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It’s impossible to sufficiently thank the mother figure in your life for all that she’s done—but this round-up of thoughtful curated gifts will come close. Whether she’s due for a beauty re-up or deserving of a self-care experience, our ideas will make shopping for Mother’s Day a cinch.

It’s that time of year again! The back-to-school season is upon us and it’s time to start thinking about all the essentials we’ll need to make this upcoming year a success. Whether you’re prepping your little ones for the classroom or are heading back to school yourself, we’ve got the ultimate back-to-school shopping guide to help make this school year the best one yet.

Ready to hit the books? Read on for our back-to-school essentials.

The backpack is the staple back-to-school accessory. Since it’s the one thing you’ll be carrying every day, you want to make sure it will not only complement your daily ensembles but is also comfortable and durable enough for day-to-day use. Fortunately, there are plenty of options that don’t sacrifice fashion for function—from colourful classics to understated, yet versatile neutrals and even tech-friendly backpacks with built-in USB charging ports so you can always stay connected.

Calm those first day of school jitters with a confidence-boosting outfit that will make you look and feel your best. Whether it’s a new pair of jeans, a vibrant top or an outfit-making accessory, a little something fresh will help make the start of the school year extra special.

Back-to-school marks a fresh start and new beginnings, and we hope these picks will help you enter the school year with confidence.

As the festive season approaches, it’s time to get ready to celebrate Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights. Diwali is a time of reflection, renewal, and rejoicing.  

It holds immense cultural and spiritual significance for millions around the world, symbolizing happiness, good health, and prosperity. The five-day (sometimes six, depending on the region) celebration consists of various traditions and rituals including dressing in colourful traditional clothing, lighting the inside and outside of homes with rows of lamps or other lights, and getting together for large family celebrations where sweets and gifts are shared.  

To make your Diwali celebration extra special, we’ve curated your ultimate guide for a memorable festival. From fashion to beauty, gift ideas to sweet treats, read on for everything you need to light up your festivities.

From fashion to beauty, gifts to sweet treats, Square One has everything you need to make this celebration a memorable one. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous and radiant Diwali!

This Mother’s Day, celebrate the extraordinary women in your life with an intimate experience at Square One. From exquisite dining, to shopping and more, we’ve curated a guide to celebrate with the moms/mother figures in your life at Square One.

Start off your day by grabbing a coffee and some pastries at BRØD by Danish Pastry House or Fresh Market. Once you’ve fueled up for the day, you’ll be ready to discover and shop for the perfect Mother’s Day Gifts at Square One. We recommend checking out the new Apple store, Sukoshi Mart, Simons, Holt Renfrew and Vessi.

Treat mom to some pampering so she can unwind, rejuvenate and look and feel her absolute best. Whether it’s a facial at Donato, a brow shaping or lamination at Benefit’s Brow Bar in Sephora, a manicure at Tonyc, or a treatment at Laser Clinics Canada, there are plenty of opportunities for you and mom to indulge in some TLC.

Want to create the spa experience at-home? Grab some beauty and wellness essentials from Aesop, Saje, Lush and L’Occitane so mom can continue her pampering in her own space.

Jewelry is a timeless symbol of mom’s love and appreciation. Opt for an heirloom-worthy keepsake, a personalized piece or simply a fun accessory that matches mom’s personal style. We recommend checking out Tiffany & Co. (located inside Holt Renfrew), Swarovski, Michael Hill and Bitter Sweet.

Finish off your day with mom by treating her to a delightful culinary experience. From Hibachi to La Carnita, REDs, Earls Kitchen + Bar and more, Square One has plenty of options to suit every palette. After dinner, head to Cineplex to check out that movie on mom’s watchlist.

More dining options

Give mom her flowers (literally, and figuratively) by gifting her a stunning arrangement from Blossom Moments. This one-stop shop for gorgeous bouquets has a variety of beautiful, lush flowers that mom is sure to love. Compliment the flowers with eclairs from The Happy Chocco or a box of chocolates from Rocky Mtn Chocolate.

This Mother’s Day, create lasting memories with a curated experience at Square One.

Halloween is the ultimate celebration of creativity, community, and fun—and Square One makes it easy to find everything in one place. From head-turning costumes and festive décor to indulgent treats and seasonal scents, our retailers have everything you need to bring the spooky season to life.

Start your Halloween prep with the perfect costume. And whether you’re going classic, creative or trendy, building a great Halloween look doesn’t have to be complicated.

Start with versatile pieces that can be styled into multiple costumes (for all those RSVPs!) or choose pre-made options that let you show up ready to go. Accessories, masks and makeup add personality and help you customize your outfit to stand out. With options for kids, teens and adults, it’s easy to dress the whole family for trick-or-treating, parties or school events.

Set the scene with décor and accents that make your home Halloween-ready in minutes.

Halloween décor is all about creating an atmosphere. Think moody lighting, playful centrepieces and themed tabletop accents that spark conversation. Adding candles, diffusers and statement décor instantly transforms your space, while reusable serveware and versatile décor pieces transition easily into other fall celebrations. Even a few thoughtful updates—like a new statement piece or festive candle—can make your home feel ready for Halloween night.

Halloween isn’t complete without sweets to share with friends, family and trick-or-treaters.

Stocking up early ensures you’re ready for doorstep visitors and seasonal gatherings alike. Whether you prefer gourmet chocolates, big-bag candy or ready-to-eat treats, having a mix on hand keeps everyone happy. A well-stocked candy bowl doubles as festive décor and individually wrapped treats make party favors easy. Our tip? Sweet indulgences also make thoughtful gifts for hosts or teachers during the season.

Elevate your Halloween experience with bold makeup, dramatic effects and seasonal scents.

Beauty and fragrance are the finishing touches that take a costume—or your seasonal mood—to the next level. Experiment with bold eyeshadow palettes, dramatic lashes or special-effects makeup to complete your look. Seasonal body care and home fragrances help carry the atmosphere beyond October 31st. From everyday wear to costume-specific products, these details ensure you feel confident and completely in the Halloween spirit.

There’s nothing like the joy of finding the perfect gift, that moment when you know it’s just right. Whether you’re shopping for a trend-setter, tech lover, or tiny dreamer, Square One has gifts that bring smiles to every holiday gathering. Thoughtful, stylish, and ready to wrap, these finds make holiday shopping simple and satisfying.

Briogeo, the Black-owned hair-care brand that made its debut on Sephora shelves in 2014, quickly became a standout in the beauty industry with its clean, effective products like the Don’t Despair, Repair! Conditioner and Deep Conditioning Mask, earning Allure Best of Beauty and Readers’ Choice Awards. Its rapid growth caught the attention of Wella Company, leading to a strategic partnership in 2022. Although acquired, Briogeo founder Nancy Twine remains as CEO while also joining Wella’s executive leadership team, helping drive future growth and innovation. The partnership promises to elevate Briogeo’s global expansion and success, aligning with both companies’ shared values and vision.

Co-founded in 2016 by NFL Quarterback, Russell Wilson, Good Man Brand stands for evolved essentials. Made for the man-on-the-move who seeks timeless, authentic, and sustainable style with a premium, modern edge. Their bestselling sneaker and apparel line-up lets you focus on things more important than what you’re wearing: living life, working hard, and helping others. B-Corp Certified and built with a 3% giveback to the work of Why Not You Foundation, Good Man Brand is here for all the ways you do Good. Do Good, Look Good, Feel Good.

FORVR MOOD is all about enhancing the everyday, encouraging self-care, and making your life a little more lavish. As a luxury self-care brand, they strive to create welcoming, affordable experiences as a reminder to cherish and pamper yourself each day. Take some time to unplug and unwind with their collections of home fragrances.

Browse a full, curated selection of products from Black-owned brands available at Square One by clicking below.

February 10, 2024, marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year, a celebration that’s considered the most important holiday in many Asian countries and across the Asian diaspora. The celebration marks the first new moon of the lunisolar calendars, traditional to many east Asian countries including China, South Korea and Vietnam. In China it is called Chūn Jié, in Vietnam it is known as Tết, in Korea it is Seollal and in Tibet it is called Losar. Additionally, it is known as Spring Festival.

Each year in the lunar calendar is represented by one of the 12 zodiac animals, all of which represent different characteristics and future. 2024 rings in the year of the dragon—a sign of power and energy, symbolizing a prosperous year ahead.

In honour of this celebration, we asked six prominent Asian Canadians to share their favourite Lunar New Year traditions.

If you’re a fashion girlie with a love for thrifting and DIY projects, you probably know Rachel Spencer Wong (aka @rachspeed). The Toronto-based content creator (who created the genius and now-viral “333 outfit challenge”) has built a loyal following for her fun, aspirational and yet still approachable take on fashion and styling.

Rachel’s favourite memories of Lunar New Year include spending quality time with her family.

“Every year I celebrate Lunar New Year with my immediate family – as well as my grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins. Now that we’re all grown up, my cousins have their own families and children that we’re also able to share these traditions with,” she says.

One tradition Rachel is looking forward to this year is giving out red envelopes, now that she is married.

“This [year] is my first LNY married, which means traditionally it’s now our turn to give hong bao (lucky red envelopes) to our younger relatives!”

“I grew up being raised by a very superstitious Mah Mah (paternal grandmother), and one superstition I abide by is to make sure we clean our house before LNY. If you clean your house on the day, you’re ‘cleaning’ away all the luck!” — Rachel on her LNY superstitions.

Mai Nguyen is the author of Sunshine Nails, a tender and humorous story about a Vietnamese Canadian family in Toronto who will do whatever it takes to protect their no-frills nail salon after a new high-end salon opens up closeby. The book’s complex characters showcase the diversity of immigrant experiences and community resilience.

Mai, who is also a National Magazine Award-nominated journalist and copywriter, was born in Winnipeg, raised in Halifax, and is now based in Toronto. She has fond memories from childhood of celebrating Lunar New Year (or tết) with her family.

“Growing up, my Vietnamese parents would buy these massive trays of dried, candied fruits every year. Ginger, tamarind, wintermelon, you name it. My favourites were the colourful coconut ribbons called Mứt Dừa. I could eat a whole batch of those!” she says.

This year marks her first Lunar New Year with her daughter, and Mai is looking forward to passing on traditions to mark this special occasion.

“I’m looking forward to dressing her up in red and giving her her first red envelope. I also can’t wait to eat this sticky rice cake called Bánh chưng made with glutinous rice, mung beans and pork. It’s best when it’s pan-fried so that it’s nice and crispy on the edges,” she says.

“I’m a firm believer that one should not enter the new year with a dirty home, so I start decluttering my belongings the week prior and thoroughly clean the home the day before. I like the idea that you can sweep away bad luck and enter the new year with a clean canvas.” — Mai on her LNY superstitions.

Deborah Lau-Yu is the queen of Lunar New Year celebrations. The editor-in-chief of Fête Chinoise magazine and creative director of Palettera Inc. is the woman behind the Fête Chinoise Signature Lunar New Year gala, an annual black-tie event held in Toronto (and also in Vancouver this year) that celebrates Chinese culture in the Canadian community.

As a designer and creative director, one of Deborah’s favourite Lunar New Year traditions is collecting lucky red envelopes.

“These ‘lucky money pockets’ as I used to call them growing up are fascinating to me…I was obsessed with the design on the red pockets I would receive as a child. I had an affinity toward the very traditional ones because I felt a connection with my grandmother who taught me almost everything I know about my heritage when I was growing up. From the imagery to the words on each pocket, I learned a lot through the symbolism which factors into my understanding and depth of appreciation of Chinese culture today,” she explains.

Another favourite tradition of Deborah’s is feasting. “The feast with the family came with the festivities every year and is something I miss since a lot of my family is no longer around. I tried to capture this sentiment and love for food and culture in our Fête Chinoise tea towel, titled, Feast,” she says.

“I don’t wash my hair on new year’s day. It’s just a tradition and superstitious habit that was passed down through the grapevine: if you wash your hair, you might wash your new year luck away! I also wear red, as it’s an auspicious colour in the culture and for the occasion.” — Deborah on her LNY superstitions.

You could say fashion runs through content creator Sasha Mei (@sasha.mei)’s veins. With a mother who worked in fashion marketing at GUESS in Malaysia, it’s clear that style runs in the family. Over the past few years, Sasha has solidified herself as a purveyor of style, providing endless inspiration of chic and effortless minimalism.

Community and conversation are also important to Sasha, which led her to co-found a supper club called Yu + Mei. Yu + Mei brings individuals together for stylish, intimate gatherings, where food and conversation take center stage.

When it comes to celebrating Lunar New Year, Sasha enjoys her special tradition of having Peking duck or dim sum with friends and, of course, dressing up for the occasion.

“We don’t have many family traditions surrounding LNY – the half of my family that celebrates is in Malaysia, and we didn’t have any relatives in Canada. My mother never really reinforced strict traditions, probably because LNY during her childhood involved endless rounds at relatives’ homes and she found it exhausting. [However], two things were guaranteed on LNY growing up: special red envelopes from our parents and grandparents, and some sort of delicious meal. When I went to university, I started bringing my friends for Peking duck or dim sum on LNY and it became a new tradition – they don’t have to celebrate it, but I always think that the best part of any holiday is sharing food with people.”

“I always keep my red envelopes – I’m too scared to throw them out in fear that it will bring bad luck!” — Sasha on her LNY superstitions.

1. Pandora Two-tone Chinese Year of the Dragon Collier Necklace (Available at Pandora)
2. Chanel N°1 de Chanel Revitalizing Serum (Available at Holt Renfrew)
3. Loewe Tomato Leaves Candle (Available at Holt Renfrew)

Shop necklaces | Shop Chanel beauty | Shop candles

Chef Trevor Lui is a known pillar in the Asian Canadian community, particularly in Toronto, where he’s based. The chef, restauranter and entrepreneur has a knack for bringing people together through culinary experiences—whether that be through his restaurant Bao Bird, food concept Fat Bao, management agency Quell, or hospitality business, The Highbell Group.

It should come as no surprise, then, that one of Chef Trevor’s favourite Lunar New Year traditions is the celebration of food with friends, family and community.

“Having a family banquet to both close and open the year (‘tuin leen’ and ‘hoi leen’) is always a wonderful time to have the family get together and eat great food. We also love the custom of exchanging turnip and sugar cakes (‘bak tong go’ and ‘leen go’),” says Chef Trevor.

This year, Chef Trevor is most looking forward to the continued emergence of the Asian community, one, he says, has begun to finally garner a voice beyond our own borders.

“Modern day successes buoyed by prominent figures in our community and growing allies are helping to tell stories of our generations of history of struggle, racism and success (particularly in the role we played in building North America),” he explains.

Some of these successes include what Chef Trevor calls a “new renaissance” of Asian chefs in New York City. “[These chefs] were classically trained and have now gone back to cooking the food they grew up with ‘their way’ and are now being recognized for it. I’d love to see that in our communities here in Toronto. With that, we need to take this time to help shine a light on the talent we have and find ways to support and elevate their names and establishments.”

“I’m still stuck on the superstition of not showering or washing our hair on New Year’s Day to ensure we don’t ‘wash away’ our year’s health and prosperity. So get that shower in at 11:59 NYE!” — Chef Trevor on his LNY superstitions.

“Support LNY-themed products that support community: where major retailers use LNY as a way to capitalize on culturally-important events, select those that do so authentically and intentionally to support our communities.”

Ring in the Year of the Dragon at Square One! Take a photo under the long scrolls inspired by the tradition of fai chun blessings for Lunar New Year or use the Lunar New Year art installation as a beautiful backdrop for your family photos. Located in the Grand Rotunda, across Holt Renfrew from February 1st – 25th.

No matter how you celebrate, we hope this Lunar New Year brings lots of luck and prosperity!