Never mind the past five years, Queen and Ossington has had a serious facelift in the past three months! It wasn’t long ago that the strip facing the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health was a spattering of galleries, dumpy diners and a bustling swingers’ nightclub. And while those destinations still give this neighbourhood its edge, there has been a recent corporate takeover with big companies like Shoppers Drug Mart, TD Bank, Tim Hortons and Starbucks drastically changing this intersection. Whether or not you like the recent, massive, transformations, there’s no denying that the opening of Gravity Pope is exciting for the majority of West Queen West locals and fashion-forward Torontonians in general.

Gravity Pope is a Canadian fashion success story. Founded in Edmonton in 1990, the retailer has grown to include shops in Calgary and Vancouver. Many think of Gravity Pope as predominantly selling fabulous shoes (OMGGGG…best footwear collection ever) but they also have extremely well curated section of fashion and accessories for both men and women.

Marc by Marc Jacobs, See by Chloe, Opening Ceremony, Paul Smith, Comme des Garcons, Jil Sander: There are over 100 designers represented in this exquisite shop that offers shoppers 4000 square feet to roam over three stunning levels. Queen and Ossington still feels gritty and cool but it’s definitely had an injection of high fashion.

Even if you can’t afford the clothes (think Jonathan & Olivia prices) you should definitely take a wander. The design attributes of this space are just as breathtaking as the rows and rows and rows and rows of shoes. Antique French chandeliers hang from the ceiling, there are gorgeous full-length mirrors at every turn (surely a hot spot for Instagram selfies) and an art deco staircase has actually been shipped and reclaimed from a retro theatre in Buenos Aires. Needless to say, there are lots of visual details to spark home-decor inspiration.

SALE!

It’s easy to make friends in the neighbourhood when you kick off a sale right when doors open.

15% off regular priced footwear, clothing and accessories from now until Dec 2.

20-50% off select Fall 2012 footwear, clothing and accessories from Nov 23 – Dec 24.

Before you hit the store, see what to expect by browsing their online shop at gravitypope.com.

~ Jen McNeely

Photos by Becca Lemire (Click to Enlarge)