by Lia Parsley
At long last in Toronto’s hyper-developing Liberty Village, we are starting to see an upsurge in retail movement. Located on the first floor (#121 in the outdoor walkway) of 171 East Liberty Street, is newly-opened Vocado: a sweet and stylish little spot for the local (or visiting) fashionista.

Vocado, as in “av”, is owned by accountant turned savvy shopgirl, Emily Dobbie. It’s hard to imagine she was ever en route to investment banker-dom – she’s lovely and sprightly and far too effervescent to be a number cruncher, in my humble opinion. Upon walking into her boutique, I immediately notice the airily and artfully crafted space. With subtle and unique design elements bolstering hints of organic inspiration, Vocado is a sight for sore eyes (and aching wardrobes). The space is simply very fresh and chic – a good indicator of Emily’s overall aesthetic.

The boutique carries a nice variety of Canadian and International designers: Lily + Jae, Designers Remix Collection by Charlotte Eskildsen, dace, and Juma being the initial stand-outs. Stop in for breezy and wearable pieces – perfect for daytime brunching and lunching with girlfriends or casual work days. That being said, the clothes here are decidedly daywear, catering to 25-40 year-old women with both bright and strong senses of style.

One thing you won’t find at Vocado? The long summer dress. “Summer is just around the corner so why not hike up those hemlines and show a little leg with a sassy skirt?!” Emily suggests. I couldn’t agree more. There really is no better warm-weather combination than demure up top and leggy on the bottom.

As a welcome addition to the condo-size décor shops and other retail miscellany of Liberty Village, Vocado is sure to delight the many lovely ladies who stroll and pedal their way through Toronto’s West End.

Open Tuesday-Sunday. By appointment only on Mondays.

T: 647.347.7153
W: www.vocado.ca
E: info@vocado.com

171 East Liberty Street
Unit 121
Toronto, ON