One of the longest-serving merchants in Alderwood has seen a lot of changes in the community over the last 50 years.
Guilia Del Vicario, 78, the owner of Guilia’s Clothing and Gifts, moved into her 320 Brown’s Line store in 1973 when it was a two-lane road with a forest still standing on the east side of the roadway.
GUILIA of Guilia’s Clothing and Gifts has seen many come and go in her 50 years in Alderwood. Photos by Tom Godfrey.
“There was a forest across from my store,” Del Vicario recalls. “There was a supermarket, butcher shop, hairdressers and the place was busy.”
She remembers her biggest payday was earning $800 on her first day of business.
“That was a lot of money then,” the clothier says. “Back then people did not mind paying for good quality clothing that was well-made and last a long time.”
NICE CHILDREN dresses and other clothing available at Guilia’s Clothing and Gifts at 320 Brown’s Line.
Del Vicario’s daughter Michelle explained her parents were among a first wave of Italian immigrants who came to Canada and settled in the area.
“My mom’s store was like a social club sometimes.”
“Everyone knew each other back then and they all supported each other.”
Del Vicario would often on a weekend prepare clothing for a person’s funeral, deliver or offer free alterations.
“Things have changed a lot over the years,” she laments. “The people today buy their clothes online without ever touching the material or trying it on. There is little quality and style anymore.”
Her well-made and fashionable childrens’ clothing are made by trained seamstresses often abroad and last for many years.
“The business is still good,” she says. “Some people still want to feel the material and get quality clothing for their children’s christening or baptism.”
Del Vicario is well-known in the Italian Canadian community and has sold clothing to generations of families.
These days she spends a lot of time caring for her husband, Frank , who is suffering from West Nile disease after being bitten by a mosquito while sitting on their porch at home. He now requires 24-hour medical care.
Del Vicario immigrated to Canada in 1961 and settled in the Queensway area. People knew she was a seamstress and there was always a demand for her to sew things for fellow new immigrants. Soon after she required more space and located the store to be close to the community.
She is a good salesperson, who is active and sharp mentally. People constantly stop by to see her latest selections and make a purchase.
Giulia’s Clothing and Gifts can be reached at 416-255-3336. She is now having a 50% sale off all items in the store.