Christina Bergström has built a loyal following since she opened her retro-modern clothing boutique, Bergström Originals, in Toronto’s Riverside neighborhood over 15 years ago.
Since 2003, their shop at 781 Queen Street East shop has carried what Christina describes as happy clothing with vibrant colors, bold prints, and sophisticated cuts inspired by her Scandinavian background and love of mid-century design.
“Our customers come to us for our clothing that carries them from work to weekend in stand-out style, all in easy-care and travel-friendly fabrics,” says Christina, who designs and makes all her products in Toronto.
When it came time to open a retail store for her burgeoning Bergström Originals brand, Riverside was an easy choice.
“We felt our aesthetic fit in with all the groovy retro shops that were present at the time,” said Christina noting Riverside also showed a glimmer of hope to become what it is today – a hip, urban environment with an eclectic mix of unique independent businesses.
“The landscape has changed, with many new condos and building projects, yet the beautiful architecture of the area has been preserved,” she said.
There’s a lot that Christina loves about running a business in Riverside but what she enjoys most is her customers.
“We have met so many people over the years and, love to keep seeing them,” she said. “Many are like friends now.”
In addition to one-of-a-kind fashions, including the popular Mrs. Robinson Wrap Dress, now in its 10th year, Bergström Originals also carries a variety of unique accessories and footwear perfect for modern-day women.
Karen Lloyd is a writer, photographer and website designer in Toronto’s Riverside neighborhood. This blog is part of the series Riverside Business Profile. Read other blogs from her: Riverside Patios, Places to Stay in Riverside, Brunch Spots, Health & Wellness in Riverside, Kid-Friendly Riverside, Event & Catering Spots, Riverside Chefs, Self-Care in Riverside, It’s Easy Being Green in Riverside, The Dirt on Gardening in Riverside, Eat Around the World in Riverside, and Saying ‘I Do’ East of the Don.