DOLL FACTORY BY DAMZELS 394 Roncesvalles 416-533-3232, damzels.com
If Leslieville has a west-end counterpart (meaning another T.O. neighbourhood with an intense buy-local focus), it’s Roncesvalles. So it’s not surprising that Kelly Freeman and Rory Lindo, the ladies behind Doll Factory by Damzels and long-time east-siders, chose it for their second location.
The space, once the European Shoe Boutique, judging by the sign still overhanging the sidewalk out front, is as pink and playful and rockabilly as the original location. A wall of lacquered stacked shelving fashioned from found tables shows off accessories and gifts like Jim Spinx barware and Barbie’s Basement Jewellery baubles. A trio of oversized change rooms and the cash counter from now-shuttered Hell’s Belles anchor the back of the shop.
On the racks you’ll find Damzels dresses plus other vintage-inspired frocks by Stop Staring, Heartbreaker and Pin Up Couture.
Damzels picks: A sweetheart neckline halter in leopard print is $110 the Damzels Madge dress is cut from denim and accented with yellow buttons and a strawberry patch, $120 the staple Varga dress comes in a diagonal stripe print, $110.
Look for: An official opening bash on April 23. Like the Leslieville location, this one features a summer-party-perfect backyard.
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 11 am to 6 pm, Sunday noon to 5 pm.
