Shopping on Cambie St

Last week, a lunchtime excursion took me to South Cambie St. I visited two boutiques: The New Boheme and Shop Cocoon. I love Shop Cocoon - I visit often, and always manage to find something (or a few things) that I suddenly can't live without. This shopping trip did not disappoint, as the Fall 06 collection of lingerie by Third Floor Design is on sale at below warehouse prices. Better yet, with every bra purchase you'll receive a free pair of pretty pink or blue undies! I also picked up a cool ruled paper notepad by Hob Snobs Design Collective, clearance priced at $14.

Sustainable design is a huge buzzword in Vancouver right now, and fashion is no exception. One in a growing number of ecologically and socially conscious shops, The New Boheme opened its doors on December 1st at 3150 Cambie St (604.874.0336). Designed as an "Organic & Ethical Boutique" its eco-friendly, fair trade stock includes clothing, handbags and jewelry by local and international artisans. The selection of clothing is stylish and modern, at reasonable prices. What really impressed me were the price points of the jewelry. I bought two necklaces, and one large cocktail ring that may find its way into my New Years' Eve outfit.

The necklaces are made from leftover chips of semi-precious stones (I chose the garnet and lapis lazuli versions), and are handcrafted by a co-operative of artisans in Nepal. At only $12 each, you can afford to buy one in every color! The ring is a beautiful minimalist design in pale green jade and sterling silver, and retails for just $32. This design is also available in white jade, and are fabricated by a co-op organization of Peruvian artisans.

As an opening special, The New Boheme will take 15% off of your first purchase, and provides free gift wrapping. If these two shops are any indication of South Cambie's fashion future, the shopaholics of Vancouver have a lot to look forward to.