LYNNsteven is a women’s clothing boutique in the heart of the historic Vancouver neighbourhood of Gastown. Here you’ll find some of fashion’s hottest labels such as McGinn, LINE, James Perse, Granted, Mackage, Corey Lynn Calter, Parker, Gorjana & more.
We sat down with her to talk about her boutique, life and Vancouver.
What’s the story behind how LYNNsteven got started?
I had worked in the retail/fashion industry for over 20 years and had always wanted to open my own boutique. After opening new stores and working in management for a couple of large brands I got a little disillusioned and wanted to see if there was something else out there for me. A brief stint working for a financial advisor taught me the office environment wasn’t for me and that it was time to take a leap of faith and open LYNNsteven.
How would you describe a typical LYNNsteven customer?
I love our customers! We have a really diverse client base. We have young women looking for grad dresses to fashion-forward women looking for something unique to add to their wardrobe. We try to keep a great balance of quality staples and funky, edgy pieces.
What’s the most unique thing about LYNNsteven
In terms of fashion, I think we work really hard to bring in unique lines that are not found everywhere in the city, plus we love to support Canadian designers. In terms of the space I would have to say our fitting room made out of 6000 paperback books. It’s been a conversation piece since day one, and even made an appearance in Interior Design Magazine when the store won a couple of design awards.
What’s the best thing about living in Vancouver?
The ocean, the mountains and our amazing food scene.
What are some other local stores, brands, or designers Vancouverites should look out for and support?
We’re big fans of local designer Nicole Bridger, she has her own shop on West 4th. Plus we love the PARTYSKIRTS girls with their fun fashion staple – the PARTYSKIRT of course. We’re proud to have been early supporters of amazing Canadian talent whose lines have since exploded such as Ilia, Fortnight and Ela Handbags, and we know that PARTYSKIRTS is well on its way!
What can we expect from LYNNsteven in the next 5 years?
Tough to say, a lot can happen in 5 years. I know we will continue to work hard at finding amazing new lines for the shop, and perhaps we’ll branch out and do our own private label at some point. And since I just had a baby perhaps we’ll bring in some baby products that complement the rest of our lines. There is some cool maternity wear out there that you can’t find anywhere in Vancouver.
On your lunch break, where do you go?
Having the shop in Gastown there are so many choices. When I want to be healthy, I head to the Juice Truck for an Avocado and Pineapple smoothie and a Culver City Salad. A soup from Salty Tongue is perfect on a rainy day.
Favorite person of all time? Why?
My Mom! She raised me and my little brother all by herself after losing my Dad suddenly when I was young. She is the most independent, strong woman I know and I love her dearly. That is why the shop is called LYNNsteven, after my Mom and little brother.
What is your favorite quote?
“Work hard and be nice to people”
Shopkeepers, Kathy (left) and Maggie (right) from LYNNsteven
Next month for RUNWAY episode 3 we’ll be featuring PONY Salon, and don’t forget to check out last month’s feature on Erin Templeton.
Photography by: Matthew Chen Photography (@mattchenphoto)
Location: Hotel Georgia
LYNNsteven
225 Carrall Street
Vancouver, British Columbia
Phone: (604) 899-0808
Store Hours:
Mon – Sat: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
Sun: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
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