Everyone knows that shopping malls can be very hectic this time of year.
With so much hustle and bustle and not enough parking, the farther away, the better. Luckily, the Danforth is home to some of the best independent stores in Toronto. Here are 5 stores that will help you score all of your gifts — and save you the headache of big-box shopping.
Parade Boutique located at 261 Danforth Ave.
Parade Boutique is a carefully curated clothing shop that first opened 40 years ago. After having a home in trendy Toronto neighbourhoods such as Kensington Market and Queen St. West, the store is now a hit on Danforth. Shoppers can score perfect gifts for the fashionistas on their list, with a huge selection of designer evening wear, dress shirts, cosy sweaters and timeless accessories.
Ten Thousand Villages located at 362 Danforth Ave.
Doesn’t this store just scream Christmas? Ten Thousand Villages is a popular shop that boasts international handcrafted household goods, stones, figurines and materials. As a bonus, the store also emphasizes the importance of fair trade. Stop in to find the perfect Christmas gift for your the eco-friendly, socially-conscious person on your list. There is truly something for everyone here.
Re Reading Bookstore located at 548 Danforth Ave.
Have a book lover on your list? Skip the retail giants and head over to this trendy, independent store where prices start as low as $1. There are more than 20,000 titles to choose from, along with collections of DVDs, box-set TV series, and much more.
Moss located at 544 Danforth Ave.
In the summer, this store is the home of beautiful patio furniture, spring cleaning tools, and gadgets to spruce up your backyard. During the wintertime, the store boasts a beautiful collection of armoires, chests, chairs and coffee tables, as well as lovely home deco items. Stop by this store to find the perfect gardening tools, indoor furniture, and reclaimed pine collections.
El Pipil located at 267 Danforth Ave.
El Pipil is praised in online reviews as being the perfect place to find knick knacks, handmade jewelry and shelf-fillers. With an assortment of merchandise ranging from clothes to accessories to local art and quirky pillows, this is a stop worth making.