Indie City Guide:: Toronto

Lisa Lagace is a writer and social media enthusiast based out of Toronto, who frequently writes about music, art and life in the city at her blog, you can also always find her on Twitter.

Toronto, Canada is full of art, music and citizens from all over the world.  Also: some amazing boutiques.  Here are a few of my favorites!

Bungalow

Bungalow is a staple in Toronto's artsy neighborhood, Kensington Market. The clothing store features a nice mix of vintage and modern pieces, and is also one of the best places in the city to find unique retro furniture. Unlike the myriad of messy vintage stores that surround it, the stores layout is clean and simple - all white and divided down the middle into guys and girls styles, so it's super easy to find what you're looking for.

Soundscapes

Soundscapes is one of many great independent music stores in the city. A well curated selection of indie music in available in both CD and vinyl format, music magazines from all over the world, and a great selection of books for those who want to dig deeper into the history of rocking out all make it the perfect place for anyone looking to find a rarity. It's also the go-to place to buy tickets to local shows.

Peach Berserk

This is the boutique every Toronto fashionista adores, mainly because each item is handmade in the store - from the design, to actually cutting and making the garment - so everything is one of a kind. They are known for their craftiness, even hand-painting some of their clothes for a truly unique look. The best part might be the silkscreen classes they offer, so you can learn how to put your own funky designs on your clothes.

Blue Banana

Another gem in Kensington Market, Blue Banana is the place to go when you need to find a gift for that friend who already has everything. Filled with unique trinkets like sock puppets, leopard print tights, musical instruments, and a variety of art, jewelry and clothing, there is literally something here for everyone. Best of all, there is a fantastic coffee shop right in the store, with a great patio for people watching out front.

Silver Snail

Silver Snail is the ultimate comic geeks dream, regularly cited as one of the best comic book stores around the world. Frequented by the likes of Quentin Tarantino and Kevin Smith when they are in town, it's a beloved institution where every comic and action figure you could ever dream of can be found.

Thanks for sharing, Lisa!

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