Vancouver Fashion eZine - Online Magazine | Vancouver Retail

Gastown, full of charm, character and a sense of history hardly found elsewhere in Vancouver, lends itself perfectly to the counter-culture shopping for which it is known and adored.

These characteristics are what attracted Michelle Rizzardo to open her first of two stores three years ago; One of a Few followed by Two of a Few. "The area fits the mentality of the stores", comments the graceful and bubbly owner. Full of charm herself, Rizzardo explains that although she has been in retail since she was fifteen, tackling roles from manager to buyer, owning her own store was never her main focus.

With a degree in Psychology, a stint teaching English in Taiwan and almost embarking upon a Masters in Business Administration, Rizzardo shifted her course. She opened One of a Few followed by Two of a Few just two years later.

Both stores are unique and adventurous, offering shoppers long-term wear-ability over disposable trends. For Rizzardo clothing is art and that can be seen in the beautiful array of local and international designers displayed throughout both stores.

The boxy elegance of a Grey Ant shirt or the youthful appeal of an Isabelle Dunlop strapless number, all encompass her adoration for things of beauty. Rizzardo also offers home décor items like candles or pillows all chosen through her appreciation for the artist behind them. Stephanie Butler's and Julie Morstad's pillows are a perfect example of this.

Both stores offer jewelry, all of which are local designers, and a fantastic collection of unique footwear. To finish off your new outfit she has eco-conscious recycled leather bags by Ashley Watson, another local talent.

When asked if she buys with herself in mind Rizzardo explains that by following her creative instinct more often she buys with current customers in mind. That well tuned sense of style led Rizzardo into a collaboration with long-term friend and designer Dace Moore, of Dace Apparel. Together, they launched the Two of a Few in-house line, Nine.

Nine, never using synthetics but exclusively choosing natural fibers like cottons, is an eclectic label satisfying both designers' creative and artistic cravings. Its designs are what they want and cannot find elsewhere. This esthetic has ranged from classic to edgy and from tailored to simple. This summer we will see an introduction of dipped dyed pieces presented in a carefree cute persona.

So what does the future hold for a very busy Rizzardo? She's enjoying the now and will see what presents itself next. Rizzardo does look forward to the future with a very thankful glance back to everyone that has supported her and her stores along the way. "I am thankful for the roots, the people that helped this all start".

Her next adventure is another international buying trip, leaving us all to wait with great anticipation.

Visit One of a Few at 354 Water Street, with Two of a Few right next door, and discover all these great finds.