Brown paper packages tied up with string may be some of your favourite things, but this December, we’re all about the stockings.
Carefully hung by the chimney with care, stockings often hold some of the best surprises come Christmas morning. Here we’ve rounded up five stocking stuffer ideas that we think will make for the most treasured gifts of the season.
The holidays just aren’t the holidays without a bit of chocolate, and the chocolate covered pretzels at Davids Tea don’t disappoint. What makes these pretzels so festive is the toffee crunch, and we love that.
These cute, cushy, needle felt animals may be very holiday-specific – they’re meant to hang off the Christmas tree – but that’s no reason you can’t collect them all.
Given Calgary’s dry winters, the gift of moisture is a gift that keeps on giving all year ’round; Jordan River Soapworks’ artisanal body butters are made with organic oils, butters and B.C. beeswax, and come in romantic scents like Lavender, Rose Geranium and Grapefruit & Bergamot.
Bulky wallets be gone. The Secrid Cardprotector is a new generation of wallet that’s essential for holding and protecting up to six of your most important cards. It’s the perfect gift for those who have too many cards and not enough pocket.
You really can’t go wrong with chocolate this Christmas. Bernard Callebaut’s chocolate covered almonds, coffee beans and hazelnuts are an unexpected delight that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face this Christmas.
No. 017 | November 10, 2014
This November, it’s all about escaping Old Man Winter with a much-deserved getaway to sunnier climes.
We braved Calgary’s high windchill and heavy snowfall to find four vacation-ready picks to get you out of your wintertime slump and dreaming about beaches, palm trees and margaritas.
Your winter getaway ensemble isn’t complete without a statement hat – get Vacation Ready with a straw fedora, the perfect accessory to complement any vacation outfit, be it on the beach, by the pool, or at the tiki bar.
Escape Old Man Winter’s frosty grip with a lightweight, delightfully comfy cashmere scarf that works equally as good on a plane as it does getting off it. You’ll look extra stylish wearing it once the sun sets, and extra happy you packed it when night falls and those pesky winds pick up.
Whether you’re off to the pool or out for dinner with the girls, these nautical-inspired Street Level handbags are perfect for any winter getaway. Stash your beach supplies in the ample-roomed carryall, then as evening falls, use it as a shoulder bag.
Capture your best moments with the Nikon Coolpix S32. Both shock-resistant and waterproof, this camera is even equipped with a low-light image sensor to help capture sharp photos, even in tricky situations. So when you’re out past midnight and think a selfie in a fountain is a good idea, it’s got you covered.
No. 016 | October 13, 2014
For October, we scoured the avenue for five of the best hostess gifts for Thanksgiving this Monday, October 13.
Whether she’s an oenophile, a chocolate-lover, or a competitive gamer, these seasonal picks are sure to please any hostess, and encourage a return invitation next year.
Could Thanksgiving really be complete without a bit of chocolate? Available in both dark or milk chocolate, Bernard Callebaut’s Thanksgiving cornucopia is filled with individual assorted chocolates – 27 to be exact – and is the ultimate gift for chocolate lovers.
Wine during dinner is a no-brainer. That’s why this Thanksgiving, present your hostess with a bottle of Bodega Sierra Norte, a beautiful Pasion de Bobal red from Spain with unique personality that pairs very well with turkey and cranberry.
Nothing says “thank you for having me over for turkey dinner and feeding me all night” better than a card. This year, wish your hostess (or mother, father, both) a very Happy Thanksgiving with a festive, hand-signed card from Shoppers Drug Mart.
Rustic Bakery’s Pumpkin Ginger Pound Cake is back for the season, and it’s the perfect way to cap a delicious turkey dinner. Pick one up for your hostess, then go and grab yourself a loaf to devour during the week.
Fun for the whole family, Monopoly’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Collector’s edition is a gift that keeps on giving, both before Thanksgiving dinner and after – your hostess will thank you even before you thank them.
No. 015 | September 08, 2014
For September, fall for new finds. In this month’s collection, we prep you for the coming season with autumn’s trendiest must-have finds to help you tackle fall with confidence and style — and finally embrace Mother Nature and her moody disposition.
For September, why not pump up your autumnal wardrobe with a pop of colour that’s right on trend. This fluorescent orange backpack from American Apparel is great for getting noticed at the gym, at school, or, really, wherever you go.
When the temperature drops and the leaves start to fall, consider strapping on a pair of sturdy Red Wing Mock Toes from Less 17 – equal parts fashionable and durable, these all-leather boots are great for fall and are sure to handle whatever Mother Nature (or your girlfriend) throws at you.
The crisp fall weather may be weeks away, but that’s no reason to put off buying a great new pair of fall shoes now. These cute whimsical flats are perfect for fall as they are for the middle of winter – who says November has to be drab?
Taste the flavours of the season with Davids Tea Fall Collection. With a medley that includes Maple Sugar, Snickerdoodle, Sweet Apple Cider, Yes We Cran and Pumpkin Chai, good things really do come in fall packages.
Keep warm and stylish this fall with a well-fitted down vest in classic Fjällräven style. Made from durable wind and water resistant G-1000 Lite material, the Ovik Lite vest is a cold-season staple for Calgary’s chilly autumn days.
No. 014 | August 05, 2014
Patio season in Calgary is short, but with the right accessories, it can last all year ‘round. This August, we’ve rounded up the best picks for easy outdoor (and indoor!) living that can extend well past summer holidays.
Stay cool, calm and collected with a pair of hot vintage sunnies, perfect for August.
Perfect for cocktail hour, this Mix Master Cocktail Shaker screams patio party — and we love the Long Island Ice Tea recipe directly on the glass!
Get into the summer vibe with cool jams brought to you by Night Committee and Sloth Records.
No. 013 | July 07, 2014
Heat, patios, and the start of the Calgary Stampede. It can only mean one thing: July has finally arrived in Calgary! In this month’s “Find It” post, we were inspired by all things summer – we’re talking casual, outdoor living and summertime nonchalance.
This Pendleton Portland Collection wool blanket is quite possibly the most ideal throw for cool summer nights – from cottage country to big city, this classic blanket (with leather carrier) is perfect for snuggling up with a great book or stargazing by the fire.
This classic duffel bag by Forge Apparel is a must-have for weekend trips to the cottage or overnight stays at the lake. Made from a water-proof waxed canvas and oil tanned leather, this rugged yet refined bag is built to withstand the elements.
Take a bit of the countryside home with you with this rustic bucket lamp that would look equally as nice in a country-style kitchen as it would in a cooly-styled living room. Also the perfect accoutrement for Stampede season.
No. 012 | June 02, 2014
This month, it’s time to get outdoors! Be it out in the mountains or hittin’ the concrete jungle, June brings longer days, warmer nights and an urge to explore.
In this “Find It,” we round up three of 17th Ave’s best June essentials to get you inspired for summer.
Inspired by classic, casual silhouettes, and made of the lightest, most comfortable material available, Native shoes are the perfect footwear for June: great for both rainy days and warm lazy afternoons.
Founded in Sweden more than 50 years ago, these water-resistant Fjällräven backpacks are made extremely functional, durable, and ideal for a day trip to the mountains or a weekend on the coast.
If you’re not one for being outside – is that a spider?! – bring the outdoors in with this cute little terrarium, ideal for those with little to no space for an actual garden.
No. 011 | May 05, 2014
Spring has finally arrived in Calgary, and it can only mean one thing: it’s time to give your home decor a spruce-up with new spring accessories. Put away the thick cashmere throw. It’s time to redecorate your space in a brilliant and sparkling way with bright colours, flowery touches and a bit of whimsy.
In this month’s “Find It,” we find four great pieces to welcome the new season into your home, all available on 17th Ave.
Add a pop of colour and character to any space with this cheery armchair in a vibrant daffodil yellow. It’s the perfect accessory to any room and guaranteed to make you smile.
This beautifully hand-finished garden pot by HomArt is a welcome addition to any home – indoors and out. Decorated with whimsical images of spring’s bounty (we love the little bee!), it’s an any-room must-have.
Nothing brightens up a room more than fresh flowers, but when lively blooms are out of the question, it’s time to go synthetic! Welcome spring into your home with exotic blossoms of the phalaenopsis orchid, a radiant accent that makes for a stunning tabletop display.
Welcome guests to your home in style with a colourful door mat, a decorative addition to any front space. Go for bold hues and whimsical patterns for a dramatic effect.
No. 010 | April 08, 2014
In this month’s edition of “Find It,” we scour the avenue to bring you the best in all things floral. From bouquets to body lotions, this season’s biggest trend takes inspiration from your own backyard.
Nourish the senses with Library of Flowers’ carefully-crafted hand creams and shower gels, the perfect pick-me-up to inspire the imagination this springtime. Transform dull skin and restore lost luster with a special blend of deep cleansing extracts and hydrating Shea Butter.
Never underestimate the power of a couple blooms to freshen up a space! Anne Patterson’s beautiful floral bouquets are guaranteed to please and fill a room with the fresh smell of spring.
David’s Tea organic The Glow is an aromatic floral blend of cinnamon, rosehips, jasmine flower, rooibos and rose petals, and is everything you’ve been wanting since the first day of spring.
No. 009 | March 10, 2014
It’s finally March, and you know what that means: new fashions, a new “It” bag and a new fresh face forward – it is, after all, the season of renewal. For this month’s post, we scoured the Avenue for the trendiest, eco-friendliest March must-haves.
Looking for this seasons hottest alternative trends? WAD (We Are Different) magazine is the perfect read for hip and young professionals looking to catch up on urban fashion and culture.
Bio Beaute by Nuxe’s BB Creme is this season’s must-have accessory: 99% natural with ingredients like organic peach pulp, sesame oil and white tea extract, this moisturizer softens skin while correcting dark spots and redness – because nobody likes dry, leathery skin.
Isn’t it time you got yourself a new handbag? Erin Templeton’s 100% recycled leather handbags are good for the environment, great for your style and come in many different colours and styles.
No. 008 | February 10, 2014
February has us seeing red! Check out this month’s colourful finds – just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Make a statement in your space with this bold red lounge chair and chic floor lamp from STRUCTUBE.
Tap into the fountain of youth and pick up this Young.Again. shampoo & conditioner set from CHROME Hair Design.
Capture your crush’s attention in this cozy red ensemble from American Apparel.
Photos by Jessika Hunter
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No. 007 | January 10, 2014
This month, we found a fun selection of items to help you stay organized and warm in Calgary’s crazy winter weather.
Analog‘s variety of Keep Cup sizes can help you stay cozy on the go with the perfect amount of your favourite drink.
Stay organized and stylish in 2014 with a Moleskine weekly planner from REID’s.
Still looking for that perfect pair of winter boots? Find yours at Gravity Pope.
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No. 006 | December 16, 2013
This month we found gift items on 17th Ave that are all under $25, so if you still have Christmas shopping to do, check out our ideas below:
Calgary-based Chocolaterie Bernard Callebeaut has the perfect package for the chocolate lover on your list.
7th Chakra has a beautiful collection of pendulum necklaces in a variety of colours and sizes, at various prices.
For the person with a sweet tooth on your list, pick up some cupcakes from Buttercream Bake Shoppe and be sure to ask for their December feature flavour: Egg Nog.
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No. 005 | November 12, 2013
This month we found some fabulous seasonal items on the avenue – perfect for everything from celebrating Movember to the holidays in December.
Whatever your t-shirt desire, The Rocket can help you make it happen. Check out their featured Movember tees before it’s too late.
Looking for an outfit for a holiday party or special event? Ette has unique items that can’t be found anywhere else in Canada, and the accessories to go with them. Turn heads in this dress by Paris-based designer Giambattista Valli.
Bali & Beyond is new to 17th – they brought with them an abundance of great gift ideas, clothing and specialty items including this beautifully made mosaic plate.
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No. 004 | October 21, 2013
Happy Small Business Week! Our Find It list this month focuses on specialty Fall items that can be found in small businesses on the avenue.
Find that perfect Fall accessory for less at Feisty Consignment.
Splurge on a statement piece for the season at Rubaiyat. This necklace, from the Pyrrha collection was made from 19th century wax seals in their Vancouver Studio.
Find the perfect Hallowe’en party piece or costume for you or your pet at Reid’s.
No. 003 | September 16, 2013
Flowers, coffee and furniture capture our eye in the September edition of Find it on 17th. Check out the great finds below.
Find orchids of any size or colour to brighten your space at Purple Orchid.
Store books & magazines and your favorite objects stylishly with this folding tray table from Structube.
Cozy up with a cappuccino by the window at Borgo and watch the colours change in Tomkins Park.
No. 002 | August 19, 2013
Accessories, fashion and gems come together in our finds for the month of August. Check back every month to spot items here and scoop them up later!
Floral headpieces are a fun addition to any outfit, but have you ever thought of a feather headpiece? Steeling Home is the place to find these unique pieces.
________________________________________________________________________ High-wasted skirts can be dressed up or dressed down, making this fitted and flattering skirt from Firoz a perfect wardrobe addition. Down to $20 from $89 for a limited time!
________________________________________________________________________ Earthgems certainly is a hidden gem – just a couple steps down from 17th Ave leads to a space unlike any other with great deals and finds like these beautifully colourful Feng Shui Balls.
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No. 001 | July 22, 2013
Attention shoppers! 17thave.ca will now be featuring cool finds that we spot on the avenue, with updates every month. Spot an item here and scoop it up later! ________________________________________________________________________ Leo Boutique has a very eclectic collection of accessories and jewelry, and this ornate leaf bracelet by Harriet Bean is not to be missed.
________________________________________________________________________ Swing by USED House of Vintage for great retro pieces and fun prints. This dress transitions perfectly from late summer into Fall.
________________________________________________________________________ Need some summer jams? Wander up the stairs of Sloth Records and pick up the much anticipated new Daft Punk album on vinyl.