location: 287 Davenport Road
phone number: 416.925.2603
hours: Mon–Fri:11am-7pm; Sat: 11am-6pm; Sun:closed or by appointment.
payment methods: Cash, debit, Visa, MasterCard, AmEx
directions: From Bloor St. W and Avenue Rd. go north, turn right on Davenport. In between Avenue and Befdord Road.

“Sorry the picture isn’t up to par with our regular reviews… The Princess doesn’t care for paparazzi.
This may in fact mean that we are the riff-raff…”

A little farther away from the bustle of the Bloor St./Yorkville core, yet close enough to retain the location’s upscale mien, The Paper Bag Princess exists in a world of its own. Having to ring a doorbell at the entrance and read a note that reserves the right to refuse entry to customers can intimidate (it’s never pleasant to wonder if you might be the riff-raff), but the store’s pristine collection of secondhand designer pieces might be worth the anxiety. Plus, with its charming décor of pink Persian rugs, chandelier lighting and ornate bowls of sweets on the glass counters, PBP is a lot friendlier once you get inside. This Toronto arm of a Beverly Hills vintage hotspot boasts a dream closet of vintage and contemporary pieces in every clothing category. From boots to belts, coats to cocktail dresses, though the list is familiar, the prices are decidedly higher than the average vintage store.

At Paper Bag Princess, you’re paying for the best. The average price range of cocktail dresses from the 40’s to 80’s can run from $300 to $500. Dolce and Gabbana, Dior, Escada and Pucci pieces line the store’s neatly organized racks. Go for the gold and accessorize with 60’s Pucci printed silk scarves ($395) or sunglasses ($895), or peruse the racks of leather flats and boots by Gucci and Prada, among others. Seasonal sale racks offer somewhat more wallet-welcome options at 70% off the ticketed price on assorted coats and dresses. A small selection of men and children’s wear is also available at the back of the store.

The Paper Bag Princess’ clientele of stylists and celebrities come for more than just the clothes. The super knowledgeable and helpful staff can offer one-on-one consultations if you want to shell out for the star experience. Even if you can’t afford it, this store offers a fantastic chance to see some rare and swoon-worthy vintage up close. But make sure your hands are clean – and mind your manners.
Chantal Braganza