked into Aritzia on Bloor last week I was overjoyed at all the great colours.  The boutique looked like a candy store with bright pinks, yellows, limes, and the most beautiful shades of blue from sky to electric peaking out from displays and racks alike. 

A haven for skinny and wide leg jeans and trousers alike, Aritzia is in full bloom for spring/summer with artistically charged prints, sheer airy fabrics, and of course, the comfiest sweats imaginable courtesy of TNA (Talula National Athletics).  

Other brands exclusive to the store include TALULA, TALULA BABATON, and the slightly pricier WILFRED, which makes my loins quiver with excitement and the gotta-have-it-immediately shakes. 

It doesn’t end there. The boutique also carries an extensive assortment of denim – most popular being CITIZENS OF HUMANITY, 7 FOR ALL MANKIND, and CHEAP MONDAYS.  The best part – Aritzia’s got some of the best buyers in the business – so be prepared to fall in love with as-of-yet unfamiliar brands like NUMPH in addition to the usual suspects (KENZIEGIRL, BCBGIRLS, FREE PEOPLE and more!). 

But it’s not all about the clothes (for once!). Aritzia is a huge supporter of the arts, and features a new artist each season.  Equally impressive are the tracks blasted by in-store DJ.  Personal favourites include hits by Justice, Daft Punk, Kid Sister, and Bloc Party to name a few. 

Once you seal the deal, you can pick up a copy of Nylon magazine at the cash counter (how fantastic is that?) and be on your merry way with a colourful Aritzia shopping bag on your arm. What could be better? Absolutely nothing.