The Best Menswear Stores in Toronto

The best menswear stores in Toronto is a list that definitely benefited from some new entrants in 2010. As most men in Toronto will suggest, the landscape for menswear in Toronto is sparse compared to other metropolitan cities. You know this, I know this and the retailers trying to fill that void know this.

Although every menswear boutique in Toronto may not necessarily appeal to every Toronto man, the complexity in how these retailers determine what they carry is admirable in itself. From house brands to major labels and everything in between, what Toronto lacks in variety, it makes up in how savvy its private retailers are of mass-produced chains cornering Toronto's men's market.

It's not easy curating a collection of garments that are interesting and appealing enough for consumers to selectively invest in.With fast-fashion retailers wooing consumers with high-end looks at budget-conscious pricing, the age-old adage of "you get what you pay for," rings especially true when it usually means a compromise in quality and point of view. Disposable clothing this list is not.

Behold, the best spots for menswear in Toronto.

Writing by Rafay Agha

Sydney's

Sydney’s understated interior puts the focus on the clothing, footwear and accessories they carry. Just as neat and streamlined as their fixtures, the expansive collection of brands, from Jil Sander suits, Dries Van Noten knits to Montreal denim brand, Naked and Famous, is carefully edited to appeal to the style savvy. Denim is obviously Sydney’s forte as this boutique serves as a great alternative to the usual high-end denim-toting haunts that can be crowded by more quantity rather than quality. More »

Gotstyle

Quite easily the most “accessible,” menswear boutique in the city. Their commitment to reach out to the hard-pressed, style-oblivious man via a very active social media presence makes them a familiar destination. Gotstyle is the type of independent store where every man is welcome and a friendly staff is usually always eager to help discerning and clueless customers alike. Suits and shirts come either off the rack or made to measure. A compliment of brands help this top-to-bottom retailer (and spa) remain a Toronto favorite. More »

Jonathan + Olivia

If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em! Rather than fighting to compete with major retail, J+O literally took them in. A boutique within a boutique, J+O carries selected pieces from British fast-fashion retailer, TopShop as well as TopMan. Aside from this, they carry a compliment of compelling in-the-know menswear brands such as Alexander Wang, Band of Outsiders and Rag & Bone to name a few. It's a one stop way to mix and match high street with understated luxe. More »

Klaxon Howl

Klaxon Howl is the epitome of timeless cool along Queen West. Mixing unique vintage finds with denim, jackets and shirts from their eponymous private label, this unique boutique is the antithesis to the brand-aware menswear stores we have all grown accustomed to. The Canadian-made pieces are not only designed in-house but also lend themselves to building a wardrobe of essentials. Neatly tucked away from the beaten path, Klaxon Howl is worth a visit if only to check out owner Matt Robinson’s unique point of view. More »

Model Citizen

Sick of serious? Quirky, whimsical and often kitschy without the crazy, Model Citizen is a Kensington favourite for both men and women. While the clothes may not be as heavy- handed as some of their contemporaries, mission to showcase Toronto talent is not to be taken lightly. A great selection of private labels tees, ties and shirts created by local designers and artists line the walls and fill the tables. When sporting their wares, prepare yourself to get stopped on the street and asked about where you got them. Oh yeah, and tell the giant marlin on the wall that we sent you. More »

Nomad

With a new location on Queen West to complement their existing space on Richmond, Nomad offers a well-curated selection of lifestyle goods and garments ranging from heritage brands to emerging designers and established labels alike. The exposed brick in their new digs makes for the perfect backdrop to brands such as Comme Des Garcons, Rag & Bone and exclusives such as A.P.C. and Common Projects. With a staff consisting of fashion plates, shopping at Nomad is often heralded as one of Toronto’s best by loyal customers. More »

Uncle Otis

Aside from some of the usual offenders (Canada Goose, Converse, Nixon and Lacoste to name a few) the assortment of on-trend items at this Yorkville staple always tries to best reflect their customer. The laidback vibe makes every boot, jacket, belt and duffle bag seem like a must-have wardrobe staple. Knowing when to snatch up that coveted designer collaboration versus waiting for the odd markdown make this a frequent stop worth paying attention to. More »

Green Shag

On the complete opposite end of the style spectrum from some of the edgier boutiques, Green Shag offers their man hockey-themed cuff links, shirts, pocket squares and suiting. Embarrassing tag line aside (“everybody needs a shag,”), this bespoke retailer’s goal is to make you look your best by way of custom suits and separates, an increasingly unique feature, especially in our fair city. If that means you rock a curling-inspired cuff link, then so be it. More »