Hello Charlie!

by Olga Barsky

Having dreamt about her very own store since she was 17, owner Erin Swan must have been on cloud nine with the opening of Charlie in March.  Having cut her teeth as a buyer, Erin’s boutique houses a fantastic range of dresses, accessories, and pants (although they were all gone by the time I got there), a testament to Erin’s trained eye.  If she can sell out of pants, the woman can do anything! 

Unlike many other shops on the strip, Charlie offers fantastic price points.  There’s something here for everyone.  Erin further represents by making sure her shop is stocked with as many Canadian designers as possible. 

Lily + Jae, a line started in Vancouver by Judith Feller (who I had the pleasure of interviewing a couple months back) has a presence in the store.  Gotta love those oversized cardigans. 

Another exceptional label Anastasia Lomonova comes to us from Ryerson fashion grad of the same name who has set up shop in Montreal.  Her dresses are unique, girly, and fit like a dream. 

The Peel dresses are equally amazing. Made of organic cotton or jersey, they drape the body beautifully and have a very simple yet refined look.  Peel also scores some major points as their garments are exclusively manufactured in Canada.

BB Dakota caught my eye right away.  The inspiration behind the label – fabulous clothes of glamorous style icons. How can you go wrong with that as your mantra? The line offers some of the best price points for quality garments which are sexy, playful, and very wearable. 

Ultimately, the boutique reflects Erin’s personal style.  The girl likes to rock and even hopes to one day bring bands into the slick space.  Speaking of rock’n’roll, one of the coolest lines in Charlie is no doubt Worn Free – which reproduces tees worn by rockstars. The one I selected for the shoot was designed by John van Hamersveld, and was based on a Jimi Hendrix portrait.  It later went on to influence the Stones “tongue” logo. Put that in your pipe and smoke it! 

After visiting the boutique, I can honestly say it is a dream come true…and I think I may luv Charlie! 

809 Queen Street West

647.436.8452

iluvcharlie.com