Fashion Stores
Philistine
Philistine was founded in 2007 as a once-per-month pop-up shop, but only settled into permanent Parkdale residency this September. The tiny space houses mostly vintage duds (peppered with choice new accessories) curated by co-owners Aaron Doucet and Colleen Ramage. Doucet shares intentions to amp up the content of new items in the shop, including plans for their own line. Samples of the in-development brand - camel and black houndstooth capes - hang above the women's wear.
In men's vintage, workwear and Americana rule. I feel like I've stumbled upon the time capsule closet of Springsteen's Born in the USA days. Well-worn-in demin, barn-collar jackets and down-filled vests are perfect seasonal toppers for plaid flannel button-ups. Fellas can channel The Boss or even Paul Bunyan, in pieces that are ruggedly, classically manly.
While the shop's menswear collection feels unified, I don't detect a clear story in the women's racks. "Colleen is really into making it contemporary," Doucet explains, "She alters everything herself." Altering the pieces means shortening dresses and converting leather pants to shorts, to mimic what's happening on runways.
A narrow rear hallway is lined with an impressive (and massive) collection of immaculate vintage footwear. Bestsellers include booties for women, and, naturally, work boots for men. Shoes are priced from $20.
Notable finds are light grey fold-down suede ankle boots ($40), a button-up short leopard jumper ($35) and new tortoise Clubmaster-style shades ($15). There are deals to be had here too - all button-ups and blouses are $40 for two.
While I didn't find many pieces that I couldn't live without, I'll be back, curious about the evolution of the shop. For the wood-choppin', grown-up boy scout types, however, Philistine is a must-visit.
Photos by Dennis Marciniak.
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But now, after a few visits, I must say this is probably the best curated selection of vintage I've seen in a while in the city. Nothing peeves me off more than having to sift through weird and funky pieces to find wearable vintage. The selection here is amazing...all very wearable and all very current.
I'm also curious to see how the store evolves. I believe this is one to watch out for.
Also, they always have the best classic rock blaring! I had a sing-a-long to Heart's "These Dreams" with the guy who works there. Very fun!
I am a co-owner of Philistine, and it's unfortunate to hear that your first visit to our store didn't leave you with a positive impression. Everyone has bad days, and I would love the opportunity to create a more positive experience for you. Rest assure, we welcome customer both younger and older than ourselves!
Thanks for reviewing this place!
I am a student at Ryerson University studying Fashion Communication. For my final Thesis I am doing a book on people who love and are obsessed with Vintage. I was wondering if I could interview you. It would be an email interview. I would need a few photos from your store that you could send me, and photos of your life that make up who you are as a person who loves vintage. If you are interested, please email me and let me know! This would be greatly appreciated! Thank you for your time.
Kimberley
My name is Alexa D'Argenio and I am a Producer for Cineflix Productions. We are working on a new show; created by the Producers of the hit TV shows “Canadian Pickers” and “American Pickers". This new show, tentatively titled “Top Collector” will be a competition TV show, as several teams will set out in pursuit of the BEST PICK, ultimately earning the title of Top Collector!
We are currently casting for Canadian "Picking Partners"- two people that pick together at flea markets, yard sales, barns, sheds, etc. We are looking for people that are charismatic, knowledgeable about collecting, know how to spot hidden treasures, and flip items for profit. Pickers who specialize in collecting items such as vintage toys, oil and gas memorabilia, pop culture items, cast iron, TV & movie memorabilia, and other interesting and unique items!
If there is anyone you think might be interested in entering the competition and being a part of this show, we would love to hear from them! I am also attaching a flyer that you can post on your website, Facebook page, etc. or distribute as you see fit.
For more information or to APPLY to be on the show, please email me at adargenio@cineflix.com.
I don't know if I found this comment in time, but please email us at inquiries@philistinevintage.com