One Of A Kind Show: My Top 10 Faves

If there’s one show that I’m expertly familiar with in the city, it’s the One of a Kind Show. Not only have I attended the event for more than a decade, but I’ve also had the privilege of working with the fabulous production team who pulls together all the fashion shows (which means I basically know the show floor like the back of my hand). Since the OOAK is ginormous (over 800 designers, craftspeople and artisans have set up shop this year — 116 of whom are new), I thought I’d share my personal faves so you can include them into your shopping journey this year. The vendors I’ve listed below are tried, tested and true — people I’ve been buying from for years — so I highly recommend checking them out. Here are my top 10 faves at the One of a Kind Show this year…

1.Daniel Pollak
Toronto, ON
Booth: T56
What To Buy: I absolutely love his vintage-style hair clips and earrings: they garner compliments every single time I wear them.

2. Milsean Shoppe
Aldergrove, BC
Booth: H44
What To Buy: The original Demerara Butter Crunch is highly addictive and a well-loved stocking stuffer.

3. Olive Authentique
Lakefield, QC
Booth: C20
What To Buy: Their lip balm and lavender lotion bar are heavenly.

4. Skinny Sweats
Toronto, ON
Booth: Q44
What To Buy: Everything. Her polished loungewear is made in Toronto and lasts forever. I have many pieces from this designer and am amazed by the quality of the materials she uses — they never pill! I basically live in the Trouser Sweats…

5. Forbes Wild Foods
Toronto, ON
Booth: H59
What To Buy: So many delicious, foraged goods at this shop, especially the dried mushrooms and wild blueberry compote.

6. Enchanted Designs
Surrey, BC
Booth: S12
What To Buy: Joanne and Bob are possibly the cutest couple at the show and create some of the most beautiful upcycled fur pieces together.

7. Coach House Shortbread
Toronto, ON
Booth: F20
What To Buy: The orange & cardamon shortbread is to die for. I also love the lemon, lavender and sugar plum.

8. Volang Inc
Brooklyn, NY
Booth: H30
What To Buy: I’m a huge fan of her handmade fingerless gloves.

9. Crate 61 Organics
Toronto, ON
Booth: D44
What To Buy: Their soaps transport me to the spa with every use – particularly the Eucamint and Lavender.

10. MoonRox
Toronto, ON
Booth: Y20
What To Buy: Any of the jewellery. I particularly love her earrings and bracelets: they’re fun, trendy and well-made.

Hope you guys get a chance to experience the One of a Kind Show (runs from November 26 – Dec 6). I continue to be blown away by the level of talent that fills the halls of the Enercare Centre every single season. What started as a small platform for local artisans in 1975 has transformed into a national showcase of talent that shouldn’t be missed — one that connects us all to the passionate people who make the goods. In my opinion, that is reason alone to visit the show. You’ll not only leave with bags of unique/handcrafted finds, but with a warm and fuzzy feeling fuelled by the fact that you’ve supported local businesses. If that doesn’t get you in the holiday spirit, I’m not sure what will. Happy shopping!