Update your work wardrobe at these Vancouver shops
When you require a stylish white shirt, a dress that will take you from office to evening, or a sharp suit with a twist, these Vancouver clothing boutiques provide affordable and on-trend sartorial solutions. Why not dress up your regular 9-to-5 routine with a few new staples for your work wardrobe.
Spank Clothing
2741 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3J1Spank is often a go-to for cute seasonal wear, such as a flirty sundress or rich woolen jumpers. Amidst each collection from the locally based chain, you’ll find a work-appropriate item that’s sure to receive compliments. Renaissance-inspired blouses, geometric pencil dresses and iconic suit jackets are priced at a mid-range budget from about $40 to $120. Top off your outfit with a Matt and Nat bag; made with vegan materials, these fashionable and functional leather purses make carryalls for your laptop and papers. Spank’s friendly staff can always help you navigate the racks if you need a little sartorial assistance.
8th & Main
2403 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3E1With row upon row of clothing in the vast and bright Main Street location, 8th + Main is a reliable source of almost anything you may require – from a smart work top to a party dress to an outdoor adventure shirt. Stocked labels include Vero Moda and Brown Bag Clothing UK (BB), which is a go-to for work-appropriate clothing. You may have to search for a specific item, but for a wardrobe update or work-to-evening outfit, this affordable spot is a shoppers dream. Don’t forget to look at the sale section, where you can often find almost-giveaway steals.
Obakki
1638 3Rd Ave E, Vancouver, BC V5N 1G9This local designer brand specializes in luxurious textiles and bewitchingly simple dresses, skirts and pants. While the label is on the expensive side – prices range from $250 to $400 – these long-lasting investment pieces will endure for years. Wear an Obakki piece and you’ll feel confident and chic in the way that only a quality item can exude. Superstars like Gwyneth Paltrow and Kate Hudson can attest. Furthermore, Obakki works closely with a foundation of the same name – a charity that provides clean water and education in Africa – so your splurge also contributes to a good cause.
Tenth & Proper
4483 W 10th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6R 2H8Warm and welcoming, Tenth & Proper is a Point Grey staple – and worth the trip if you live elsewhere in the city. The selection of elegant, feminine items is handpicked by owner Marion Fudge and will suit a range of body shapes and sizes. Regular store specialties include beautifully cut skirts and cozy cardigans that still look sharp. The carefully selected accessories such as bags and jewelry will dress up any outfit. Ask for recommendations from the friendly staff and you’ll be sure to walk away with a new favourite outfit for meetings.
Salvation Army
1906 4th Avenue W, Vancouver, BC V6J 1M5With multiple locations across the city (and continent), the Sally Ann might not immediately spring to mind as the ideal boutique for sharp professional wear. However, their expansive West 4th location is often brimming with barely-used suits, skirts and shoes donated by the style-conscious residents of the neighbourhood. Walk by the bric-a-brac and give yourself plenty of time to explore the racks. Some patience and concentration is required, but there are treasures to be found!
Misch
2960 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3J7Understated, elegant, unusual: words that describe both Misch’s interior and the pieces hanging on the racks. Since 2004, owner Lara Osen has sourced high-quality clothing from emerging designers including Forte.Forte, Carven, Sartore, and Vanessa Bruno. Oozing charm, each item feels understated yet beautiful: the kind of quality everyone notices but can’t quite articulate. Visit for a variety of tops – from glittery shifts to tailored button-up shirts – or figure-hugging yet creative pencil skirts. Osen’s adorable pug will provide a friendly welcome provided he isn’t sleeping in the window display.
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