Clearly I’ve been missing for quite some time. I’ve been tied up to the max with work. I miss you blog. But more on that later, as I plan to get back on the train.
Tonight I went to the pre-screening of The Great Gatsby and I left the theater fully inspired!! Inspired to dress-up more often, inspired to party more, and inspired to listen to new music – especially Lana del Ray (love her).
I hardly ever go to the movies and I hardly ever sit through a movie at home. I get sleepy, or I can’t sit still, or I just don’t like it enough.
I went into Gatsby thinking it was going to be long and just ok, and it was long, but it was captivating.
I read the book in high school and I’m not going to say the book was better because 1) I hate when people try to sound smart by saying they liked the book better and 2) I couldn’t even remember it that well, so the movie was definitely better. I absolutely loved the costumes and the perfect cast and how gorgeous everything looked, including dreamy Leonardo DiCaprio. I wore a Gatsby-inspired outfit – a cream coloured knit top with a cream coloured crochet skirt, and lots of accessories – pearls, bracelets, rings, and earrings.
I definitely recommend going to see this movie, it won’t disappoint.
Tag Archives: Seven Dollar Pants
Gatsby The Great
Filed under Places To Go, Things I Love
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
Filed under Style
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
Filed under Style
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
Filed under Places To Go, Style
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
Filed under Style
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
For A Good Time, Call
Last night I attended the Canadian premiere of For A Good Time, Call. Former college frenemies Lauren and Katie are forced to become roommates in New York City, and in order to pay their rent, the unlikely pair start a phone sex line together. It stars Lauren Miller, Ari Graynor, and Justin Long, with cameos by Seth Rogan, Nia Vardalos, and Kevin Smith. Directed by Toronto’s Jamie Travis, the film at heart is about female friendship and is hilarious, colourful, and fun to watch. There’s never a dull moment and it’s different because it’s not a rom com, and it’s not a chick flick – it’s somewhere in between. Guys will like it just as much as girls…or maybe even more.
After the movie was over, film critic Richard Crouse did a Q&A with the actors, director, and co-writer, and I got a shot with one of the leads, who was super friendly. The movie comes out Aug. 31st – check it out! JD
Me with Ari Graynor – who looks a lot like Bette Middler!
Watch the trailer
Filed under Events, Things I Love
Toronto’s Most Stylish Reader Contest
Get your vote on! I’m one of the top 10 finalists for Toronto Life’s Most Stylish Reader contest and I’m calling on y’all to help me win. I’m truly honoured because I love this city and I love Toronto Life. I hope I can count on my trusty readers for your votes. It’s just 2 simple clicks to vote and you can vote ONCE PER DAY until 27-Aug. Would love if you could pass it on. Click HERE to vote. Thank you so much!!!
Filed under Contest
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
Filed under Style
Things I Like
Things I liked this past weekend…
Sunshine on my newly built deck
Lemonade stand in Kensington Market
Delicious Mexican churros
Great jewelry store in Kensington….was drawn to this mint green table
New zipper bracelet to add to my arm party
Drinks on my deck with the lovely CM
Filed under Things I Love
Prince Edward County
From the busy streets of New York to Ontario wine country – part 3 of my trip was spent in Prince Edward County.
If you follow my Facebook page, you already know how obsessed I am. I heard PEC was becoming the new Niagara-on-the-Lake and that it was a cute place to visit, but that’s it. Having zero expectations made the experience that much sweeter. It was funny timing because Toronto Life came out with a Guide to Prince Edward County the day we got there. We followed a bit of it, but discovered a lot of other great stuff too…
This trip solidified my obsession with barns
A lot of people don’t know about Prince Edward County, and have no idea that it’s in Ontario, but that’s fitting because it’s a magical place and feels SO far away from home. The closest big city is Bellville but the little towns you want to go to are Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington.
In a nutshell, PEC used to be all dairy farms but in 1999 they discovered the land was excellent for growing grapes – fast forward a decade and the county now has 32 wineries! Driving down the country roads to the wineries felt like the Great Ocean Road in Australia (no exaggeration). We went to Closson Chase, Rosehall Run, The Grange, Norman Hardie, Waupoos Estates, and the Cider Company. Each place was awesome and some had beautiful views of the lake.
Old converted church at Closson Chase
County Cider Company – sipping delicious peach cider
Waupoos Estates Winery – unreal views and unbelievable food (explosion of flavours).
In addition to the wineries, and perhaps the best part (in my opinion) is the countless outposts of antique and vintage shopping. We’d be driving along the road and see a barn with an ‘antiques’ sign and I’d yell “pull over!” The most exciting shop was City Revival in Picton – a vintage shop with great designer finds. I bought an evening dress and I can’t wait to share with you *eeeeee*
Dead Peoples Stuff – that really was the name
More Highlights:
A major highlight is the spectacular Dunes Beach in Sandbanks Provincial Park. Here we spent the day floating on rafts in the water. It was so peaceful we fell asleep and drifted away.
Slickers Ice Cream – listen to Toronto Life and get the apple pie ice cream. They mix 2 freshly baked apple pies into the ice cream and oh man it’s delicious.
Angeline’s Hub & Inn – great place for tapas and cocktails, and an awesome place to stay.
The towns have so much character and the houses have an undeniable charm. The locals are extremely nice and you can tell they’re excited and proud of their sleepy-turned-cool-destination town. I would be too. The drive is 3 hours from Toronto and it’s definitely worth a weekend trip – even for one night. I am one thousand percent going back, it’s the best. JD
Filed under Places To Go
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.
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
Filed under Places To Go, Style
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
Filed under Style
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
Play Me, I’m Yours
Yesterday I decided to eat my lunch in the Village of Yorkville park, and I saw a colourful piano that said “Play Me, I’m Yours.” Within minutes someone sat down and played a few great tunes, another person followed up with more music, and another! It wasn’t planned, it was literally just a piano sitting there for randoms to play. I thought ‘what an amazing idea, the city should have more of these.’ Turns out we do. I did a little Google search and there are 41 pianos spread across the city as part of an art installation to celebrate the three-year count down to 2015 Pan American Games. You can read the full article here that was published in the Star. After I ate my burger and quinoa salad (leftovers from the weekend), I got the courage to play a tune of my own. Fact: I used to play the organ and was quite good back in the day, but I can’t read music anymore. SAD. I still remember some stuff by ear, but taking lessons again is on my bucket list.
There’s a video too – just trying to figure out my iMovie. Also on my bucket list!
Filed under Things I Love
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.
Filed under Style
Tourist In The City
After a few glorious days in Montreal, we came back to the city and continued our vacation. It’s fun to play tourist in your own city. We hit a Jays game, went to Canada’s Wonderland, ate delicious food at St. Lawrence Market, and discovered some amazing beaches just outside of the city – one was Bluffer’s Park Beach at the foot of the Scarborough Bluffs – which is a sight not to be missed. It’s a little far east, but worth the trek at least once this summer. It’s extremely sandy, the water is safe to swim in, and the backdrop of huge cliffs makes you feel worlds away from the city. The other beach was Humber Bay Shores along the Lakeshore path. Cross the white bridge and keep riding your bike about 10 minutes west until you find a rock that says ‘reconciliation.’ It’s an incredible spot that feels like cottage country. The water is crystal clear and amazing. Both spots are great alternatives to the island and the beaches.
Amazing shot my friend took – the sky was purple!
Bluffers Park Beach, Scarborough Buffs
Cross this bridge along the Lakeshore path and keep heading west to find amazing inlets of beaches
Filed under Places To Go
Favourite Spots in Montreal
I’ve been to Montreal a handful of times but this was the first trip that I really explored a lot, weaving in and out of side streets on Bixi bikes, and taking the metro around to local spots.
Being there for Jazz Fest was pretty amazing. I had no idea it was the biggest jazz fest in the world. There were about 7 stages on the grounds with free shows playing every hour on the hour from noon to midnight. It was quite the scene attracting hundreds of thousands of people from locals to tourists and artists from around the world.
Other highlights included the Jean Tallon market – a giant outdoor market in Little Italy. Felt like a market in Europe!
I finally went to Schwartz’s for a smoked meat sandwich and Fairmont Bagels – I absolutely loved how authentic they were. For restaurants we went to Au Pied Du Cochon and Garde Manger – two of Montreal’s most desired spots. They were ridiculous from the locations, to the vibe, to the food, everything was fantabulous.
We stayed at Hotel Zero 1 – a cute boutique hotel in a perfect spot, just around the corner from Jazz Fest.
Jazz Fest
Jazz Fest
Jean Tallon Market
Au Pied Du Cochon
Yes I actually ate it and it was crazy delicious
Schwartz’s Deli
I actually ate this too! Smoked Meat Sandwich
Fairmont Bagels
Vino on the roof top of our Hotel (Hotel Zero 1)
Forgot to mention I went back to Le Scandinave Spa in Old Montreal and I’m so glad I did. I have never been to a more relaxing and awesome spa ever. YOU HAVE TO GO!
Filed under Places To Go
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!
Filed under Style
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!
Filed under Style
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
Filed under Style
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
Filed under Style, Things I Love
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
Filed under Style
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
The Roxton
It’s evident by now I simply love hidden gems. While The Roxton is not exactly hidden, it’s definitely a gem. Located on Harboard St. near Ossingotn, it’s a perfect size spot with a street-side patio and a cozy, eclectic inside. I think the building used to be part house, part wine making place. I’m not exactly sure, but there’s an old sign that suggests it. There isn’t a sign that says The Roxton, or if there is one – it’s very small and discreet, hence – the hidden part. I went for drinks recently and enjoyed the patio first and when it became a bit chilly, we sat inside. The service was spectacular for such a small little place. The servers were friendly and on it. In addition to good music, a great atmosphere, and a delicious menu, they have a games list which was unexpected and fun. We played Connect Four while sipping our cocktails…a funny mix of childhood and mature-hood. Even though I’ve only been here once, I keep suggesting it to people and will definitely be back. It’s a great date place and good for a group of friends too. Best of both worlds. Check it out at 379 Harbord St. JD
Filed under Places To Go
SevenDollarPants
