Tusk
Tusk was founded in 2012 as a pop-up shop inside Silver Falls Vintage but now the contemporary womenswear boutique has brought its signature subdued colour and soft minimalism to its own space on West Queen West.
It has the exposed brick walls and plumbing pipe clothing racks typical of independent boutiques, but its other design details - and handpicked stock - are well worth the double take.
I spent a good amount of time browsing during my visit, not because I had a shopping list but because the vibe made me want to stay.
Antique furnishings like a wire plant stand and wicker chair litter the room, not to mention hordes of plants for ample homeyness.
Organized by colour, the racks are separated into warm and cool neutrals, with pops of deep indigo and chartreuse.
An ivory cover up ($88) and a nude crepe dress ($115) were a couple of showstoppers, but super soft basics by Tienda Ho ($85 - $250) were more up my alley.
Tusk also has a killer selection of accessories by Toronto-based brands, like leather goods by Aunt Rae and handmade jewellery by Goldeen - my favourites being a pebbled bucket bag ($160) and a dog tag keychain that says "FRIES BEFORE GUYS" ($20).
Photos by Hector Vasquez.