Editor favourites: Our top finds this month
Products we couldn’t get enough of this July
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July was all about deals. With the longest Amazon Prime Day in the history of the sale — a whopping four days — our shopping editors had their heads down in Excel files, scouring for the best deals on the best products. We hand-tested as many as we could, and put forward the top deals in Canada (many are still on sale!). We launched Canoe’s very own coupons site, offering our readers even more discounts on top brands — read more about it here. We even created a new content series titled “Canoe Daily Deals”, offering the top discounts we find each morning, like this steal from sustainable clothing brand Reformation. As always, we covered collection launches and partnerships, like this patriotic one from Roots and Canada Dry and asked the important questions, like how to properly clean a shower.
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We are constantly searching for the best, most practical or efficient gadgets, tools, beauty products, home goods and services the Canadian marketplace has to offer. After extensive product testing, researching and reviewing, we narrow our list to offer our readers the best of the best. We’re often asked things like, “What’s on your wishlist?” or “What products are you most excited about?” If you’re curious about our favourite products of the moment (and why), read on.
To discover more of our top picks, check out our favourites last month — our Prime Day edition.
July editor favourites
Lambert The June Vegan Leather Travel Bag
Why I love it: “This vegan leather travel bag is my ‘go everywhere, carry everything and look good while doing it’ companion. It has a 17” laptop compartment, cell phone pocket and keyholder and it fits in the overhead compartment on a flight (and has a strap to attach it to your checked luggage). I get constant compliments on its appearance from the vegan leather (you’d never know) to the two-tone shade. Carry by hand or as a shoulder bag, and be prepared to fit everything you need into one lovely-looking spot.” — Leigh Taveroff, Shopping Editor
Price: $215
Where to buy:Lambert
Left On Friday Top Shelf Swim Top and Wear To Bottom
Why I love it: “If you haven’t yet checked out Canadian swimwear brand Left On Friday, let this be the summer that you do. This suit is sporty without looking like you’re about to compete in a race, made from super soft fabric and just the right amount of cheeky to still be appropriate to wear around family and friends. I especially love that the Top Shelf top is designed to offer coverage for D-G cups (see the Double Scoop Top for a similar option for A-C cups).” — Kate Mendonca, Shopping Editor
Price: Top –$110 | Bottom – $100
Where to buy: Top: Left On Friday — Bottoms: Left On Friday
Yves Rocher Intense Metamorphose Mascara
Why I love it: “In a beauty market that’s full of mascara options, it can be challenging to find one that fits your unique lash preference. I found a favourite with this affordable mascara from the French brand Yves Rocher. The perfect mascara for those who love oversized, fluffy-bristled applicator brushes (so much volume!) and a fallout-free formula, it’s a mascara that punches well above its price. Featuring organic cornflower water and castor oil, this nourishing mascara adds volume and lift while also boosting lash health. And to make it even more fab, there’s both a waterproof and a regular formula that removes easily with soap and water.” — Aleesha Harris, Fashion Editor
Price: $14 (currently on sale from $20)
Where to buy:Yves Rocher
Samra Origins X Nespresso Collection
Why I love it: “The Weeknd, who now goes by his given name, Abel Tefsaye, started Samra Origins, a coffee brand named after his mother, Samrawit Hailu. Samra Origins celebrates Tefsaye’s Ethiopian heritage, including the country’s rich coffee traditions. The brand collaborated with Nespresso to capture the flavours in convenient pods. To kick off the collaboration, we connected with Tefsaye to learn more about his coffee and other creative endeavours.” — Randi Mann, Shopping Editor
Price: $13
Where to buy: Nespresso
HOMETRENDS Sedona 3-Piece Patio Chat Set
Why I love it: “This three-piece patio set is ultra-affordable while being both stylish and functional. It’s lightweight, making it easy to move from my front porch to my backyard as needed. It’s surprisingly comfortable for the incredible price point — and the heavy-duty, rust-resistant steel frame design makes the set seem durable and long-lasting.” — Leigh Taveroff, Shopping Editor
Price: $300 (currently on sale from $400)
Where to buy:Walmart
SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF
Why I love it: “Don’t come for me — it’s pricey. But if I told you this Vitamin C serum hadn’t made my sensitive, acne-prone skin look its absolute best, I’d be lying. You only need a few drops, so a bottle lasts a good while. I also love its lightweight consistency, which makes it perfect for layering. I finished one bottle thinking I could live without it… and now there’s another sitting in my cart. My skin has never looked more radiant, clear and even.” — Jacqueline Osias, Deals Coordinator
Price: $220
Where to buy: SkinCeuticals
Embrace Ribbed Bra Top
Why I love it: “Canadian maternity brand Embrace recently expanded its line to include tank tops that are not specifically designed for pregnancy and postpartum. This super-soft bra top is a worthy addition to its collection, offering light support and coverage for lounging, layering or everyday wear. The tank features a built-in shelf bra and removable pads, making it a great choice for effortless summer outfits – no strapless bra needed.” — Kate Mendonca, Shopping Editor
Price: $85
Where to buy:Embrace
Shiseido Ultra Sun Protector Lotion SPF 50+
Why I love it: “This invisible sunscreen goes on smooth and hydrates my skin instantly, without leaving any white cast or residue. It uses “HeatForce” and “WetForce”, new innovations in sunscreen that trigger the product to protect at a higher level when exposed to sun or water. This broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and stays water and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes after application. It contains five different types of algae to offer long-lasting hydration and licorice root extract, which has been known to help soothe breakout-prone skin. The all-arounder of sunscreen protection and skincare.” — Leigh Taveroff, Shopping Editor
Price: $33
Where to buy:Shiseido | Sephora
Grosche Dublin Stainless Steel French Press Coffee Maker
Why I love it: “I cracked my glass French press and didn’t want to repeat history, so I looked for a stainless steel option. The Dublin French press is made by a Canadian company based in Cambridge, Ont. It’s an effective French press that makes smooth and flavourful coffee. It’s sleek, has an eight-cup capacity and is dishwasher-safe.” — Randi Mann, Shopping Editor
Price: $85
Where to buy: Amazon
Fenty Skin Butta Drop Whipped Oil Body Cream
Why I love it: “For years I was a devout Body Shop Body Butter user, alternating between mango, grapefruit and satsuma fragrances. I’ve since branched out to other body products and a new favourite has to be this luxe cream from Fenty Beauty. It absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling hydrated, never greasy. The summer-y Citrus Sorbet scent is also a win in my citrus-loving books.” — Kate Mendonca, Shopping Editor
Price: $61
Where to buy:Fenty Beauty| Sephora
Uniqlo Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt
Why I love it: “I’m not one to gatekeep, especially not when it comes to easy, breezy summer style. Because, if we’re being honest with one another (always), dressing well during a sweltering day can be tricky. That’s why we all need an oversized linen shirt in our lineup this summer season. This unisex long-sleeve linen shirt from Uniqlo is a star. It’s breathable, soft, easy to wash and looks elevated any way you style it. I’ve worn mine knotted with a midi skirt, untucked over denim shorts, tucked into trousers — and I’ve loved it every time! Trust me when I say it will be an MVP piece in your closet this season.” — Aleesha Harris, Fashion Editor
Price: $50
Where to buy:Uniqlo
Bombas Women’s Farmers’ Market Modern Rib Half Calf Sock 4-Pack
Why I love it: “They’re here! The cutest darn socks you’ve ever seen. I didn’t realize I could get so excited about a pair (or four pairs) of socks, but alas, here we are. I do my laundry more often, just to have a pair of these to wear on rotation. It’s vintage crew sock, meets fully cushioned foot bed, meets arch support, meets cutesy fruits. For every single item purchased (this pack makes four items), one is donated to a homeless shelter. ” — Leigh Taveroff, Shopping Editor
Price: $110 (currently on sale from $125)
Where to buy:Bombas
Draco -9C Down Sleeping Bag
Why I love it: “This mummy-shaped sac cocoons the body fully, providing shelter from the winds with a 650 fill power duck down insulation. The design includes a head yoke to keep the cold out as well as draw strings to pull the head enclosure tighter. The bag is light enough that when temperatures rise in the spring and fall it is still breathable.This model of the Draco is ideal for three-season camping(-2 to -12C) as opposed to the 0C model. The mummy style may not be for everyone but MEC has many other versions for warmer weather (or colder) and also different shapes if the feeling of being enclosed is less than ideal. The bag comes with inside pockets and folds up compactly into a small carrying sac with a drawstring. There are long fit (198CM) and short fit (183 CM) options in both unisex and wide models, and the weight of the bag varies by length and style, with the longest wide fit topping out at 140kg. ” — Erika Tustin, Shopping Contributor
Price: $320
Where to buy:MEC
H&M Patterned Duvet Cover Set
Why I love it: “I recently gave my bedroom a summer refresh with this H&M Home duvet cover set, which impressed me with its quality and price point. It’s made from 100 per cent cotton for a breathable night’s sleep, and the handfeel of the fabric seems significantly softer than other budget bedding I’ve had in the past. It’s also held up well in the washer and dryer so far. My only gripe is that the bedding has snap closures rather than a zipper, so the duvet sometimes needs adjusting.” — Kate Mendonca, Shopping Editor
Price: $65
Where to buy:H&M
Chef Bombay
Why I love it: “I fell in love with Indian food after a trip to Delhi and the surrounding Northern cities in 2017. I have yet to find the perfect Indian takeout, but these ready-made, traditional dishes made with organic ingredients and authentic Indian spices sure hit the spot when I’m in a pinch or short on time. Found across Canada, these frozen meals come in plenty of options, but I love the Chicken Tikka Massala and the Vegetable Pakoras. ” — Leigh Taveroff, Shopping Editor
Price: $8
Where to buy:Loblaws | Instacart
Cozy Earth Bamboo Stretch-Knit Short Sleeve & Pant Pajama Set
Why I love it: “I love lounging in a matching set — it’s such a simple pleasure. Made with viscose from bamboo, these pajamas have a relaxed, luxurious feel and an elegant drape. They wash beautifully and stay super breathable and cool at night, even in the hot, humid Philippines. It’s no wonder they’ve been featured on Oprah’s Favourite Things for almost a decade. They’re so comfortable you’ll actually look forward to bedtime. I’m already eyeing my next set.” — Jacqueline Osias, Deals Coordinator
Price: $250
Where to buy: Cozy Earth
Knix Leakproof Shimmer High Cut Bikini
Why I love it: “This limited-edition shimmer fabric from one of my favourite Canadian swim and intimates brands is a must for summer 2025. The high-cut bottoms fit just right — giving me a flattering silhouette while offering leak protection. Kristen Bell is the latest celeb to endorse the brand in its new “You’re Good” campaign – a clever nod to those moments all women can relate to: standing up from a long dinner or movie feeling like you may have leaked, and being assured “you’re good” from a close friend. — Leigh Taveroff, Shopping Editor
Price: $60 + $65 (top and bottom)
Where to buy:Knix Top | Knix Bottom
Levi’s High Rise Baggy Women’s Shorts
Why I love it: “Denim shorts are trending high this season, with long, to-the-knee ‘jorts’ proving especially popular. If long shorts aren’t your style, these high-rise, mid-length jeans are a perfect alternative. Long enough to wear to work but short enough that they show a little leg, these denim shorts are a must-try for anyone who struggles to find a well-fitting option. I wore them during a long, very hot day spent walking around London, England and can report they remained comfortable without riding up in the thigh or stretching out at the waist.” — Aleesha Harris, Fashion Editor
Better Homes & Gardens Juliet Kitchen Rounded Arch Cabinet
Why I love it: “I was so pleased to finally get my hands on this black arch cabinet (it was sold out for weeks but is back in stock!). It’s a steal for the design and quality you get. I also grabbed the matching coffee table in walnut, and both pieces are beautifully crafted and look so elegant. Stylish and functional, the cabinet offers plenty of storage — something I’m always in need of as a condo dweller. I couldn’t be happier!” — Jacqueline Osias, Deals Coordinator
Price: $500
Where to buy: Walmart
OLAPLEX Nº.No 4FINE Bond Maintenance Shampoo & No 5FINE Bond Maintenance Conditioner
Why I love it: “Game changer is a phrase that’s thrown around rather frequently, but according to women with fine hair, this is exactly that. I consider my hair medium, and this clinically proven fine hair shampoo and conditioner still managed to volumize and strengthen my locks, but my sister was the true tester. She has classically fine hair, and says this bond maintenance combo removed buildup without feeling like it’s stripping her hair. Over time, we both noticed a difference in volume and bounce.” — Leigh Taveroff, Shopping Editor
Price: $44
Where to buy: Shampoo — OLAPLEX | Amazon; Conditioner — OLAPLEX | Amazon
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ltaveroff@postmedia.com
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