While American Eagle and Urban Outfitters are go-to fashion brands for many students, it’s time to wish them farewell.
With a trade war between the United States and Canada, shoppers north of the border have been advocating to “buy Canadian” and avoid US brands in defiance of President Trump’s tariffs.
Though American brands might seem enticing, it’s possible to look local when shopping for your latest outfit to go to class. If you’re looking for clothing brands that are cute as well as Canadian, here are some places to start.
Peace Collective
The Toronto-based brand Peace Collective is a Canadian staple with thousands of people passing by the Union Station store in Toronto every day.
The brand was formed in 2014 during the Toronto Raptors playoffs after CEO Yanal Dhailieh created a t-shirt that said “Toronto vs. Everyone” which he wore to a game. Since then, the brand has expanded, making merchandise for many major sports teams across various leagues in both the US and Canada.
With graphic tees and items that help show off fans’ undying love for their favourite sports team—and at a competitive price—the brand exudes Canadian energy. As seen in their new “Hockey Canada” collection or their “Canadian as Fuck” sweater, Peace Collective allows you to show off your inner Canuck.
Whether you want to grab a Montréal Victoire sweater, or Toronto Blue Jays sweatpants, Peace Collective is the place to go to show your Canadian spirit.
Province of Canada
There aren’t many better brands to add to this list than one whose slogan is “Honestly made, in Canada.”
With two Toronto storefronts and a thriving online shop, Province of Canada is a fashion and lifestyle brand founded by two Canadians with a vision: to create a brand completely manufactured right here in Canada. They eventually got married and left their day-jobs to start the company.
This brand offers a large range of products, from cozy sweaters to candles, with all of their products tying back to Canada in some way. Whether that be through their subtle Canadian flag hoodies or their candles which are hand poured in Canada, there’s something for everyone.
Atelier Tulpe
The small Vancouver brand Atelier Tulpe emphasizes elegance and playfulness throughout their entire collection, both designed and made in British Columbia.
If you’re looking for your next “going-out top,”—this brand has you covered. From reversible cowl neck tanks, to halter tops perfect for dinner parties and paying a visit to the bar down the street, Atelier Tulpe makes pieces designed to keep forever.
The small, woman-led brand emphasizes sustainability with garments made in their local area in Vancouver. Pieces are only created in small batches or on a made-to-order basis.
Atelier Tulpe is on the pricier side, but the hope is to create pieces people reach for consistently over time rather than micro-trends.
Go Play Outside!
There’s truly nothing more Canadian than a cozy sweater. The Toronto-based brand Go Play Outside! is family-owned company that creates vintage inspired streetwear made to look like it came straight out of your grandfather’s closet. With their Canadian winter aesthetics that look right out of a ’70s ski trip, their designs balance nostalgia with elegance.
If sweaters aren’t your thing, you can still show off your Canadian spirit with a Georgian Bay cap or a waffle knit sweater with a small embroidered skier.
Buying Canadian isn’t just a trend. It’s about lifting up small Canadian businesses and furthering our economy. While trade tensions have encouraged shoppers to look inward, the real benefit is in fostering sustainable, community-driven brands that reflect Canadian values.
By choosing Canadian- made clothing, you’re not just investing in quality fashion—you’re helping to create jobs, sustain small businesses, and celebrate the creativity that makes Canadian style unique.
Tags
Canada, Clothing, Local, shopping, thrifting
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