Chances are, you bought souvenirs on your last trip – and where are they now… in the back of a drawer, perhaps? This time, why not choose carefully crafted, authentic Montreal items for your next trip to Quebec? As you wander through neighbourhoods such as Mile End, La Petite-Patrie, Hochelaga-Maisonneuve, Old Montreal and Griffintown, you’ll discover the city’s local gems, offering plenty of opportunities for trendy and sustainable discoveries while shopping in Montreal.
Over the years, entrepreneurs from all walks of life have created inspiring spaces where it’s a pleasure to stroll, rain or shine. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or your loved ones, explore independent boutiques that highlight local creativity and artisans.
Maguire
Can’t say no to a new pair of shoes? You’ll be in heaven at Maguire, a boutique in Mile End offering original designs including booties, heels, mules and sandals in a stunning range of colours. To guarantee quality and transparency, this Montreal-based company outsources the production of its styles to high-end manufacturers in Italy, Spain and Portugal.
Founded by sisters Myriam and Romy with a passion for beautiful shoes, Maguire has quickly become a favourite among Montreal fashionistas. By treating yourself to a classic or trendy pair from their latest collection, you’re not only ensuring quality and fair prices, but you’ll also be the envy of everyone with your new shoes!
5365, boulevard Saint-Laurent
Mimi & August
Located in a beautiful stone building in Old Montreal, Mimi & August is the place to go shopping for greeting cards, original illustrations, enchanting scented candles and fashionable accessories.
Designed in Montreal, Mimi & August’s products, including a swimwear collection in comfortable and colourful fabrics, are produced overseas with great care for the environment.
162, rue Saint-Amable
Betina Lou
Based in Montreal, Betina Lou is a boutique known for its high-quality, classic clothing. Founded in 2009 by designer Marie-Ève Emond, the brand focuses on creating timeless pieces that are both elegant and comfortable. Betina Lou emphasizes quality over quantity, with each piece meticulously designed and produced locally in Montreal using sustainable practices. The boutique also offers a selection of foreign brands with the same ethical fashion philosophy, including shoes, jewellery, body products and clothing. Each piece is hand-selected and reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and respect for materials.
6510 Avenue Henri-Julien
Pilar Agueci
Be careful not to blink as you pass this small studio on Beaubien Street while shopping in Montreal, or you might miss it! Behind a beautiful white screen, Pilar Agueci painstakingly creates original and minimalist jewellery for everyday use, as well as creating custom pieces for her loyal clientele.
Having studied design and art in Ontario, completed a jewellery and goldsmithing residency in Glasgow, Scotland, and attended advanced workshops in the Netherlands, the creator is a magician with metals, gemstones and pearls, playing with contrast and volume. This is your chance to own a signature piece from a local craftsman.
180, rue Beaubien Est
Bouche Bée
This charming lifestyle boutique in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve has quickly won a special place in the hearts of the locals with its local creations and carefully selected decorative items. Postcards, pins, pens, coffee mugs and tea towels – you can find all sorts of useful or playful items to give away (or keep for yourself).
It’s impossible not to fall under the charm of Marie Letard, owner of Bouche Bée, and her team of sparkling ladies! Feel free to strike up a conversation to find out about their favourite gourmet spots in the neighbourhood.
3772, rue Ontario Est
BKIND
As soon as you step into this Mile End gem while shopping in Montreal, you’ll be enchanted by the delightful scents and colourful furniture. Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, BKIND offers natural beauty and skincare products made in Quebec with vegan and eco-friendly ingredients. The Montreal-based company goes the extra mile with bulk options to reduce waste, 100% recyclable and sustainable packaging, and animal cruelty initiatives.
Psst! Their award-winning revitalising exfoliating scalp mask is said to work wonders. Don’t forget to pack it in your travel kit!
5301, boulevard Saint-Laurent
WANT Les Essentiels
Well-established in Montreal, WANT Les Essentiels offers a beautiful collection of leather and organic cotton canvas bags, shoes and travel accessories. Known for its unique craftsmanship and elegant, minimalist designs, the brand’s men’s and women’s collections have enjoyed great success across borders.
Good to know: The company currently has a pop-up store at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport for last-minute shopping before heading home.
5445, avenue de Gaspé
Épicerie Conserva
Plaza St-Hubert is a Montreal landmark that hasn’t always been as popular as it is today. Now it’s home to a handful of wine bars, vintage shops and upscale boutiques that make it a must-see during your trip to the city.
At the Épicerie Conserva, you can find all the essentials for a local picnic (Quebec wines and beers, freshly made sandwiches, produce, cheeses, etc.) as well as jams, oils and other gourmet products to pack in your suitcase. It’s a great way of getting a taste of Quebec, even when you’re at home!
6604, rue Saint-Hubert
Buk & Nola
Buk & Nola‘s beautiful black brick façade, nestled between a series of restaurants, cafes and even a hardware store, attracts passers-by. Inside, the charm kicks in with a huge selection of fashion and home accessories, stationery, candles, illustrations and even children’s items. It’s the kind of place where you can get great advice and find original, practical and sustainable souvenirs (or gifts)!
1593, avenue Laurier Est
Ciele Athletics
The Ciele Athletics cap has been a trendy accessory in Quebec for several years and is an integral part of the identity of many Montrealers. The brand recently opened espace | MTL in Griffintown, where enthusiasts can try on products and receive personalised advice, and offers a complete collection of technical running apparel and hats.
Good to know: The boutique, with its minimalist design and beautiful lighting, also offers a selection of popular branded shoes and even hosts weekly group runs. It’s the perfect opportunity to make new friends while shopping in Montreal!
1630, rue Notre-Dame Ouest
