Mango, another hot Spanish export, started the battle for the hearts (and wallets) of stylish Torontonians. We visited the first Mango store, opened recently in Sherway Garden.
Mango is not Zara. Period.
To Europeans Mango is what Le Chateau used to be to local fashionista before the Spanish and Swedish fashion brands started the expansion. It’s where you grab the hot dress in a rush before an unexpected party or a flimsy bright top to enliven a dull suit. In another words, it’s a heaven of impulsive buys. Which thanks to the prime quality of Mango workmanship last for years.
With a bit of nostalgia I am happy to admit: Mango (or MNG on their labels) has grown up.
The collection is stunning. Ecru section is epecially lovable, with flowing skirts (opposite to stiff embroidered pieces in each and every store window) and delicate two-toned blouses that you won’t give to charity at the end of the season.
Mango plays with layering a lot this season, offering transparent blouses to be worn under cropped cardigans. The muted light colors and elementary lines prevail.
Byzantino part of the collection pays homage to the gypsy chic with rich metallic embroidered arabesques and crocheting. Aged metal rules in accessories and jewellery. Gipsy part plays with flowing shiffon in oversize blouses and matching bikini tops in Roberto Cavalli way. Again, nothing too obvious – these clothes will live with you happily even after this folk craze goes away.
The design of the new store is sleek and contemporary, but not in a cheap way when you go for white and throw in some metal hangers. In Mango store unusually wide windows, black hardwood floors and shockingly alive mannequins make the shopping for a colorful tee an rich and opulent experience.
The price range is reasonable, with only few items going above the hundred-dollar mark.
Must-haves: hand-made crocheted cardigans, slim crocheted scarves, white cotton skirts with lace and intricate layering.
Mango currently has over 700 stores in 73 countries. Among Mango’s last international openings are prestigious cities such as London (Regent St. and Oxford St.), Vienna (Kärntnerstr.) and Paris (Rue Rennes or Rue de Rivoli).
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