Gaspard sits on an elegant strip at the edge of Trinity Bellwoods Park, perched between Garrison’s by the park Barbershop and Clafouti. This tasteful ladies’ boutique is not aimed at lovers of disposable fashion; owners Jennifer Halchuk and Richard Lyle have selected exclusive high-quality labels — including Les Prairies de Paris, Jamin Puech and Carré Royal — that will stand the test of time, not just the season.
After looking at over 40 locations across the city, Halchuk and Lyle finally came across the space, fitting in perfectly with the European feel of the strip. As designers of the locally-produced line Mercy, the pair have travelled a fair bit. While abroad, they met gifted artists and designers whose work they admired. The boutique was conceived as a way to showcase their own label, along with lines that both spoke to their aesthetic and were unavailable in Toronto.
Quality of fabrics are a focus, and Halchuk notes that they carry a “cross-section of silhouettes,” taking care to offer up more than just skin-tight pieces. “Lots of women are pleased to find stuff here that’s not just for the young,” Halchuk says, adding that their customer ranges from the 25 to the 80 year old.
Each piece seems to possess a rich history. A quilted, Liberty print dress from Mercy is dotted with delicately illustrated birds and immediately caught our eye ($300). We were informed that the drawings were part of Scottish singer Edwyn Collins’ daily rehabilitation process following a stroke — look closely, and the dates of the drawings can be read.
Meanwhile, a modal and cashmere scarf from Ascher London features an image of London in 1944 by Feliks Topolski ($295). The British artist was chosen as an official World War II war artist, and his works can be found in the likes of the Tate Modern.
Other great finds include a woven violet clutch from Italian line Lorenza Gandaglia ($480), and a Scottish plaid mohair coat from Mercy that is both chic and warm, making the idea of a winter’s stroll seem far more enticing ($620).
Gaspard, 913 Queen St. W., 416-546-7480
