10 Best Clothing Stores in Canada for Women (2024 Guide)
Are you throwing away money shopping at the wrong stores? Most Canadian women spend 15% more than they need to on clothes. Each year, women across Canada spend $22.8 billion on clothing, but many aren’t happy with where they shop.
The best clothing stores in Canada for women can change how you shop and what you wear. In fact, 7 out of 10 women say they’re tired of not finding clothes that fit right or cost too much.
This guide shows you where to find great clothes that fit your style and budget. We’ll help you find stores with clothes in all sizes and teach you how to save money with store rewards. Want to learn how to build an amazing wardrobe without breaking the bank?
Let’s dig into Canada’s best clothing stores, complete with insider tips and price comparisons that will transform how you shop.
Key Takeaways
- Wide price range options from budget-friendly to luxury
- Extensive size ranges covering 00-32 across different retailers
- Strong presence in both urban and suburban locations
- Canadian-specific benefits including weather-appropriate clothing
- Robust loyalty programs and customer service
What Are the Top 10 Women’s Clothing Stores in Canada?
Based on 2023-2024 retail data, customer reviews, and market presence, these stores represent the most reliable shopping destinations for Canadian women.
Let’s compare their key features to help you make informed shopping decisions.
Overview of Canadian Women’s Clothing Stores
Store Name | Price Range | Size Range | # of Locations | Target Demographic |
---|---|---|---|---|
Reitmans | $-$$ | 0-22 | 400+ | Women 25-55, all sizes |
Aritzia | $$-$$$ | XXS-XXL | 68 | Women 18-35, luxury casual |
RW&CO | $$-$$$ | 0-14 | 80+ | Professional women 25-45 |
Addition Elle | $-$$ | 12-32 | 80+ | Plus-size women 25-55 |
Dynamite | $-$$ | XXS-XL | 115 | Women 18-30, trend-focused |
Laura | $$-$$$ | 2-18 | 150+ | Professional women 35-65 |
Garage | $ | XXS-XL | 195 | Women 14-25, casual wear |
Northern Reflections | $$ | XS-3X | 135 | Women 40+, casual comfort |
Tristan | $$-$$$ | 0-16 | 40 | Professional women 25-50 |
Melanie Lyne | $$$-$$$$ | 2-18 | 35 | Luxury shoppers 35+ |
Price Points for Basic Items
Store Name | T-Shirt | Jeans | Dress | Blazer |
---|---|---|---|---|
Reitmans | $19.99 | $49.99 | $59.99 | $79.99 |
Aritzia | $40 | $128 | $128 | $198 |
RW&CO | $39.90 | $79.90 | $89.90 | $149.90 |
Addition Elle | $29.99 | $69.99 | $79.99 | $89.99 |
Dynamite | $25.95 | $49.95 | $49.95 | $69.95 |
Laura | $49 | $89 | $129 | $199 |
Garage | $14.95 | $39.95 | $29.95 | N/A |
Northern Reflections | $29.99 | $49.99 | $59.99 | $79.99 |
Tristan | $60 | $98 | $120 | $198 |
Melanie Lyne | $100 | $150 | $250 | $400 |
Key Findings from Market Analysis:
- Most Accessible: Reitmans (400+ locations)
- Best Value: Garage (lowest price points)
- Most Size Inclusive: Addition Elle (sizes 12-32)
- Highest End: Melanie Lyne (luxury focus)
- Best Youth Options: Garage/Dynamite
- Strongest Professional Wear: RW&CO/Laura
This comparison shows the diverse range of options available to Canadian shoppers, from budget-friendly to luxury selections, and from youth-focused to professional wear.
Each store maintains its unique market position while catering to specific demographic needs and price points.
Best Clothing Stores in Canada for Women
#1. Reitmans
Since 1926, Reitmans has served as Canada’s largest women’s specialty retailer and is one of the best ladies clothing stores in Canada.
This Montreal-based fashion powerhouse operates over 400 stores nationwide, making it Canada’s most accessible women’s fashion destination.
Their design philosophy centers on providing versatile, trend-conscious clothing that suits various lifestyles and body types.
The retailer’s success stems from their understanding of Canadian women’s fashion needs across seasons and occasions.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Women’s specialty retailer
- Number of Locations: 400+ across Canada
- Price Range: $-$$ ($20-$150)
- Size Range: 0-22
- Collections: Regular, Petite, Plus Size
- Online Shopping: Yes with free returns
- Shipping: Free over $50
Product Categories
- Casual wear and basics
- Professional attire
- Seasonal collections
- Activewear
- Sleepwear
- Accessories and jewelry
- Special occasion wear
Special Features
- STYLE+ Rewards Program: 1 point per $1 spent
- Regular clearance events (up to 70% off)
- Mobile app for easy shopping
- Buy online, pick up in-store option
- Virtual styling consultations
- Extended return policy (45 days)
Location Coverage
- Present in all provinces and territories
- Strong presence in major shopping centers
- Urban and suburban locations
- Small-town accessibility
- 24/7 online shopping platform
Price Examples
- T-shirts and tops: $19.99-$39.99
- Dresses: $39.99-$79.99
- Pants and jeans: $35.99-$69.99
- Blazers: $59.99-$89.99
- Outerwear: $79.99-$149.99
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Extensive nationwide presence
- Consistent sizing across collections
- Regular sales and promotions
- Inclusive size range
- Canadian-focused designs
- Reasonable price points
Cons:
- Limited luxury options
- Popular items sell out quickly
- Quality varies by collection
- Some stores have limited stock
#2. Aritzia
Founded in Vancouver in 1984, Aritzia stands among the most popular Canadian clothing stores, operating 114 boutiques across North America, with 68 locations in Canada as of 2024.
This luxury-casual retailer specializes in women’s fashion through their exclusive in-house brands including Wilfred, Babaton, and TNA.
Known as one of Canada’s fastest-growing clothing stores, Aritzia achieved $2.2 billion in net revenue according to their 2023 fiscal report, demonstrating their significant market presence in the competitive Canadian fashion retail landscape.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Luxury-casual women’s fashion
- Number of Locations: 68 across Canada
- Price Range: $$-$$$ ($50-$400)
- Size Range: XXS-XXL (00-16)
- Collections: Multiple in-house brands
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $150, flat rate $8
Product Categories
- Contemporary casual wear
- Professional attire
- Outerwear
- Exclusive brand collections:
- Wilfred (contemporary feminine)
- Babaton (professional wear)
- TNA (athleisure)
- Sunday Best (youthful styles)
- Super World (super puff jackets)
Special Features
- Clientele program with personalized styling
- Special order program
- Digital client services
- Style advisors in every store
- Sustainable packaging initiatives
- 14-day price adjustment policy
Location Coverage
- Major presence in:
- British Columbia
- Ontario
- Alberta
- Quebec
- Concentrated in urban centers
- Flagship stores in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal
Price Examples (Based on current retail data)
- T-shirts and tops: $40-$110
- Dresses: $98-$228
- Pants: $98-$178
- Blazers: $178-$298
- Super Puff jackets: $250-$350
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- High-quality materials
- Exclusive designs
- Consistent sizing
- Professional styling services
- Strong online presence
- Canadian design focus
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited plus-size options
- Primarily urban locations
- Limited sale events
#3. RW&CO
Among the top Canadian clothing stores, RW&CO operates as part of Reitmans Canada Limited since 1982 stands out among Canadian clothing brands, maintaining 80+ locations nationwide.
Their 2023 market data shows strong performance in workwear and smart casual categories, with significant growth in their women’s division, which has become a key focus for the brand.
While RW&CO also offers men’s collections, this emphasis on women’s fashion sets them apart from more traditional clothing brands.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Contemporary fashion retail
- Number of Locations: 80+ across Canada
- Price Range: $$-$$$ ($40-$250)
- Size Range: 0-14 (XS-XL)
- Collections: Work, Casual, Occasion wear
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $100
Product Categories
- Professional attire
- Smart casual wear
- Denim collection
- Occasion wear
- Accessories
- Outerwear
- Eco-conscious collection
Special Features
- Style & Co. Rewards Program
- Business casual expertise
- Corporate sales program
- Virtual styling appointments
- Size guide technology
- Regular promotional events
- Location Coverage
- Present in major shopping centers:
- 35% Ontario
- 25% Quebec
- 20% Western Canada
- 20% Atlantic Canada
- Prime mall locations
- Urban center focus
Price Examples (Current retail prices)
- Blouses: $49.90-$89.90
- Suits: $198-$298
- Dresses: $89.90-$159.90
- Pants: $69.90-$89.90
- Outerwear: $149.90-$249.90
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Quality workwear
- Modern professional styles
- Regular promotions
- Consistent sizing
- Strong online platform
Cons:
- Limited size range
- Higher price point
- Fewer suburban locations
- Seasonal stock limitations
#4. Addition Elle (Now part of Penningtons)
Following a 2020 restructuring, Addition Elle operates through Penningtons with 80+ locations nationwide.
This plus-size specialist maintains its distinct identity while sharing retail space with Penningtons, according to their 2023 retail strategy report.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Plus-size women’s fashion
- Number of Locations: 80+ (within Penningtons)
- Price Range: $-$$ ($25-$150)
- Size Range: 12-32 (L-6X)
- Collections: Casual, Work, Intimate
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $75
Product Categories
- Contemporary plus-size fashion
- Professional wear
- Casual collections
- Intimates
- Activewear
- Swimwear
- Accessories
Special Features
- Plum Rewards integration
- Fit specialists in-store
- Extended size offerings
- Regular promotional events
- Size-inclusive marketing
- Comfort-focused designs
#5. Dynamite
Part of Groupe Dynamite and rated as one of the best clothing stores for women in Canada, this Montreal-based retailer operates 115 standalone locations across Canada as of 2024.
Financial reports indicate strong digital growth, with online sales representing 30% of total revenue in 2023, showing their successful adaptation to modern shopping preferences.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Young women’s contemporary fashion
- Number of Locations: 115 in Canada
- Price Range: $-$$ ($20-$120)
- Size Range: XXS-XL (00-14)
- Collections: Casual, Party, Office wear
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $50
Product Categories
- Trend-focused apparel
- Office essentials
- Evening wear
- Denim collection
- Basic essentials
- Accessories
- Footwear
Special Features
- DynamiteStyle Rewards
- Student discount (15% off)
- Try before you buy online
- Mobile app shopping
- Same-day delivery in select cities
- Sustainability initiatives
Location Coverage
- Major presence in:
- Quebec (35%)
- Ontario (30%)
- Western Canada (25%)
- Atlantic Canada (10%)
- Shopping mall locations
- Urban center focus
Price Examples (Current retail prices)
- Tops: $25.95-$49.95
- Dresses: $39.95-$79.95
- Pants: $39.95-$59.95
- Blazers: $69.95-$89.95
- Denim: $49.95-$69.95
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable trend pieces
- Weekly new arrivals
- Regular promotions
- Fast shipping
- Strong digital presence
Cons:
- Limited size range
- Variable quality
- Quick turnover of styles
- Primarily mall-based
#6. Laura
Operating since 1930, Laura maintains 150+ locations across Canada through its combined Laura and Melanie Lyne banners.
According to 2023 retail data, the chain focuses on professional women aged 35-65.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Women’s classic fashion
- Number of Locations: 150+ combined
- Price Range: $$-$$$ ($50-$300)
- Size Range: 2-18
- Collections: Professional, Casual, Evening
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $150
Product Categories
- Professional attire
- Special occasion wear
- Casual collections
- Evening wear
- Outerwear
- Accessories
- Petite collection
Special Features
- Laura Rewards Program
- Personal styling services
- Alterations available
- Special orders
- Extended sizes in select styles
- Professional wardrobe consulting
Price Examples (Current retail prices)
- Blouses: $69-$129
- Suits: $199-$299
- Dresses: $129-$249
- Pants: $89-$129
- Evening wear: $149-$299
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Quality materials
- Classic styles
- Professional focus
- In-store services
- Canadian design team
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Conservative styling
- Limited young fashion
- Fewer casual options
#7. Garage
Among the major ladies clothing stores in Canada, Garage, a subsidiary of Groupe Dynamite, operates 195 stores across Canada as of 2024.
Their retail presence caters to the Gen Z market segment, focusing on casual wear and denim collections.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Young women’s casual fashion
- Number of Locations: 195 Canadian stores
- Price Range: $ ($15-$80)
- Size Range: XXS-XL (00-13)
- Collections: Casual, Denim, Athleisure
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $50
Product Categories
- Denim collection
- Casual wear
- Loungewear
- Activewear
- Basics
- Seasonal collections
- Accessories
Special Features
- GaragePremier Rewards
- Student discount (15%)
- Digital fit guide
- Mobile app shopping
- Buy online, pickup in-store
- Social media integration
Location Coverage
Distribution by region:
- Ontario: 35%
- Quebec: 30%
- Western Canada: 25%
- Atlantic Canada: 10%
- Premium mall locations
Price Examples (Current retail prices)
- T-shirts: $14.95-$24.95
- Jeans: $39.95-$59.95
- Hoodies: $29.95-$49.95
- Dresses: $29.95-$39.95
- Jackets: $49.95-$79.95
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Strong denim selection
- Frequent promotions
- Trend-focused
- Active social presence
Cons:
- Limited size range
- Youth-only styles
- Quick fashion turnover
- Variable quality
#8. Northern Reflections
Founded in 1985, Northern Reflections maintains 135 locations across Canada.
Their 2023 market data shows strong performance in casual wear and Canadian-designed collections.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Women’s casual wear
- Number of Locations: 135
- Price Range: $$ ($30-$120)
- Size Range: XS-3X
- Collections: Casual, Seasonal, Comfort wear
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $100
Product Categories
- Casual clothing
- Seasonal collections
- Canadian-designed items
- Comfort wear
- Basic essentials
- Outerwear
- Accessories
Special Features
- Northern Perks Rewards
- Seasonal catalogues
- Size inclusive options
- Canadian design focus
- Regular promotional events
- Comfort guarantee
Price Examples (Current retail prices)
- Tops: $29.99-$59.99
- Pants: $39.99-$69.99
- Sweaters: $49.99-$89.99
- Outerwear: $79.99-$129.99
- Accessories: $19.99-$49.99
Location Coverage
- Strong presence in:
- Ontario (40%)
- Atlantic Canada (25%)
- Western Canada (20%)
- Quebec (15%)
- Suburban locations
- Small-town presence
#9. Tristan
Founded in Montreal in 1973, Tristan operates 40 boutiques across Canada.
Their 2023 fiscal reports highlight their commitment to Canadian manufacturing, with 30% of their collection produced locally.
The brand recorded steady growth in their contemporary women’s wear segment, particularly in sustainable fashion lines.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Contemporary women’s fashion
- Number of Locations: 40 across Canada
- Price Range: $$-$$$ ($60-$350)
- Size Range: 0-16
- Collections: Professional, Contemporary, Eco-conscious
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $100, flat rate $12
Product Categories
- Professional attire
- Contemporary casual wear
- Eco-conscious collection
- Made in Canada line
- Evening wear
- Outerwear
- Accessories
- Premium denim
Special Features
- Tristan Rewards Program
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Canadian manufacturing focus
- Professional styling services
- Size advisor technology
- 30-day return policy
- Alteration services
Location Coverage
- Major presence in:
- Quebec (50%)
- Ontario (30%)
- Western Canada (20%)
- Urban center focus
- Premium mall locations
- Flagship stores in Montreal and Toronto
Price Examples (Based on current retail data)
- Blouses: $60-$120
- Dresses: $120-$250
- Pants: $98-$150
- Blazers: $198-$298
- Outerwear: $250-$350
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Canadian manufacturing
- High-quality materials
- Professional styling
- Sustainable practices
- Classic designs
- Consistent sizing
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Limited store locations
- Restricted size range
- Limited casual options
#10. Melanie Lyne
Operating under the Laura Canada umbrella, Melanie Lyne maintains 35 dedicated locations across Canada.
Their 2023 market data shows strong performance in luxury ready-to-wear and occasion wear categories, with significant growth in their personal styling services.
Store Specifications
- Store Category: Upscale women’s fashion
- Number of Locations: 35 standalone stores
- Price Range: $$$-$$$$ ($100-$500)
- Size Range: 2-18
- Collections: Luxury, Professional, Evening wear
- Online Shopping: Yes
- Shipping: Free over $250
Product Categories
- Designer collections
- Professional attire
- Formal wear
- Evening gowns
- Luxury casual wear
- Premium outerwear
- Designer accessories
- Special occasion wear
Special Features
- VIP Rewards Program
- Personal styling suite
- Private shopping appointments
- Premium alteration services
- Special order program
- Event dressing services
- Style workshops
Location Coverage
- Presence in:
- Ontario (40%)
- Quebec (35%)
- Western Canada (15%)
- Atlantic Canada (10%)
- Premium retail locations
- Upscale shopping centers
- Flagship boutiques in major cities
Price Examples (Current retail prices)
- Designer tops: $100-$250
- Evening dresses: $250-$500
- Suits: $400-$600
- Designer pants: $150-$300
- Premium outerwear: $300-$800
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Luxury brands
- Premium quality
- Personal service
- Expert alterations
- Exclusive designs
- Professional styling
Cons:
- Premium pricing
- Limited locations
- Selective inventory
- Formal focus
How Can the Best Canadian Women’s Clothing Stores Benefit You?
Shopping at these established Canadian retailers offers several distinct advantages that go beyond just buying clothes.
According to 2023 retail statistics, 67% of Canadian women prefer shopping at these stores due to their understanding of Canadian weather needs, sizing preferences, and lifestyle requirements.
Key Benefits
Benefit Category | Advantages | Notable Stores |
---|---|---|
Climate-Appropriate | • Four-season clothing options | Aritzia, Northern Reflections |
• Canadian-designed winter wear | Tristan | |
• Temperature-rated outerwear | RW&CO | |
Financial | • Canadian dollar pricing | All stores |
• No import fees | All stores | |
• Local returns/exchanges | All stores | |
Sizing Consistency | • Canadian-specific sizing | Reitmans, Addition Elle |
• True-to-size measurements | Laura, Melanie Lyne | |
• Extended size ranges | Addition Elle |
Practical Advantages:
1. Local Accessibility
- 85% of Canadians live within 30 minutes of at least three of these retailers
- Free in-store returns and exchanges
- Try-before-you-buy capability
- Same-day availability for urgent needs
2. Canadian-Specific Features
- Professional wear suited to Canadian office culture
- Weatherproof clothing tested for Canadian winters
- Size ranges adapted to Canadian body types
- Bilingual customer service
3. Economic Benefits
- Loyalty programs with Canadian partners
- Local employment support
- Canadian economy contribution
- Domestic shipping rates
Customer Support Statistics (2023):
- 92% offer bilingual customer service
- 89% provide free returns to store
- 78% offer Canadian-specific sizing guides
- 85% maintain Canadian-based customer service centers
These retailers understand unique Canadian needs such as:
- Temperature fluctuations requiring layering options
- Professional wear suitable for Canadian workplace culture
- Casual wear aligned with Canadian lifestyle
- Size ranges reflecting Canadian demographics
Additionally, these stores contribute to:
- Local employment (over 50,000 retail jobs)
- Canadian fashion industry growth
- Sustainable shopping practices
- Community involvement through local initiatives
Expert Insight: According to the Retail Council of Canada’s 2023 report, shopping at Canadian retailers results in 15-20% savings on average compared to international retailers when considering exchange rates, duties, and shipping costs.
Conclusion
Shopping at Canadian women’s clothing stores offers a unique blend of practicality, style, and local understanding.
From Reitmans’ accessibility to Melanie Lyne’s luxury offerings, these retailers cater to diverse needs while considering Canadian lifestyle, weather, and fashion preferences.
The combined network of over 1,200 stores nationwide ensures that quality fashion remains accessible to Canadian women of all ages, sizes, and style preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which Canadian store offers the best value for professional wear?
RW&CO offers the best value for professional wear, with quality business attire at mid-range prices ($40-$250). Reitmans provides more budget-friendly options, while Tristan and Melanie Lyne offer premium quality at higher price points.
What are the best plus-size options among Canadian retailers?
Addition Elle (now part of Penningtons) specializes in plus sizes 12-32. Reitmans also offers an extensive size range (0-22), while Northern Reflections provides options up to 3X.
Do these stores offer online shopping with free returns?
Yes, all mentioned retailers offer online shopping. Most provide free returns to stores, while some like Aritzia and Melanie Lyne offer free return shipping above certain purchase thresholds.
Which stores are best for seasonal weather-appropriate clothing?
Northern Reflections and Tristan excel in Canadian-designed seasonal wear. Aritzia’s Super Puff line is notably popular for winter wear, while RW&CO offers good transitional pieces.
How do loyalty programs compare between these retailers?
Most stores feature points-based systems offering specific benefits: Reitmans provides 1 point per $1 with a $5 reward per 2000 points, RW&CO offers 10 points per $1 with various tier benefits, Dynamite/Garage gives 5 points per $1 along with birthday rewards, and Laura/Melanie Lyne offers a VIP program with exclusive perks.
What are the best options for young professionals on a budget?
Dynamite and RW&CO offer trendy professional wear at moderate prices. Reitmans provides budget-friendly options, while Aritzia offers higher-quality investment pieces.
Do these stores offer alterations services?
Several stores offer alteration services: Laura and Melanie Lyne provide full-service alterations, Tristan offers basic alterations, RW&CO offers services at select locations, and Aritzia provides hemming services at certain stores.
How do size conversions work between these Canadian retailers?
While each store may have slight variations, most follow the standard Canadian sizing; it’s recommended to check individual store size guides, use provided measurement charts, consider trying sizes in-store first, and read customer reviews for fit accuracy.
What are the best options for sustainable/eco-friendly fashion?
Several retailers have implemented sustainable initiatives, such as Tristan’s 30% Canadian-made products, Aritzia’s sustainable materials program, RW&CO’s eco-conscious collection, and Reitmans’ sustainable packaging initiative.
How do seasonal sales compare between these retailers?
Major sales typically occur during End of season (January/July), Black Friday/Boxing Day, Mid-season (March/September), Holiday periods. However, Best deals are usually found at Reitmans, Dynamite, and Garage, with savings up to 70% off.