Sylvie & Shimmy
Sylvie & Shimmy, a play on the surnames of owners Caroline Sylvester and KyungJoo Shim, can only be described as a grown-up tea party. Aside from the dainty china dazzling the storefront window and wall displays, each womenswear garment is perfect for 20-somethings keen on looking as sweet as a cupcake.
The Parkdale boutique is draped in pastel colours and flower arrangements; their signature colour - an ultra-feminine mint green - is found everywhere from the signage to the dressing room walls. Caroline greeted me almost immediately, letting me know that everything in stock is either imported from Korea or made by a local designer.
The front half of the shop carries the classics - little black dresses and lace blouses adorn the racks by the dozens. A sheer blouse with floral embroidery ($69), no doubt inspired by Louis Vuitton 's candy-coloured spring/summer 2012 collection , was one of my favourites - I was ready to throw it over a sleeveless dress for a glamorous carousel ride of my own.
Louder statement pieces are situated towards the back, including a blouse with cartoon faces printed all over it ($35) and a yellow/pink/white striped tunic ($69). The accessories are as cute as a button, placed carefully throughout the space on mannequins, tables, and a rustic white cabinet refreshed with floral wallpaper. A pair of fuchsia cut-out flats ($69) and a daisy bracelet by Toronto-based MoonRox ($125) caught my eye.
A dresser by the cash is my last stop. It's filled to the brim with fun graphic tees by Crywolf and 1%Talent ; a tank top flaunting a mischievous fox wearing glasses peers over at me from one of the drawers ($25).
Caroline says the online shop will launch in the very near future, so that those living a bit more east can enjoy the Sylvie & Shimmy tea party from the comfort of their own homes. But, for those willing to make the trek, you're certainly in for a treat.
Photos by Morris Lum