While founding her namesake luxury outerwear brand from Queen Street cafés a few years ago, Indigenous fashion designer Lindsay King looked to the city’s vibrant energy — and its style-conscious dwellers — as key influences.
“As soon as the cooler weather hits, the streets are filled with people wearing tailored top coats,” she says of our unmistakable jacket season. “I love how Toronto’s style leans high fashion. I’m inspired to create pieces that reflect that esthetic.”
Next up for King? Debuting her latest collection at Fashion Art Toronto on Nov. 14th as one of the winners of its Myles Sexton Breakout Talent Awards. Expect meaningful pieces that combine advocacy — King’s social work career with Indigenous children and families spanned 20 years — and a focus on luxe textiles and fit.
The weekend lunch spot
Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar, 894 Queen St. W.
“I absolutely love plant-based Fresh on Queen and Crawford. They have the cutest outdoor patio that’s partially covered and heated in the winter. My go-to dish is the Beach Bowl — a bed of brown rice, topped with grilled greens, avocado, sweet potato, vegan feta and micro greens. I spent an entire year here working on my brand start-up during the pandemic.”
The Friday night post-work resto
RH Courtyard Restaurant, 3401 Dufferin St.
“I spend a lot of time at Yorkdale shopping for looks to shoot with my outerwear collection and RH is where I unwind from the week afterwards. It’s a really elevated experience with their luxe decor — a great place to meet friends. I always get their baby gem salad with buttermilk herb dressing and truffle fries.”
The sunny walk
Humber Bay Arch Bridge, Martin Goodman Trail
“After a week spent working in Toronto’s fashion industry, a walk along the lakeshore boardwalk is my favourite way to decompress. The collective energy from all the people running and cycling on this path is uplifting. I’ll often stop at the Humber Bay Arch Bridge — the lake view combined with the city skyline is picturesque.”
The go-to coffee shop
Café 23, 728 Queen St. W.
“I get lost in thought every time I visit Café 23 — the European esthetic makes me feel like I’m travelling abroad. I’ve spent hours working on my brand while sipping Sencha green tea and eating Montréal-style bagels with cream cheese. The owner is super lovely and the baristas are amazing!”
The hidden gem vantage point
Polson Pier, 11 Polson St.
“When she was a teenager, my daughter convinced me to take her to Polson Pier near Cherry Beach — I never knew it existed. The best time to visit is during sunset when the sun rays hit the tops of the buildings downtown. It’s an amazing spot to sit by the water and contemplate life.”
The midday pick-me-up
Le Gourmand, 152 Spadina Ave.
“The famous chocolate chip cookie at Le Gourmand is so satisfying when a craving hits. I love them for their slight crisp on the outside edges and soft inside. I usually order a half dozen to go to bring to my family for a treat.”
The relaxation-inducing staycation
One King West Hotel & Residence, 1 King St. W.
“When I want to treat myself, I book in at One King West for two nights. The hotel is nestled in a stunning heritage building with dreamy views, plush beds, exceptional room service and Instagram-worthy photo spots. Plus, there’s a special suite that you can request in the new tower section where you get a panoramic view of the CN Tower, Lake Ontario and the east.”
