Over the span of a few weeks, Toronto has welcomed two international flagship stores to its prestigious Bloor Street West shopping corridor. We have to ask: has the city finally reached its retail tipping point?
We’ve already seen the preppy Brooks Brothers Flatiron attempt to replicate the new concept’s success outside of NYC. Now Victorinox officially opens the doors of its inaugural North American outpost.
The sprawling 3,400-square-foot space houses a complete lifestyle collection: everything from its popular pocketknives to clothing, timepieces and travel gear. Interactive displays and plenty of oak, concrete and metal make you want to reach out and touch everything.
The clothes blend classic design with technical detail: ultimate gear for guys-on-the go. Casual sportswear works every day but can step up when called to perform. Lightweight jackets cut close to the body are ideal layering pieces as the temperature fluctuates. Always-risky camo swim trunks appear current thanks to a timeless cut.
Not only do the clothes possess an uncanny ability to be effortlessly packed-up for quick trips but the store prominently displays the brand’s acclaimed luggage collection. This encompasses everything from sporty weekend getaway bags to supremely solid suitcases (strong enough for an elephant to stand on, should the occasion arise).
While we were duly impressed with the lifestyle offerings, it was the knives that knocked us out (this is Swiss Army, after all). In addition to many incarnations of the iconic pocketknife – from the Classic ($24) to the eighteen-tooled Hercules ($96), the store’s lower level is sure to capture the attention of any guy looking to sharpen his skills in the kitchen. The appointment-only showroom cleverly displays all manner of professional-grade cleavers, carvers and cutting instruments. Upcoming events and demos will inspire and educate professionals and amateurs alike.
Victorinox marks another step in Toronto’s quest to be a city of international acclaim. What brand(s) do you want to welcome next to Toronto? Let us know in the comments below.
This Thursday to Sunday, guests who spend $150 receive a complimentary ride anywhere in Toronto in a new BMW X5.
Victorinox, 95A Bloor St. W., 416-929-9889.
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Image courtesy of Victorinox.
I read your article and happened to be on Bloor at the time so decided to check out. I agree the store is impressive. Nice addition to the street. Now if only we could get some J.Crew gear for guys…
bout time we tested products by way of the elephant factor!