While 8th + Main’s name evokes its Main Street location, the retail shop isn't just a Mount Pleasant sensation. The homegrown business has roots in Victoria, B.C. and recently opened its first offshoot in Toronto.
Founders Scott Hilton and Daniel Luchin first met in Victoria as university roommates. The duo soon teamed up to open their own vintage shop, Flavour. As the shop evolved, Scott and Daniel started bringing in new clothing and eventually launched a sister store, Decade (which has since been incorporated into Flavour).
When Scott and Daniel were ready for further expansion, they looked to Vancouver and decided that Mount Pleasant was the ideal location. "It was our kind of neighbourhood…our people were there,” says Scott.
Consider packing an energy bar because 8th and Main’s abundance of reasonably priced dresses – in all manner of styles, cuts and patterns – is bound to keep you busy for hours upon hours. Bring a friend along with you, too, as you’ll need some backup when it comes time to decide between the jean mini dress or the black maxi, the floral wrap or the white shirtdress, the striped sailor dress or the grey sweater dress…
With row upon row of clothing in the vast and bright Main Street location, 8th + Main is a reliable source of almost anything you may require – from a smart work top to a party dress to an outdoor adventure shirt. Stocked labels include Vero Moda and Brown Bag Clothing UK (BB), which is a go-to for work-appropriate clothing. You may have to search for a specific item, but for a wardrobe update or work-to-evening outfit, this affordable spot is a shoppers dream. Don’t forget to look at the sale section, where you can often find almost-giveaway steals.
I discovered this newer store after lunch one day at 8 ½ around the corner (amazing appies!). 8th and Main have great unknown and very affordable brands, which makes for a fun and unexpected shopping trip. The budget-friendly price point makes it the perfect store for trendier pieces. I also love their jeans from Just USA (affordable and flattering).