The Best New Clothing Stores in Toronto, 2008

We all need a little cheering up, don't we? The economy's in the toilet, the weather's awful, and you can take your pick of global meltdowns (finance, the Middle East, Jennifer Aniston...).

But we can always count on style to keep us sane. Whether it's throwing together the perfect outfit or finding the all-time best vintage frock, staying stylish is one small way to feel more together in uncertain times, and bring a little beauty to everyday life.

Shopping won't save the world, but, by buying vintage and buying local, we can all feel a little better for it.

Penny Arcade photo from Toronto Textsyles. 69 By The Pound photo from their web site. Franny Vintage photo from Etsy. Green Shag photo from the Green Shag blog.

Public Butter

In addition to long walks on the beach and puppies, my turn-ons include pretension-free vintage stores, and The Public Butter fits the bill. Tucked away in Parkdale, this laidback store uses a standard pricing scheme that makes browsing a breeze. You're looking at $40 for dresses, $100 for leather jackets, $40 for purses, $20 for tees, $100 for men's blazers, and $40 sweaters. Guys should peep the shirts - I liked the red gingham cowboy shirt and the short-sleeved pale yellow top printed with various bottles of booze.