Saturday 31 October 2015

I Little Bit of Lou Lou

I have often read about other bloggers experiences at Lou Lou's Vintage Fairs. They have great reviews and I've wanted to go to one for a while. They travel the country and are often in Sheffield but, I have never been able to get to them. Today however, there was one right on my doorstep and I was determined to go. 


Even the flyer is a lovely thing to look at. We got there at opening time and everything was perfectly set up. Lots of great stalls to browse round, lovely old tunes playing and great lighting, none of the bright white eye hurting lights that seem to be everywhere nowadays. 
 Alex and I had a lovely time wandering around and gazing at all the great stuff on offer. The prices were very reasonable and there was so much choice. I could have come away with several handbags, but, while they weren't expensive, they still weren't the price I was prepared to pay. Several thigs were the price I was prepared to pay though, so I will get on with the job of showing you my lovely new tat. 


This is a beautiful handkerchief bowl. We often see these and Alex likes them a lot, but they are often orange or really quite expensive. We both loved this one, it's such a lovely colour and we had to bring it home with us. 


Excuse the enormity of the photos, I forgot to crop them all before I posted. So, if you can see the teeny specs resting on my giant footstool then you are looking at two pairs of gorgeous earrings, a devine enamel brooch and yet more vintage buttons. These are all in immaculate condition and I can't wait to show them off better by wearing them ( and cropping my photos! ).


This is the prettiest bread bin I've ever seen. It's perfect for my kitchen as I have a lot of green and cream items. I love the Art Deco lettering on the front. I'm using my old bin as a storage for my cloths and natural cleaning solutions that I've mixed up recently. It's looks good in the cupboard under my sink and certainly keeps things tidy. 


 
These are a fab pair of unworn rubber boots ( I'm certainly geared up for wet weather ), they are from the early 60s and I normally wouldn't go for things from that decade but I think these have great 50s styling to them. They are fleecy all the way to the toe, so they will be as warm as toast for me in the winter.



And finally, this is what I wore. I got complemented on my hair while I was there, woohoo! I wanted to wear my handmade 40s skirt and my newly made flower brooches. I think it's a sweet ensemble and quite appropriate for a lovely morning hunting tat. 
                        Till next time dears xx

Thursday 29 October 2015

Happy Finds

Just a quick post to show you the great things that have been added to my treasure cave this week. 
 The weather has been totally miserable but I have a big smile on my face due to some utterly gorgeous tat. It has to be said that I am one cheap date, as the things that make me happiest are always the smallest things. I love details, whether that be the small knick knacks that change the room completely and make it more homely, to the accessories that make an outfit just that bit extra special. 
 This week I have managed to find details such as those. 


This lovely thing is a small detail to add to a room, something that a housewife would have picked up to make a piece of furniture a little bit more user friendly. It's a bakelite tray that sits on the arm of a chair or couch and stays put by gripping on with springy grabber things ( technical speak there ).


It's actually very stable to use, maybe a husband would have put his pipe or drink on there, or maybe a wife would have used it to keep sewing things at hand as she worked of an evening. Who knows, but what I do know is that it's pretty darn useful, even after all these years. 


Now, these are something totally brilliant! Alex actually found them so I can't claim the credit ( not as she reads this blog anyway ), but I'm so glad she did. Yes, the packet says rain overshoes, and that is precisely what they are.


They fold out into stylish shoe covers that have a sole and an elasticated heel opening. They also have a zip front and fold over top details. They can be popped into a handbag ready for a rain emergency. 


I think these are so great, it's actually a brilliant idea as when you are wearing court shoes that leave the top part of your foot exposed, or suede shoes that will be ruined by rain, you can just slip these on quickly and not have to worry about splash marks on your tights or ruined shoes. Yes, you can wear appropriate  shoes in the first place, but sometimes you don't want to be in boots all the time, and there will be occasions where you are out and about and suddenly the heavens open in an unexpected shower ( this is Britain after all ). These are quite rare, especially complete with packaging, Ebay hasn't even got any at the moment and Ebay usually has everything. 


And finally, these beautiful earrings. These are so gorgeous, I could weep! When I look at photos of women from the 40s and 50s, I'm always taken by the loveliness of their accesories. Their hair slides and earrings and brooches are always so delicate and totally beautiful, no one seems to make them quite as wonderful as they used to anymore. So it's understandable that I had to have these, they are in perfect condition and will be a lovely addition to some of my outfits. 
 All wonderful small things that add so much to my vintage life, making it feel even more authentic and far away from modern living. I told you that I was a cheap date when little things like these give me a warm fuzzy glow inside, but having said that, if someone would like to buy me a vintage fridge, well then I wouldn't say no! 
                    Till next time dears xx

Friday 23 October 2015

Suitably Severe

It's certainly beginning to get cold now. The wind is picking up and the steel grey clouds are ever more present. There is no denying that winter is looming. This year, I am determined not to be cold. It has to be said that I do get cold quickly, and despite the fact that I look very well insulated ( especially in the chest area ), I don't seem to get much benefit from my own natural layers. 
 I have decided that I'm not going to allow myself to get cold from the start, as it always seems harder to try and warm up once the cold has started seeping in. I shall be wearing multi layers, top and bottom. With this in mind, I dressed today for what turned out to be a very successful shopping trip for Alex, who needed new shirts, in many layers. Start as you mean to go on and all that. This is in stark contrast to Alex who has to have a coat stapled to her in order for her to keep wearing it, even in six foot of snow! 



I found this thick plaid skirt in a charity shop, I love it. It's very practical and just pulls on but is a good length, nice and modest (which isn't hard as my legs are about 2 inch long!). I paired this with two, yes two, blue round neck tops and a wool cardigan. Don't you just love a good cardi? They are great for any occasion. I had tights and socks on and my trusty brogues. I used my cute black handbag and added a pair of vintage ceramic brooches. 



I thought the look had an air of a school mistress about it, so I had to wear my cats eye specs, well of course I did!
 In the house, in order to keep my delicate titchy tootsies warm, I have invested in a pair of sturdy slippers.


I am now officially old but I don't care, I adore them. The trouble is though, that they have solid rubber soles. This has meant that on several occasions, I have trotted out to get in my car and not realised i hadn't actually got real shoes on! Oh well.
 On a separete note, I have inherited a love of radios off my parents. Here is my latest find. A gorgeous Roberts radio, I hope u are suitably jealous dear parents.



                       Till next time dears xx

Tuesday 13 October 2015

Happy Tat Hunting

In the last few days, I have turned a year older. I'm heading rapidly toward a rather significant age ( if the media is anything to go by ) and I think I'm ok with it. Well, put it this way, it's tough if I'm not! I am looking forward to my future years now that they are filled with vintage loveliness, so what better way to celebrate that future, than with a trawl round a fabulous antique store or two. 
 Over the last few weeks, I have been to a good few, including one in sheffield's antique quarter that I've previously not been to. There is nothing more calming, heavenly and all round soul inspiring than meandering around a full to the brim store that has gorgeousness jumping out at you at every turn. I found some lovely things at my usual rock bottom bargain prices.


This little box makes me very happy. It contains a 1930s bow brooch, a pair of amazing blue earrings from the 50s that will be turned into brooches, and a sweet little flower plaque brooch that is perfect for my coat lapel. The whole lot was only £4, just perfect.


Yes, I know you have seen the radio before, but point your peepers at the little beauty beside it. This is an adorable little bakelite microphone, in full working order. When I saw it, I knew I had to have it, so now I can truly play out my dream of being Judy Garland. 


At last! A large version of the 1930s/1940s photo frame that I've wanted for so long. I wanted a picture of someone in uniform in this one as that is what so many of them would have contained, and Alex had the perfect one. This is her much missed grandfather in his younger days. It's not the original, she kindly printed out a copy for me. Isn't he rather lovely looking?
  A girl who is embarking on a vintage spree, has to look the part so as to not show up the lovely tat she is browsing. 


I love red, it's such a warm colour. I found this 40s inspired blouse in a charity shop. It has glorious little pleats under the yoke that don't show up to well on my camera, but they are there.


This brooch was a gift to me, it's more 50s but I love it and it really goes so well with this outfit.


I have been experimenting with different ways to have my hair. This is a faux fringe, and was quite simple to do. It does require a few pins as my hair is heavy and there is plenty of it, but it's a great look that I am happy to report, stayed put all day! 
 So there we have it, my latest endeavours at tat finding. Here's to another year of happy hunting.
          Till next time dears xx

Friday 9 October 2015

Look to the Past

I told you a while ago that Alex was working on a 1930s dress for me. Well it's finished and I must say, I love it! It's based on a true 1930s dress that we found a picture of on the Internet. Here is the process in full.


This is the start of the project, it was completed in Alex's home as she has more room there. First off we took a basic Jersey dress from the 80s that we found in a vintage shop. It was the perfect length and shape for my dream 30s dress. First, Alex took off the trims that adorned the neckline and sleeves, then she took the dress in by a good inch and a half, from underneath the arms down to the bottom. This gave the dress more shape and a lovely drape on the top half.



Next, she made a pattern for the new sleeve embellishments and the new neckline. These would alter the look of the dress even more.



We decided to use the curves and points that reflected the Art Deco influences of the period, with the sleeves echoing the neckline but not copying it exactly.



We had lots of red jersey left from my circle skirt and thought that it would contrast beautifully with the blue, we discussed white but decided this would look too sailor like. The red and the blue are classic colours of the era and work a treat. We kept the White for the extra touches we would add to the dress later.


Next, Alex added a pocket based on a 30s design.


Finally, she constructed a belt for me and threaded it through my gorgeous Bakelite buckle. A hook and eye were sewn on to keep the belt slipping through whilst being worn.

 
And here is the finished article, it all marries together so well I think but I know you want to see it on, so here we go...




These were taken today, I love the way the dress looks, it's exactly what I wanted and I'm so grateful to have someone who can make me these lovely things to wear. I think it looks very 1930s, so much so, I'm off to demand I'm an extra in Poirot.
                         Till next time dears xx

Tuesday 6 October 2015

Variations on a Jumper

As it's now very much getting into autumn full swing, it's time to get out the sweaters and cardigans. Not that they were ever really put away this year, I certainly always felt it best to keep a cardi at hand most of the time, just in case. 
 It can be very nice to be able to feel all snuggled, but, I think that as the weather doesn't seem able to make its mind up, it's best to stick to layers and fine knits. I have several ( and by several, read tons ) of lovely soft jumpers and cardigans, and I thought it would be nice to show how they can be very versatile. 
 Now, like most people, my days vary, from being leisurely and pottering about to running around like a demented moron trying to cram far too much into far too little time. 
 The first look is very much geared to the latter. Those days when you just have to be practical and can't wear anything too fussy. 


I have taken inspiration from the late 40s, when women were wearing tailored trousers. These are are a good heavy cloth and have a great crease down the front. They are practical, comfortable and flattering. I put them with sensible brogues and my featured sweater. The sweater is a fine, soft knit. Warm enough without being too hot and bulky. I added a bakalite brooch from the 40s and pearl earrings. It gives a very classic look that is actually timeless. 


The second look is more dressy, for those days when you may be out and about but not necessarily running a billion errands. Note the one sleeve up one sleeve down look, I'm trying to start a trend and I didn't just forget to pull it down at all! Honestly! 


The brooch I chose this time is a pretty 40s number with pressed petals and is very autumn appropriate. I placed it at the top of the neckline in the centre, where I think it works very well.


The sweater was teamed with my blue 40s skirt and a gorgeous full petticoat underneath to give it shape and add some warmth. I also chose some lovely knitted tights and my cute 40s inspired dress shoes. 
Both looks were extremely comfortable to wear, especially now as I have lost a good inch or two from my waistline. 
 I have some great looks to show you all over the coming weeks, including a great full dress coat that is the perfect length for a true vintage winter look. I will also be showing off ( well, what else can I call it? ) some bargain jewellery finds and a couple of home knick knacks that I am lucky enough to now own. I spoil you all don't i?
                             Till next time dears xx

Thursday 1 October 2015

10 Facts About Me

As this blog may be read by more than my family, I thought I would share a few facts about myself so that others can know me a little better. O yes, and you thought that I would only bore you with vintage tat. Well this sort of post has served other bloggers well, so it can't hurt, can it? Here we go then;

I Love Anything to do with Fantasy.
When I was kid, I was forever daydreaming. I am proud to say I have a good imagination that I have spent many hours fuelling with books and films and poems and art. Things that draw my attention are things that have a lot of soul in them. They stir you and make you a part of them. This was never more so, when one day whilst poorly from school, I watched The Labyrith by chance. I was gripped from the word go, it was literally like seeing inside my own head. Such a beautiful visual film with great music. O, and the rather fabulous David Bowie may have something to do with it.

The Doctor is my Hero
Another thing very much loved from childhood. He would do anything to save you, has a time machine and can change his face every now and then... What's not to like! 

Favourite Song
O Children, by Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. It's just full of feeling and utterly beautiful. Be warned, it's not a happy song though, but very inspiring.

Pet Hate
One thing guaranteed to make me want to punch someone in the face, is when they pronounce "th's" as "v's". I mean, come on, how flipping hard can it be. It's not "vem" it's "them". Don't do it people, I will snap! 

Favourite Book
500 Mile Walkies. My mum and dad suggested I read this book one Saturday morning when I was whinging on at them about being bored. I am so so glad they did, it's so funny. I read it every year without fail around spring and summer, when I'm dying to be out in the country. I read their copy to death, then they bought me my own, which fell apart after several years of reading. Then Alex bought me a beautiful hard back copy that will hopefully take longer to fall to bits. A cracking read! 

Favourite Weather
Now I know I've been banging on about the sunshine and warmth recently, but that's just because I'm getting old. My actual favourite weather happens to be the sort we get the most of; warm damp and overcast. This is purely down to memories. My parents would ( for reasons unbeknown to me ) suggest going for walks in the country and down canal tow paths in this sort of weather, so when I'm presented with a day like that, I'm immediately transported back to those times. Togged up in bizarre jumble sale clothes, usually with a margarine tub in hand, traipsing down paths that lamas would think twice about going down, in search of blackberries or minnows if there was a pond or stream. They truly surpassed themselves though, when one day, after torrential rain, they turned up at my school gates with shopping bags full of a picnic tea. Now I forgive them as it was in the days before weather apps, but, we ended up in a park's cricket pavilion veranda, eating soggy sandwiches and watching the rain sheet down, while I cried my eyes out about being flooded ( I told you, vivid imagination ), and my dad gave me a duster that was in his pocket to wipe up my tears! 

I Adore My Parents
Now I know, everyone does, but it has to be said because I am so my parent's daughter. I would just not be who I am today were it not for them. They are bonkers, unique and would do anything for me. I know that I appreciate the world and life the way I do because of them, and that's not just sentimental talk, it's because I was always allowed to be me. They never stopped me singing away in my bedroom each night to Kate Bush songs, they would spend so much time with us kids each holiday, they didn't farm us out to other people, and that gave me a real sense of family. You can't put a price on things like that.

I Can Sing, Paint and Draw
I'm not being big headed here, there are many things I would like to do well but fail miserably at. I can, however, do the things mentioned above. I'm not a singer in the sense of a pop singer, thankfully, but rather in big band, musical sort of way. Basically, I can belt it out, I have a big vocal range and can, oddly enough, do very good impressions of quite a few singers ( men included ). My painting style is very much influenced by the Pre- Raphealites. Several people now have my paintings on their wall.

I Wish I Had Curly Hair 
I always have and always will, it would be so much easier, but no, I am lumbered with poker straight hair that just hangs there. Typical!

I Once Got My Head Stuck in a Chair....
This is one of a few embarrassing incidents I got myself into. They happened largely because I was being me. Now being me is great but, I don't seem to get on very well in the real world, I am more suited to the rose tinted world that occupies my head and sometimes the two clash. One such occasion was at primary school, when at the end of the day we had to put our chairs on the tables and stand behind them and say a quaint little prayer. Now, this particular day, I wasn't saying the prayer, I was wondering what it would be like to peer through the gap between the chair seat and the back rest.  Of course this had to be tried out, so I shoved my head through, only to discover that not only could I see exactly the same things as I could when I was just stood, but also, my head was not going to go back through. To cut a long story short, my friends went home holding their sides with laughter, while it took two teachers to take the chair apart so I could be freed. I have also pretended that two lines of freshly laid Tarmac were train tracks, that I promptly fell on and got tar stuck all over me, particularly my face. That resulted in the school nurse trying to get the rapidly hardening tar off my face using butter! Heaven knows why she thought that would be a good idea as the warm tar only melted the butter and ran all over me. What my mother thought that day when I came out of school I'll never know!

So there you have it, a little bit of an insight into me. I hope it allayed any notion that I might be normal, and has shown you that I'm happily a bit odd. Back to vintage tat next time.
                    Till next time dears xx