When Carla Kloosterhuis opened her store in the Beach neighbourhood about 8 years ago, she dreamed about a niche for new and hot Euro labels.

Wish granted.

Yoka offers classic waterfront style with a European twist: relaxed maxi-dresses in beautiful silks, glazed cottons and jerseys to please the romantic rebel. It's an artful and easy mantra that agrees with stylish Beachers, she says.

"style in Holland is about individuality, everyone really wants to stand out and look different," she says. Kloosterhuis wanted to bring the classic and practical sensibility that Dutch scenesters have towards everyday fashion. There,urbanities wear mostly casual clothes, but with a distinct twist.

"The way of life there is very easy going, people there are very active and on the go and often ride bikes, so the clothes need to make a statement but also be functional and comfortable."

for Kloosterhuis, Yoka was an extension of her passion for fashion. Her mother is an experienced fashion retailer with two clothing store is Groningen, in The Netherlands. For yerars, Kloosterhuis orked with her mother, helping with buying and learning the foundations of retail buying and management, scouring top global trade shows for quality items for the family store.

The store brings several coveted brands from the Netherlands like D.E.P.T, Gsus and Sandwich and NTS(Not The Same). For men, J.C.Rags denim in unique washes and crisp Ben Sherman shirts,which are, what Kloosterhuis calls "amore fitted scale."

We have to teach people not to be afraid of clothing and style," she says. " I have many customers who come in and are afraid to mix and match or try different cuts. I love creating looks along with them and helping them enjoy every piece they try on."

While Yoka showcases European looks, it doesnt leave Canadian designers behind. The store also gives ample spotlight to staple names like monthreal favourite Debbie Shuchat and up-and-comer Myco Anna.

You'll also find a bevy of vintage Istanbul-sourced jewelry and cocktail rings in a variety of shapes, sizes and antiqued metals.