Words and photos by Carolyn Sandler

When talking style anything, can be turned fashion forward if it ends in the word “Chic.” Shabby Chic, Chalet Chic, Country Chic just to name a few. But Love Of Mine, Queen West’s newest high end Tchochke store, is a far cry from anything shabby or country. Its cozy cottage feel and minimalist design is a funky new interpretation of toile dish sets. Ranging from anatomical heart paper weights, gold chicken feet and sinfully worded canisters, Love Of Mine is the conscience gift giver’s dream.

Opened only a few months ago, Love Of Mine is situated in the ever-expanding area of new Toronto Artistry. With all of the flagship stores setting up shop where Queen St used to be hip, West Queen West is the less commercial destination, and stores like Anna Damelin’s Love Of Mine are snagging prime shopping real estate.

Damelin offers sweets for all of the senses, from jewelery to clothing, while the hybrid retail space offers plenty of pickings for the pickiest of customers.

The jewelery ranges from costume to higher end and includes beautiful gold pieces from designer Mercedes Salazar. The gold plated punk rock cuffs by designer Wendy Nichol and crystal encrusted insects, seen in the museum cabinet in the front, can run into the hundreds, but with cuffs and pyramids making a huge fashion appearance this season, why not get trendy?

Ghetto fab nameplates and rings are offered in custom designs in both sterling silver and 14k gold, and range in price according to design and metals. All custom orders can take up to about two weeks

Interior Designer Jonathan Adler also makes an appearance in Love Of Mine. His quirky designs can be seen on the “sin” canisters which range in price form $54-92. You can find them next to the jewel encrusted monogram mugs, which make a great gift for the man who likes a touch of bling!

With all of the new retail spaces whose titles combine two words that are opposite one another, Love of Mine is a refreshing change to fake moustaches and Jesus air fresheners. Love offers smart gift giving and unique home fittings for your not so typical homeowner.

www.loveofmineboutique.com
416-368-4999
781 Queen Street West
Toronto, Ontario M6J 1G1