Kristin Halpape grew up in the world of consignment fashion. Her mother owned two consignment stores in their hometown of Regina, Sask., and when Halpape moved to Calgary two decades ago she used what she learned from her mom to start her own consignment clothing business, and then took things to the next level. She now owns six consignment stores in Calgary and Okotoks, including Expressions Ladies Consignment, Molly Marie’s Accessories, Rhoda’s Elegance Again and three Man of Distinction locations. (At press time, Halpape was hard at work transitioning to online sales in response to COVID-19.) “There’s so much life left in so much of the clothing that we have,” says Halpape. “I like seeing new people give clothes new life, while also being able to dress the way they always wanted to. I also like offering a comfortable environment for both men and women to shop and find their style.”
Here are seven of Halpape’s favourite things in Calgary.
Frye Boots from Gravitypope
“Gravitypope has an amazing selection of high-end shoes that are hard to get in the city. I have a ton of Frye boots from there, the quality is incredible. The store is so well curated and beautiful.”
Holt Fine Art
“Brad Holt is a mixed-media artist and he’s truly amazing. His pieces are all so unique, so rustic, and all about nature so [I find them] very relaxing. My house and all of my stores are filled with his work.”
Rings by Sina.Jewellery
“This designer makes the most amazing jewellery. I have so many pieces from her, but her rings are my favourite. She uses raw stones and silver and each one is so unique, so they really speak to you.”
Motorbike Rides to Bragg Creek
“On a nice sunny day, I like to ride my motorbike out to Bragg Creek. It’s great to see all the fellow riders out, and then stop at Moto Café [open for takeout only at press time]. The decor’s very bike-oriented and they have treats you can take away for the ride.”
Thai Satay Noodle Soup from Mina’s Vietnamese
“This is the best Thai satay noodle soup in the city. It’s just a small mom-and-pop kind of joint, but the flavour of the broth is incredible.”
Canmore Brewing Company’s Georgetown Brown Ale
“Canmore Brewing’s Georgetown Brown is amazing. It’s a perfect combination of chocolate and coffee flavours.”
Evening Walks at Fish Creek Park
“I love walking my dog through the pathways in the evening. The sunsets are so beautiful and there’s a quiet stillness with amazing views. It’s my relaxing escape.”