Each Friday at 12pm EST, expect a new selection of indie goods.
If you’re looking to treat yourself or someone else while quarantining, independent design haven Ease is making it a little, well, easier thanks to a flash sale initiative that starts today at noon. “Each week will be a new category,” says owner, Zai Rajkotwala. Today’s wares will be shoes, with brands like Paloma Wool, Loq and By Far in the mix.
She will also soon be offering “self-care focused” gift packages that feature products from Ease and its sister store, Easy Tiger. “It’s kind of like a bouquet of flowers,” she says about her hopes that customers will give them to someone who really needs it right now, adding, “I’m trying to channel this experience as let’s help each other and make everyone feel better.’’ Furthering her efforts to lend a hand in this trying time, Rajkotwala has picked up Canadian labels like Toronto’s Biko and In Soft Focus and Vancouver’s Studio A-Ok during the COVID-19 crisis. “I wanted to give other local businesses a platform,” she says.
She also sees the current circumstance as a significant platform for the ethos both her stores are based on—that of highlighting thoughtful style versus quick, abundant stuff. “If people are investing money in something, it needs to stand out and say something about the person,” she says. Statement-makers currently stocked at Ease include Batsheva dresses, Susan Alexandra jewellery and dramatic tops from Mr. Larkin. For those looking for something truly unique, the shop also carries pieces from Toronto vendor Only Vintage.
Rajkotwala has noticed an increase in interest towards more special items when it comes to housewares as well—especially now that we’re all spending most of our time indoors. “I’m seeing that people want to really make their homes more special, so I’m bringing in really unique makers who are doing fun things.” And recent additions to Easy Tigers’ decor offerings, such as Tak Tak’s quirky glassware and Meg Hubert’s charming ceramics, are about as fun as you can get. “Everything we do should bring us a bit of joy,” says Rajkotwala. And now more than ever.
