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New Digs for Anna

Anna Gilkerson has worn many stylish hats over the years. From eco-savvy designer (Deux FM) to vintage sourcing maven to Centre for Arts and Technology instructor, this lady keeps herself busy ensconced in all things fashionable. In July, she found a fresh home for MAKENEW, her collection of hand selected designer pieces. The latest offering on Vintage Row, MAKENEW is perched upstairs at 1526 Queen Street in a simple white room with an uncluttered selection of key looks.

Gilkerson herself looked easy breezy and summer sophisticated when I popped by for a visit. A blousy sleeveless button-up shirt tucked into retro rolled up high-waisted jeans (a look I favour) paired with a non-chalant ponytail and great bangs. Her style was elevated from casual to boutique owner savvy with the addition of strappy gladiator inspired high heels. She wasn’t expecting me but I had to take her picture.

The boutique is described as a “curated thrift shop” and Gilkerson sources out each item and doesn’t do consignment. I have always been partial to the way she takes the guesswork out of scouring for those hard to find items and presents them to you in perfect form. On this particular day, I spot some great basics (think flowy blouses for work, bohemian handbags, vibrant negligees) and can’t resist trying a few things on. Being a shopping blogger is wonderful but I am constantly tempted to buy more stuff. However, with Gilkerson’s picks I can feel good about embracing the slow fashion movement and steering away from mass produced (dare I say it?) crap. Labels I’ve spotted at MAKENEW include Marni, Nine West, Zara and Chloe, just to name a few.

I’m tempted by an olive green knee length leather skirt with pockets. Even though it walks a fine line, somehow (because it’s not too tight) it’s edgy instead of cougar-y. Pair it with a white t-shirt and you’d be good to go. Shopping in the cozy MAKENEW space feels more akin to being in an exclusive boutique than rooting through thrift and Gilkerson has a great take on style with a passion for sustainability that is truly inspiring.

“There are already so many clothes out there in the world,” I overhear her tell a customer. “Why keep buying new when there are so many amazing vintage pieces to uncover?”

I couldn’t agree more….

-          Nicole

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