On a whim, I decided today to visit Buffalo, the second most populated city in New York state. Known mostly to those of us in Toronto for its Cross-Border Shopping, Buffalo's economy is very much driven by the retail industry. Depending on how quickly you drive, it would normally be a two hour trip each way and although I haven't visited in quite some time, today's visit turned out to be well worth it.
At the Fashion Outlets on Military Road, I found a Burberry Dress Shirt for $60 US, which is almost unheard of since higher-end fashion retailers like Holt Renfrew and Burberry's actual Flagship Store in Toronto charge well over $200-$300 per shirt alone. I am ecstatic about this find and also found myself a tie in a classic Burberry print, which happened to be lost under a pile, for just $40 US. The tie would normally retail at around $150 US. Amazing.
I was completely unaware that the Fashion Outlets also had a Brooks Brothers store. The American retailer has the distinction of being the longest surviving men's clothier in existence, specializing in high-end classic looks. You'll find many tailored cut dress shirts and wool pieces here. Although I found a couple fantastic ties, I am most in love with my Purple/Orange Bow Tie which the staff there kindly gave me a tutorial on how to assemble. For $22 US, this was literally a steal as similar quality Bow Ties in this city can retail for about $100 CAN. The shop has many neat items like guides on how to properly toast at a party and books on Etiquette, which peaked my interest. I definitely need some lessons in that!
I am perpetually obsessed with foods from my childhood which I would see on American television, but nowhere to be found on Canadian shelves. Two items I've always wanted to try are Mrs. Butterworth's Table Syrup and Smucker's Goober Grape. I remember seeing television ads of the former, where the bottle would come to life and an endearing Mrs. Butterworth would talk to receptive children. As an adult I've been spoiled by the taste of Organic Maple Syrup, but I am still curious to see what this really tastes like. The latter is a combination of Concord Grape Jelly and Peanut Butter intertwined in one product. I can now die happy with my two jars in the cupboard. Cannot wait to open it!
