Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SHOPPING
Like a counterculture department store stretched along both sides of one
street, the Drive is Vancouver's 'anti Robson.' You'll find dozens of eclect-
ic, independent shops here, ranging from ethical clothing stores to
intelligent-minded bookshops. If the area sounds a little too earnest, keep
in mind that Commercial also has plenty of frivolous shopping outlets
where you can pick up handmade chocolates and pop-culture gifts for
your friends back home. Coffee-shop central, the Drive is a great place to
shop and sup on a lazy afternoon.
BAREFOOT CONTESSA
CLOTHING
(
www.thebarefootcontessa.com
;
1928 Commercial Dr; 11am-6pm; 20)
Vintage-look
dresses and sparkling costume jewelry - plus a 1920s-style flapper hat or two - are the
mainstays of this popular women's-wear boutique aimed at those who never want to be
a clone of a chain-store mannequin. You'll find cute tops and accessories from Canadi-
an and international designers, plus extras like artsy-craftsy purses and laptop bags
trimmed with lace.
The staff here are famously friendly with plenty of suggestions for the perfect new
look.
ATTIC TREASURES
VINTAGE
(
www.attictreasuresvancouver.com
; 944 Commercial Dr; 11am-6pm Tue, Thur-Sat, noon-5pm
Sun; 20)
One of Vancouver's favorite antiques stores, this retro-cool double-room
shop specializes in mid-century furniture and treasures. Peruse the candy-colored cof-
fee pots and cocktail glasses and save time for the clutter room at the back, where bar-
gains sometimes live. Much of the furniture has a Danish modern feel and there are also
collections of German pottery and Finnish glassware.
