Vancouver Fashion eZine - Online Magazine

Neatly placed on the corner of Victoria Dr. and Charles St., you will find the treasure trove boutique that is Tutta Mia. Described by some as destination retail, one visit is all it takes to realize that any shopping spree to Commercial Dr.is not complete without the necessary detour to this favourite local boutique.

Known for its wide selection of local and national Canadian labels, owner Gail Conzatti is proud to support and nurture her fellow Canadian designers. Nearly the entire store is designed and made in Canada with only a handful of items being manufactured ethically south of the border.

Conzatti has not always been in the fashion industry. For many years she found great success in the telecommunication industry, climbing the corporate ladder to senior management over the years. Wanting to pursue her creative passion, Conzatti admits she was 'held hostage' by her pay cheque. In 2003, she made the brave transition into her dream job by creating her handbag line Kairos, consisting of faux suede, silk and leather bags, originally hand painted by the designer, and all proudly made in Vancouver. Her transition from wholesaler to retailer soon followed.

When asked about her location and how Tutta Mia began, Conzatti says she loves the neighborhood for various reasons. When the location presented itself, she had to jump at the chance. The store was originally used as her office and wholesale outlet withTutta Mia being born after a snow ball effect. Conzatti soon found herself with a full roster of other Canadian talent and a consumer base eager for more.

Those labels include Urgo, of Ucluelet, consisting of bamboo separates in luscious bold solids, and Susan Harris Designs of Toronto, offering reworked vintage pieces such as t-shirts, dresses and much sought after sweaters. Cecile Benac of Vancouver offers innovative handmade knitwear and Gilmour of Vancouver has shrugs, wraps and dresses for any occasion and layering pieces that compliment our Vancouver climate well.

Tutta Mia, meaning "all mine," truly encompasses just that, offering shoppers items for all occasions, knowledgeable staff to personalize the shopping process, and the sense that you have found something truly special. Be sure to drop by and say hello next time you're near Commercial Dr. and do not forget to sign their mailing list. You too can become part of the Tutta Mia crowd. We certainly are!

For more information please visit www.tutta-mia.com or 1302 Victoria Drive or call 604.255.8407.