'All the leaves are brown'...

'....and the skies are grey' as the song goes. 

I've been rubbish and haven't updated my blog since July - a whole season ago.  The leaves are now changing colour, the garden is looking sparse and the blossom on the trees has turned into a bumper crop of apples for crumble!  I have to say I am one of those strange people who loves all things autumnal and wintery - everything that is, apart from the cold if I'm not prepared for it.

In my goth stage, that actually lasted about 6 years, I was obsessed with Tim Burton's 'A Nightmare before Christmas' - it combined my fascination of creepy Halloween things with Christmas.  Now in my 'older' age, both times, for me, are an ideal time to craft with the cold evenings drawing in, making it an ideal time to make yummy things to eat and decorate your home with.  In my next few posts that's what I'll be doing - sharing some ideas and recipes for the upcoming months.

In  the meantime, if you don't have time to make yourself something for Halloween I would suggest paying this website a visit http://www.diablojos.com/  Diablo Jo's was recommended to me a while ago and I've only just treated myself to a Halloween fascinator.  I plan on wearing this long past Halloween itself because it makes me smile and is so different to the girliness I make.

Thank you!

Very quick post, with the only one reason -  to say thank you to the gorgeous Anna Fur Laxis. If you don't know this wonder lady then check out her site and be amazed! 

http://annafurlaxis.com/

The reason I want to say thank you to Anna is that she sent me some photos  shot in Los Angeles, by "Jazz" Hans, of her wearing a hat I made her.  Anna was not only kind enough to send me through these photos but also posted one of the photos on her website with a link to my etsy shop.  So, thank you so much again Anna, you are just too lovely.  Here are the photos and the hat itself, enjoy and have a good evening everyone.

Coquette at Kettner's

It seems to be a regular theme with my blog now but I have to say it again – I can’t believe it’s been so long since my last post! I didn’t think I’d even been that busy.

I was otherwise engaged on Saturday though as I got on the train into London to attend Coquette with 3 wonderful friends. I have to say now that I took some photos but was too distracted by things going on around me. Then, I got home and had a cup of tea promptly dropping my camera into said cup of tea, effectively dunking it. I don’t think it will ever be the same again – in the morning it was taking photos that looked like the horror film The Fog and by afternoon it was making very strange beeping sounds and not doing anything. RIP little camera.

....but I digress. The morning started with me deciding what to wear. I chose my favourite Bettie Page dress as it was a rotten day weather-wise and a flowery summer dress would just look wrong. I wore my Vivien Westwood heels and a fascinator from my handmade collection.

Siobhan and I met at the station and took the train into Kings Cross where, while waiting for the other 2 of our group, I met an old friend I hadn’t seen in such a long time who asked if we were going to Ascot. I think this gives you an idea about how we were dressed! After a little waiting we jumped into a black cab which I find such a treat and really makes a day in London special for me. We pulled up at the gorgeous looking Kettner’s, found our way into the beautiful champagne bar, perched ourselves on a leather stool and had our first cocktails. Looking around the room, I have to admit, was slightly intimidating – there were so many ladies in gorgeous outfits and I felt a bit of an imposter. However, I was with such a lovely group of friends that we didn’t care! After a few sips of champagne the wonderful David Carter announced that Coquette was open. We followed various high heels up a winding staircase which then opened out on the first floor. These are the private rooms of Kettners and are just beautiful, airy, high ceilings, big windows and highly polished wooden floors. We were given a map and a schedule and just by chance wandered up another floor which led to a bar, Nails Inc, and Benefit cosmetics. We treated ourselves to some delightful tiny cakes and a cocktail in a teacup while we waited to get have our nails painted. While we were waiting, canapés and finger sandwiches were proffered as well as glass upon glass of champagne. We then went to the bar area and sat on a large green sofa and chatted, ate cake and drank more champagne. Before we knew it it was time for our first class ‘The Art of Kissing’ with. It was a very interesting talk on the history, perception and psychology of kissing, followed by a demonstration by David.

This was followed on by a wiggle class with the fantastic Ruby Dishabilles. I haven’t had so much fun on a Saturday afternoon as we strutted around and then had a wiggle off! We wiggled our way into the dressing room and tried on various hats from and looked through the clothes rails.

While my other ladies went to get their fortunes told I nipped in to get my hair done by Lipstick and Curl and appeared with the most fantastic up do.

It was a wonderful girly afternoon and we all had a great time. The day was bookended by another cab ride to the station where we investigated our goodie bags which included perfume, seamed stockings from What Katie Did, a garter, Gu goodies and samples from Benefit and Murad.  I think we're going to plan on going again in the new year but if you get the chance do get yourself a ticket to the next Coquette you can - you won't be disappointed.

First signs of summer

Hurrah – summer is here – at least on paper as it’s June and half term for most. So I thought I’d do a vintage style clothing update.  I am just amazed at how much you can how buy in the vintage vein and on the high street too!

I think you may have guessed by now that love Tara Starlet and for summer I don’t think you can get much better for a summer vintage look than a pair of the high waisted shorts. The new summer items on the site now include a lovely selection of Hawaiian playsuits. I love the idea of these and think they look amazing on the right people but I think my legs are far too stumpy for them. Here's my favourite colour:

On the high street a cheaper alternative can be found in Matalan:

I love seeing how the 1950s fashion is influencing things now but I’m seeing some lovely dresses, only to try them on and they come to my mid-thigh. They are lovely fabric, great cut and very authentic looking but for me they are just too short. You can find them everywhere on the high street at the moment from Oasis to H&M.  Enjoy hunting them out!  I was going to add about some lovely 1950 bikinis out there but I can't seem to upload the photos - do check out asos.com, Pistol Panties, Floozie by Frost French at Debenhams and even New Look!

Dressing Room Boutique news

If you follow me on Twitter you would already know that I have some super exciting news. 

There is a beautiful shop in Hitchin called Dressing Room Boutique.  You can find all sorts of lovely things there - things that I would fill my house with if I didn't share a house with Mr P; girly and gorgeous bits of furniture and other vintage pieces to make a house feel like a home.  A mixture of style, vintage,retro,shabby chic and all round girlishness, the owner, Sophie, chooses all the pieces herself.  I am so envious of her job!  So what has this got to do with me and the blog?  Well, not only would I recommend the shop in any case if you were after a unique present for someone (or yourself) but there is another reason why this place is special to me.  This lovely boutique and owner are now supplying a selection of my flowers and purses.  I can't tell you how chuffed I am and how grateful to Sophie for her support.  Thank you Sophie! xx

So details of this treasure trove are http://www.dressingroomboutique.net/  online and in all its gloriness at 10 Churchgate Shopping Centre, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1DN

Go and visit!



Anything look familiar? ;-)



One week to go...

...until the Joy of Vintage fair in Watford.  This time my glamorous assistant will be my mother :-)  I'm really looking forward to the cake, tea and chat.  Sure we'll do some work as well.

The Mister and I did our first fair together at the weekend in Hampstead and now I think he understands how fun, and tiring, it can be.  We had a lovely day and met some amazingly nice people.  I did take my crochet in case there was a dull moment but there was no down time at all in the day.  It was a little bitter sweet as some of my favourite pieces were sold but I'm really happy that they have gone to a good home.  As soon as ladies tried on the fascinators that caught their eye, they wanted them.  Huge compliment for me and I love that they loved them so much but I can't believe they're gone.  This one was one of my favourites, it was so sophisicated on:

I made this one on a lovely sunny day in a girly mood.  The lady who bought it was so sweet and it really suited her.

I better get making!

Mahjong Bracelet Give Away

Yesterday was a lovely day at home and I managed to get everything ready for my stall next week at the Pop Up Vintage Fair in Hampstead.  I can't wait to be in this beautiful building.

Mr P made the suggestion of free gifts so free gifts there will be, with purchases over £20. Also, every person who buys a flower/bag/fascinator will be put in a draw to win this vintage Mahjong Bracelet.

I would love to see anyone who is in the area - please come and say hello as it would be amazing to meet you.


Have a lovely week x

What a weekend!

It was such a sunny day in London on Saturday which was perfect for us.  The main event of the day was a trip to see the show Million Dollar Quartet at the Noel Coward Theatre on St Martins Lane.

Inspired by the actual event, that took place on 4 December 1956 at Sun Records in Memphis, this ecstatic and engaging musical is a story of fame, friendship, discovery, professional jealousy and incredible music as four of the music industry's most extraordinary talents, all in their creative prime, made music together for the first and only time in their careers.

The legendary meeting was masterminded by Sun Records' founder Sam Phillips, who discovered all four of the musicians, and brought Elvis Presley (and his then girlfriend) back to the recording studio that launched him to stardom. Together with Sun Records' fast-rising new superstar Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins, who was still chasing his next big hit after writing and recording Blue Suede Shoes, the fourth member of this impromptu "quartet" was Phillips' latest signing, Jerry Lee Lewis.

There are so many songs in the show and with no interval it's just like being at a concert instead of a show.  The actors are so talented and play their own instruments - the Jerry Lee Lewis was phenomenal.  Our Johnny Cash for the show sounded just like the man himself.  it was like going back in time.  I think I was the only person dressed in '50s clothes but no change there then!

We had a wander around Covent Garden which was heaving.  I was very pleased with myself and didn't look in any of the shops.  We did fancy some icecream though and saw a shop that drew us in.  It was pink and black inside, an icecream boutique and the skull on the sign appealed to the lost Goth in me.  how could we not go in with a sign like this:

Anyhoo, it turned out to be the shop where they sold the breastmilk icrecream.  There were other crazy flavours like ginger and chilli (with chilli slices).  Have to say it was an experience - from the man playing rock guitar to the leather capped staff.  We'll  be going back for one of their jaw droppingly named cocktails....you'll have to visit yourself ;-)

A green lawn and a good book – what more does one need? A deck chair to lie back in? In the sunshine there was a lovely little area supported by Penguin books where you could choose a book from the 'Lawn Library' and sit and relax in a deckchair.  It's part of the 'Get Lost in a book' campaign.   I wish there had been room for me!

We finished our day with dinner at Sarastro on Drury Lane.  It's described as the show after the show.  It is the most amazing place with food to match.  We were very lucky and sat in one of the 'opera boxes' for dinner.  This photo doesn't do it justice so check out their wesbite for more of an idea. http://www.sarastro-restaurant.com/

Cat and next fair news

Just wanted to give a quick cat update. The owners came back from holiday and I took the little kitten over to their house to say we’d looked after him for about 3 weeks as we thought he was a stray. The people were pretty grim but I was polite and explained that we had a cat and he didn’t approve of ‘Rocky’ making himself at home. Anyway, we don’t see him in the house anymore (we have a cat flap) I think our cat has seen to that but he does sometimes run up to us when we get home for a cuddle. Breaks my heart but he has a family. We’ll see how it goes but I’m hoping he’ll settle in a bit more to his home as he grows up.

So I’m in the last 2 weeks now until the fair at Hampstead, there’s been loads of interest and publicity including the advert below, on the Finchley Road. I’ve been making some more bags for the event but am slightly nervous about this one as it’s new territory. I will have my darling Mr P with me though and lots of friends are going to pop down so that’s what I’m looking forward to.

The following week on the 4th June is the Joy of Vintage Fair in Watford and I can’t wait for that one as I feel so at home there. The people are lovely and I love the atmosphere. This time I’ll have my lovely mum helping me man the stall so I should get a look around the fair this time. Not sure if that’s a good idea though.

I am slightly distracted at the moment. I have a fashion crush on the new summer colours of the Tara Starlet sailor slacks. I know that I’d wear them all the time with Miss L Fire wedges but should I treat myself??? I am really trying to be good.

In pink....



...and blue

Something else I’d love to treat myself to is a visit to The Powder Room to try the new Paul and Jo range and great new lashes by The Vintage Cosmetics Company.

Making and Doing

As I think you’ve guessed from this blog I love 1950s fashion and making things, and the more confidence I get making dresses the more patterns open up to me.

I have always respected the small stores that make dresses to measure but can’t really justify the money that they charge. So I get very excited when I find a pattern that looks just like I dress I have lusted after online.

So first off, I’ve seen this Butterick pattern 5332. It has 5 different dresses in one envelope which is bargainous in itself but even more exciting is that the patterns are similar to a few of the online vintage boutiques.  The prom style dress on the left at the front is particularly of interest to me!

I think this Simplicity 3823 is very similar to a popular halter neck dress pattern used on the high street a lot at the moment too.  You can either keep the circle skirt or save on fabrics and make it a fitted 'wiggle' skirt.

So you make a dress that is truly a one off yourself, enjoy the process (hopefully) and save money. Can’t say better than that, and with so many fabrics to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. Here are some of my absolute favourites:

I am going to try and recreate this Cath Kidston dress from a mixture of different dress patterns and in a different polka dot colour. Not sure that orange would suit me. Hope that you're now inspired to make your own summer wardrobe!

'To do' list

Colette pattern news! 2 new patterns are out to buy ‘Violet’ and ‘Ginger’ – one a sweet little blouse with Peter Pan collar and the other an A-line skirt. I have the BEST material to make the Ginger and just waiting for some free time to whizz it up.

 If you aren’t familiar with Colette patterns check out their website, you can buy the patterns from most online retailers. While I was having a nose on their site earlier I found a free pattern for bloomers. Not sure if anyone would be interested but I love them www.colettepatterns.com/blog/colette-patterns-news/free-pattern-to-download-the-madeleine-mini-bloomers These are also on my ‘to do’ list.

I am so inspired at the moment and have all these ideas and no time to put them into action. I’ve also had a bit of a lift by wearing things I’ve made and had lovely comments on them. The more I delve into the world of handmade the more I find these incredible women who have given up their day job and followed their dream. At the moment I am totally in awe of Vintage Teatime. A lovely lady who now runs up and down the country spreading afternoon tea joy. I am thinking of a reason to get the girlies together and use her services but can’t think of a really good one yet. Sure I will though! The website is www.vintageteatime.co.uk if you want to book your own party. On the home page you’re asked:

Love Tea? Love Cake? Love Vintage? Then you will love our Mobile Vintage Tea Parties!

Perfect.

I have to say a special hello and thank you to a new follower – pulpixies who is the author of the delicious looking blog ‘Adventures Made from Scratch’. This lovely lady has bought one of my fascinators from the etsy store. It was one of the most popular pieces on there with so many people having it as a ‘favourite’ but now it’s gone to a very lovely new home. Pulpixies - I hope you love it and I can’t wait to see a photo.

Not sure if you've heard that the girls at Lipstick and Curls now do the odd hair/makeup workshop. I am always trying to improve myself and learn new skills so put myself down for the next one on the 5th June which will focus on 1940s and ‘50s updos. Hurrah! I can’t wait.

I am having to wait patiently for lots of things including a new order of flowers I’ve just put in. These will include some beautiful antique roses and some tiki pink tiger lilies. My fingers are itching to get started on making. I’ve recently had a commission for a wrist corsage so I’ll let you know how that goes, I’ve got a few ideas but think they’ll be a few prototypes before the finished article.

Last weekend...

This Sunday I had to channel my inner Stepford and cook a lunch for 6 people including a birthday girl (my mother-in-law). So in 3 hours I’d cleaned downstairs, arranged flowers from the garden in my lovely vintage milk pitcher (sweet peas and irises), made and iced a birthday cake with white chocolate writing and got dinner on the go. I didn’t think much of it at the time but I was exhausted at work come Monday. It did make me laugh to myself at the time as I had a huge circle skirt on in the morning and felt very 1950s housewife and slightly stoic , especially as Mr P was in bed feeling poorly – the reason why the lunch was so last minute. We were meant to go out for the day and this was our compromise.

My present to the birthday girl was an apron I’d made myself (photo in an earlier post) trimmed with a lovely blue silk bias binding and a cd of the Lion King as she’d been to see it earlier in the year.

I didn’t just treat other people this weekend though. On Saturday, a present to myself arrived. I have been so good for a few months and treated myself to a Bettie Page dress. I practically filled a case of these dresses when we went to the shop in Las Vegas on honeymoon and haven’t bought any since so thought it wouldn’t be too bad. Here is said dress, can’t call me a shrinking violet! I thought I’d wear it for Coquette in June.

As the weather is so dry I have been able to wear out my Miss L Fire Daquiri shoes, Mr P only just noticed them yesterday and liked them. I wondered whether this would be a carte blanche to buy another pair in purple but don’t think it did sadly. I do love them though....(sigh)

Next Stalls

I think I am pretty prepared for my next couple of stalls.  I have to be really as they are one week apart.  The first one I’ll be at in the next few weeks is the Pop Up Vintage fair in Hampstead on 29^th May.  It is taking place in the Hampstead Town Hall which is stunning inside with a sweeping staircase.  Doors open at 11.  More details can be found at facebook.com/popupvintagefairs  at least I hope that's the right link as I'm not an FB member myself. 

 I’ve been working on some new things and worked out a way to make the Grace Kelly style  pearl fascinators stay in place more comfortably as they are pretty heavy with all the pearls on.  These have been particularly popular with the wedding season starting.  I’ve also been making more one off pieces.  I think there are more and more ladies out there who are feeling brave enough to wear a fascinator after all, what are they but larger than usual hair slides?  Talking of hair slides, I’ve made these summery beauties specifically for the summer themed Joy of Vintage fair coming up on the 4^th June in Watford.  Sorry for the rubbish photos but hope you get the idea.  I've had my own labels made now too and it's amazing the difference a little bit of fabric can make to something.

Incidentally the ladies who organised the Joy of Vintage fairs are featured in this month’s Vintage Life magazine.  As mentioned, the next fair is themed for summer – expect the usual sunny atmosphere, tea and cake, strawberries and scones. I really can't wait!

Great British Bank Holiday #2

All the dress making I do is based on vintage patterns and using material that I love due to the fact it’s unusual or quirky. I love sewing and am in awe my sewing machine! I was like a child at Christmas when I had finally saved up enough money to buy my own. It was daunting at first but now I’ll try anything.

Finished projects this fortnight include the Macaron Colette pattern.  It has a nifty little concealed zip at the side and fits perfectly.  I am so pleased I got to use my Red Riding Hood material and have enough to make a little clutch bag from it:

I had some lovely summery looking material - skull confetti(??!) so used it to make another Colette 'Crepe' dress, you'd think I'd have enough of these by now but they are so easy to wear and the first one I made survived its first wash recently - phew.

I am a big fan of the ‘Get Cutie‘ dresses but not a fan of their prices so decided to make my own. The Butterick pattern I mentioned in a past post is the closest I could find to their cap sleeved dress. I was really pleased with the material but the finished dress came up rather large and I had to improvise in getting it to fit. I find the Colette patterns fit me so well without adjustments so this was a bit of a shock. I’ve never had to take anything in before. My first thought was to take it apart and start from scratch but I wouldn’t have the patience so took it in where it needed it and I’m pretty pleased with the result. It’s given the skirt a more ‘50s feel though it doesn't show in the photos. I’ve packed the pattern away now with a note to adjust the pattern for next time.

On the subject of dresses, I know it’s predictable but I have to mention ‘the’ wedding dress of last Friday. Stunning. I’m not a Royalist at all but have a distance respect for the Royal Family. I wasn’t interested in the wedding either until the day but I watched every minute of it and loved it. In fact, it made me a bit emotional if I’m honest.  It was great to see how well London can host a celebration and I must be a bit of a tourist at heart as I love all the pagentry. I think the dress speaks for itself and I’m sure you’ve read your fill of how it reminds people of Grace Kelly’s wedding dress, how it’s 1950s based etc. Just enjoy the photos and wish the newlyweds well.