Philip Sparks brings crisp vintage fashion to Ossington

After its Ossington pop-up shop exceeded expectations this winter, Philip Sparks has opened a stylish permanent store in a space just off the fashionable strip.

Philip Sparks has been designing since 2007 and recently collaborated with leather-goods label Danier. At the pop-up, which ran from November to January, Sparks’ vintage aesthetic struck a chord with folks in the hood and the designer decided to stay in the area.

The store occupies a small space behind I Deal Coffee. Sparks initially thought it seemed a bit hidden, so he went on a treasure hunt for a sign to show people the way to the store. After some searching, the perfect sign was finally found. It's a large arrow that now hugs the exterior of the shop and points the way in. With its many light bulbs and sandy-coloured interior, it’s suggestive of Vegas. 

Though the main floor of the shop is rather small, a few steps lead down into the more spacious basement area. Vintage curiosities dot the shop: a Victorian paper dispenser used for gift-wrapping is perched up front; reclaimed wood from a hangar at Pearson Airport is used on shelving; a large trunk — once used by Sparks’ grandfather when he crossed the Atlantic to Canada from The Netherlands — is displayed next to the change rooms.

The racks are lined with printed and patterned gear from the spring collection. For men, we liked a navy-and-white polka-dot button down ($235) and a three-button blazer in a cheery plaid ($595). Made from cotton, it’s only half-lined to ensure that gents keep cool while looking crisp. Covetable ladies gear included a floor-length blue-and-white striped shirtdress ($450) and a silk jumpsuit boasting a dreamy ocean print ($495).

A multicoloured braided belt is a fun accessory ($120) though a sunshine-yellow leather satchel, exclusive to the store, is the real pièce de résistance ($595). Crafted in a WWII-era factory north of the city, the bags are made using the same techniques and tools as were used over half a century ago. True contemporary vintage, if you will.      

162 Ossington Ave. (entrance on Foxley St.), 647-348-1827
 


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