New Store Openings in Toronto

Our fair city is in the midst of a retail invasion, giving us shopping options like never before. Some we used to only visit in Montreal, others while shopping in the States—and now they've come to the 416 and we want to visit, explore and shop the day away! Here's what's new to Toronto, and what they're known for.

It used to be that we could only get our Simons' shopping fix while in Montreal. How we looked forward to that dive into chic, understated fashion and homewares. Now we've got an option in Square One so that we can experience all the extra services, from home décor advice to hemming and other alterations. Plus the practically Parisian Eve café is now open for a little nibble should all that shopping awaken an appetite.

The second floor of the newly renovated H&M at the Eaton Centre is our new favourite place, because it is home to the new H&M homeware line. Open since late February, we've already been able to find some awesome and affordable kids décor, shelving and storage solutions. The space is bright and full of colourful and affordable accessories—the quirky couch cushions and towels make for wonderfully inexpensive updates.

So, it's not quite open yet (lucky Ottawa) but it will be come fall in both the Eaton Centre and Yorkdale. And that's got us stoked, because Nordstrom's has always been our go-to place for a few key pieces when visiting the States. Add the super cute and stylish kids' clothes and their wide range of workout apparel brands, and the whole family will have dreamy new capsule wardrobes by Christmas.

A trip to Saks always means a wonderful shopping experience. The variety in brands available is a welcome change from our old standbys and the shop next to The Bay in the Eaton Centre is luxe, glittery and lovely. The Sherway Gardens shop and Food Hall by Pusateri's is now open, so plan a visit when you're hungry—it's the first Saks food hall in the world.

Not only is Saks open, but Saks Off 5th outlet store also opened March 17 at Vaughan Mills and Toronto Premium Outlets (Halton Hills). All the style at 60% off makes for great deals, no border crossing required.

So the first freestanding location of Australian skin-care line Aesop has been open since July on Queen West, but hey—we're busy parents and don't always get out as much as we'd like. And that's a shame, because the Aesop store is lovely— all sleek and minimalist but smelling like a forest fairyland. These luxurious skincare products are made with the finest attention to detail.

Freestanding locations of eco jeweller Alex and Ani are now open in Yorkdale and Square One, and we couldn't be happier! Known for the sliding clasp that makes their bracelets one-size-fits-all, it's a great spot to shop for mom and daughter bracelets or BFF jewellery for the kiddos and their friends.