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Thunder Bay Lifestyle Gift Guide: Fashion

Thunder Bay’s fashion scene is full of hidden gems, thanks to the small businesses who put so much heart (and impeccable taste) into what they bring to the city. Whether you’re shopping for a trendsetter or someone that could live in activewear, these local shops have curated thoughtful finds that make holiday giftting a breeze.

J.B. Evans: For Stocking Stuffers, Classics, & “Whoa, where’d you get that?” Gifts

If you want gifts that feel classic, premium, and full of Thunder Bay history, J.B. Evans is a must-stop. Open since 1912 (so basically forever), this family run Westfort icon has mastered the art of outfitting generations. The store is stacked with gifts both big and small, and the best kept secret? The accessories section is THE place for stocking stuffers that people actually want.

Stocking Filler Hits:

Scotch & Soda Leather & Wool Gloves – A staple in any wardrobe. These gloves are warm, timeless, and the perfect “I thought this through” gift.

Secrid Miniwallet – Compact in size but large in storage making it super functional, and made to last. It’s the kind of wallet someone will rave about for years and fits in every pocket.

Camp Socks – Ridiculously cozy, and pure Canadiana vibes. These are perfect for every day use in the winter (and they actually keep your feet warm!) This is the rare sock gift that’s actually exciting.

Glerups – A go-to gift year round. The softest, warmest, comfiest wool slippers you’ll ever wear. They are meant to be worn sockless and the more you wear them, the more they mould to your feet. Truly feels like you’re walking on clouds. Great for camp too!

Jenny-Bird Monogram Necklace- A perfect idea for personalized gifting from A to Z. Basically if you want a gift that feels thoughtful without guessing someone’s ring size, this is the move.

J.B. Evans is also where you’ll find the ever so popular Canada Goose brand. You know those iconic jackets that keep you toasty through Thunder Bay winters that feel like mini Arctic expeditions? They have a variety of styles and colours.

KWIK.CO: For the Gym-Goer, Wellness Guru, or anyone who refuses to wear jeans in winter

KWIK.CO is the Thunder Bay activewear brand you need on your radar. Sibling-owned, ultra functional, and ridiculously comfortable, this brand makes pieces that people become obsessed with. Sure, everyone owns workout clothes, but very few people own workout clothes that make them go: “OMG. I never want to take this off.” That’s the KWIK effect.

What to Gift:

FORM Collection Sets – The Ruby collection brings the holiday look without screaming “holiday.” It includes halter bra, leggings, and a zip-up. The FORM sets also come in neon (Electric Pink and Electric Green). Ask anyone: wearing fun colours does make workouts better.

Sweat Suits- Equal parts comfy and actually useful. The coziest fabric perfect for lounging, layering for a winter walk, running out in a hurry, or just looking cute for no reason. Includes matching hoodies and sweatpants.

Whether your person is hiking, hitting the gym, stretching, or just chilling on the couch rewatching The Holiday, KWIK is the “I’ll wear this every day” kind of gift. And bonus: buying from KWIK means you just made two local business owners’ day. Double bonus: Leggings and shorts are completely squat proof and stay exactly where they should during any athletic movements you try! (This is crucial).

The Loop: For the shopper who wants a stress-free experience

If you want a gift that feels thoughtful, chic, and zero percent chaotic, The Loop is your spot. This cozy corner boutique has been serving Thunder Bay since 2006, and every piece is handpicked by Beth, and it shows.

Walking into Loop is like stepping into your stylish best friend’s closet. Warm atmosphere, beautiful displays, curated racks… it’s a great shopping experience that everyone deserves over the holiday season.

Gift Ideas to Snag:

Cozy sweaters are the love language of December…and January, February, AND March (maybe even April)…so it’s truly the gift that keeps on giving. This sweater flys off the shelves for a reason:

Echo Verde Knitwear- Dog Walker Sweater – The comfiest, softest winter staple, ideal for dog walks. With ribbed neck and cuffs, its Vancouver-designed using recycled poly, organic cotton, cashmere blends… eco-friendly AND gorgeous. This sweater comes in one-size, making it SUPER easy to gift

Also for anyone who lives for the glitter and a little extra sparkle, this is THE place. From sequin dresses, to gemstone boots, there are gifs for anyone who’s living that Life of a Showgirl era. So much glam for the holiday season.

STONY: For the fashion-forward golfer (or wannabe golfer)

STONY is where golf apparel gets a glow up. Born in Thunder Bay, their mission is to bring a refined meets rugged northern energy to Canadian golf fashion. Even if your giftee has no idea where their clubs are, STONY pieces are stylish enough to wear literally anywhere. Think lake life meets elevated casual meets “yes, I will take a Caesar.”

Top Picks:

Coastal Snapback Hat– Features precision laser-cut panels for airflow when things heat up. Stylish on the course, at work, or grabbing drinks at Madhouse.

Polo– Some feature fun wallpaper-esque prints (hello fishies!), while others keep things classic with crisp solids. Made with breathable, lightweight performance fabric that has wicking technology and custom STONY buttons. This is the shirt that won’t ever go out of style and is made to last. It’s a forever shirt.

Anything STONY is gifting gold for those who appreciates durable, versatile, Northern inspired fashion.

These Thunder Bay’s local shops offer gifts for every price range from $20 to $500 (and beyond) that deliver personality, practicality, and major style points. So skip the big-box chaos, support some incredible small businesses, and treat your people (and maybe yourself…) to gifts they’ll actually use and love. Happy shopping!

Amanda Bay