Shop Local, Look Great in the YGK

Shop Local, Look Great in the YGK! Discover the hidden treasures of our vibrant city by supporting local businesses and enhancing your style at the same time.

We are lucky to live in a city where shopping locally is a high priority for residents who want to keep money flowing in “Ma & Pa” shops and try to stay clear of corporate retailers that come to the city. The downtown retailers do a great job at keeping up-to-date with trends, offering great sales, and keeping their shoppers coming back for more. In this blog post, I wanted to take note of some of the best locally-owned stores that offer updated business wear that makes it easy for any Kingstonian to stay on-trend. Fabulous clothing and shoes are not all these privately-owned businesses offer; they also support other local causes, which is a huge part of their success.

The downtown Kingston core has created a community of friendships that work together to increase awareness of how important it is to keep their stores thriving. It’s a very well-known fact that retail space rent is expensive, which is why year after year, we see stores closing downtown and other large retailer going up in the East or West Ends. Not only are small businesses supporting each other, but the people of Kingston have also grown to support these stores over box stores, which is due to the fantastic customer service. How often have you walked into a huge retailer and they knew your name or asked how the last item you purchased is working out? Doesn’t happen too often. These small businesses care about their customers, know what’s happening in the community, and support locals – it’s a great group to be a part of.

They are not only in-store to help but also diving into social media full force. From a marketing perspective, seeing these small businesses explode on social media is amazing. Most of these businesses have been following the same marketing objectives for years and have now changed gears and jumped full force into Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. They are learning how effectively these platforms reach their target audience, whether it be Queen’s students or 30-something professionals. It’s a very cool transition to see, ‘out with the old and in with the new,’ and it makes us so proud to see this happening in our community.

Chris James offers men’s and women’s professional, business casual, and formal clothing in one shop. They cater to the 30+ market bringing in high-end pieces you can’t find anywhere else in the city. Their knowledgeable staff have been in the industry for years and can help with custom tailoring and wardrobe building.

If you have a party to attend, Agent 99 is your go-to, ladies! All the glitz and the glam are between the walls of their fantastic location on Princess Street. In addition to their huge selection of formal gowns, they have all the newest trends, from sundresses to sunglasses. The staff are very friendly and helpful- it’s hard to leave empty-handed. This team does a great job on social media; check them out!

Roundstone, or Fancy That as you may know, offers well-made clothing for women of all ages. The classic pieces in the store are thoughtfully brought in for the audience they have come to know and love. The following of this store is strong with repeat customers and loyal buyers who come time and time again. The excellent staff feel you have won the retail lottery with helpful advice and friendly faces. This is a real gem of a store and a staple in Kingston’s downtown locally-owned retail.

Heel Boy is a local favourite for shoes, boots, accessories, and more. This stylish retailer knows the quality and trends to introduce to Kingston’s downtown location. The staff is great, and the store offers a relaxed vibe with low lighting, excellent seating, and a great layout. From the iconic sign outside to the smell of leather inside, you need to go for your next shoe-shopping experience. HB also has the best shoe sales a couple of times a year that you don’t want to miss!

If you are looking to be treated like a queen or find your partner that perfect gift, head on over to the House of Angelis. This luxury boutique offers high-end pieces with high-end assistance. A family-run business, these ladies are here to help you. Whatever your budget, they will help you find the perfect addition to any wardrobe.