A Room of One’s Own
Virginia Woolf famously declared in her lecture ‘A Room of One’s Own’ that a woman requires but two things to succeed as a novelist “money and a room of her own.” This philosophy holds true for today’s modern woman seeking to style her wardrobe as cleverly as Woolf styled her prose. Enter the most exciting venture to happen in Canadian high fashion this year: the revitalization of the St. Regis Room at the Hudson Bay Company. This enterprise is the brainchild of Bonnie Brooks who recently took the helm of the historic retailer and has since embarked on a mission to breathe new life into the time honoured brand. ‘The Room’ (its charming new moniker) is an absolutely glorious space! When visiting the store we were impressed with the bright and modern design of the floor-wide displays. We instantly remarked that the space rivaled NYC’s most luxurious department stores. In direct competition with Holt Renfrew, Ms. Brooks has launched a formidable campaign (luxe parties, steady press, and classy radio advertisements that Brooks herself voices) to lure Toronto’s most discerning shoppers from Bloor Street to the flagship mecca of Canada’s oldest retail store – 339 years old and counting. While housing less inventory than Holt’s, The Room has a more impressive selection of unique pieces, such as a splendid collection of Hervé Léger dresses and a pair of Brian Atwood swede booties that I’m personally still pining over. The ‘pièce de resistance’ is of course the much discussed $21,000 sapphire blue Balmain dress – which was worn beautifully by Ciara Hunt, editor-in-chief of Hello! Canada last film fest – that outshines most of the evening gowns at Holt’s. While foot traffic has been growing, continued attention to this project is needed to ensure its ultimate success. We think that a posh café would compliment the consumer experience, as we were a tad peckish after touring the 21,500 square feet of airy space. To be sure, Brook has many ideas up her Michael Kors sleeve, so we expect many added elements to HBC’s modern reinvention. In the meantime, do make The Room a definite destination on your Saturday shopping route. Livelovely is so enamored with the store that we have since made it the elegant ‘X’ on our couture map. It is certainly a lady’s room of her own!
Nice article I love the Historical aspect. When you mention a coffee shop,it reminds me of having coffee and scones at Harrod’s in London on the 3rd floor. I also find it interesting that the right merchandise is as impressive as having too much. I cannot wait for your next feature. Cheers!