The Gents List

SPRINGMENS

The rays are back and Spring is definitely starting out with a burst of sunshine! At Rowan Sky, we’ve been stocking up on the latest items to keep you  on top of the trend spectrum this season. Start of with a pair of statement shades; Illesteeva Sunglasses are Handcrafted in France, and have a top-notch tinted lens. [...]

Spring Hit List

AprilShowers

“April Showers bring May Flowers”.. but there’s definitely a few disadvantages to the drizzly weather we tend to encounter with the change of season. Luckily we’re well prepared to conquer the rain and keep you looking great! It makes sense to start with a decent umbrella; Blunt Umbrellas come in a range of fun, bright colours, different [...]

Cheers to Green Beers!

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There are only so many days of the year that drinking starts at the crack of dawn; St. Patrick’s Day has to be my favourite. The streets always glowing with Green and Gold, beer served with breakfast, and festive shenanigans taking place downtown are always a hit. But does anyone REALLY know who this Saint Patrick [...]

Spring Ahead

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Hopefully everyone remembered to set their clocks ahead this morning!  Although I’m sure some of you could have used the extra hour of sleep (myself included), it doesn’t mean I’m any less excited to welcome in the new season. Only a few more days until Spring has officially arrived, and so has a whole new [...]

Pumped-Up Kicks

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No, we’re not talking about the most overplayed. mainstream track of 2012.. We’re talking Sneaker Wedges! It’s no surprise that the new twist on an old classic is stealing the spotlight this spring. These super- cute kicks make for a killer combination of comfort and class. From velcro, to laces, basics to bright colours; sneaker wedges [...]

Got a Blunt?

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Living in Vancouver, most of us think twice before leaving the house without being well equipped. The weather can take a drastic turn of events at any given time, and getting caught in the 10 minute mini-hurricane can but a damper on your whole day. But you don’t have to be a Vancouverite understand the [...]

Love Is In The Air..

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Cupid’s Arrow has found it’s way to Gastown, bringing you the very best in Valentines Day bliss! In spirit of the season, Biko Jewelry has created a line of Love-Day inspired pieces, only available in-stores at Rowan Sky! An array of Hearts, Paper Planes and the cutest little Lightning Bolts will be featured from now [...]

Sneak Into Style

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Freshen up, tone it down, or kick your New Years resolution into high gear.  Sneakers are totally trending right now! Whether your looking for something comfortable, classic, stylish or even a little lift, the sneaker fits into any wardrobe and it’s definitely here to stay. We’re already counting down the days until spring, and all [...]

Shoe Years Eve

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Theres only one way to ring in the new year ;  in a sexy pair of shoes; so what are you waiting for? Slip in to any of these sleek suggestions to add the perfect touch of glitz and glamour! 1. Candela Camilla in Black  2. Candela Gala Boot  3.Matt Bernson Jagger   4. Bloch [...]

Get High (Heeled!)

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The high-heeled shoe is one piece of footwear that has one of the longest histories that spans many cultures. Since the shoe has such a varied history it’s easy to see why the shoe is some what mysterious in its origins in spite of its prevalence. Add to that the modern political viewpoints that the [...]

What She Really Wants..

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Still shopping for the ladies on your list? Don’t fret; we’ve got you covered. From sleek heels to sparkly jewellery, our gift ideas are sure to leave her smiling!

Rowan Sky Wish List

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 ” The Best Way To Spread Christmas Cheer Is Singing Loud for All To Hear!!!!!”   Ok, so maybe we can spare the Christmas Carols, and just indulge in our favourite festive movies for now. But the truth of the matter is Christmas is quickly approaching. As the little ones would day, ‘only 15 more sleeps’ [...]

Fly like an Aigle

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Isn’t it odd that in a city as rainy as Vancouver it’s so hard to find a decent rain boot? Now, even though we here at RowanSky have you covered for that, not even 200 years ago you wouldn’t even be able to find a rubber boot. Talk about getting cold feet. The rubber boot (like [...]

Kaffee & Clutch

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 A GERMAN TEA PARTY @ RS / Kaffee & Clutch On Saturday December 8th, we would love for you to drop by Rowan Sky for a classic German tea party. Tea and treats will be served. Kaffee Clutch commences @ 3pm until it’s over. Homemade, so not to be confused with those store bought goodies [...]

All for One, and One for Mo’!

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  We’re nearing the end of the ever-so-popular month of November, or should I say ‘MOvember’. We’ve all come to love the spirit of the season; whether young or old, man or woman, we can all agree that rocking a well trimmed Moustache (real or not) is a fun, and rather entertaining way to generate [...]

A&U Holidays Shop-in-Shop Event

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Just in time for the holidays, we’re happy to bring back the ever-popular Aunts&Uncles shop-in-shop. Holiday is a time well spent with family and loved ones and what better way to do so with a great line of family friendly leather goods from Aunts&Uncles. Join us from November 22nd to December 24th and view all Aunts&Uncles [...]

The Big Decision feat. Rowan Sky

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For those of you who had a chance to tune in on the latest episode of CBC’s ‘The Big Decision’, you surely spotted a familiar face!  Rowan Sky was invited to guest star on the show this week as an expert to the Fashion Industry, in hopes to point a B.C based footwear company in [...]

Luke, I am your cobbler…

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What is a Chelsea boot? Put simply they are a slip on boot that has elastic siding. However, as simple as they are the Chelsea boot is one of the most iconic boots of all time and are worn now for fashion as well as for work. Chelsea boots are another example of how so [...]

Pretty On Point

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We are incredibly excited to introduce to you,  the latest addition to the Rowan Sky Family – Bloch London. Bloch began as a collection of handcrafted flats and point shoes. It was 1930 when Jacob Bloch first relocated to Sydney, Australia in hopes to pave a road to a brighter future for his family. Struggles of [...]

Oxford PhD

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Last but not least, following my posts on derby shoes and brogues, is the oxford shoe. It’s the third in what I consider the “Big Three” in terms of mens shoe terminology. Of course you can find women’s shoes now made in oxford and derby styles, with and without broguing, but to keep things simple [...]

Get In Line & Settle Down

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Back in July we got a little taste of what’s to come with “Settle Down”..but lets flash back to the Rock Steady days when I say that my impatience for No Doubt’s new CD has kept me In the  Waiting Room. The countdown is on; only a few more days until my 16 year-old self can [...]

Heavy Metal

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No, we’re not talking music, we’re talking trending. Metal bling accents are popping up everywhere, not and just in the jewelry department. I think it’s safe to say that this seasons ‘heavy set’ accessories are definitely here to stay. From bangles to backpacks, to jean jackets, this season is all about studding up and  unleashing your [...]

Crash Test (on) Derby

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Continuing on my educational journey, starting with my previous post on brogues, we’re going to talk a little bit about the derby style of shoe. As with brogues, derby shoes have their origins outside of fashion though they entered into common wear as a casual shoe in the beginning of the 20th century. These days [...]

Seeing Green

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With all vibrant reds, oranges and auburns, we’re definitely starting starting to loose sight of Summer shades. However, that doesn’t mean you should eliminate Green as a leading contender for this Falls hottest hues. We’re seeing the depth in everything from Olive, to Forest, to Military Green popping up in styles that suits anyone’s fall [...]

What’s Up Brogue?

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So much of our fashion, in both clothing and footwear, has origins that are either far more humble or sporty than we would imagine. Whether we’re talking about blazers or chelsea boots there’s a lot we wear now, even formally, that certainly would NOT have been appropriate as everyday wear not so long ago. One [...]

Looks to Leaf Them Breathless

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It’s that time of year again! The trees are rich with reds and oranges, the busses are busier than ever, students are swarming the streets in their latest back to school finds, and Starbucks infamous Pumpkin Spice Latte has returned- its definitely Fall!  Luckily for us the Sun is still shining, but Back-to-School Bliss is [...]

A Special Designer Drawing Attention

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This is Katie. Not only is this new and up-and-coming Fashion illustrator turning heads in the industry, her story sets her apart as an inspiration to us all. Katie Henderson is a was born with Down Syndrome, but  she has never let her condition hold her back. Instead, she pursued her dreams of becoming a [...]

#BTSS

Aunts & Uncles Pop-Up Shop

It seems to always end this way; the Summer weather finally decides to makes an appearance, and it’s already time to Fall back! The cool autumn tones are starting to catch our attention, and so is the buzz of back to school!  If you’re the type to see the glass half full- with new seasons [...]

Aunts & Uncles Shop in Shop @ RS

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Fall is just around the corner, it’s about that time again to embrace the change in seasons and welcome another school year. That’s why we’re hosting the perfect event to kick start the school year with our first Pop-Up Shop this Friday, August 17th, featuring European leather handbag line, aunts&uncles. We would love to introduce [...]

Go (Nearly) Barefoot

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You’ve probably heard a lot about this “barefoot running” and may not be entirely sure what to make of it. After all, aren’t running shoes supposed to prevent injury?! The short answer is that most running shoes don’t allow your arch to function the way nature designed it to. Putting extra support under a load [...]

McKayla Is Not Impressed

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After taking the silver medal for the vault competition, McKayla Maroney failed to hide her anger on the podium, which allowed photographers to capture her scowling expression that has now gone viral. Enjoy http://mckaylaisnotimpressed.tumblr.com  

Smooth Sealing

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When we think Vancouver, we think Fashion, Food, and…Forecast?  Yes, we’re referring to the weather, and if you live in this city, there is no escaping the dreary days. We can all agree that the the stretch to work or school can often pose a bit of a problem, especially if you’re lugging around a laptop, [...]

A Smarter Way to Urban Cycle

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Vancouver is becoming more and more cycle friendly which is a good thing all around: better for your health, the environment and, with so many bike routes to take, it’s fast! However, there are still some misgivings about urban cycling and urban cyclers in general. It’s not always the easiest for cyclists and motorists to [...]

the xx – Angels (Confect Remix)

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This English indie pop band is yet to release their second album, Coexist on September 11th. After their debut album in 2009, xx, I just could not wait for a second one. Angels is the first song they have leaked..so far so good!

ILLESTEVA- Made in Italy

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Founded in 2009. Illesteva glasses are designed in NY but handmade in France, Italy and Germany in concert with the world’s leading manufacturers of luxury eyewear. Illesteva pushes normal boundaries of design by exploring fresh shapes and materials like acetate, bamboo, wood, titanium and natural buffalo horn with each new frame design.

Silk Scarves by Milena Velez

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“A picture says a thousand words”; a familiar phrase that has been redefined  by the photographic talents of Milena Velez. Collaborating her formal training in Graphic Art and Motion Design, with her unique perspective on imagery, Milena Velez magnifies the beauty of Mother Nature through photography and fashion. Her ability to capture dramatic colour pallets, [...]

Camper Summer

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Camper is the living history of a family business from a great family of innovators, who for more than a century and involving four generations have dedicated themselves to the footwear industry. Camper was born in 1975. In order to fully understand the very core of Camper, its values and commitment, one has to go [...]

Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole

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Gentle Souls have the most innovative and unique footbeds that make their shoes extremely comfortable. The footbed is the fundamental piece in attaining comfort in their collection. It consists of layers that are strategically placed and have its own purpose in contributing to this patent-pending technology. Here’s a breakdown: Deer skin lining – supple and [...]

Our Mother’s Day Gift Guide

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Every mom enjoys accessories and a pair of shoes…or two. 1. TOMs Corbel Wedge  2. Repetto Baya Vernis  3. Biko Maia Necklace  4. Biko Leafdrops  5. Bensimon Tennis Lace Basic  6. aunts&unlces Mrs. Muffin  7. Biko Diamond Slice  8. Luxury Karla

The Monk Strap

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The casual dress shoe that replaces laces with a buckled in strap on the upper quater of the vamp. Although this style has been around for decades, the monk strap is slowly becoming more famous. Worn with a casual suit, or dressed down in denim, this little item is a must for any mans shoe [...]

Bensimon

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  When a line was made famous by style icons such as Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin, you know it’s on to something. Launched in the 1970s by Serge Bensimon, the line creates classic, simple and luxurious  footwear with the essence of Parisian style. Bensimon’s sophisticated, fashion-forward footwear has earned itself a cult following, while [...]

Shop Hop is Back!

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The Gastown Shop Hop is back for the Spring season! Come down Thursday, April 12th to shop, eat, drink, and enjoy exclusive in-store specials on tons of amazing brands and products. For one evening only, over 30 of Gastown’s stores and restaurants will have their doors open from 5-9 — shop and receive! Check out some [...]

Feel the Rhythm

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Super Broker Shuffle

Here We Go Vancouver.

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The Beatles – Here Comes the Sun

Blucher Shoe

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You likely own a pair of these and don’t even know it. Gehard Leberecht von Blucher, a Prussian Prince who led his army in war against Napoleon, was concerned about his soldiers feet. Apparently the men were having difficulty getting their boots on and off.  Blucher developed a type of leather “half-boot” consisting of two [...]

Fellin’ The Love

I Love You

This song makes me miss Summer

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Nicky Blitz – Alive

Bad Choices – Shout Out Out Out Out

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  The Siblings in association with the + Foundation and support from the Olio Festival present: “Bad Choices” by Shout Out Out Out Out Directed by A.J. Bond & Chris von Szombathy Shot by Amy Belling Edited by Adam Locke-Norton and A.J. Bond Featuring Claire Beaudette Special thanks to Tyler Greentree, PS Production Services, Janet [...]

Rebel Against The Rain

Aigle Aigletine, shown in Kaki and Coquelicot.  Reg. $199 Sale. $159 Made In France.

The rains of Vancouver have come pretty late this year, but the season is not over yet.  This is the perfect time of year to pick yourself up some rubber boots, as you will still be able get a few more months out of them before tucking them away for years to come. Lucky for you, [...]

Shoes to Ring into 2012

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the Lads 1. Tiger of Sweden Noah  2. Camper Soweto Woody Boot  3. Swear Vinnie13  4. BedStu Ellington  5. Tiger of Sweden Oscar22  6. Tiger of Sweden Franco the Lades 1. Vic Matie Due Pezzi Pelle Cinema  2. Matiko Shiloh  3. Repetto Gitane Chevre Velours  4. Repetto BB Ballerine  5. Matiko Jovanna Wedge  6. Luxury [...]

10 Trends We Hope to Never See Again..

We can’t agree more on Refinery29′s 10 Trends We Hope To NEVER See Again

Its A Christmas Par-tay!

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This year will be Rowan Sky’s very first Christmas in the Gastown neighbourhood, and we couldn’t be more excited.  To celebrate we are opening our doors for a little Christmas cocktail celebration.  Young and old alike are invited to unite at our store located at 334 West Cordova, on December 23rd, from five to nine [...]

Another F*cking Gift Guide

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Alright all you Merry Pranksters out there who still haven’t bought, let alone wrapped, those little treasures for the loved ones… Listen Up! Christmas is coming, like next week. Its alright though, you are in luck! In our always joyous and giving nature we decided to make your life a little easier with another f*cking [...]

Jingle Cats!

Way cooler than that punk Alvin and his merry gang of Chipmunk pranksters.

OTTER WAX – 100% Natural

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Are you constantly buying tins after tins of canvas and fabric wax in hopes of restoring your bag or denim’s originality and water repellency? And then only to end up in dissatisfaction with the chemical aromas and greasy feeling your products have been left with? Well, this is the exact same reason Chris established Otter Wax. This 100% [...]

Mahna Mahna

Grey Cup CULTure

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Vancouver is in the midst of its 4-day festival gearing up for the 99th Grey Cup Championship.  The Lions will be battling against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers this Sunday.  The sold out BC Place will be jammed packed with 52,511 screaming fans .  There has been some speculation as to whether a Lions loss would [...]

Eddie Murphy Will Not Host The Oscars

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  I don’t know about you, but I am extremely bummed out that Eddie Murphy will NOT be hosting the Oscars.    On the silver screen he is this energetic, boisterous character, while watching him on the television as a guest he holds a very calm and cool demeanour;  all the while maintaining such strong [...]

Ouch

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Just Watch & Wait…

Taking the Edge Off Christmas Shopping

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I have many a bad hobby.  I will let you in on two of them: The first, I frequently like to enjoy a glass (…bottle) of wine, and I love to shop (despite my growing Visa bill, and my “at least I have the interest covered” student loan). When these two are done in combination [...]