Are There Enough Canadian Designers?

Last week we had a comment on our Facebook saying,

“Habitat is American. Don’t we have enough Canadian designers? Elbows Up!”

Now, I think this topic deserves a bit more of a conversation.

I’ve been in retail for longer than I’m going to say on the internet and I’ve owned Three Wild Women for over 20yrs and we’ve never been in a situation quite like this.

The short answer to this comment is,

“No. There are not enough Canadian designers.”

What’s not being said is, that there’s not enough Canadian designers who:

- Are making clothing appropriate for our clients. 

- That is the pricepoint our shop has maintained. 

- Who offers the variety of sizing that we need.

And who’s not selling to my neighbours down the road.

That’s really the big one there.

With everything happening around the world right now in 2026, the other shops and I are all actively looking to shop more Canadian and Canadian Made. None of us however have exclusivity over one brand or another. Which means that I can carry a brand and so can my neighbour on the same street.

When our clients come to us, they’re looking for unique pieces that are well made, at a good price and that you can’t go next door and pick up.

That’s where we’re starting to see the problem.

You also have to keep in mind that the pieces I have in the shop now were ordered last year. They are mine until I sell them and then they are yours. The company, American or not, was paid last year when the order was placed and now they are Canadian owned.

I’m here and I’m always listening to your feedback and I will (and am!) looking for more Canadian designers to bring into Three Wild Women. For now, here are the Canadian brands we do have!

Joseph Ribkoff

Canadian Designed & Canadian Made
One of Canada's most iconic fashion houses, Joseph Ribkoff has been designing in Montreal since 1957. Known for flattering silhouettes, premium fabrics, and timeless style for women of all shapes and sizes.

Joseph is our go-to for just about everything. We love their eventwear, officewear and pants! 

Charlie B

 
Canadian Designed
Designed in the heart of Montreal's fashion district, Charlie B creates versatile, comfortable women's clothing that blends everyday wearability with modern style. A boutique favourite across Canada.

We love Charlie B for their casual pieces. They make great jeans, toppers, and dresses. We would recommend sizing down in their jeans. 

Lasania

Canadian Designed & Canadian Made
Designed and manufactured right in Montreal's garment district, Lasania creates fashion-forward pants and separates in an impressive range of sizes from 2 to 24. Truly Canadian, from sketch to stitch.

Lasania has been our go-to for work pants lately. They make a fabulous pull on pant that goes with everything and keeps your tummy free of any extra bumps.

Orange Fashion Village

 
Canadian Designed
Headquartered in Toronto and designing women's fashion since 1989, Orange Fashion Village is known for its bamboo clothing line, soft, eco-friendly, and incredibly comfortable.

We have a bunch of great linen pieces from them for the summer. They’re quite generous in their fits which is exactly what you want when you’re looking for a flowy top for summer. 

Pure Essence

 
Canadian Designed & Canadian Made
Made in Canada using natural fabrics with a big focus on bamboo and modal, Pure Essence combines fashion and quality without sacrificing comfort or fit.

We just brought in some new Pure Essence dresses that we actually bring in every year. They’re a great fit, perfect for the next season, and in a great bright colour. 

Dolcezza

 
Canadian Designed
Designed in Montreal, Dolcezza is wearable art. Each season's collection is inspired by original artwork from artists around the world, printed onto beautiful, natural-fabric separates.

They have been our showstopper this season. Every time we’ve put Dolcezza on the runway or walked out the door wearing one of their pieces, we’re getting stopped on the street. It really is a beautiful collection. 

Linen Luv

 
Canadian Designed
A brand built for women who love the ease and breathability of linen.

I personally have been living in the new Linen Luv green  tunic.

Suzie Blue

 
Canadian Company
A Canadian-owned, Ottawa-based business, Suzie Blue imports ethically and sustainably sourced jewellery and accessories handmade by artisans in Bali, Indonesia. Beautiful pieces with a conscience.

Suzie is very much for our boho gals. Her pieces make you feel like you should be on a beach. They’re flowy, they’re relaxed. Everything you want a summer piece to be. 

Yoga Jeans

 
Canadian Designed & Canadian Made
Handcrafted in their own factory in Saint-Côme-Linière, Quebec, Yoga Jeans are sustainably made, incredibly comfortable, and proudly Canadian through and through.

They do have stretch but I would buy your size in these! They stretch when you wear them a little bit but not as much as the Charlie B or the Wit and Wisdom. 

Jacqueline Kent

 
Canadian Designer
A Canadian designer known for sparkling accessories, unique jewellery, and gift-worthy pieces that add a touch of elegance and personality to any outfit.

If you’re looking for a gift for the woman who has everything, you should go with a Jacqueline Kent piece. They’re just beautiful.