Category Archives: Style

October 1, 2012 · 8:05 AM

Levi’s Bootcut Skinny

A few weeks ago I told you about Levi’s new Bootcut Skinny jeans.  I was asked to style 3 outfits wearing the new bootcut and it was a little tricky.  I’m so used to tapered legs and just that tiny bit of extra material threw me off.  But I realized they’re perfect for the weekend and running around in flats.  I threw on my lace top from Vero Moda, leather jacket from H&M, brogue shoes, vintage bag, and necklaces from VV Boutique.  Simple. Easy. Comfortable.
Do you want to try the new Bootcut Skinny too?? Tweet me to win a $300 GIFT CARD from LEVI’S!!!! All you have to do is tweet @JulieDUva I want to win a $300 gift card from @LEVIS!! Keep tweeting me until Thursday. Multiple tweets gives you a better chance at winning.  All names will be thrown into a bucket and chosen at random. I’m jealous of who ever wins – $300 from Levi’s is a pretty sweet shopping day.  GOOD LUCK! JD

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September 21, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Black Sheer

If you follow my blog, you know I’m all about a deal and I find great pieces in random places.  This high low dress top was found at Spoof on Queen St. for $18.  I actually cannot stand that store, but I saw it in the window and knew it had great potential.  I paired it with a striped lycra skirt from Forever 21, a chunky necklace from Anthropologie, vintage clutch, and I think I can say vintage gold shoes – I bought them 12 years ago at the Galleria mall in Buffalo. Yes. I’m making the executive decision that they are indeed vintage. JD

Photography by Tania Alvarez

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September 10, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Levi’s Bootcut Skinny @ Junction Flea

Yesterday I wore my Levi’s bootcut skinny jeans to the Junction Flea.  The bootcut skinny is perfect paired with flats for exploring the city on a Sunday afternoon.  I went for a 70′s bo-ho look, inspired by Stevie Nicks.  Floral top is from Skylark (my favourite store on Abbott Kinny); lace vest is from H&M, hat is by Goorin Bros., and my bag is vintage coach.  Sunglasses are from Opticianado (best eye wear store in Toronto).
The Junction Flea is Toronto’s newest outdoor antique market that happens monthly at Dundas and Keele.  It’s similar to the Brooklyn Flea and features a mix of antique decor, handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and delicious food. It’s fab! You should definitely check it out if you like markets.
Also, keep a close eye on my Twitter feed, as I’ll be doing a contest to win a $300 gift card from Levi’s! Holla! JD

The next flea is on October 14th

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September 4, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Vintage Flowers

I was in a rush to leave the city one Friday and out of the corner of my eye I noticed Starling – a new vintage store on College St. (west of Dufferin).  In a matter of minutes I found this floral dress for $20.  There’s nothing I love more than a well kept vintage shop, and this place is definitely that.  They sell really cute dresses and a lot of other eye catching items at fair prices.
I’m also wearing my grandma’s necklaces, vintage earrings & bag, lace-up boots by Bass, and my most exciting accessory – my new bike by Beater Bikes.  It’s the most comfortable ride, and I’ve been all over town with it.  I call it the green machine.  JD

Photography by Tania Alvarez

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August 28, 2012 · 8:47 AM

Levi’s Bootcut Skinny

Levi’s recently approached me for a fun blogger challenge – style 3 outfits with the new bootcut skinny jean.  I was stoked because I absolutely love Levi’s and it really is a challenge for me because I only wear skinny jeans.  I chose the dark indigo pair because the Levi’s girls said they made me look mini. Sold!
The jean is awesome because it’s comfortable, hugs my legs snug but not too tight, and the width at the bottom is slightly smaller than a regular bootcut.  It’s an updated version of the traditional bootcut, which I definitely like.
I kept the look simple and wore my thin striped sweater and floppy hat both from H&M.  Sandals are by ShoeMint, bag is vintage coach, and the cutest dog ever was a passerby.  I love him!
This outfit would look great on a university campus or for running errands around town on a weekend.
Want your own pair of Levi’s? I’ll be running a contest via Twitter for a $300 Levi’s gift card – stay tuned for details! JD

Running away from me!

Loving white polish pedicures these days.  Sandals by ShoeMint.

Photography by Tania Alvarez

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August 21, 2012 · 9:36 AM

No Pants

When I was in NYC a couple weeks ago I noticed a trend – the girls wore short black tunics with short black boots and messy hair.  I spotted it everywhere from Williamsburg to SoHo to the Lower East Side and of course I loved it.  So yesterday I tried the look.  I wore my old (but favourite) tunic from H&M with new short boots by Bass (SO comfortable).  The tunic is pretty short so I felt like I wasn’t wearing pants, but it’s summer and my legs are finally tanned so I didn’t care.
I’ve also been loving the messy hair thing. I haven’t taken a hair dryer and round brush to my head since July 1st – no joke. That’s probably the longest I’ve gone since university.  I’m feeling free and I like it.  JD

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August 15, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Melting in Manhattan

Part deux of my vacation was unexpected.  We were on our way to the airport from Brooklyn (or so I thought) when the cab driver took an obscure route right through the city’s core.  I started to panic and thought we were going to miss our flight.  I was sure he was taking us for a ride to jolt the cab fare, and just as my temper started to rise, we pulled up at The Ace Hotel.  The boy told me to get out because we were staying a little bit longer. I jumped for joy.  I had never been surprised like that before.  To think I was heading home and suddenly get 2 more days in NYC — now that’s what I call a rad surprise.  The Ace Hotel definitely tops the chart for the coolest hotel I’ve ever experienced.  The decor, design, staff, and details are beyond clever and impeccable.

The Ace Hotel

The hangers at The Ace Hotel

We spent our extra days strolling the best parts of the city – West Village, Nolita, SoHo, and Lower East Side.  We also walked the Highline Park and had a little picnic in Central Park.  And by picnic I mean we picked up some cherries and watermelon from the closest deli, and sat on a blanket given to us by German tourists. Worked for me.

Shopping highlights included getting deals at the 5th Ave. Joe Fresh store (go Canada), Barney’s, Madewell, Uniqlo, and SoHo street vendors. Everything was on sale!

During the day we stopped for a Mexican snack at the coolest garage converted restaurant ever – Tacombi at Fonda Nolita.  At night we sipped cocktails at The Ace Hotel’s lobby bar, ate dinner at Momofuku (scrum-didle-y-umptious), and hit up speak easy bars like Milk & Honey, and The Back Room.

Tacombi at Fonda Nolita

Alley leading up to The Back Room. Dress from LF.

Me looking like one of those giant bats

The Back Room


Lower East Side
Caught in the act – eating a cupcake from Magnolia Bakery in the West Village.

I almost forgot – I called this post Melting in Manhattan because it was SO HOT it was unbelievable.  The word heatwave isn’t strong enough to describe it.  But I honestly loved it.  Cannot wait to go back. I love NY! JD

Banksy

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August 14, 2012 · 8:20 AM

Summer Loving in Brooklyn

This summer has been the most fun.  I’ve been up to so much I don’t even know where to begin.  I just got back from an amazing summer vacation – it was a little bit city, a little bit country, and a little bit cottage – the ultimate mix of joy.  First stop was NYC with the boy and a group of friends.  We stayed in Williamsburg and explored a whole lot of Brooklyn including food and artist markets, vintage shops, hidden gem bars, and delicious restaurants.
For this post, I’ll show you the Brooklyn part – markets, cool bars, and delicious food.  Stay tuned, more to follow. JD

View from our Air BnB condo in Williamsburg

The Brookyln Flea – great vintage and antique finds. My top c/o StyleMint. Hat Joe Fresh, Bag vintage Coach

Artists & Fleas indoor market – lots of jewelry

Great handmade bathing suits at Artist & Fleas

Thrifting at Beacon’s Closet

Beacon’s ClosetTchoup Shop – mouth watering New Orleans grub

Smorgasburg – a delicious food market. Same spot as the Brooklyn Flea, but a different day

Mexican fare from The Fat Beagle

Afternoon beer at Radegast Hall & Biergarten – so amazing and authentic

Marlow & Sons – AWESOME little restaurant. Obsessed with the cottage-inspired decor

Marlow Goods – cool stuff for sale in the restaurant

If you’re not into Air BnB but want to stay somewhere cool in Brooklyn, I highly recommend Whythe Hotel – we took a little tour and it was nothing short of spectacular coolness.

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July 25, 2012 · 8:27 AM

Blue Jean Baby

…LA lady. Seamstress for the band. Love that song and especially this scene from my favourite movie. Must re-watch soon. I didn’t learn my lesson with the heat wave and decided to wear my white jeans yet again!  Sometimes I get on a kick and wear the same things over and over.

Jeans are from Joe Fresh, top is an exceptional find from Value Village – it’s vintage Jacob! the tag looks like it could date back to 1990.  Sweetness.  Jean jacket is also a stellar find from Value Village – Vintage Levi’s!  I can’t take credit for it though, it was a gift from my BFF.  My favourite sky high heels are from Winners, belt is from a vintage shop, and my necklace is from Anthropologie.

Photography by Tania Alvarez

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July 24, 2012 · 7:58 AM

Red Checker

Don’t ask me why I bundled up with a blazer and dress shirt on a day hotter than Kenya.  Actually I ditched the blazer and unbuttoned the top button, but still – it was a bit ridiculous.  I saw my white jeans sitting on a pile of jeans and got the urge to wear them. My jeans are from Joe Fresh ($29), red checker top is from Value Village, blazer is from Zara, shoes are from Winners, and purse is from Cole Haan.  New summer rule for me – no. more. pants!  JD

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July 16, 2012 · 9:42 AM

Circle Skirt and Big Shoulders

While I’d rather be pool side in a bathing suit today, I had to get dressed for work.  It’s hard to dress appropriate for an office while being comfortable in this crazy heat.  I opted for a flowy circle skirt from Forever 21 ($18), and a grey v-neck t-shirt with big shoulders – also from F21 ($13).  I accessorized with vintage  green earrings ($3), a gold belt ($10), and my clogs from Banana Republic ($23).  I get so satisfied when my entire outfit costs less than $100.  If Supermarket Sweep came back in the form of shopping for clothes instead of groceries, I think I’d rock it.

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July 13, 2012 · 9:09 AM

Little Vintage Dress

I bought this little vintage dress a while back and I still love it.  I wore it to Garde Manger in Montreal last week, which was a really great restaurant in Old Montreal.  It’s small so make a reservation well in advance!  I paired the dress with a clutch from the GAP, a vintage gold belt, and my ShoeMint sandals.  Click here to see a little video of me deciding whether or not to buy this dress. So random, haha

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July 5, 2012 · 9:04 AM

Simple Outfit for a HOT day

I’ve been out of town and disconnected this week, feels good not looking at a clock or computer.  I took a trip to Montreal – one of my favourite cities. The bf and I enjoyed all the city has to offer, including their legendary jazz festival.  The weather was pretty much perfect and super hot.  To keep comfortable and cool on the hottest day, I wore a soft cotton striped skirt from Winners with a thin t-shirt from H&M, paired with canvas shoes, a vintage purse, and my hair in a top knot bun.  We covered so much of the city and had a blast.  I’ll share some of my favourite spots tomorrow. Stay tuned!

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June 29, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Inspired By Festival Season

Yesterday I read an article about (music) festival attire in Fashion magazine and the image of Kate Moss wearing a vest and jean shorts with hunter wellies re-struck a cord.  I remember when that shot surfaced and I loved it.  Kate Moss truly is THE ultimate trend setter of our generation.  I pulled out my black vest from H&M and paired it with my Levi’s cut-offs, a silver necklace, and a pair of combat boots for my version of Kate’s look.  I also layered my lace body suit from American Apparel beneath it and added a belt from Joe Fresh.  Looking forward to the next concert I go to this summer!

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June 28, 2012 · 8:10 AM

What to Pack: Traveling Shoes

In the past two days, two people asked me for advice on what to pack for a city vacation.  Having been in the midst of making my own packing lists for upcoming trips, I was excited to jump on the suggestion train.  I’ll start with footwear for this post.  I’m a firm believer that you have to be comfortable – especially when traveling, but you also want to look stylish.  Every time I go on a trip my Dad asks his famous question “did you pack your running shoes?”  I always respond with “no Dad, I have to look good.”  I can’t be seen wearing my Nike Airs with a skirt.  Can you imagine? The very thought makes me shudder.  So what shoes should you pack for a vacation?

I suggest packing canvas lace-up shoes in white or black, a pair of Bob’s in red or navy for a colour option, leather sandals with a tiny wedge for dressing up a bit, and a pair of fun flip-flops, in case you take a day trip to the city beach.  You can pack your runners if you plan to go running but for the city, opt for any of these comfortable options…

Lacoste sandal jelly thong – better than the standard shape of a flip flop, comfortable, and available in fun colours

Bob’s soft canvas slip on flats by Skechers $38 – feels like slippers, and Tom’s but half the price

White canvas shoes with laces removed.  These can be found anywhere from Ardene to H&M, Joe Fresh, and Payless. You shouldn’t pay more than $20

ShoeMint leather sandals with a tiny wedge – perfect for walking around and for a night out on the town

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June 25, 2012 · 9:23 AM

Moonrise Kingdom

I saw Moonrise Kingdom the other day and can’t say enough good things about it.  Written and directed by Wes Anderson (who also did The Royal Tenenbaums, Rushmore, The Darjeeling Limited), it’s about two rebellious 12 year-olds who fall in love and run away which sparks a search party to go after them.  It’s set in the summer of 1965 on an island off the coast of New England.  It’s an adorable story with a quirky sense of humour.  It has a stacked cast, and feels very much like a play.  The most incredible thing about it is the attention to detail and how everything is so perfectly shot.  The sets, props, wardrobe, everything is so meticulous and amazing.  I love 1960s style so I was ooing and awing at everything.  The colours are amazing too.  Some people criticize that it’s too perfect and a distraction, but I really appreciated it.  You have to see it to judge for yourself.  Definitely worth seeing in the theatre.  JD

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June 22, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Life is Beautiful

Extreme humidity is something I love.  The hotter the better.  But it also means I’ve given up on my hair.  There’s absolutely no way I can have my spaghetti hair draped along my neck. I. will. die. I keep wearing it in a high top bun – so high that it looks like a little hat on top of my head….like one of those fascinators.
Yesterday I found myself in a full H&M look – I didn’t mean to, it just happened.  Skirt, t-shirt, belt, and jacket are all from H&M.  Funny how that happens.  Booties are oldies from Capezio, and my purse is from Cole Haan. PS – I loved this wall I stumbled upon.  Life should always be pretty. JD

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June 21, 2012 · 7:54 AM

Value Village Finds: White Leather Shoes

Shopping at Value Village aka VV Boutique is always better outside of the city, so I went on a mission and hit up VV north and south of the city.  I found some pretty sweet stuff.  My favourite find was a pair of never-been-worn white leather shoes.  Love them!! They have a perforated pattern pattered and are lace-up.  I also found this floral and lace swing top that I belted with a vintage gold belt I already owned.  I’m also wearing my yoga jeans by Second Denim that I can’t get enough of.  Sunglasses are from Opticianado – the coolest sunglasses store in town.  JD

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June 15, 2012 · 8:00 AM

City Island Hopping

Nikki was in town for a visit to Toronto, check out her post from the Island.  It’s one of my favourite things about this city.

Sometimes it takes living in another city to really appreciate the little things Toronto has to offer. One of those little things being Toronto Island. We all have memories of petting goats or taking the ferry, but I have not been in over ten years. I was in town with my English man in tow and we decided to rent bicycles on a random week-day to see the city from another angle. We rode around all three islands and even perved on the nude beach! Have you ever seen the residential area of Ward’s Island? Whimsical, is the only word to describe it. How do I get on that property ladder? I wore a dress/belt combo from none other than the Value Village. Shoes were second-hand brand new from Monsoon in the UK.

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June 14, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Midi Skirt Trend

Yesterday I wore my high waist midi skirt from Forever 21.  I really love this trend but, it took me a few tries before getting used to it.  I had to play around with extra pieces and accessories to feel satisfied with the whole look.  I paired it with a crop top from American Apparel, lace vest and leather jacket from H&M, a vintage necklace, and shoes from Winners.  I feel very late 1960s in this outfit and I’m excited to style up something similar with my other midi length skirts.  If you haven’t embraced this trend yet, try it out for something fun.

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June 13, 2012 · 8:10 AM

Shoes of Summer – ShoeMint

Do you love shoes?  Of course you do!  Do you covet Rachel Bilson’s style? yep, I do too.  If you haven’t heard of ShoeMint, you’ll want to know.  It’s a unique online shoe shopping experience that’s a collaboration with the ever so fashionable Rachel Bilson, celeb stylist Nicole Chavez, and shoe legend Steve Madden.

To become a member, go to ShoeMint.com and take the style quiz so they can get to know your unique style. From there, each month a new collection is released and members receive new styles in their online showrooms. You choose the style you love for $79.98 (free shipping) and if you don’t find a pair you like, skip the month.

I was stoked to receive these awesome sandals and I’ve been wearing them almost every weekend.  I love that they have a tiny wedge rise because full flats are painful on my tootsers.  I think it’s because I have a crazy high arch.  I’m so excited to see next month’s collection from ShoeMint.  There’s nothing more satisfying than a new pair of shoes.

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May 25, 2012 · 7:56 AM

TO Contributor: Lindsay 2

It’s contributor Friday! Check out Lindsay’s 2nd post…

As I am new to Seven Dollar Pants I thought I would catch you up on all things Lindsay in a few quick points in no particular order.

I love a good deal.
I’m kinda obsessed with interior design and lipstick.
My dream is to own a Great Dane who will believe he is a lap dog and hang out with me on my turquoise couch.
I love a good bun, it always does the trick when I’m having a lazy hair day (the sock bun continually saves my life).
DIY arm swag is my vice.
I’m grumpy in the morning if I don’t get my Capital Espresso.
I wear boots all the time, no matter what season – they are my go to.
My real name is Jennifer, people like to call me Jenny from the block.
Outfit details: Joe Fresh shirt, Gap sweater, Top Shop jeans and boots, arm swag – combination of DIY, Top Shop and The Bay. Favorite new lipstick – Nicki Minaj by MAC.
Vintage Couch
Top Shop
Gap sweater + Joe Fresh blouse
DIY + Top Shop + The Bay

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May 24, 2012 · 11:34 AM

Purple Aura

As you might have guessed, my favourite colour is purple.  My logo is purple, my iPhone case is purple, and a friend read my aura recently and told me it was purple!  I was stoked to get these purple jeans c/o Level 99.  They’re sleek, tight, but comfortable too.  My floral top is from my aunt’s closet, purse is vintage, and shoes are from Top Shop.  JD

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May 23, 2012 · 8:06 AM

Wearing Winter Items in Spring + Giveaway from @Sherway_Gardens

As Canadians we have to learn to live with our stubborn weather.  One day it’s sweltering hot and the next day it’s chilly.  On the bright side, it allows me to wear a few winter items right into the spring season.  I actually don’t mind, it gives me satisfaction knowing I get a lot of use out of certain versatile items.

The cream coloured sweater is a trend I absolutely love.  I bought this one at American Eagle Outfitters at Sherway Gardens.  It’s stylish, and keeps me warm on chilly days when paired with jeans and boots, but I also wear it on those in between days (like yesterday) with a circle skirt, bare legs, and sandals – perfect transition for warmer days.

My lace dress from M for Mendocino was a staple item I wore this past winter with woolly tights, flat boots, and anorak jacket.  Now I can wear the same dress in warmer temps with a chambray shirt and sandals.

My Cole Haan menswear inspired boots from Ron White were a great trend for winter and I can’t seem to stop wearing them.  I’ve been sporting them with dresses and skirts sometimes with socks showing at the top.

— CONTEST —-
I’m running a contest for Sherway Gardens!  Win a $100 Cadillac Fairview shop! card. All you have to do is Tweet @JulieDUva and @Sherway_Gardens “I want to win a $100 gift card to buy (fill in the blank) #giveaway

** Contest closes at midnight on June 14, 2012. The winner will be selected randomly and announced on June 15, 2012. Winner will be notified by email or Twitter. Giveaway is open to GTA residents only. No prize substitutions. Prize does not include travel and cannot be redeemed for cash.**

Also be sure to check out Sherway Gardens new blog The Endless Closet.  It’s new and looking good.

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May 22, 2012 · 9:52 AM

Day Trippin’ – Wine Country Ontario

To escape the city this past weekend, the bf and I took our bikes on the GO train and headed to St. Catharines.  After 2 bike malfunctions and a few wrong turns, we made it to the first winery called 13th Street Winery.  It’s a beautiful and homey place with a bakery too!  From there we went down the road to Creekside Estate Winery for another tasting on their rustic outdoor patio.  We then stumbled upon an amazing cheese store called Upper Canada Cheese, where we hung out eating cheese and drinking vino on picnic tables.  We then headed a bit further into Jordan Village to stroll Main street and checked out Cave Springs winery.  It was an amazing city escape and felt like we were on vacation.  There’s so much do and see in wine country and biking around Niagara in general.  Definitely worth the day trip!  JD

13th Street Winery

Outfit for wine touring – H&M Dress + comfortable shoes c/o Skechers 

Creekside Estate Winery

Upper Canada Cheese Company

Cheese made in house

Cave Springs Winery

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