March Fashion News from Vancouver’s Retail Scene

Credit: Icebreaker Touchlab

Icebreaker TouchLab’s fine, merino s/s 2012 Bliss Wrap from the Journeys Range

From international brands to talented locals, Vancouver’s retail scene is buzzing with new spring arrivals

Looking to spruce up your wardrobe? The spring season is the perfect time to embrace the ‘out with the old, in with the new’ philosophy.

Icebreaker TouchLab Launches Spring/Summer Black Sheep Collection

Icebreaker just debuted their ultra-soft, luxurious spring/summer Black Sheep collection as a part of the New Zealand-based company’s Journeys range. Although you can’t go wrong with Icebreaker’s breathable merino workout wear, BlackSheep offers a chance to wear exceptionally fine, natural materials as chic daywear.

The Journeys range includes light tees, boatneck sweaters, minimalist dresses and simple cover-ups. Fun fact: The wool is 100% natural and biodegradable; if you bury it, it will simply disappear.

Sitka Stocks Love Jules Leather Boat Shoes

Sitka on West 4th has a new stock of Love Jules Leather hand-made boat shoes ($200). Love Jules Leather is a Whistler-based, two-person shoe factory that lovingly crafts hip loafers for both genders. The designers use cow, lamb, deer, elk, and buffalo hides, etching their work with art if you so desire. If you like the shoes, then check out their ironic fanny packs.

Marni for H&M Arrives at the Pacific Centre

Every once in a while a Vancouver shopper gets the chance to lasso the moon: an affordable designer collaboration lands on our side of the border. This spring, the most exciting designer collaboration is Marni for H&M – a modular wardrobe for men and women – which launches at H&M in the downtown Pacific Centre March 8.

Gap Collaborates with Diane von Furstenberg on Kids Collection

Diane von Furstenberg for Gap Kids launches March 15 at Metro Vancouver’s Gap Park Royal and Gap Oakridge stores. Von Furstenberg is best known for her iconic, print wrap dresses that debuted in 1972. Her newest collection for young girls showcases the designer’s love of bright, floral prints.

Soleone Luxury Basics Brings Elegant Bamboo Basics to Vancouver

This local brand is the centre of recent media buzz for their comfy yet sleek collection of bamboo basics. Eco-minded shoppers appreciate bamboo for its many talents: it’s soft, sustainable, hypoallergenic, wrinkle resistant, biodegradable and wicks away moisture.

The style-savvy rave about Soleone’s t-shirts ($49) for their slim, long fits that elongate silhouettes and prevent the embarrassing crack betwixt shirt edge and the top of your jeans.

J.Crew to Open on Robson

J.Crew, the chic American retailer best known for dressing Michelle Obama and family, is launching a store at 1088 Robson Street and will occupy 5,953 square feet over two floors. Opening in April, the flagship will carry J.Crew’s classic designs along with Italian cashmere, weekend, outerwear, handbags, belts, jewelry and shoes. You can also expect limited-edition, seasonal pieces from the collection’s runway label.