We touched base with one of Vancouver’s best-known fashion institutions, Boboli, to get the scoop on the top luxury pieces for fall and the art of investing wisely in your wardrobe.
If you are familiar with Vancouver’s west side, you will likely have glanced into the gorgeous exterior of Boboli whilst driving down South Granville. The fashion staple opened in 1985 by Margie Murphy, who is still the boutique’s principal. Now, daughters Liz and Claire are involved in the business, making this luxury fashion stop a true family affair.
The beauty of shopping at a local, curated boutique like Boboli is that they carry brands you know, but also designers that you may not have heard of yet. Enter in Marfa Stance, a line of coats that have customizable hems and interchangeable collars. “When you spend money on a garment, not only do you want it to last a lifetime, but you want it to be versatile”, states Margie. The wearer has the ability to customize these pieces to their taste and trends at the time, justifying the price tag.
“The British country aesthetic is also making a comeback”, adds Liz, displayed by the Country Jacket by Toteme. The traditional olive hue and waxed fabric is equal parts functional and classic. This stunning Giuliva Heritage trench coat also evokes this trend, which would perfectly complement the trees changing colour or an afternoon in Southlands.
Furthermore, the emphasis of sustainability and rejection of fast fashion is something that Boboli is passionate about championing. For example, Gabriela Heart’s garments actually have QR codes on the tags that show you who made the garment, whether it’s a weaver in Peru or an artisan from a hemp mill in Italy. The goal is to provide customers with more transparency by sharing the supply chain and giving them access to their garment’s journey. In an industry known for its waste, the brands that embody the true definition of luxury are making steps towards sustainability to combat the devastating impact of fast fashion and the negative environmental impact of the textile industry.
Another big trend for fall is Mary-Jane shoes, which Boboli carries in abundance. Their favourite is Le Monde Beryl which is equal parts “quiet luxury” and practical. Some options include classic black leather, or even mustard velvet. It-girl Sophia Richie has worn these exact ones in red. “What we are seeing in fashion, that’s really more than just a trend, is the emphasis on comfort” says Margie. “The art of dressing is really starting to reflect that more.”
“Another trend that we’re loving is a super casual bottom, like a jean, paired with a dressy top that could even be couture,” Claire shares. This Tibi long denim skirt offers the perfect blend of Y2K and a simple, casual bottom to pair with an endless rotation of tops, kitten heels or even a sneaker.
Mixing high and low is a staple in Boboli’s ethos. “The last time my sister and I raided our mom’s closet, we stole an Old Navy t-shirt that we later found out was actually older than us,” they laughed. But the quality of that basic, old cotton tee stood the test of time and is now being styled with contemporary pieces that breathe new life into something older – an ideology that the boutique encourages in their styling and buying.
If you are looking for unique, sustainable, and thoughtful pieces that will stand the test of time, then a trip to Boboli should be added to your weekend itinerary this fall. – Maddie Clerides
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