February marked the beginning of a new era for fashion in Calgary. The red carpet would get laid down February 4th and the doors of Fashion Central officially opened. The saying goes, “Vancouver, Toronto and Montréal are the only cities in Canada that have anything to offer in terms of “fashion.” A comment I heard recently tied in with the idea of the city not being a “hot spot” and always the comment “there is no fashion in Calgary” amongst some.
However all of this is about to change as this seems to be the reason for the creation of Fashion Central: to put Calgary on the map.
On grand opening night, the place was buzzing with fashionistas of the city. When first entering, the bright red stairs of the three level staircase capture the eye immediately. The space, modern and open which is evident in the new location of deVille, a café, located on the main level. For those who enjoy lattés, try their signature Nutella latté…Yes! A latté with the real hazelnut and chocolate spread!
Fashion Central featured unique stores such as Kaviar, a boutique that specializes in pearls. Currently, the Pink Pearl Necklace is a big hit. There is no other like it in the city. For flash and glam, Beauty Land definitely exceeds those expectations. All Beauty Land accessories from the crystal necklaces to one of a kind hair combs and clips, are all hand crafted. Each piece, unique in its own way. AG Plateria is a family based company out of Mexico, offers jewelry that is solely made from silver. It has some of the most beautiful bracelets and necklaces one has laid eyes on.
In respect to clothing at Fashion Central, Motek Clothing Co. is unique in that it focuses its business in alterations and repair, but also offers custom designing. Echo is definitely the place to go dress shopping. Filled with gorgeous gowns, long and short, one cannot go wrong here. They have two locations; one being on the upper level and the other on the lower level where they showcase stunning bridal dresses. Don’t forget about the new Betsey Johnson store. Yes, finally a Betsey Johnson location right here in Calgary! This boutique is the definition of fun, classy and bold.
Murale is every girls dream come true. The cosmetic lines they carry are the best in the city and is one of the few make up stores to carry the Bobbi Brown line. What sets Murale apart is the simple fact that one can earn Shoppers Optimum points with every purchase as it is a branch of Shopper’s Drug Mart. They often have a promotion where one can earn twenty times the points on a purchase of $100 or more. How great it is to be supporting a Canadian company!
To visit Fashion Central and the full selection of boutiques located at the retail space:
Fashion Central : Corner of Stephen Avenue and First Street SW
Words by Daniela Codreanu
Photos by Faby Martin