Heres our clip from the recent Sew Magazine coverage – September Issue. I’ve said it before its a fantastic magazine and urge you to buy or subscribe to it if you are interested in sewing, crafting, fashion and design!
Posts Tagged ‘vintage’
Sew Magazine Sept’11
Friday, September 16th, 2011
More Dr. Sketchy’s now in CHESTER!
Friday, June 10th, 2011
Get ready for entire weekend of Burlesque, Cabaret, Life Drawing and Circus Acts!
Roll Up! Roll Up!
Come one, come all, (that is if you are over 18 and absolutely fabulous, silly or have a unique party trick you’re dying to share) for the Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art Circus is in town with sights to dazzle and delight!
Another night of sexy sketching, performances, prizes, drinking all in the name of Art! Well, Anti-Art.
…Whatever your (you think) sketching skill level is –this night is for you!
You’ll be set tasks and fun games all under the Big Top that is Saronies Bar at The Scala Cinema & Arts Centre, Prestatyn.
Who’ll be there?
Prism as‘The Fallen Acrobat’ – our ever changing goddess of disguise.
Velma Von Bon Bon as Monkey Girl – Yep, that’s right you KNOW the one. We can’t wait either
& Mr Improbable – Our Amazing strong act! Be prepared to be said amazed.
Thursday 16th June doors open: 7:00pm – The Scala Cinema, Prestatyn
*drawing pencils, paper and boards will be provided if you don’t already have a favorite stash that you can bring along*
Dressing up for a Dr. Sketchy Anti-Art School event is muchos fun! From anything like an over sized bow tie to balloon trousers – one night to get C-RAZY!
Tickets are £8.50 (advanced from the Dr. Sketchy’s North Wales website) £10.00 on the door.
Click below on the BUY NOW button to purchase!
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<span class=”title” style=”font-size: 24px;font-weight: bold;color: #000000;font-family: Helvetica;line-height: 150%;”>Get ready for entire weekend of Burlesque, Cabaret, Life Drawing and Circus Acts!<br>
<br>
Roll Up! Roll Up!</span><br>
<p>
Come one, come all, (that is if you are over 18 and absolutely fabulous, silly or have a unique party trick you’re dying to share) for the Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art Circus is in town with sights to dazzle and delight!<br>
<br>
Another night of sexy sketching, performances, prizes, drinking all in the name of Art! Well, Anti-Art.<br>
<span class=”text_exposed_hide”>…</span><span class=”text_exposed_show”>Whatever your (you think) sketching skill level is –this night is for you!<br>
You’ll be set tasks and fun games all under the Big Top that is Saronies Bar at <a href=”http://www.scalaprestatyn.co.uk/” style=”color: #17488a;text-decoration: underline;font-weight: normal;”>The Scala Cinema & Arts Centre, Prestatyn.</a><br>
<br>
Who’ll be there?<br>
Prism as‘The Fallen Acrobat’ – our ever changing goddess of disguise.<br>
Velma Von Bon Bon as Monkey Girl – Yep, that’s right you KNOW the one. We can’t wait either<br>
& Mr Improbable – Our Amazing strong act! Be prepared to be said amazed.<br>
<br>
<span style=”font-size: 14px;”><strong> Thursday 16th June doors open: 7:00pm – The Scala Cinema, Prestatyn</strong></span><br>
<br>
*drawing pencils, paper and boards will be provided if you don’t already have a favorite stash that you can bring along*<br>
<br>
Dressing up for a Dr. Sketchy Anti-Art School event is muchos fun! From anything like an over sized bow tie to balloon trousers – one night to get C-RAZY!</span><br>
<br>
<span class=”text_exposed_show”><span style=”font-size: 14px;”><u><strong>Tickets are £8.50</strong></u></span> (advanced from the Dr. Sketchy’s North Wales website) £10.00 on the door.<br>
Click below on the BUY NOW button to</span><span class=”text_exposed_show”> purchase!<br>
</span><br>
<a href=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=5T3NHMZPT45Z4″ style=”color: #17488a;text-decoration: underline;font-weight: normal;”><img alt=”" border=”0″ height=”100″ src=”http://gallery.mailchimp.com/0acf8451f2066c95abd79f660/images/buynow_buttoncircu.png” style=”border-width: 0pt; border-style: solid;” width=”600″></a><br>
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<img alt=”Cabinet of Curios” border=”0″ height=”158″ src=”http://gallery.mailchimp.com/0acf8451f2066c95abd79f660/images/das.png” width=”600″><br>
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<span class=”text_exposed_show”><span style=”font-size: 14px;”><strong>Friday 17th June from: 8:30pm – The GuildHall, Watergate Street Chester</strong></span></span><br>
MBNA Chestival – Vaudeville Weekend Presents; The Goldust Cabinet of Curiosities Grand Burlesque Ball<br>
<br>
12 International Burlesque and Circus Acts, incredible costumes, live music & mayhem with;<br>
<br>
Amber Ray The Salvadore Dali of Burlesque all the way from New York City in her Lotus Flower Dance!<br>
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From Paris Lada Redstar in her award winning ~ Insectiva Queen of The Bugs<br>
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From the underbelly of the Peruvian fire mountains ~Luna Rosa<br>
<br>
Songbird Lola L'amour<br>
<br>
Kitty Bang Bang Italian Burlesque festival winner ~The Fire Goddess<br>
<br>
With compere Dez O'Connor and his banjo.<br>
<br>
*****EXCLUSIVE DEAL FOR DR. SKETCHY'S ANTI-ART STUDENTS******<br>
<br>
Tickets normally £15 advanced (£20 on the door) <span style=”font-size: 14px;”><strong>for Dr. Sketchy's fans <u>just £10</u></strong></span><br>
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<a href=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=3CXU3J8DNMNUS” style=”color: #17488a;text-decoration: underline;font-weight: normal;”><img alt=”" border=”0″ height=”100″ src=”http://gallery.mailchimp.com/0acf8451f2066c95abd79f660/images/buynow_buttoncurios.png” width=”600″></a><br>
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<img alt=”" border=”0″ height=”158″ src=”http://gallery.mailchimp.com/0acf8451f2066c95abd79f660/images/ambban.png” width=”600″><br>
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<span class=”text_exposed_show”><span style=”font-size: 14px;”><strong>Sunday 19th June 3:00pm - An hour with Amber Ray – Waikiki, Watergate Street Chester</strong></span></span><br>
1st EVER Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School Chester!<br>
<br>
You will hardly believe your eyes when you see the *sensational* Amber Ray.<br>
<br>
Dubbed "…Creative Sexpot…" by NY Magazine and self confessed "Professional Sensationalist", known as the The Salvador Dali of Burlesque flown in all the way from New York to be with us for this fabulous weekend.<br>
<br>
This is but a rare treat for us UK -<strong> <u>Do. NOT. miss. out.</u></strong><br>
<br>
<p>
"My favorite model, Amber Ray, is a veritable chameleon…."<br>
<em>Molly Crabapple who started the Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art school phenomenon </em><br>
<br>
<strong>BRACE YOURSELVES!!!<br>
<br>
This will be a mini-session but surly not to be missed<br>
<br>
The hour of Sketching costs £6.00 – Tickets Available NOW!<br>
<br>
<a href=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=733CEDAU6KK5U” style=”color: #17488a;text-decoration: underline;font-weight: normal;”><img alt=”" border=”0″ height=”100″ src=”http://gallery.mailchimp.com/0acf8451f2066c95abd79f660/images/buynow_buttonambray.png” width=”600″></a></strong></p>
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You may have noticed we're spreading our wings! Dr. Sketchy's Anti-Art School events are now hosting events in Chester as well as the North Wales region!<br>
Do come and say hi, send us a wink or poke us on our *New* Facebook page for <a href=”http://www.facebook.com/drsketchynorthwaleschester” style=”color: #17488a;text-decoration: underline;font-weight: normal;”>Dr. Sketchy's North Wales & Chester</a><br>
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Friday 17th June from: 8:30pm – The GuildHall, Watergate Street Chester
MBNA Chestival – Vaudeville Weekend Presents; The Goldust Cabinet of Curiosities Grand Burlesque Ball
12 International Burlesque and Circus Acts, incredible costumes, live music & mayhem with;
Amber Ray The Salvadore Dali of Burlesque all the way from New York City in her Lotus Flower Dance!
From Paris Lada Redstar in her award winning ~ Insectiva Queen of The Bugs
From the underbelly of the Peruvian fire mountains ~Luna Rosa
Songbird Lola L’amour
Kitty Bang Bang Italian Burlesque festival winner ~The Fire Goddess
With compere Dez O’Connor and his banjo.
*****EXCLUSIVE DEAL FOR DR. SKETCHY’S ANTI-ART STUDENTS******
Tickets normally £15 advanced (£20 on the door) for Dr. Sketchy’s fans just £10
Sunday 19th June 3:00pm - An hour with Amber Ray – Waikiki, Watergate Street Chester
1st EVER Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School Chester!
You will hardly believe your eyes when you see the *sensational* Amber Ray.
Dubbed “…Creative Sexpot…” by NY Magazine and self confessed “Professional Sensationalist”, known as the The Salvador Dali of Burlesque flown in all the way from New York to be with us for this fabulous weekend.
This is but a rare treat for us UK - Do. NOT. miss. out.
“My favorite model, Amber Ray, is a veritable chameleon….”
Molly Crabapple who started the Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art school phenomenon
BRACE YOURSELVES!!!
This will be a mini-session but surly not to be missed
The hour of Sketching costs £6.00 – Tickets Available NOW!
- At each Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School Event, I take some Extinct Design goodies for you to buy. This month is going to see a new range from my good friend and designer extrodinaire ~ Weezi!
More on that next time!
xx
Tie a Knot in it.
Thursday, February 24th, 2011
Gorgeous new bow tie turbans! Tie a knot in it anyway you like.
Check out the entire headjunc range here.
August Must Have!
Sunday, August 1st, 2010
Tit for Tat
Friday, July 30th, 2010
Make-Up, Burlesque, Theatre & Carnival,
Costume, Poetry, Performance & Dance
Magic, Live Art, Fashion & Bodies..
… just a few of my favourite words to ponder and imagine, I love seeking out new and expressive images that are just so exciting!
For me “live” art element of any theatrical based performance is the most thrilling time, a captured moment as the drama and decor, wigs, words and wizardry come together for the onlooker to interpret in their own way…
Having noticed recently a lovely blend of Vintage, Pin-Up, Burlesque and Tattoos – a look that I totally love, with the likes of Bernie Dexter and Sabina Kelley, the Tattoos are colourful, cute and beautifully designed. I wanted to talk to someone in the know before thinking about getting my own body art…
Cue the intoxicating Vera Voodoo…
Extinct: What got you first into Tattoos?
Vera Voodoo: Tattoos have been a long time fascination for me. I had seen them in old circus books, magazines and movies growing up, but never really knew anyone that had them. I know for a fact that it was when I was in elementary school and I met a very tattooed girl and that really piqued my interest. I was drawn to a girl volunteering for that because she was absolutely intriguing to me. She had blue hair, and several piercings and tattoos. She was so friendly and awe inspiring, so I was always really open and curious about them from then on.
Extinct: Tell us about your tats!
Vera Voodoo: All of them tie back to important things in my life. My chestpiece is my favorite so far.. It is a green heart, keyhole coffins, roses, knives, and a banner reading “Love Never Fails.” I truly believe in it. It is appropriately a symbol of how I can count on the love in my life. God, my husband, my family, friends…Each item in the design means something different, and it is just makes perfect sense to me when it’s all together. I have anchors on my feet so I can keep my feet on the ground (although nothing is keeping my head of of the clouds), and my childhood love was Nightmare Before Christmas, hence the start of the sleeve. I have engagement and wedding tattoos on the sides of my ring finger and a bat behind my ear, which will eventually will be a whole piece on the side of my neck.
Extinct: Were you influenced by any particular artist/image/theme etc?
Vera Voodoo: No particular artist, but many of mine are semi traditional in style, and some are horror/Halloween themed. Go figure.
Extinct: Any plans for more?
Vera Voodoo: Absolutely. I would like a lot of coverage..I feel naked with as little as I have! I have so many ideas!
Extinct: Have you noticed a recent trend for tattoos?
Vera Voodoo: I have seen quite a few trends in the last several years I have been involved in tattoos. I don’t know about other regions, but I’m seeing a lot of first timers getting rib pieces.
Extinct: Is a tattoo still the mark of the rebel?
Vera Voodoo: Ha, I don’t think so. I mean, I still get the negativity from the public, so maybe as far as society as concerned, but not to me. At one point 25% of the U.S population was tattooed, and that was several years ago.. I’m willing to bet it is more now. You don’t know how many doctors and lawyers have full sleeves and a lot of coverage…there is no much to rebel against these days, it generally is more about self expression.
Extinct: As an tattoo artist, what would you say is your favourite part of the job?
Vera Voodoo: When I was tattooing it was a combination of meeting all of the people, and creating the perfect design that was meaningful and unique to them. I love making people happy… the challenges of some of the designs was also pretty rewarding.
Extinct: What advice would you give someone who is looking for just that “right” design for them?
Vera Voodoo: Time and thought. Those two together are great ingredients for finding the best design. I also suggest it be meaningful to you. Many people are happy with walking in and picking something off of the wall, but I find that the people most contented with their tattoos are people who took time to think long and hard.
Extinct: Where do you see tattooing in 10 years time?
Vera Voodoo: It has changed so much just in my lifetime alone… I cannot even image where it will be. There is already every style imaginable.. I can’t wait to see where it goes…I hope it is more widely accepted, and then people keep being innovative and coming up with new styles, tools and techniques!
Extinct: Do you think it will ever be accepted truly as an art form?
Vera Voodoo: You know, all I can do is hope… I know many people do consider it an art form.. but that is mostly people that get them or at least not adverse to them.. but as for the general population.. it isn’t considered as such and I don’t think it will be for a long time.. I don’t think it will in my lifetime.
How did you start your life as a burlesque star?
Vera Voodoo: I had always admired the burlesque queens on the past, and when my friend was involved in the revival in Oklahoma, and seeing it live and in person I was in love. Years later I was contacted by a burlesque troupe in my city and they suggested that I try out… My friend was leaving the state and I off handedly made a comment that I wish I could do it.. she convinced me to try it, to help the tiny Burlesque scene in Oklahoma stay alive. I met with the troupe and not long after that was performing at my first gig. It has been one of the best decisions of my life.
Extinct: Do your tattoos enhance your burlesque’s character?
Vera Voodoo: I think they do to a degree. Vera is a dark and sultry lady most of the times, so I think the tattoos help…especially the Chestpiece.
Extinct: Growing up what fashion styles inspired you the most?
Vera Voodoo: Victorian styles inspired me a lot, also Flappers and the gorgeous women of the 1930’s-1960’s. I was a ridiculous child and tried mixing all of these…. in a very small and unaccepting town in Oklahoma. To this day I can look through my books of the styles past for hours on end, admiring the beauty in it.
Extinct: What is your favourite tattoo you have or have seen on someone else?
Vera Voodoo: Ah, that’s always a tough one… I have seen so many.. I recently saw the woman with the Octopus on her whole torso, and her breast was the head, so it was 3D… It was rad.
Extinct: Whats next for Vera Voodoo?
Vera Voodoo: Ah, I wish more than anything to be tattooing again, but as for everything else, I would really love to branch out my burlesque performances into more states, and maybe take the modeling to the next step…I got my chest in a tattoo magazine, but would really like to get a full shot of me in one someday! I recently got into the second issue of the pinup magazine Retro Lovely, so we’ll see where that takes me!
Extinct: Anything else you would like to add.
Vera Voodoo: Oh.. If it were ever possible for glittery tattoos, even if I’m 105, count me IN!
Thanks so much Vera!
If you would like to get in touch with Vera for shoots you can contact her via Model Mayhem
or her Vera Voodoo facebook page
July Must Have!
Thursday, July 1st, 2010
This months MUST HAVE is this Poolside glamour goddess sarong!
I love this colour combination, unmistakably vintage. Extra Large too, which is great to cover up on the beach or by the pool ~ wouldn’t look out of place walking around the local shops on your holidays too!
Made from water-resistant fabric, originally from Hawaii!
If that isn’t the coolest already… I’ve giving away these vintage sunnies FREE with this July Must-Have!!
Bow Ties ARE cool… and I think just got cooler…
Tuesday, June 22nd, 2010
Parisian Fashion designer Baptiste Viry has got me all hot under the collar with these stunning drop bow, bow-ties…
I love his clever use of mixing and re-using vintage items to create his designs!!
I’ve sort of gone into shock – but also feeling very inspired…
Suzywan ~ Classy Dancefloor Jewellry
Monday, May 3rd, 2010
From the fabulous world of Suzywan – these necklaces are the future! With a great sense of colour and fun her work is distinct, original – I just feel happy looking at it.
I think the range blends really well with vintage items, its all in the mix!
Handmade from her Swedish studio, (from the top) Classy, Dancefloor & Octopus.
Now available at Extinct Design!!
Glamping in 2010
Thursday, April 15th, 2010Hello SUMMER Sunshine…
Whilst basking in the springtime sun, sniffing those spring time flowers thoughts of long summer nights and festivals follow…
So eager to get the Campervan fired up for some rockin ‘n’ rollin I also need to book some tickets before its too late!
Here is my line up of Festivals 2010 on my *must see* list!
27 May – 6 June, Hay-0n-Wye
www.hayfestival.com
The fabulous Hay Literary Festival announces its programme today for the Friends of the Festival and then general public next week. Sign up now to see who and what… books will always be in fashion…
It’s a superb place crammed with fabulous bookshops, lots of varied events from impromptu poetry readings to warm and cosy lengthy recited chapters, to nosing what everyone else is reading!!
*****
13th, 14th & 15th August
Goodwood Estate, Sussex
Buy Tickets
www.vintageatgoodwood.com
The Vintage festival set up by Wayne Hemmingway celebrating 5 decades of British Cool…
Vintage at Goodwood is the first of what will be an annual music and fashion led celebration of creative British cool from the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s & 80s. Featuring the leading DJs, bands, collectors, purveyors of vintage clothing and vintage vinyl from each decade, as well as contemporary bands and brands inspired by Britain’s rich cultural history.
Whether it’s Swing, Rockabilly, Mod, Soul, Funk, Disco, Ska, Electro, Burlesque, Film or Art & Design that’s your thing, whether you just want to dress up and get an authentic ‘flat top’ and make-over for a day, Vintage at Goodwood will be visual, responsible, aural and sensual, a big family dressing up box, a collectors dream and a joyous creative feast for all ages.
Vintage will explore the musical, design and cultural lineages and explore where they are taking us. Think of Vintage at Goodwood as the new annual Festival of Britain.
On a truly breathtaking site – nestling into the South Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (and soon to be National Park), with access to the wonderful beaches and harbours of coastal West Sussex – Vintage at Goodwood will bring together lovers of the music, fashions, food and lifestyles of the decades that gave Britain its creative heritage. And then there’s the accommodation. From onsite luxury of the Goodwood Hotel, to ‘Glamping’ in secluded glades, Vintage at Goodwood will give you a unique opportunity to holiday in the most beautiful area of Southern England.
Vintage shopping from £5 to £500 – surly NOT TO BE MISSED!
The line-up looks incredable already so keep checking their site for updates!
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13th, 14th & 15th Rattlinhope, Shrewsbury
I went to this a couple of years back and it was completely mad! And I don’t take that word lightly or use it very often. It had wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, a great mix of super-friendly people. Minimal shops I remember, but go for the great mix of music, making friends and beautiful countryside…
Shropshire is full of wonderful little towns with truly individual shops, markets and galleries. It’s just bliss to take in a drive and end up at one of the many campsites in the area.
Other Festivals to try the brilliant Bridgnorth Folk Festival which has now grown so much has turned into Shrewsbury Folk Festival with Bridgnorth are putting on a Music and Arts Fest that looks great!
*****
“Come with me where you’ll never, never have to worry about grown up things again”
August Bank Holiday 27–29 August
Hinwick House, Bedfordshire
www.festinho.com
Buy Tickets
Are you sitting comfortably? Then we’ll begin…
Now then boys and girls, if you’ve been good, we’ll tell you what fantastic acts have already agreed to cuddle and coddle us as well as your Nana ever did…
So, take a deep breath and hold on tight for the delights that are AGT Rave Cru, Alucidnation, Belleruche, Chris Wood, Daft Pink, Digitonal, Dr Em & Funky Jim, Dr Rubberfunk, Echaskech, Eliza Carthy, Flevans, Heather McClell, Hexstatic, Hint, Jackie Oates, James Yuill, Lucky Elephant, Mixmaster Morris, Sam Carter, Sombrero Soundsystem, and The Kleptones (Live AV set)…
And that’s only the beginning! Not only are there lots more to come, but we are quite literally beside ourselves to confirm the welcome return of Big Chill co-founder Pete Lawrence to curate the Harvest Stage on Saturday and Sunday.
Add to the fireside cooking pot the wonderful people at Phonica Records, who’ll be programming one of the DJ stages on Saturday, and, (as if that wasn’t enough!), also add the legendary Soundcrash who’ve joined our programming family, and we think you’ll agree that we’ll continue to bring you some of the most exciting and innovative acts around today.
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Other nonsense and silliness
Festinho certainly ain’t no place for a respectable pirate…so there’ll be fun and games for kids (and, if there are any real grown ups, then them too) all over the site. Angel Gardens will be there, with bagsful of ideas and imagination. We’ll have bedtime stories around campfires, a hidden Art Trail, Healers and of course, the Kids Carnival. Look out for our dedicated and delicious Tea Rooms, keep a straight face (if you can, when you’re having so much fun!) at the Casino, or just kick back and relax in the bigger, better, bolder Picture House, with live film rescores, AV sets and chilled out performances from some of our more ambient acts.
Still don’t believe? OK. How about a full programme of Cabaret and Comedy acts too, in the comfort of a cosy corner of the House? Or the four Bars that’ll be serving your medicine of choice, as ever including caipirinhas with more bite than a clock-swallowing crocodile? Or at some of the finest festival Food Stalls we could find?
And when it is finally bedtime, our fantastic friends at SoulPad are bringing their SoulPad Village with them – a limited number of lovely, brand new SoulPad bell tents, ready-pitched and waiting for your arrival. What could be better? Oh! You get to keep your SoulPad at the end of the event.
That ought to put a smile on your face.
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The ABC Trust
Don’t forget that all profits go to the wonderful ABC Trust, who help Brazilian street kids transform their lives. Last year, we raised a fantastic £23,000, and we’re aiming higher this year!
PS Still not worked out what the theme is for this year? Then ‘take the second right, and head straight on till morning’…
As we are a charity festival and rely on word of mouth, please help spread the word, if you can. 
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But – what to wear? Ok lets do the basics… hats & shoes:
Just like The Green Familia – we LOVE surfy hats by Guest Label Ollie&Agnes – check it out:
What about wellie-boots? Look no further than Vivienne Westwood for Melissa in these adorable booties – I’m sure I saw Mark St James sporting a pair of the dark blue in the final episode of Ugly Betty!
Also below are Moov Couture boots that I’ve been looking at for a while…
Spring Cure Week 4 – Getting Stuff Done.
Wednesday, April 14th, 2010
I’ve finished covering this 60’s swivel chair with some rather splendid bright green and crisp white fabric. Working with no pattern is really liberating itching to do some more make-overs now. I used some old cheap material to mock up first in order to get the right shapes, then it was a matter of simply stitching it all together, ironing those seams open so they stay nice and crisp, sewed a hem with elastic inside and pulled it taught over the chair. Lovely!
Still enjoying the focus that the Apartment Therapy Spring Cure is giving me, so inspirational to see others progress too!
Here is my update!
Deep Treatment
- Clean up living room and related closets.
- Repairs are being taken care of this week. Bathroom window edging fixed.
- Declutter books and all media. CD’s on Amazon -Check, DVD’s Ditched – Check, Beloved Books – Stay.
- Cancel 75 percent of the catalogs you receive. I did this with all the junk e-mails I get! Marvellous stuff. Will continue to do so too.
- Empty Outbox this week.
- Confirm what you need to increase or decrease color in each room. More apple green & fresh white in kitchen, more mustard and turquoise in the Hall
- Identify what you need to increase or decrease softness in each room. Fabric! Bliss!
- Cook three meals at home this week. We cheated as we went to my folks and ate, ate, ate. So this one is done!
- Send out your invitations. I will be combing the end with a Vintage Dressing Up Party! Invites to be sent. Date confirmed.
One-Room Remedy
- Begin Shopping List and enter all prices into a spreadsheet. Like I don’t already have one of these? Spreadsheets for everything including coloured columns… its the doing part that I’m still building up to!
- Decide on the total scope of work to be done. Step away from the spreadsheets…
- Consider hiring a professional organizer. What? Huh You mean there is a job for that *considers changing careers*
- Visit a paint store this week to find samples. It’s my secret shame to raid the colour samples…
If you are doing up your bedroom – don’t forget to treat yourself after all your hard work with some of my lovely scented wardrobe and drawer products!
Spring I salute thee…
Saturday, February 13th, 2010
It’s only mid February and I’m feeling somewhat Springlike! The weather along the north Wales coast has been clear and crisp with all the promise of new life and spring flowers. That coupled with the adorable new range of hats from Ollie&Agnes – Little Veg Patch - has kicked me out of my Winter slumber giving life to new ideas sprouting forth, growing…
A close friend of mine is due to have her first baby girl in a couple of weeks and I’ve been on the look out for something special for the nursery. I love the range from Organic Toy Company… in the organic garden, fruit and veg shaped toys starting from £6.99. Ethically Made, natural and organic. Not only is there a super cute , super soft looking range of toys available, the textiles used are made from certified 100% organically grown/produced fibres that are hypoallergenic.
I’m completely in love with the organic cotton butterfly which sleeps in a removable chrysalis drawstring bag. It has a little red hat with green peaks as feelers and softly shaped yellow wings. Once emerged from its chrysalis, it has a green body shaped to a gentle point, with little blue arms. HOW CUTE?! Such an adorable item. (Ok am I gushing too much? Just looks so peaceful.)
I was lucky enough to actually watch a butterfly hatch from its chrysalis when I was little, that whole process has held such a fascination for me. Like unwrapping a wonderful gift, coming up with a new design or hatching a master plan (Mwha ha ha!) that excitement and potential is thrilling. A perfect gift I think the for a newly born girl.
The site is bursting with interesting information, links and set out in such a way that it is easy to find the perfect gift quickly!
With my head full of fruit, veg and garden beauty I have been reminiscing about the Ladybird Books ~ the Garden Gang ~and their fabulous scratchy felt tip drawings. They stood out to me on my book shelf as their drawings were really free, sometimes imperfect and not dissimilar to my own… I don’t think I realised at the time they had been written and drawn by someone who was only a couple of years older than me! Jayne Fisher – who at 9 years old was the youngest author ever to write for Ladybird Books. Some of the rarer titles are back in demand, fetching high price on Amazon and ebay.
Don’t forget check out Ollie&Agnes’s new range of Little Veg Patch hand-knitted hats. Perfect for little helpers in your early spring garden.
Singing with GLEE
Wednesday, February 10th, 2010
If you’re not quite a Gleek yet I’m sure you soon will be… all the schmaltz n cheese, romance and peer pressure we’d expect from an American high school drama with a bout of ball-busting attitude thrown in and yes (cue cheesy gag) that’s just the teachers! The perfect blend.
In the latest episode – Vitamin D – you can see the lovely leading ladies in lemon! I love that each dress is unique, each with it’s own style and type of material too.
Lemon is quite a “vintage” colour with many summer seasons throughout the 60s and 70s seeing it’s reemergence in various forms, from dresses and skirts to gloves and wide brimmed hats. A great colour that compliments almost any skin tone.
Yum!
If you are thinking of starting your own Glee club (and I think you should) check out my own handpicked vintage dresses ready and set to propel you to the limelight… err… in Lemon!
Watch Glee on 4oD.
It’s 1982 and I’ve just been handed my first Rubik’s Cube…
Thursday, February 4th, 2010
This kind of “hands on” art truly excites me – I mean how freaking cool is that?
Painting without the paint! Hurrah for no clean up!
Keeping his identity hidden the Invader is known mainly for his street art of mosaic tiled characters from the classic arcade game – Space Invaders.
Invading cities all over the world installing the mosaics on those places frequented by many people and more obscure locations. Other sites include the Hollywood sign and Jacques Chirac’s lapel… Check out his invasions here.
As a logical next step to his work he uses Rubik’s Cubes to build up striking images, coming fully equipped with the pixel like colourful squares to make up the desired image. Thus Rubikscubism was born. He says in one interview – “The Rubik’s Cube is a fascinating object being very simple and very complex at the same time. The cube has over 43 billion different color combinations.”
Growing up a bona fide kid of the eighties it was hard to miss the new graphic world that surrounded me. My sister in her polka dot t-shirt that made up a picture of Madonna, my bedroom a blur now of dots and dashes, bright red wardrobes stand blocking old Victoria Plum wallpaper… People swishing passed me noisily in the mis-matching shell “suits” -angrily playing with their Rubik Cubes (or just trying to peal the stickers off)
I applaud the use of Rubiks cubes in this way, loving the idea of re-using something so recognisable to us as one form to be re-invented in another.
If you’re itching to buy one (or perhaps a big box full?) check out the lovely Toyday for all your retro and traditional toy needs!
If you wanna get with the Rubikscubism vibe check out this ahead of its time 60s Dance-Floor Rubik Cube Top!
his & hers Valenties…
Sunday, January 31st, 2010
Tying the knot this Valentines? You betcha!
For the cutest his & her looks, snap up a pair of mix n match vintage bow ties!
Or perhaps to set the mood some vintage nylons, darling 50s cigarette holder, cute vintage dusting face powder box, feel good hair bows and yummy lollypop heart soap!
Love, love, love…
Alright Buster!
Sunday, January 17th, 2010
This is Buster. A beautiful 1985 B Reg Toyota High Ace Camping Vehicle.
…and he needs some love and mending
Its almost too sad to look at Buster like this but an amazing transformation awaits… After all the holes are patched up, there’s a spraypaint job booked in to make him all shiny again, the insides will get a fresh coat of paint and maybe even some curtains!
I find during the odd spare moment I have comparing camping toilets on various online sites… its a perverse world this camping, but I’ve been biten by the bug again and in a big way!
Ok here is my shopping list so far:
1. New side slide door (I’ve been reliably informed we can pick one up quite easily)
2. Paint for the inside of the toilet – I want something bright in here, may stick with white, but I have been drawn to the idea of some retro wallpaper (something unexpected, which I’m not sure is a good thing or not for a toilet)
3. New bit of sponge for the long side bed piece (this will all make sense when I post some inside shots)
4. Materials for curtains and recovering the seating.
5. Some new tyres.
With design and beauty high on the agenda I want to use as many recycled, preloved, second-hand, vintage, and eco-friendly products as possible (I welcome any links!) in his transformation.
I forsee many lovely times to be had this year and lots of travelling, festivals, fetes and new found lands to discover…
Make-it Friday – L.O.V.E
Wednesday, January 13th, 2010
This is what I worked on this Friday. I’ve been wanting to make up some Alphabet letters for some time now. I LOVE that I can use these Friday Make-it days to really concentrate and get on with some unfinished projects and explore new ideas.
I LOVE the vintage fabrics but would LOVE to have some more (see what I did there)
Its so easy to do too. The bigger and chunkier the letters the better. Using easy to cut materials that don’t fray help too, like this left over pink soft brushed cotton and heavy upholstery material.
1. Either using a template or freehand (don’t be scared!! Just try you’ll be surprised how easy it can be) draw out your letter.
2. Fold your chosen material and cut out 2 of the shape (Sharp scissors are a must always – a good sewsmith knows you can blame your tools) Remember to cut 2 notches* -V shaped cuts in a straight part of the letter to help you line up the 2 pieces when stitching together.
3. Rights sides together pin & stitch leaving a gap between the 2 notches.
4. Turn letter right way round, stuff and sew!
5. Finish off the rest of your letters to make up a word or a name and you are good to go!
*A Notch is another word for a narrow pass between the mountains – s0 you can see where the shape comes from. I love knowing the origin of these words, especially if it gives me a visual as its easier to remember!
2010… don’t tighten your belt, swag.
Saturday, January 2nd, 2010
I found this fabulous vintage dressing gown tie in a second hand shop the other week – my mind busy buzzing working its way through my wardrobe trying it on with different dresses and pant suits…
It’s in the shop now! Dressing Gown Tassle Belt
Happened to click on the Russian online edition of Vogue and found these similar curtain tie back belts all over the Dolce & Gabbana runway shows for 2009/2010!
© image D&G
Got an iphone? Download the D&G app.
This app offers customers a more direct communication with the company. Such a beautiful way to connect with all you fashionistas and I think the way forward to connect instantly.
I am pretty much glued to my laptop but we take our phones with us everywhere!
Such a beautiful collection of vintage, Victorian and military mix with more than a frilly dollop of femininity!
Would love to see a vintage library showcasing a new dress and its story each day… mmm I wonder if there is an app for that…
