Langton Willms is taking the shopping local concept to the next level. The former store developer for Aritzia has stocked his new menswear shop, Gerhard (2949 Dundas West, 416-797-1290, gerhardsupply.tumblr.com), with handsome labels that trace their origins not just to Toronto, but to the streets around the store’s Junction neighbourhood.
“I used to be a label whore and liked all those international designer names,” says Willms. “But I realized Canadians often make a higher-quality product at a better price point.”
Take for example the Bay Cooper collection of bow ties and neckties. The line hails all the way from High Park Avenue and includes pieces in colourful checks and plaids. There’s also clothing from (in order of price point) Nozo Toronto, Muttonhead Collective, Outclass and Philip Sparks, as well as grooming items by Crown Shaving Co. and Province Apothecary, including Gerhard’s own all-natural cologne with notes of carrot seed, lavender and sandalwood.
“I want the store to be a great outlet for conscious customers and a much-needed anchor for the Toronto design scene,” says Willms.
