The Coup
Edmonton’s style shop.
You thought you’d found it: the ideal outfit for that special occasion. It’s exactly what you had in mind—until you notice the ubiquitous logos adorning every surface. When best friends Anna McDonough and Nga Van discovered their mutual frustration with over-the-top branding and their love for local designs, they decided to do something about it. “Before we even met, both of us had expressed an interest in opening a store one day,” explains co-owner McDonough. “After finishing university and putting in some time working in retail, we knew the dream would become a reality.”
Their brainchild, Coup {Garment Boutique}, which opened in September 2010, boasts a range of chic, wearable classics in luxe fabrics with no blaring logos. The store is located in a 100-year-old heritage building, tucked away in Edmonton’s warehouse district, 4th Street Promenade. Inside, it is a reflection of the friends’ love for all things French. Done up in neutral creams and champagnes with a pressed-tin ceiling and crystal chandeliers, Coup houses a slew of star lines including Vanessa Bruno, Malene Birger, Carven, and Mason by Michelle Mason.
“We try to encourage dressing for your body and not your age,” says McDonough. “We do full looks and are always glad to lend a little styling advice, book a personal shopping appointment, host an in-store party, or even throw one at a client’s home.” The shop is abuzz with devotees, lured not only by swingy separates by Myne, chunky knits and dresses from Catherine Malandrino, and wardrobe basics such as tees by Kain Label, but also leather bags by Rebecca Minkoff, stilettos from Jean-Michel Cazabat, and booties by Jenni Kayne. New to the store this fall is Obakki, the au courant clothing line from designer Treana Peake.
One of Coup’s most popular lines, Smythe Les Vestes, sold out this summer thanks to Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, wearing it so well on her visit to Canada this past July. “When she wore the navy blue blazer, we were inundated with calls,” says co-owner Van. “If it’s good enough for royalty, it’s perfect for our clients.”
