A nod to vintage, the High Street way!

So, I have done a lot of blogging about our home, thrifting and sewing, but not so much about my passion for vintage inspired fashion. I think this is largely due to the fact that I'm still experimenting with my own style, and how I incorporate influences from the past into my own wardrobe. However, today I'd like to share a little outfit post with you, and a new up do that I tried for the first time on my own hair!

Although I am slowly building up a true vintage wardrobe by acquiring items as and when I need them, I'm always on the lookout for high street reproductions or vintage inspired items that would fit in well with my love of the 1930's, 1940's and 1950's. The shops are full of lovely impostors giving a nod to these era's, mimicking the past in cut, fabric, patterns and styles. I found a pair of high waisted pallazzo trousers not so long ago, which reminded me of the wide-legged cuffed trousers, worn by ladies in the 1930's and 1940's who were fond of avant-garde fashions, ladies like the lovely Katherine Hepburn, Greta Garbo and Marlene Dietrich.

 

And this is me...

 

 

 

 

Pallazzo trousers were high fashion in the late 1960's and 1970's, with a more prominent flare at the bottom. I think I prefer mine in keeping with earlier styles though! Now, I am very average in height at 1.61m tall (or short as the case may be!), and I'm no size 6, so I have got to be very careful how I wear wide-legged trousers...only with heels to elongate my legs, and make me look a little slimmer! So, needless to say, I don't wear these very often, but I do love them! I have teamed them up with a blouse, also from a High Street store, which has such lovely detail, reminiscent of earlier styles. It has a peplum cut, with ties to the back to pull in at the waist. The sleeves are quite extravagant with layers to create a puff-sleeved look.

 

 

Peplum designs evolving...

Here are typical examples of earlier peplum designs. I love the silhouette that it creates. Very feminine!

 



 

 

 

That's the outfit. Now for the hair. I do love nothing more than the feminine hairstyles of the 1940's and the 1950's. When I want to make an effort with my own hair, I always tend to pin curl it, then style it in a down style. I've been wanting to try a new up do for some time now, especially since purchasing a lovely orchid flower adornment recently! So, I set to work with hot rollers, LOTS of bobby pins and copious amounts of hairspray...sorry mother earth, I'll keep this to a minimum as best I can next time!

 

The front...

 

 



 

 The back...

 

 

The side...

 

 

 

 

I have to admit that it turned out a little different to what I had in mind! I started off thinking sleek 'victory rolls' and 1940's, but ended up with something a little more romantic and 'messy'! But, I like it still, and I think it's wearable. Flower adornments were very popular in earlier decades, and orchids are definitely some of my favourites. Do you ever sport some fauna/flora in your hair?

 

As you can tell, I have taken elements from different decades to put together an outfit that speaks to me. That's what I love about this journey in exploring vintage styles...I can be creative in choosing what I like, old or new, authentically vintage or reproduction. I am not a purist! At least not yet...

 

I hope you have enjoyed my first 'proper' outfit post. I look forward to playing dress-up a little more, and sharing the successes and failures with you! Hopefully more of the first!

 

Have an extraordinarily happy weekend!

Tania ♥♥♥



The journey to vintage...

Where to begin?

You all know that I'm a vintage gal at heart, and that I'm a lot more at home in frocks! It has taken me a long time to embrace this passion for vintage fashion, to the point where I can wear it on an every day basis, and not just when events require it! I'm a long way off being a 24/7 vintage fashionista! But, like a lot of you out there, living in a modern world, it can sometimes seem daunting to let go and let the Rita, Vivien or Audrey inside you loose! I know that certain elements of bygone era's appeal to different people, and I'm definitely more a 40's/50's follower. I always thought that the 1950's was my favourite time in history for feminine fashion, but I find that as I explore my inner vixen, that I'm equally drawn to the silhouettes from the 1940's.

Now, if you like the idea of vintage or retro clothing, and don't quite know how to wear it, stick with me, and I'd like to share with you a little of my journey and how it kicked off for me. Let's talk basics first. What exactly is classed as retro, and what is vintage? These words are casually thrown around, and sometimes used to describe fashion items, without paying attention to the real age of the item. Let me just clarify one thing: I am by no means hung up on the use or so-called misuse of the buzz word, 'vintage'. I merely adhere to a rough guide, that would class a fashion item which is older than 25 years (these days even 20), as being vintage. Anything a hundred years or older is antique, or period. So, for all you die-hard 80's fans, that would mean one cannot really refer to any 1980's clothing as vintage! As for the word 'retro', it is used to refer to something that is new, but made in an older style, so perhaps 'vintage looking'.

I, for one, am really fascinated by the history of clothes, single items, and where they've come from. My knowledge is quite limited, but I long to learn more, as history is something that defines certain styles and lends meaning to garments. Although I truly love authentic vintage, it won't stop me from wearing reproductions, or vintage inspired items. I like to take different elements from different era's, and to incorporate them into my existing wardrobe. I do find that I am becoming more confident to wear things that clearly aren't from the High Street, and perhaps considered 'quirky' by some!

My advice to anyone who would like to try out vintage, but don't know where to start, is to experiment with accessories as a starting point. I did just that by starting off wearing brooches, scarfs or shoes...

A few vintage inspired items...scarf (1980's)...shoes, new but reminiscent of vintage styles...

A great place to incorporate vintage style, is hair. I have tried a few things...

A romantic, period updo...(Still practising this one!)

A pin curl setting overnight, then brushed out for soft curls...

I then proceeded to wear some lovely (in my opinion, and that's what matters!) dresses I had found on my thrifting journeys.

A very colourful E-bay find...

This quirky number from Rehab Vintage ...

My latest find...I love the vibrant colours in this little number...(Worn with full petticoat for a 5o's silhouette.)

With sensible shoes for the school run...

...or maybe not...(and minus the petticoat)

The best piece of advice that I can give you? Don't take yourself to seriously! Have fun with it! Remember what it was like when you were little and played dress-up? No one judged you for getting it wrong, and the sky was the limit. Adopt a little of that attitude, and above all else, ALWAYS WEAR A SMILE! Without this, you may as well be naked! And on that note...

...just for laughs!

Happiness to you!

Tania♥

Captain America and the pretty red dress

I have never been a die hard fan of comic super heroes, and just can't get myself excited about the likes of Spiderman or Superman. I do appreciate all the artistry, imagination and vision that goes into creating these characters, and the illustrations are amazing. I can definitely see the appeal, but it has never got me excited. That was until this weekend! The boys in my life had a movie night on Friday as both myself and my daughter were out, and they indulged in the 2011 release of Captain America, the First Avenger. Needless to say, they loved it, and egged on by my seven year old, I finally succumbed on Sunday afternoon to watch the film he claimed 'even mummy would enjoy'! And guess what...I loved it! Perhaps not just for obvious reasons, such as the fine physique of Captain America, played by the handsomely chissled Chris Evans, but for more frivolous reasons such as the 1940's styling!

The story takes us back to the beginnings of Captain America himself, how he ended up being turned from a scrawny little lad deemed unfit for military service (with the heart of a lion), into a bulked-up soldier ready to take on the Nazi's with his powers of strength and agility, and the very important indestructable shield that he carries. Even typing that last sentence, I think, what? Did I really watch and enjoy a film where he battles the villain Hydro who wants to take over the world? Hand on heart...yes. It was decently acted, contained just the right amount of action, and with the very beautiful Peggy (played by Hayley Atwell) there was even a little romance. As hubby put it, a little something for everyone.

Peggy, played by Hayley Atwell

Now, I NEVER watch a movie and just pay attention to the plot. Oh no! I scrutinize the setting, the wardrobe and styling, and often this can make or break a film for me. I loved the styling in this film, especially that of the very feisty Peggy. I loved her hair...

...and the shade of her red lipstick...

...but most of all, THAT red dress!

This dress was especially made for the very gorgeous ms Atwell, and when asked whether she kept it, she admitted that she hadn't, and that it's probably been put in storage somewhere. Nooooo! It fitted her like a glove, and if I looked that good in a dress, I would definitely not part with it!
I wish I could say that I take away some profound truth, a lesson learnt, or a gem of wisdom from this film, but, I take away just one thing. A mission to find a red dress like that! I know, it's fickle, but true. And that is that!

A touch of red

Hello to all of you! It seems like ages since I've had the chance to share a little something with you, but between settling the kidlets back into a new school year, and one very busy little two year old demanding mummy's attention, things have been a little hectic around here. But, as always, there has been a little thrifting and sewing going on...it keeps me sane! I've been playing catch up with domestic chores too, although I think I may be losing THAT battle! This is mainly to do with the fact that we have been enjoying a freakishly tardy  heatwave, and knowing that temperatures will be taking a steep nosedive sooner rather than later, we've been making hay while the sun shines...hay meaning cocktails, BBQ fires and socializing!

Hubby and I, and our wee little man, took a little excursion last week to a lovely English town called Towcester, near Northampton. I just wish I had taken my Canon with me, as I would have loved to share some pictures with you! We pottered around the lovely streets in the sunshine, had cream tea at a quaint cafe, and hubby managed to spot a gem of a boutique which he led me to. I kid you not, he did! VERY strange behaviour for the male species, who generally would distract you from such finds into the opposite direction, in fear of their wallets hemorrhaging cash!

The Vintage Boutique is an absolute treasure trove of gorgeous new and vintage ladies clothing, shoes, handbags and jewelry. It is a new shop which opened it's doors for the first time on the 13th August, and judging by the beautiful shop decor, delicious merchandise and friendly service, I'm sure it's going to be a great success! Needless to say, I didn't walk away empty handed, but found some lovely additions to add to my autumn/winter wardrobe. I fell in love with a vintage hacking jacket, so decided it was to come home with me.

I did love it just as it was, but after much deliberation, I decided to tweak it a bit. I love red, and as it's my absolute favourite colour, especially in the form of a velvet ribbon, I added some trimmings to the jacket. I also removed the original buttons, and replaced them with different ones, only to sew the old ones back on! Sometimes you need to know when to let things be! (I'm still toying with the idea of changing them, but so far I haven't found any that I feel will fill the existing ones' shoes with more flair!) Do let me know what you think! As it is now...

I'm very happy with the results, and look forward to pairing it with some jeans and boots when the colder weather takes hold. So, just a little something I wanted to share. Now, off to bed to rest my head! Night-night!

Meeting the lovely Sarah Ruppin from Rehab Vintage

Hasn't the world become a small place! And by small I mean micro-scopic. We have the Internet to thank for that. Over the last year I have met some truly wonderful people from all over the world, be it via this little blogging world of mine, the fabulous photo sharing sphere that is Flikr, or the ever-growing tweeting world of Twitter. Not so long ago I started chatting to Sarah Ruppin, the lady that is at the helm of the very stylish Rehab Vintage, an on-line shop that sells some fabulous vintage/retro clothing and accessories. I visited her pop-up shop at Burwash Manor in Cambridgeshire in June, and just fell in love with all the gorgeous garments she had on offer. And meeting the lovely lady herself gave me the idea to introduce you to her, if you haven't yet had the pleasure of meeting her!

When I first met Sarah, she helped me out with a fashion challenge I had to do for Essentials magazine for Women. I had the pleasure of obtaining this wonderful, quirky dress from her. I just fell in love with it, and teamed it up with a scarf which came from her collection also. Thank you Sarah!

A little bit about the lovely lady herself now! I asked Sarah a few questions, as I'm always interested in the person behind the great idea.
How did Rehab Vintage come about?
I have always had a passion for the fashion of the 1980's, which over time has developed into a wider interest in vintage styles from different era's. I used to be a window dresser for H&M, and I think that being a stylist has helped my eye develop for certain things which appeal to me. What started out as a hobby, and selling at Camden Market, has now developed into my own on-line shop. I have also started selling at Cambridge Market.
What are you most passionate about in life?
I'm the very proud mum of one, and my little boy is my biggest passion right now! I love him to bits! But, professionally speaking, I'm very passionate about fashion, jewelry (and yes, she does have quite a collection of fabulous proportions!), furniture, and of course my favourite era which is still the 1980's. My tastes are quite eclectic.
Who inspires you in life?
Hands down, I can say that my dad is my greatest inspiration. He came to the UK at the age of seven as a refugee from Germany, and managed to make a life for himself here, against the odds. This determination in him is what inspires me to follow my dreams. Of course a girl has to have some style icons too, and mine are the very beautiful and talented Chloe Sevigny, Fearne Cotton and Jame Winstone. I love their style and attitude towards fashion and individuality.
Where do you see yourself in five years from now?
My ultimate goal is first and foremost to be a good mum. I would love to also see myself in a bricks and mortar shop one day, where I can truly develop and share my passion for vintage and retro fashion with customers face to face. I adore clothes and styles from several different era's, and tend to gravitate towards the more quirky and unusual spectrum of these era's. I like things that are different, and think that different is good!

Well, I can't help but agree with Sarah. I have always believed that I can wear what makes me happy, what makes me feel good, even if it means bucking the trends! Individuality, like variety, is the spice of life! If you are looking for that one-off, special something to add to your wardrobe, I would urge you to have a look at Sarah's website, http://www.rehab-vintage.co.uk/, and grab yourself a piece of unique and beautiful vintage fashion history! And, if you happen to be frequenting the streets of Cambridge, why not pop by and say 'hello' to Sarah in person. You will find her in the Cambridge Market Square by the Guildhall on Mondays and Fridays where she runs her stall. Rehab Vintage also teams up with Jemporium to present 'The Vintage Basement' @ the Cow Pizza Kitchen and Bar, on the last Saturday of the month, 12-5. (Postcode: CB2 3QF) Here you will find affordable vintage clothing for guys and girls, so don't miss out!

I'd like to say a very big thank you to Sarah Ruppin, for letting me into her shop shed, and for sharing her style, inspiration and time with us. It has been a pleasure to meet with her, and I look forward to seeing what's going to come from this delightful shop!

Rita Hayworth or Vera Duckworth?



Gorgeous Olga creation

Ginger

Vintage nightgowns: Is there anything that encompasses feminine beauty and grace more than these glamorous, beautiful creations? I for one am totally in love with the flattering designs of Olga Erteszek, who started one of the most successful lingerie companies in 1948. The leading ladies of the silver screen were often pictured in elegant gowns, none more so than Ginger Rogers, who also had a stab at designing her own range of lingerie and nightgowns.

Now, imagine my excitement when I found a gorgeous vintage St. Michael's nightgown at a bootsale, one which set me back £2! No, really. That's it, TWO! I was so delighted as it is a perfect fit, and in mint condition. My balloon was momentarily deflated though, when I showed it to some of the ladies who attended the recent Clothes Swap that I hosted. Imagine my utter horror when someone said it's reminiscent of Vera Duckworth! We loved you Vera, bless your soul, but honestly?! 

Beloved Vera from British soap
Coronation Street

I was thinking Rita Hayworth, not Vera Duckworth. For those of you who are slightly in the dark, let me paint a picture: My dear friend said it reminded her of a lady with curlers in her hair, hanging over her neighbour's fence, cigarette in hand. In other words, Fag-ash-Lil! I think not. Let me replace that image for you.
                               

Here is my bootsale find. Now, I might not quite be Rita's equal, but I think if she were to wear this nightgown, it would do her justice. The lace panel is sheer gorgeousness, and the lovely cascading layers of chiffon is delightful!

So, I might not wear this every night as I'm tucked up in bed. After all, a lot has to be said for comfy cotton Marks and Sparks jammies! But, occasionally I might allow myself the luxury of starlet glamour!

Have you ever considered to wear your nightwear out on the town? I'm not talking about your bare minimums! Ladies in the seventies often wore nightgowns as evening wear, and it's a trend that has been spotted more recently too.

Here is the very beautiful Eva Mendez rocking

what looks like a re-fashioned vintage nightgown.

If done tastefully, it can be a hit. So, I'm thinking I

might look out for a little number that is crying out for

a make-over. As for my lovely St. Michael's gown....my

vote goes to Rita. What do you think?

Sew a little love: Frocks for free? How can it be?

Sew a little love: Frocks for free? How can it be?: "No, I have not been abducted by a little green, three fingered man! And no, my little row boat did not get sucked in by the very mysterious ..."

Frocks for free? How can it be?

No, I have not been abducted by a little green, three fingered man! And no, my little row boat did not get sucked in by the very mysterious Bermuda Triangle. I have merely been absent for a while due to the fact that I was on nurse duty to some snuffly kidlets, whilst enduring the tight grasp of a flu monster round my throat! O, and the fact that I've been a very busy bee participating in a little challenge that I'd been set, but more about that later! So, it's lovely to be back, with lots of ideas simmering away, and slowly taking shape, musings and projects I can't wait to share with you.

It's been a busy time in our household, with all three of our sprogs celebrating the addition of another candle to their birthday cakes. My little Nancy Drew wannabe turned nine, my big boy seven, and our baba turned two! Happy birthday!




 









On to business! There is a saying: Nothing in life is free. Well, I beg to differ! As part of a challenge that I had been set (of which I'll share more on over the next few weeks), I decided to host a clothes swap party at home, inviting all the ladies I know. I had never been to one before, but had been told that it's a good way to recycle clothes you no longer wear, in exchange for something from someone else's wardrobe that they no longer want. In principle, people can participate by bringing clothes they no longer like, want or wear. For every item they contribute, they're allowed to pick something from the stash. I had to work out the logistics of how to manage it without it turning into an end-of-season-sale-grabathon!



We decided that in order to keep things fair in the case of more than one person eyeing out the same item, the relevant parties had to play 'rock, paper, scissors' in order to win it. This would prevent a tussle, and any awkward wrestling activity that might occur. Hee-hee...Thank goodness my guests were all very generous in spirit, and very well behaved! Anything left over at the end of the swap was donated to charity. And the verdict: Great fun, and I gained some lovely new, albeit pre-loved clothes to add to my wardrobe.


Here are some tips to hosting your very own Clothes Swap Party!

• Pick a date! Give people enough notice, as they have to make time to have a bit of a wardrobe clear out. Make sure to tell them to bring only those items that are clean and in good condition.
• Send out invites. Facebook is great to reach all your friends, but a handmade or diy printed invitation is a nice touch. Let your creative juices flow! It's always a good idea to include 'the rules', so people know what to expect.
• You will need: Sturdy clothes stands to hang items on, a table, lots of coat hangers, and a floor length mirror. It might be a good idea to allocate a room as the official changing room.
• Never underestimate the pulling power of food! Ask people to bring a plate of nibbles if you don't want to cater for all of it yourself, and offer drinks. I found it was easier to have a hotpot ready, with tea and coffee and other drinks put out, ready for people to help themselves. It can get quite busy, and you may not get the chance to make drinks and man the swap yourself.
• Make up some fun signs to put around the room.

• Be sure to check if people are willing to donate any unclaimed items to charity. Be organized by clearing these into bags and dropping it off, otherwise your house will look like the aftermath of the Next sale!
• Try to invite people of all shapes and sizes! The more, the merrier, and the better your chances of all round happy customers!
• You can add interest to your party by inviting local charities or thrift shops to offer for sale a selection of their merchandise. Not only will you be doing your bit for charity by allowing them to sell, but you'll also be able to send them back with more donations!

Above all else, have fun with it! I would love to hear your clothes swap stories, new and old. I'll leave you with some happy snaps. Till next time!

Sew a little love: Thrifting for fashion

Sew a little love: Thrifting for fashion: "Have you ever looked at a full wardrobe of clothes, and thought 'I have nothing to wear?' This has been a regular occurrence in my life on a..."

Thrifting for fashion

Have you ever looked at a full wardrobe of clothes, and thought 'I have nothing to wear?' This has been a regular occurrence in my life on and off over the years, as I find myself in what I call a style rut from time to time. I get into a routine of wearing the same things over and over again, until I get so fed up with it, that I claim I have nothing to wear! As we've slowly shed the layers of a very frosty winter and are making a steady transition into our British summer, I've taken a long hard look at my wardrobe and it's contents as shared with you a couple of weeks ago. Inspired by the very lovely Casey over at Casey's Elegant Musings , I've thought about all those closet orphans that have been unused, ignored and neglected for a very long time. Casey did a 30 day challenge by Kendi wearing just 30 items in 30 different ways. It inspired me to look at all my clothes in a fresh way to perhaps try and wear them in new combinations that work, and to resurrect those items that had been banished to Narnia at the back of the wardrobe! (I still have to learn how to limit myself to just 30 items! Casey did it so well!) It served it's purpose, as I'm wearing the things I really love, I've got rid of all the things that I love but that don't love me back (don't fit!), and I'm finally embracing the vintage styles I adore so much!

The very beautiful Maureen O'Hara

As I'm getting older, and hopefully getting to know myself a bit better, I know that I'm definitely a vintage girl at heart. If I could travel back in time, I'd get on the fast train to the 1940's/1950's! It was a time when femininity and glamour were embraced by women everywhere. Nobody did it better than these ladies:



Rita Hayworth



The very glamorous Elizabeth Taylor

I love the way women dressed in shapes that accentuated their femininity, using fabrics and styles that painted beautiful silhouettes. Hair and make-up also had a definite flair and glamour about it. So, drawing inspiration from all these beautiful, graceful women, I am having loads of fun expressing myself by incorporating a bit of vintage influence where I can. Of course this new found passion has led to a bit of a thrifting spree, and I have found a few beauties to update my spring/summer wardrobe. The best part is that I have achieved this without breaking the bank! I would love to share some of my finds with you. In my ideal world I would love to replace my whole wardrobe with sumptuous vintage dresses, but let's face it, reality rules! As a mother of three young children I have to be practical, as most days are spent chasing my two year old down a steep grass bank or up a ladder! Not easily achieved in pouffe petticoats and Mary Jane heels! But, I will try to sneak in a bit more glamour where I can, and where the budget allows!

Now, I'm by no means a purist (yet!) when it comes to sporting true vintage style, and I can only stand amazed at ladies like Fleur de Guerre, who pull it off so beautifully. I'm trying new things though, or should I say old? Below is a dress I purchased in the sale at, wait for it....our local supermarket! I paid pennies for it, purely because I waited for the sales to start, and it paid off! I've teamed it up with my favourite puffy crinoline petticoat, Cath Kidston plimsolls, and a favourite cardi. The lovely yellow vintage brooch was a thrifting find. This outfit is so comfy, I managed to do some chores in it, and even took the kiddies to a local farm for a day out without feeling overdressed! The hairstyle is one I've been playing with a bit after watching a tutorial by Casey (Edwardian inspired braided side bun), and I'm getting there slowly. This look is definitely a fusion of different era's, with a 1950's silhouette at the core and  a romantic Edwardian inspired hairstyle! But, I think that's why I'm having so much fun with it, taking from the buffet of vintage fashion those things that wet my appetite, and hopefully marrying them in a look that works for me!

Shirt: Closet orphan!
Skirt: Thrifted, charity shop
Belt: New addition, firm favourite!
Shoes: Thrifted, charity shop
Bracelet: Thrifted

This, I hope, will inspire you to be braver to try new things when you perhaps stare at a full wardrobe and feel like you have nothing to wear. Try something different, team old favourites up with new ones, and don't be scared to mix it up a bit! I know I'm having fun, and hope that you will too! I would love to hear from you, so do drop me a comment below.              













Nifty Thrifting Tips

'Thrifting' seems to be one of those buzz words at the moment, often surfacing in blogs and conversation. I for one am passionate about this trend that seems to be cropping up everywhere. To be thrifty means 'to be cautious and wise with money', according to my little Collins Gem dictionary. Now, my other half might disagree with me here, but I do try to apply this principle when it comes to the old purse strings. After all, I have discovered that the joy I experience from discovering a real find in the most unlikely of places is equal if not greater than just purchasing a new item off a high street shelf. There is also something special about choosing something that has already lived a life, however long it may have been, and to breathe new life into it.

Now, I don't claim to be an expert when it comes to the art of thrifting, but I thought I'd share some of my experiences with you, and hopefully this will inspire you to have a go at it if you haven't already. I can ramble on forever about this passion of mine, but I abide by a few simple rules and will start by sharing those with you.

Rule no. 1: Know the hot spots! The best places to bag a bargain are charity shops, bootsales, garage sales, estate sales, newspaper sales, and DO NOT underestimate the yellow skip on the side of the road. These often yield unexpected treasures. After all, one man's trash is another man's treasure! Swallow your pride and dig! (You might want to ask first if this would be okay! Politeness and a bit of charm goes a long way!)

Rule no. 2: Dress for the occasion. Going shopping in my books is always an occasion! However, when going thrifting you might want to consider something other than heels. Comfy flat shoes are best for doing all those miles in, and a nice shopper bag is a must. We all want to save on using all those plastic bags, right? I went thrifting this weekend, and this is what I wore.

Plimsolls are my favourite! I feel like I can run a marathon in them! The fabric shopper bag can fold up small in my handbag until such time as I find that 'I can't live without it' item. As for the rest, well it was comfy and practical! (Ooh, I also had to sport my new red lips and nails. The lipstick is from Boots, and I love it! At a mere £1.99 it's a snip! Part of the Natural Collection. The nail varnish was a gift from a friend, Rimmel 60 second, and yes, it does really dry in 60 seconds flat!)

Rule no 3: Have a game plan! Shop with a clear idea of what you're looking for. If you find it, great! If you don't, let it be. Do not feel obliged to make a purchase in fear of going home empty handed. Surely the shops will still be there next week! For example, I have been looking out for one or two little things for some time now, and often I've had to resign myself to the fact that one day I will stumble upon it. Good things come to those who wait, don't they? And today I found it!

I have been looking for a little deer since December, at a price that I was willing to pay. Today is the 22nd of May, and I've finally found one for a song. (No, I didn't really have to sing for it, but I think if I had to they would have paid ME to keep quiet, to take it and LEAVE! Hee-hee...)

Rule no. 4: Go early! This tip seems so obvious, but I can't stress it enough! If you have those extra few minutes tucked up in bed, you WILL lose out on the catch of the day! Quality items at bootsales get snatched up very quickly, so be quick. Early bird catches the worm!

Rule no. 5: Think outside the box. If you're too set in your ways you might lose out on that wonderful find that could be something lovely. If you see an item you like, and it's not quite perfect, think of ways to make it perfect for you. I found this picture in a charity shop and liked elements of it. The frame however was too bright for my liking (gold), and it looked too new. I prefer things that are a little rough around the edges. I painted the frame in a white distressed finish, and, wait for it...I took sandpaper to the canvas to rough it up a bit! Voila!

Talking about thinking outside of the box...I needed some new food storage containers for leftovers as mine always seem to go AWOL. (I have a feeling if I was to dig in my kidlet's sandpit, I might unearth at least a few, but I'm no geologist!) So, when I saw these in a thrift shop I was delighted, as they're a lot more fun than the bland clear plastics on offer in the supermarket, and they were as cheap as chips, and in mint condition!

Rule no. 6: If in doubt, walk away. This action of walking away from something you're not sure of, doesn't only apply to choosing a husband! Hee-hee...If you like something, but you're not entirely sure whether to cough up your hard-earned cash, walk away. This action will either prompt you to go back, because you really cannot imagine losing out on such a good find, or make you forget all about it! In this instance you really didn't need it, and saved yourself some pennies. Here is something I walked away from today, but went back for! A beautiful Wedgwood flower pot, perfect for housing the little fern a relative gave me last week.

Well, these are a few of the tips that seem to work for me. Thrifting is so much fun, and I'd love to hear from you if you have any handy hints, pearls of wisdom, or experiences you'd like to share. I'll leave you with a few images of my thrifty finds. Ta-ra for now!




Thrifted finds