Vancouver Fashion eZine - Online Magazine

When one looks up the word 'lark' in a dictionary, many varied definitions can be found. From songbird to mischief, and even a traditional Chinese bicycle, this noun has many faces. But none of them fit the concept behind Lark boutique as perfectly as "anything done in pure adventure".

Husband and wife owners, Dane and Veronika Baspaly, embarked on this retail adventure together not through a common knowledge of the industry (she is a painter and he a prop master for film) but through a desire to hold similar work hours and in turn similar down time; from this passion for each other Lark boutique was created.

Lark first opened in 2005 and is located at 2315 Main Street, in the same community they call home. With crisp architectural lines and a clean, well thought out interior, the Baspalys allow the clothing and accessories to take the main stage. All of the garments carried are chosen because of their timeless quality and because of their durability. Similar to the old Chinese bicycle, their clothing choices are beautiful, practical and demand the appropriate care so that they can be cherished year after year. This ideology towards clothing comes full circle with the high-end specialty laundry detergents, The Laundress, available at Lark to enhance shelf life for almost any outfit.

Another ideology behind the beginning of the store was to offer a shopping experience equally enjoyable for men and women. Although not complete uncommon now in Vancouver, originally Lark's fifty/fifty split between men's and women's wear was rare.

Another rare quality of Lark is the artists collaboration behind their various in-house labels. There are the hand knitted scarves of Lark by Syvia or the perfect take on the classic button down shirt for women under the label Lark by Vanya; all of which are done for Lark with recognition for the artist behind the collaboration. The next artist to add to the collection is Lark by Ravi, a linen expert about to bring his knowledge to the boutique in the form of scarves and then eventually sleepwear. This is all apart of the exciting future for this unique lifestyle store.

What other things does the future hold for Lark and their team? Immediately they are excited about fall lines like Normandy's Le Mont Saint Michel's knit line or Vancouver's own Tannis Hegan's canvas duffle bags. In long-term dreams perhaps a footwear store or an additional location is in mind. For a journey that has been as enjoyable and organic for these two songbirds as embarking on the Lark has been, they are both eager to see what the future holds while enjoying every moments in the bliss they have created together.

When you do venture down to visit Lark be sure to pick up not only the perfect outfit but also try their in-house chocolate bar - another piece of perfection!