For a brand that’s only 10 years old, Kit and Ace has had a lot of different identities. (Where’s K&A’s Eras Tour?) When it kicked off in under the direction of former Lululemon lead designer Shannon Wilson and her stepson, JJ Wilson, “technical cashmere” was the main selling feature—luxurious pieces with an athleisure spirit. It opened dozens of stores across the globe within two years, but that was too much, too soon, and the company faced some serious strain. So the brand pivoted, and pivoted, and pivoted again: the Wilsons are long gone, 61 global stores have been whittled down to nine—and, today, Unity Brands (owned in part by Joe Mimran, he of Club Monaco and, more importantly, Joe Fresh fame) is steadily at the helm. In 2024, Kit and Ace is focused less on effortless luxury and more on the humble capsule wardrobe—specifically for the type of hybrid-working professional who doesn’t want to deal with an iron.
“We’re focused on simplifying the art of getting dressed,” says Sydney Bicknell, director of marketing operations for Kit and Ace. “We’re taking wardrobe essentials and elevating them to wash, wear and repeat.”
With that in mind, unsurprisingly, there are not a lot of bells and whistles in the serene, neatly organized new flagship store on West 4th, designed by Toronto firm Burdifilek. “It’s a true embodiment of the brand,” says Bicknell. Classic comfort is king. “The focus is on the product, and an efficient shopping experience.” All in all, it’s a space that’s just chill—relaxed, just like a shirt that won’t wrinkle no matter how small you had to scrunch it to get it into your bag for that work trip.
Best Bets: What Sydney Bicknell and our editors are loving right now
Bicknell’s Pick: Essential Fine Gauge Merino Sweater ($170)
Machine-washable merino wool—what’s not to love? “It’s your new seasonal staple,” says Bicknell. (One that comes in six colourways.)
Bicknell’s Pick: Oslo Recycled Quilted Jacket ($250)
The oversized collar on this layer-it-up jacket is everything. “Function and sleek design can coexist,” she says.
Bicknell’s Pick: Navigator Commute Pant ($220)
The extra-stretch cotton is water repellant, so obviously it’s become an instant Vancouver classic. Bicknell says it’s “a cult favourite for a reason.”
EDITORS’ PICK: Braided Stretch Belt in Sand Dune ($55)
We dare you to pair this sandy-hued woven belt with a brown-on-brown ensemble for pure earth-toned drama.
EDITORS’ PICK: Chalet Waffle Lounge Set ($270)
Sure, it’s a sweatsuit, but there’s a collar, so that makes it Zoom-appropriate, right?
EDITORS’ PICK: Frame Relaxed Shift Dress ($150)
Wear it over a turtleneck or button-up for now, and then ditch the underlayer in the summer.
EDITORS’ PICK: Coastal Insulated Jacket in Pacific ($250)
Not quite a puffer, not quite a windbreaker, it’s the ideal outerwear for oh-my-god-its-finally-spring walks in the forest.
