One of the wonderful things about our neighbourhood is window-shopping the colourful Sari displays along Gerrard. I am often in awe of the colour, fabric, and beauty of the many garments I don't dare wear. If I was a little more certain of myself, or a little more outrageous... but I admit, I have been shy about even entering the shops. Luckily I am not a shy creature by nature and it was only a matter of time before curiosity overwhelmed all other emotions and, having two perfect excuses, I have finally made my first two purchases on Gerrard.
In the first instance I was looking for a gift for my niece who lives in the Netherlands. My sister owns a kid's toy and craft shop there, and also has her own impeccable taste, so I am almost always at a loss to chose something surprising and unique for her children. To make up for the lack of direct contact, It's also nice to find something that tells her girls what type of person their Auntie is, just so they know that I'm, like, a million billion times cooler than Mom. Mission accomplished this year - as I walked past Little Bangladesh at 1396 Gerrard Street East, I saw a outfit in the window seemingly designed specifically for the sequined, pink loving diva that is the improbably offspring of my no-nonsense tomboy sister. Ankle length skirt, sequined tank top, and matching scarf in creped cotton for $30.00.
Today I was drawn into Pooja Boutique at 1424 Gerrard Street East, on an entirely different errand. Renos now trucking merrily along, I follow close behind adding the finishing touches to our finished rooms. Looking for something to put the unique stamp of the neighbourhood onto our home, I have been searching for a nice fabric for a living room curtain. At the Pooja Boutique I found a lovely midnight blue sari,on sale for $30.00, with multi hued sequined flowers. I was assisted by a very helpful young lady, who unfurled the length of fabric for me and explained how to drape it. I hesitated to tell her what I had in mind for the fabric, worrying that the reversal of the famous Sound of Music curtain dresses, might be slightly offensive (especially considering my sewing skills)but never-the-less, I have a privacy solution that all of my neighbours will hopefully find as beautiful as I do.
Both visits were wonderful experiences; and shyness overcome, I'm sure I will return.
