Vancouver shop talk: Qortezan
Most fashionistas-in-the-know are familiar with Edie Hats, the legendary Granville Island hat shop for finding everything from a trendy fedora or Panama hat to a cloche or wide-brimmed number suitable for the Sunday races. Little did we know, however, that its owner, Edie Orenstein, has always also dreamed of opening a store inspired by the great courtesans of history, who earned respect by virtue of their wit and sensuality. Enter Qortezan (1035 Mainland St., Vancouver, 604-685-7755, qortezan.com), a new, elegant Yaletown space
filled with dresses by B.C.-based Sympli (amongst other clothing and lingerie labels), alongside massage lotions and intimate toys and accessories. You won’t find any fluorescent lights or embarrassing snickers here, either—Orenstein’s aim with Qortezan is to inspire pleasure and empowerment, stating that conventional sex shops are “too overt” and unwelcoming.