Toad & Co. is a national chain with clothing in the sporty/woodsy/beachy/athletic vibe for both men and women and I've always liked their things in general; the quality is good and I've never had anything not fit well or be anything less than comfortable. So having a branch here in Portland is great--and take note that not only do they have great sales, but there's a seconds/repurposed area toward the back (and sometimes special displays) with items from the brand that are being re/upcycled, all of which cost less than regular price.
What's even better is how local the vibe is in the store, and how well connected they are with the wider community of makers. Along with the brand's products the store carries little locally made gifts: everything from jewelry to soap to playing cards and chocolates. There's no set selection, but you'll always find little collections of items for sale around the store. And this weekend Toad & Co. hosted a holiday makers' market in the large back warehouse room, which was awesome! This brought in a bunch of Maine makers selling pottery, coffee, jewelry, leather goods, knitwear, cards, books, candles . . . basically I got most of my Christmas shopping done here! I love that Toad & Co. is sponsoring something like this and really connecting with the community--definitely the kind of business I want to support. read more