Familiar Brands and One-of-a-Kind Pieces: The Best of Vancouver's Downtown Shopping

Ladies, and gentlemen, are no strangers to retail giant, Victoria's Secret and Vancouver is home to one of their flagship stores. This location boasts 35,000-square-feet of shopping bliss. Spread over two floors on the corner of Robson and Burrard, this is the largest Victoria's Secret in all of Canada. The space itself is feminine and luxurious, making lingerie shopping an extra treat. Upstairs is where you will find the majority of their bras, underwear, scents and make-up. Head downstairs for lounge wear, yoga gear and work out clothes, amongst other pretty treats. There is an abundant amount of inventory, which means that they will likely have the size you're looking for.

What started as a small hat shop in Quebec City in 1837, has turned into a nationwide empire that is a fashionista's idea of heaven. Vancouver's Holt Renfrew is attached to the Pacific Centre and is three levels of high-end designer apparel, accessories, make-up, shoes and jewels. With brands like Gucci, Christian Dior, D&G, Jimmy Choo, Louboutin, you've got to have some serious dough to spend. However, there are more mainstream brands like Marc Jacobs, William Rast and popular denim name brands that could possibly fit your budget. It may not be a place you can afford to shop all of the time, but it certainly doesn't hurt to take a gander through and gain some inspiration for your next wardrobe purchase, somewhere more affordable.

Stylish menswear with a contemporary touch attracts men of all ages to this leading men's retail shop. Harry Rosen carries business suits, casual wear, shoes and accessories, so whatever the occasion, Harry has you covered. The retail chain is almost 50 years old and carries designer lines like Armani, Hugo Boss, Dolce & Gabbana, Tom Ford and other sought after labels. For men that have a hard time finding a suit and shirt that fit just right, a trip to Harry Rosen will change that for you. Custom alterations will have your suit fitting like a glove. Though the store is not cheap, they have great sales!

The Pacific Centre covers three city blocks and offers an indoor shopping experience that comes in handy on those notoriously wet days in Vancouver. With some familiar brand names like The Gap, Guess, Hollister, Coach, Michael Kors and Sunglass Hut, mixed in with Canadian companies like The Hudson Bay Company's department store, there's no shortage of choice. Feeling peckish? There's a food court with plenty of choice that will certainly curb all cravings. From salads and sushi to pizza and Vietnamese, they've got you covered. The accessibility of this mall is perfectly located in the core of Vancouver and within walking distance of many hotels, buses and public transportation.

Looking for the perfect pair of jeans? Dutil Denim is the place to go. Specializing in mainly denim, Dutil has a huge stock to choose from. No matter what style, shade or brand you're looking for, they likely have just what you're after. Premium brands you can expect to find are Levi's, Rag + Bone, Nudie and Cheap Monday, plus other favorites. The service here is great and these guys will help you find the perfect fit for you. This Gastown gem has been around for years and it's a true testament to the quality of stock and service here.

Robson Street is downtown Vancouver's most popular shopping drag. Stretching from downtown into the city's West End, Robson has a wide range of stores. Familiar faces like The Gap, Zara, Forever 21, lululemon, BCBG and Club Monaco are staples along the street for men and women's apparel. You will also find shoe stores, sunglasses, souvenirs and jewelry shops along Robson. After all that shopping, take a load off at one of the many restaurants and tuck into a delicious meal. From sit down fine dining restaurants to quick and affordable take-out options, you definitely won't be going hungry. Robson Street is close to the city's main transportation hubs so it's easy to get to.

Located in the heart of Gastown, The Block has been a mainstay amongst Vancouver's trendsetters. Here, you'll find a solid selection of clothing, accessories, bags and jewelry made by international brands like Filippa K and NO. 6. Catering to both men and women, The Block makes his and her shopping a breeze. The Block was one of the first to set up shop in Gastown, and over the years it has continued to remain one of the best boutiques in the neighborhood. The price point isn't cheap, but these are pieces that'll hold a special spot in your capsule for the season.

Brooklyn Clothing is a well-stocked men's clothing and accessory store in Yaletown. Located in a trendy part of town, it's a great store to go to for fashionable men who appreciate solid brands without the big department store vibe. Whether you're looking for a pair of jeans, a shirt, a new jacket or leather man-bag, Brooklyn Clothing has got it all. This independent store provides helpful customer service and attention to detail. Treat yourself to well known brands like G-Star, Matt & Nat, Energie, Morphine Generation and Canada Goose jackets, to name just a few. It's unlikely you're going to leave here empty handed.

If you're looking for fashion inspired by Europe, Japan and NYC, head to Roden Gray. This awesome shop calls the cobblestone streets of Gastown home, and there really couldn't be a better locale for it. Step inside this contemporary store and prepare for a little retail therapy. The clothing is well laid out and the clean lines mixed with rich wood accents don't overwhelm so you can really focus on the clothing. The price point is definitely higher here, but you're getting quality and style. Find brands like Comme des Garcon, Wings+Horns, Nice Collective, Filson and many more. This men's store is one of the best in Vancouver and an ideal place to go for the man who has everything.

The Hudson's Bay Company can be dated all the way back to 1670, and it has evolved over time to keep up with their customers' needs. This location in downtown Vancouver on Granville St. and West Georgia St. is massive! They have just about everything you need for the home, your wardrobe, shoe collection, accessories, beauty products and more. They also carry affordable and high-end items, so no matter your budget, you will find something here. Within this department store is also the second largest TopShop, a trendy clothing chain from the United Kingdom. The department store is attached to the Pacific Centre and can be accessed from the street or inside the mall.