Edie's Hats, Vancouver

I was drawn into this fabulous little boutique by the sight of folks spilling out of the doorway, laughing, and apparently having more fun shopping than should be legal. Turns out that Edie's has every sort of hat you could imagine, from hip to entirely practical to fantastic and in all price ranges, and with generous and informed advice on what to look for in a hat, useful feedback on what suits one, and many mirrors for trying on fantasies. Edie herself added even more personality, looking like a cross somewhere between a dramatic gypsy and an artist, but giving very nice and down-to-earth customer service. (She apparently turns the store periodically into a bar and bistro for dance and music evenings - sounded like fun!)