Lavish & Squalor

Located on the competitive Queen West strip, Lavish & Squalor holds its own as one of the most unique shops housing both new and vintage garments and accessories.

The 19th century space is gorgeous – dimly lit, romantic, with lots of exposed wood and brick. In fact, the L&S gang got down and dirty themselves, and in the process discovered two hidden doors as well as some ultra-cool trinkets which make up the store’s old-world décor.

While there’s no actual ‘squalor’ to be found, the closest to it is an extensive collection of drool-worthy vintage finds from bins of patterned scarves to funky leather jackets, acid-coloured plastic jewelry, and boots-galore.

As for the ‘lavish’ portion – the selection of labels is incredible; many are exclusive to the store.  Amongst my top picks is the FARMER skinny in raw denim with hand-stitched detailing.  As I learned from L&S’s trendy buyer, you can tell the ‘grade’ of a jean by detailing inside the seam.  This pair of FARMER’S (#7) is surged on both sides…A++!

The shop also houses a charming little coffee bar featuring L&S’s very own signature blend, along with a selection of candy that takes you back to an era where you considered yourself a ‘badass’ for ditching school with your bff in favour of making friendship bracelets.

So whether you’re in search of some edgy yet office-appropriate duds, or looking for a fabulously eccentric outfit to WOW your crew at THE SOCIAL – you’ll find it here!

Lavish & Squalor
253 Queen Street West
416-599-4779