Location Series 2: Kensington
Striped Tee: Club Monaco. Leather Biker Jacket: Black Market Vintage. Sunglasses: Local Australia.
Vogue suggests that Toronto’s Queen Street West is one of the “coolest places in the world”. Also known as the fashion district, I frequently get overwhelmed walking down the street amongst teenage hypebeasts dressed in Supreme. Although the magazine’s claim holds merit, I think that Kensington Market should take the title. With fall around the corner, I felt it was time to trade in my patterned button downs for distressed leather jackets and patched silk bombers. Since fall has the best clothes, what better time to visit Kensington to cop some vintage finds.
Fuelled to find another silk bomber, I was determined to visit every clothing store before making a purchase. One of my favourite spots, Sub Rosa Vintage, had a wide selection of colourful bombers, but I was not prepared to spend over $70 on a jacket. Sub Rosa tends to be on the pricier side since they carry a mix of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Prada (rare, but it happens) in addition to everyday brands like J.Crew and the Gap. I know what you’re thinking, J.Crew and Gap? Must I remind you that these pieces are from the 90s so they bring out that laid back style that every fast fashion retailer is miserably mimicking.
Unfortunately, I did not purchase anything… particularly because I felt more pieces would be delivered in the later months. However, my trip was not a complete waste as Jeanpaul and I shot some nice pics of vintage pieces we purchased last winter. I know… we’re pretty late on it. We wanted to take advantage of the graffiti, hidden alleyways, the bright colours and, of course, the sunset. I mean, would it really be a photoshoot without the sunset? Inspired by the British Grunge scene, we desired to capture the essence of Kensington: artistic and youthful. Did we? I’m not sure. We’re in our mid-20s who rely on VSCO to edit our pics, so I’d say we’re almost there.
Although Kensington Market might not be everyone’s cup of tea, I suggest checking it out. Go with a group of friends and enjoy a drink from Fika then try out some one-of-a-kind clothes that cannot be purchased anywhere else. Also, do not forget to take amazing photos because pics or it didn’t happen.
Candidly,
Jonah
