I keep thinking it's too early to be daydreaming about the Toronto International Film Festival. The Brange. The parties. The paparazzi. Then I realize it's almost August and the celebrity-filled fest is only a month and a half away (thank you Mother Nature for confusing my concept of time with this soppy, slightly-cold summer).

Immediately, my brain jumps into "what will I wear?" mode, especially at the sight of my closet that's "so two years ago." I wander around Queen West looking for a simple yet chic find (perhaps a Free People dress, or a sleek pair of jeans paired with a Mackage jacket), and that's when I stumble on Leigh & Harlow, the newish designer boutique just east of Palmerston.

Open for a few months, and designed by the trend-setting men at The Design Agency, the unisex boutique is a mecca of trendy labels straight out of Hollywood (which, by the way, is what you should be thinking about whenever you hear the store's name... Vivian Leigh and Jean Harlow, anyone?).

From denim labels like Joe's Jeans and Paige Premium Denim, to celebrity-endorsed lines like JT's William Rast and Peppe Peluso, there's something available for just about everyone.

Once I enter the store, my eyes are immediately drawn to a wall of brightly coloured flowy floral shirts and dresses (perfect when matched with a thin, waist-hugging belt). Then I move into fall at the sight of a wool mini-dress ($59, complete with sequin trim around the sleeves). There are even cute accessories like the Jeffrey Campbell gladiators ($79).

For fashion forward guys, I can't help but love the Jack & Jones vintage tees (from $19) or the more dressy Report Collection shirts (from $55, perfect for layering under a sleek blazer with a dark pair of jeans).

And while it's impossible not to love the store's great collection of brands, I have to say, I'm also a fan of the boutique's relaxed shopping vibe. From the friendly staff (very un-L.A. like), to the figure-flattering lighting and mirrors, it's the kind of place you can hang out in while shopping the trends (just in time for your back-to-TIFF shopping).

Photos by Alex Russell