Some women are so fabulous they only need a first name: Cher, Madonna and our new Toronto obsession, Valentina from The Store on Queen. Not only does Valentina, who co-owns The Store with the equally awesome Angela Phung, stock Queen West with some of the hottest clothing lines like BLK MQT and Audrey, she represents by rocking kickass style whether she’s busy in the store or out on the town. We caught up with the trendsetter to find out where she currently likes to grab a bite and what she loves about Toronto.
Give us a snippet about you. What should people know?
Is this a dating site? (LOL!) If it is, I’ll tell you everything and attach some really cute photos. Kidding… Well, I’m a little crazy, a lot loud, a fashion child, super friendly, and walk through life with rose-coloured glasses.
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Finish this sentence: I love Toronto because…
…there’s so much to do. It’s very multicultural. Every kind of food you can imagine. And I love to eat!
What are three things you simply cannot live without?
Love! My cat. Angela… Oh and sunshine! That’s four!
What’s your favourite restaurant and why?
Impossible! My latest is Garde Manger in Montreal because the food is ah-mazing! The service is incredible also! Toronto… It’s so hard… I eat mostly at home, but I love so many. Michael’s – amazing food; Jacob’s – great food and I love that they cut your steak. I like to try everything, every culture, different places, so I’d rather try a new spot every time I dine out.
What’s your favourite drink/cocktail and where do you go to get it?
I love the fresh fruit martinis at Buca! Passionfruit, kiwi… divine! I mostly drink vodka martinis, champagne, or a light fruity cocktail. I recently tried a Manhattan, which just may turn into my new drink. I don’t love it, but it’s a slow sipper for me, which is good. *winks*
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What are your current fashion obsessions?
I’m obsessed with everything! Pumps! I want pointy pumps in every colour! Huge massive necklaces! Anything sequin and beaded (that’s really all year round for me). Anything boho, like super bright patchwork stuff, fringe, kimonos, super ripped denim. I call myself the glamour hippie. I like anything that’s cool, different, not the norm. I’m an over-the-top kinda girl.
Who are your style icons?
I don’t really have style icons, however I have many people who I think have amazing style, and I would love to dip into their closet: Anna Dello Russo, Sydney Fashion Blogger, and Madame de Rosa.
Let’s get social for a mo’. How can people stay up-to-date with all your city-trotting?
We have Facebook, Instagram and Twitter all under. And an online shop, which includes a video and a blog written by us weekly.
