Diary of a Vintage Girl

Autumn Vintage Fashion

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:26:00 +0000

So, it's starting to cool down, which is slightly bad new for me as you all know how much I love my cotton frocks; but great news for the majority (it seems) who adore cold weather and all the options it brings! As someone who owns tons of jumpers, coats and pairs of trousers, it isn't so bad, just a bit less... loud. ;)

And, in fact, if you, like me, own tons of flimsy dresses, you've still got a couple of months' mileage out of them, as long as you invent in plenty of seamed stockings and some slips. I find wearing a Swirl (for example) with stockings isn't that wise without a slip, because ten steps up the road, the static cling has resulted in a lovely ruched mini-skirt look as the hem rises up above my knees! I have an old half-slip of my mum's, which is great, but full length slips can be found in charity shops, eBay and old lady departments of shops and are definitely worth investment. Many girls also prefer tights, but I find stockings to be much more practical, not least because if you ladder one, you've still got one left! I live in What Katie Did Retro Seams in nude - they are surprisingly durable. Make sure you get a six-strap suspender belt with proper metal clips - 4-straps and flimsy little things with plastic ends will neither keep your stockings up for long, nor keep them straight (the key ones are at the back, keeping everything in a line).

The lovely Rita, from here.

Autumn is really all about separates for me - trousers, skirts and blouses with sweaters, cardigans and jackets. It's no secret that I have loads of Heyday trousers - I was a customer of Shona's for years until I became her model. I like the fit best, and the fact that she lengthens them and adjusts the waist size for me. If you prefer a more authentic fit, with a long crotch and a slightly tapered leg, have a look at Vivien of Holloway. Their trousers don't work for anyone too tall though, sadly. Check out VoH's range of tops too - peasant and button-up blouses work brilliantly with trousers. Heyday has some lovely new blouse fabrics coming in for the autumn. Here's a sneak peek from our shoot yesterday...

The blouse, with its beautiful art deco-esque print is the Olivia and if you'd like one, you'll have to hold your horses for a few more days until our official pictures are done! I'll let you all know, of course. But you needn't look any further than the high street for basics like blouses. Look for peter pan collars, puff sleeves and pintucks and other nice details - all can be quite authentic.

Skirts, if you're into a 1940s look, should be a-line or straightish - not too full and not too pencil-y. I have some lovely vintage wool skirts from eBay - I think they might be 50s rather than 40s, but still look great. One place to turn to for repros is Top Runway. I sent the lovely lady there some pattern pictures and she reproduced me some great 8-gore skirts and a 30s style one with straps. She also does some super dresses - the fabric she uses is too hot for summer, but perfect for autumn. You could always request some swatches, too.

I love my jumpers and cardis, and have a few from Rocket Originals. I love their square-necked fairisle sweaters, and check out this new nautical style number! I just saw it when getting the link! A bit more 50s, but really cute. I also love Dressing4Impressing, another UK company making lovely sweaters and cardigans in 40s and 50s styles. They also do some really great 40s blouses.

Top two Rocket, bottom two D4I!

Once again, you can pick up vintage inspired knits from the mainstream shops, too. Brit girls, try Dorothy Perkins, Marks and Sparks and even H&M - I've found great things there before.

Jackets are an autumn staple. Look on eBay US and Etsy for orphaned suit jackets - they're usually much more affordable than whole suits. I have posted my La Riviera jackets on here before, usually resulting in people asking where they can buy one - the answer being that they don't have a website.

Picture of me at the Watercress Line by Sean Kelly

Well, I just discovered somewhere selling them! Hynotique Vintage has a selection of the 'ski' jackets and also the shorter ones, which are a lot like the above one on the divine Rita in Cover Girl!

Kate, from here.

As far as shoes go, I like to still wear my peep-toe sandals in autumn, along with stockings or pop-socks they are warm enough. I love cheap Keds-style plimsolls too, when it's dry. But now is the time to invest in some Kate Hepburn-esque flat oxfords or saddle shoes. You lucky Americans have lots of easy options for saddle shoes, but UK ladies can get them from Rocket Originals again. There are some great, girly flat oxfords and brogues in Office at the moment. But none so fabulous as these 30s-inspired court shoes! Ooh, someone lend me 80 quid! ;)

That's about it for autumn vintage fashion tips - I will be saving up my winter ones for a few months' time. Hope some of these links are of help to someone out there!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

The last sundress of summer?

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 16:13:00 +0000

Good afternoon everyone!

Just a quick and dirty outfit post to keep you all amused while I write my little guide to looking vintage as the weather cools down (which I hope will be of interest).

Last Friday, I decided to take a little walk with my mum around the Royal Horticultural Society gardens, and the day was so lovely, I put on one of my unseen (on this blog) Swirl dresses and went barelegged and cardigan-less, for what may be the last time before stockings and woolies become mandatory. I can't wait to go back in three or four weeks and see the spectacular autumn colours!

Vintage Swirl, from eBay,
Sandals from Schuh (I hope they redo these next summer!)
Sunnies from Dead Men's Spex
Photo by my lovely Mum.

My hair was on its third day since setting, and before I went I put three hotsticks in - two at the sides and one at the top, just to revive the curl. The back is fairly straight but wavy, as you can see here. You can also see the shape of my cut a little better!

Hope you all had very lovely weekends. I went to a heavy metal bar and missed my last train home because I was having too much fun!

Lots of love,

Fleur xx

DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Vintage Socialite's Diary Dates

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:14:00 +0000

The beginning of autumn already, eh? Luckily the sun is gracing us with its presence here, keeping my mood buoyant after the battering it's received recently. Over the last few days I have found myself further amazed by the rudeness and unprofessionality of some people, who shall remain nameless. I will say no more than that, but let me instead take this opportunity to tell you all about some forthcoming events that will be both fabulous and enjoyable. I must warn my fellow 'vintage snobs' that these events may or may not contain people in fancy dress, but I shall be there anyway, supporting sincere and passionate friends who are either organising or attending the event as part of birthday celebrations. And who won't send me insulting emails if I dare to have any criticisms.

First up, it's the return of The 39 Steps, who are hosting another amazing vintage tea party to celebrate their 4th Birthday at the Criterion Theatre on September 9th.

Organised by the very lovely people at Fiery Angel and my dear friend Naomi Vintage Secret,
vintage-clad guests will see this rib-tickling comedy, then be treated to a decadent tea party in the stunning art nouveau Greene Bar inside the Criterion Theatre. It will be decorated especially for the occasion with Vintage Secret wares, and fabulous vintage cakes will be supplied by The Vintage Patisserie (as seen on 'Dragons’ Den'), washed down with tea-based cocktails made with Marquis Vodka, served from vintage tea pots. I guarantee you'll enjoy the play, and if you're a fellow vintage fan who hasn't seen it yet, this is your chance to get a fabulous seat at an amazing price. Dress to the nines!

The next event I'll be trying out is the 'maiden voyage' of the SS Atlantica on the 11th September.

I say 'maiden voyage' in inverted commas because actually there was a launch night this time last year, but it wasn't on a real boat then... this time it is! Here's the blurb, which puts it better than I can.

A Return to the Golden Age of Travel

Revive the timeless elegance of the classic ocean liner at the SS: Atlantica, setting sail on Saturday 11th September 2010. Recreate the luxurious sea travel of yesteryear andl dance the night away immersed in decadent glamour and fine entertainment.

For one night only, the beautifully art deco Silver Sturgeon, a luxury clipper, will be transformed into a luxury cruise liner circa 1931. Curving balustrades and portholes encircle ...a dance floor, lined by roulette tables and two bars serving classic cocktails and Champagne and a stage holding live floor shows and bands.

From the people who brought you Blitz Party and Prohibition, entertainment will be provided by London’s finest live bands, singers, dancers and cabaret acts, all performing in the style of the era.

The dress code is ‘At-Sea Formalwear’. Gentlemen should emulate the starched collar and immaculate dinner suit of an Agatha Christie villain and ladies can take their inspiration from the silk and fur ensembles worn by stars of the silver screen.

Guests embark at 8pm, with the boat leaving for an hour long cruise up the Thames at 9pm.

Sounds rather splendid, doesn't it? This is the birthday bash I mentioned. Better steady those sea legs!

Next on the menu for me is a charity dance on Sunday the 17th October, for a very worthy cause. Click the picture to see all details full size.

This event will be chock-full of good music, wonderful dancers and classic cars, and there will be some really good repro for sale as well. Can't wait!

Finally, if you're into dressing up, good music and likeminded people, then save the date for a very special Halloween Party hosted by yours truly and Emerald Fontaine!

Following the huge success of our last Halloween party at the Fox, we're returning for a one-off date and a very surreal party. We're still firming up the details of the band and the vintage DJ(s) and making a new website, but the date is Saturday the 30th October, the venue is the Fox in Shoreditch, and the night will be called, 'Don't Dali with the Devil'. Named after a 1939 song, the theme will be anything and everything strange and old-fashioned. Come dressed in WWI uniforms, Dada-insired costumes, Cabaret Voltaire, steampunks and Victorian mad scientists, 1920s-1950s vintage of any kind... red roses, moustaches, not-pipes and lobster telephones expecially welcome.

More on this soon, but keep the date free!

For something much more short notice, it's the New Sheridan Club monthly meeting tonight:

Wednesday 1^st September

8pm–11pm

Upstairs, The Wheatsheaf, 25 Rathbone Place, London W1T 1JB

Members: Free

Non-Members: £2 (first visit free)

Guest Mr Martyn Downer will spill the beans on The Sultan of Zanzibar, the story of Horace De Vere Cole, a long-term practical joker. His greatest coup was in the early 20^th century when he and his friends dressed in African costume and claimed to be the Abyssinian royal family. In full costume they wangled a tour of Royal Navy battleship HMS Dreadnought. Mr Downer has recently published a book on De Vere and his exploits.

See you there if you can make it.

Cheerio for now!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Fleur Fans

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 16:33:00 +0000

In the wake of what shall go down in Diary of a Vintage Girl history as VaGgate (har har, lol, snort, etc) (yes I am a child), I have received many positive emails and lovely messages from people. Unsurprisingly, I have not received any negative emails, because short of making a fake email profile (which, thank goodness, no one has been sad enough to do) there's no way of staying cowardly anonymous in an email. Thank you everyone who has sent me a message of support - I think I have kept up to date with thank yous, but I will check today. In all honesty, the whole thing really got me down, so I'm very grateful to you all.

Clearly, the people behind Goodwood haven't been remotely bothered about my personal review of their event, and my image has subsequently appeared in articles about it as far away as Australia! I had one old school friend send me a copy of the Sydney MX, and then, a reader who happens to work for the company that produces the Melbourne MX sent me the spread!

Courtesy of the Herald & Weekly Times Ltd.
Amusingly, the caption reads 'Fashion label of the '60s and '70s, Biba, walks again.'
That's not 60s or 70s, that's a 1930s outfit! Honestly.

Not only that, but my mug can be found on the VaG website, and their newsletter, and has apparently just gone out in the latest Goodwood Revival newsletter, the subject of which is 'How to get the look' (if anyone wouldn't mind forwarding a copy to the email address on the left, I'd be most grateful). I think it's great that they're using me as an example of how attendees should look. Kind of reinforcing my point about making an effort, don't you think? Oh, and by the way, I think I am actually going to pop along to the Revival now, on the Friday. So if you see me, don't shy away from saying hello, or coming to say your negative things to me face to face!

I will be going to help Shona from Heyday promote the new fabrics for the Fleur dress, which we will hopefully have just in time. But this brings me to the good things I mention in my title. Here comes some more effusive gushing chaps... be warned!

Because I will say it here, for the record, genuinely and honestly (because you could argue I'd say this anyway, but...), I absolutely LOVE the Fleur dress design. It was inspired by the cut and shape of one of my very favourite homemade Swirl-a-likes, and wearing it just makes me feel so happy. It fits and flatters the figure perfectly, it's so feminine, so vintage, and really quite demure, yet far from being drab with its bright and cheerful print. I must be the luckiest girl in the world to have had this opportunity from Shona, and being the angel that she is, she did me a really huge favour the other day.

The New Sheridan Club summer party, which in all the drama I completely forgot to tell you all about, had a sort of colonial/Asian theme this year, and I wanted to wear something new for the occasion. I asked Shona if I could pay her to make me a special, custom Fleur dress in an oriental-print fabric. And not only did she say Yes, but she told me to do some work for her instead of paying. Yippee! We found a simply smashing Japanese fan-print cotton, and made it up. And, after a long day at Tart, I put on my new frock, gold sandals and matching accessories and had a splendid time at the Far Pavilions.

Here is a photo of me with Lisa and Darhling, taken by the wonderful Stephanie Wolff. I have some great Tart pics taken by Stephanie that I'll show you soon, but if you'd like more photos of the NSC night, have a squizz at Marco Mega's blog.

But since I adore the dress, I felt it needed another outing. So, I wore it again yesterday to the wedding of two wonderful friends.

The one-of-a-kind Oriental Fleur dress, accessorised with vintage Mah Jong bracelet, made with yellow/orange bakelite no. 1 Bamboo tiles and red glass beads, yellow bakelite hoop earrings and a brown, amber lucite and gold-trimmed 50s wicker handbag. Not shown are my little gold sandals (which match the bag and are currently on sale!). Also accessorised with super stylish friends, including Red Legs looking like a flame-haired goddess in her emerald satin Vivien of Holloway ensemble. Photos kindly taken by Clayton Hartley of the NSC.

All in all, I am a lucky person to have such lovely, caring, generous and downright angelic people in my life. Talking of which, a final photo from Stephanie featuring my lovely mum (who is wearing the aforementioned Bella Pacella headband I bought her from VaG...and a photo in the spirit of the lovely Vixen Vintage's recent outtakes post, a silly, between poses photo of me, basically just being me - unpretentious and not the unnaproachable poser I may sometimes appear to be. ;)

Enjoy the rest of your long weekend (Brits) and Sunday (Former Colonials)!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Some waffle followed by pretty pictures

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 16:50:00 +0000

Well I've now become fed up of editing my last blog post to say in several different ways that I was only reviewing my personal experience of Vintage at Goodwood, that I was working and not there as a visitor, and my disappointment was in the organisation, not the hard working volunteers. I apologise to all for not having given a well-rounded review of the event from the other side of the fence, but the fact is that I wasn't there as a paying visitor or a guest. I am not a festival-goer. I like weekenders where you get to stay in a kitsch chalet and everything is included for a fraction of the cost of a big commercial music festival. I like day trips and nights out at events full of like-minded people. This is why I don't go to football matches or trendy nightclubs.

I'd just like to say that this blog is still, as it has only ever been, a sort of documentary of my life, or rather, the more interesting things in my life. And my personal opinion on them.

Sponsored posts aside, I only blog about the things I want to blog about, and this of course also applies to sponsor posts since I only accept sponsorship from companies that look or are fabulous, and vintage. A lot of my posts are effusive and full of gushing praise. This is because the things I am praising are pleasing to me. If I have a crummy experience, you can be darned sure I will be honest. The old adage says that if you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all. I wholeheartedly concur, which is why my review of Vintage mentions the bits I did enjoy as well as those I didn't. I give praise where it is due, and I am not a sycophant. I am not afraid to say it like it is - if I was, then I'd have just reviewed the fun bits for fear that I will not be invited back next year. I have plenty of other things going on in my life to think about, both good and bad, without worrying whether I'll be welcomed back to something that wasn't particularly my cup of tea the first time round. I am sorry if the other hard working people there were hurt by my criticism of the event as a whole, but I can't make stuff up about things I didn't see or do; and I was unprepared to make myself tired and miserable by staying until the bitter end every night and really taking it all in, to give a 'fair review' for my blog. I am not an events reviewer so I didn't have to.

This leads me to point out that I write this blog as a hobby. It's a hobby that's taken off in more ways than I could have ever imagined, and become something akin to a job in itself, but ultimately, it is still something I do essentially for fun. It's why the time between posts has been stretching out longer recently - because the things I do to make myself enough money to live have been taking up more and more of my time lately. I try to be witty, I try to be entertaining and I try to be honest. I talk to you all as if you're my friends and I'm telling you a story, and keep you interested; but the one thing I will not do is sell out, or bite my tongue about certain things. I am constantly turning down offers of money and partnerships from companies who either don't fit with the tone of the blog, or who don't gel with me as a person who is passionate about who I am and what I do. So I will not stand for being accused of being unfair or biased - yes I support lots of people, but only because they have integrity and a similar ethos to myself. I also don't harbour grudges and would always love to have my opinion changed, so it's disappointing to me when this doesn't happen. I am sorry if people have been put off going by my blog. I would hope that they would form their own opinions based on the entertainment on offer, the prices and suchlike; and wouldn't be so easily swayed by a critical review of an event from the point of view of a volunteer, not a visitor.

On the subject of me being a vintage snob, yes I suppose I am. But not in the way I was accused. As mentioned earlier, I like to spend my precious spare time with likeminded people. I don't like going to events full of people in afro wigs. I am not a dog in a manger though - I love it when 'normal' people tell me they have had a wonderful time at a big 40s themed event and want to get more into dressing vintage. I love it when new people get into it - this is partly what my blog is for - to share information to help people get the look. As one of my anonymous commenters said, it's getting new people into the scene that keeps it going. But you won't find me going to these sorts of events for fun, because it turns into work. I'll be asked 100 times about my hair and outfit, the chaps will be stared at and asked if their facial hair is real. When you dress like this every day, you take your chances on the street, to be ridiculed or admired, you don't want to go out and be harrassed even more! I am always, always happy to share tips on hair, makeup and clothes, but as my vintage friends will vouch, 'normal' people don't want to hear about pincurls, about how it took several years of practice to get my victory rolls so perfect, about how good vintage takes dedication to track down and can be an expensive minefield. The eyes just glaze over. Though please don't think for a second that I get huffy and annoyed and cry, 'God, all these compliments, it's driving me mad!' or ignore people because I always try to be helpful and friendly to those who are genuinely interested. I've seen firsthand enthusiastic people become crestfallen by daring to speak to unfriendly but perfect-looking vintage girls who don't want to share their 'secrets'. But that is not to say that I don't end up wanting run away after a while. And this is why I don't go to these events, aimed at normal people who can get dressed up and have a laugh. I applaud them and the people who go, but I don't want to go myself.

That said, I have never and will never use the term 'more vintage than you' in a negative way, because that, quite frankly, is a steaming heap of horse doings. I'm not saying anyone did, but it's come up before. There's no competition in vintageness, my best friend of 12 years is perfectly 'normal' and gets dressed up only for dancing events, which we go to together. I love that she is interested in it enough to ask my advice and let me help her buy things so she looks fabulous. I've been through enough image transformations of my own and have enough alternative friends to be tolerant of anyone who goes out of their way to be 'brave' or 'different'. But please, for goodness' sake, have a bit of imagination! Don't just buy your costume from the Party Shop!

And after all, being snobby with tongue firmly in cheek is what The Chap is all about, and that's all I was doing by remarking upon the 'awful costumes' at Vintage. This is what happens when the promoters are struggling and end up putting advertising billboards on Elephant and Castle and leaving piles of flyers in random pubs all over the kingdom. The festival had wide appeal because of the music, and you always get people in silly costumes at music festivals. There were a number of amazing outfits there too as I saw in the photos afterwards, but not nearly as many as you see at the Revival. Once again, I could only relay what I saw while there, and the afro wigs stood out more than the real vintage, sad to say. There will be more criticism in my Chap column, because that is what it is all about. Sorry.

I just wish everyone would put more effort into their appearance, but then not everyone is quite as sad and anal as me. I am just going to have to live with that ;)

So instead of more negative things, how about something nice and positive to look at instead?

I haven't yet posted these beautiful photographs taken at Tart by the very talented Celine Chapman, but aren't they just wonderful? I quite wish I was getting married or something as I would love to have a photographer as amazing as this record that momentous occasion! She has really managed to capture the glamour of both Tart and 40 Winks... and all the attendees of course! If anyone would like to come to Tart, then do send Mr Carter an email through the 40 Winks website. I shall be there again on September the 18th, preparing the day before and recovering the day after, so if you're reading this Lord March, and you'd like to forcibly eject me from the Revival, you'll just have to wait until next year instead. ;)

Until next time!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Vintage - the Good(wood) & the Bad

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:25:00 +0000

Well, this post has now been in draft for a week, while my life has been a big whirlwind of work, from Vintage Patisserie parties to my new part-time job as a film extra! But finally, here it is, my Vintage at Goodwood story. Before you start reading, let me just clarify that this is a review of my weekend working at Vintage. Not visiting as a paying punter, nor as a press person, not even really as a blogger. I always meant to write about it, but I did not go there to review the event in its entirety. What you have here is an account of the weekend as seen through my eyes, and all the limits that come with being a single person with two eyes and a body clock that means I get tired after getting up early and being on my feet all day. I am not a die-hard music fan, nor am I especially bothered about burlesque (my own performer friends excluded), and there was no one on the bill who persuaded me that it would be worth either staying for or going back to see later. This is essentially a review of what I did. And how I found the experience. So with all that in mind, please read on!

This is a tale of ups and downs, highs and lows, sunshine and heavy showers... and it is a long story, so if you're not interested, you may wish to scroll, scroll and scroll past!

Let me begin at the very beginning.

Almost exactly a year ago, I spent three days at the Goodwood Revival, working at the Vintage at Goodwood taster event. You can read my review of the weekend on my blog entry at the time. Now, the review I gave was a pretty positive one, because although the weekend was exhausting, it was fun; and I had high hopes at that point for a role at the inaugural Vintage at Goodwood festival. What I didn't mention was the rudeness of one particular 'curator', the complete lack of communication before and during the event, and the seemingly complete absence of appreciation of our hard work and precious time. Most of the people involved made it a pleasurable and rewarding weekend, though, one particularly super curator and our amazing friends.

Fast forward a year, and a lot of water has flowed under the bridge, taking with it all the enthusiasm for the forthcoming Vintage festival. After all our graft at the taster event, and my many offers of help to Wayne Hemingway et al, communication had broken down even further. After Naomi and I were treated to a business lunch with our lovely curator, to discuss our involvement; the goalposts were firmly repositioned each time we spoke. I must stress that this was nothing to do with the curator, she was following orders from above; but essentially, the offers went from us having a presence there, something to really get stuck into, embracing vintage, promoting ourselves and Vintage together, something we could really get behind; to us doing something vague for which our expenses would be covered; to us being there if we wanted to, under our own steam and our own expense. A lot of other people experienced similar reneging on initial exciting offers, one person experienced a degeneration from an invitation for proper involvement to an invitation to apply to pay the organisers money to sell things. And then our dear friend pulled out, very late, and we knew that she would never have dreamed of doing so if there weren't some significant creative differences. And the festival as a whole seemed to be turning into something that was not really my cup of tea - hugely money driven with big corporate sponsorship, sky high stall fees, rip-off ticket prices and incredibly expensive camping costs. Plus loads of bands I couldn't care less about (personal opinion, of course!).

All in all, my experiences during the last year left a very sour taste in my mouth, and Naomi and I had decided not to be involved in any way. This changed when The Chap was asked to take part, staging a 3 day Olympiad as part of the 1940s area, which was itself curated by a lovely couple of my acquaintance, Harry and Edna of the Home Front Friends. I thought that if I could have a free three-day ticket to see the success or failure for myself, to turn up at lunch time and be finished by tea, well, how could I refuse? Of course it turned out to be significantly harder work than that, with a Chap fashion show scheduled for Friday morning, and my assistance given to Naomi for another on Saturday!

My feelings about my treatment meant that I declined to give the festival any free advertising on my blog, but I was happy enough with my arrangements and responsibilities for the weekend. And then, just when I'd geared myself up to go, this article appeared on Amelia's Magazine, summing up all my misgivings and bringing it all back. Do go and read it, plus all the comments, to get a clearer picture of the divide in opinion about it all.

But when I have committed to something, I follow it through, and so on Thursday night, I packed up and headed to my parents' house, conveniently situated a 30 minute drive from Goodwood, and prepared myself...

Friday

Sad to say, Friday confirmed all my fears in one fell swoop. Arriving at 10.30, laden with clothes, I collected my wristbands and struggled my way to the 40s area. Harry and Edna had done a great job pulling lots of interesting things together, from Dig for Victory gardens to magazines (The Chap, Glimpse and Vintage Life) plus book stalls and food. I couldn't help but feel, however, that the whole set up was extremely badly designed. Hidden behind the vast marquee of the Tanqueray Torch, and tucked right down the end, it meant that people could not just walk by, stumble across us or even see us. I loaded myself up again, and headed to the Fashion Pavilion, pausing to be thoroughly disgusted by the existence of a Primark shop in the 'High Street'. We were promptly told we could not leave our outfits there, but if we wanted to leave them outside on the steps we could! Well, thanks very much, but I'll decline to leave my precious vintage outside in a busy area. I lugged it back.

I then realised I had not received my promised meal voucher - something that was not a problem at the Revival last year and was never for one moment in doubt in my mind. But no, I was told that despite being on site from 10.30 until at least 5 or 6 every day, we weren't entitled to any meals. I went back and gave them what for, and managed to prise some vouchers off them. For an evening meal, valid 6.30 - 8.30pm. How useful. I forked out £4 for a bacon roll.

By this time rather peeved, we headed off for the fashion show, which was rushed and hectic, but enjoyable and, apparently, among the best in the whole weekend (according to Mr Hemingway himself). Here are some photos!

Some show shots! I pinched these off the lovely Amy Georgina (who was lovely and not remotely stalkery BTW!)

Please visit Amy's Flickr to see the rest!
I wore a vintage Swirl, hat and jacket, and an Able Grable gown. I stayed in my trouser outfit for the rest of Friday: a Revamp Vintage ensemble. Afterwards, we started to set up for the Chap Olympiad. Not far into the first game, which was poorly attended due to the position, the heavens opened and everything was abandoned. We took refuge in the Torch, wet, cold and miserable, refusing to pay £7 for a gin and tonic with no lime. At about 6pm, fed up, I decided to head for the car, sloshing through thick mud, ruining my sandals, soaking my trousers to the knee, thoroughly hungry, chilled and angry. Upon leaving, I noticed that the entire front ticketing/programme/door area was being run by children of 14. This inexplicably annoyed me even more. And that was the end of Friday. I didn't enter a single shop (with the exception of What Katie Did, where I bought a Harlow suspender belt and did my hair), see a single band, or do any dancing or anything fun whatsoever. Oh well.

Saturday

As you might imagine, I was not looking forward to Saturday, especially since my sartorial choices were limited slightly...

Dressed in our vintage finery (but with me looking very early 90s in my 40s Swirl and clumpy black leather boots bought a number of years ago to wear in the snow), Naomi and I had to be there for 8.30am, and we were - complete with vintage swimsuits and props for the Bathing Beauties fashion show. The mud was slightly tempered with the application of woodchips, meaning I could change into nicer shoes, once I got inside, thank goodness.

The fashion show went off without a hitch, leaving me to head over to the Chap site. Imagine my relief to arrive and see that everything had been moved further towards the main drag, meaning people were browsing around everything and generally getting involved. Even greater relief came when Harry told me he'd secured everyone on the Chap team a lunch voucher! Finally, we were being treated properly. Sadly, this day's Olympiad fared only a little better, with a downpour interrupting play, and the substantial crowd dispersing to seek shelter. Everyone floated back afterwards though, and the games were a lot of fun. The chap who won the gold cravat did so in style, and had a splendid 'tache to boot (not as good as the Whistling Tailor's of course)! ;)

And that was Saturday. I still did no dancing, shopping or band-seeing.

Sunday

Feeling fairly chipper after an OK Saturday, I was at least not dreading the final day. As it happened, I had a marvellous time! I arrived at lunchtime, took part in more games than I ever have before in the Olympiad... and won the Silver Cravat for my efforts! These included a discus 'throw' which consisted of me walking with the plate on my head before 'fainting' and being revived by a medicinal pipe; and using my womanly wiles and flashing a stocking to unseat my opponent during Umbrella Jousting. I can find no pictoral evidence of the latter, sadly, and the best photos of the former are not permissible to be linked (despite me asking the photographer nicely). So see here, here and here for more! Instead, here is an outfit photo...

And a photo of the final day's winners!

Gold Cravat winner was the one and only Mr Edward Marlowe (owner of this photo), and Bronze was won by a chap called Ben.

We soon decamped to the Torch for celebratory champagne at having survived and I then headed home with my dear mum.

The end.

You may notice I didn't do a single bit of shopping (though I walked up and down the stalls to look and the majority of the vintage was the usual not-particularly-old 70s/80s stuff you find in most UK vintage shops), nor dancing, nor did I see any acts so I can't comment on any of those. I heard some of the acts were quite good, and some laughable. I also heard the camping facilities, which I didn't use, were pretty awful. But on the whole I was very disappointed in the organisation and the treatment of the volunteers by the main organisers (and the weather, but that's by the by). The Primark store, and the abundance of ridiculous costumes disappointed me as well. For something that set out to celebrate British cool and vintage as a movement that is both eco-friendly and individual, the presence of Primark and super high-end watch brands was pretty shocking. But despite the incredibly high (for the first year of an event) ticket prices and astronomical stall fees, I would imagine they spent so very much money organising it that corporate sponsorship was the only way. I just think this vintage festival with potential turned into a way to cash in on the current trend and the end result was lacking in soul.

Those of us who love vintage, who gave our time for free, I think are the most let-down over it all. With so much support ready for organisers who treat us fairly and who have a real passion, it could have been really wonderful. Not just a big bandwagon-jumping, commercial, money-driven affair. Because I genuinely believe something a bit more sincere would have the potential to make more money. I just hope that sellers who took the risk found it worthwhile. There were certainly more people there than I expected, and many seemed to be enjoying it, and thus were probably in a shopping mood.

All in all, if you're interested in lovely vintage clothing, fabulous stalls, swing dancing and classic cars, go to the well-established and value-for-money Goodwood Revival, that's my advice. I only wish I was going this year. If the idea of a vintage festival that seemed as though it was 'organised by the Tory Party' (quote source not known but told to me by Naomi - please let me know if you said this!) then do visit next year's Vintage at Goodwood. I, for one would not buy a ticket and won't be going next year unless I am paid to be there. A lot of fellow volunteers I've spoken to feel the same way.

Do look out for my review in the next issue of the Chap, which will focus on the positives and gloss over the negatives... sartorial abominations notwithstanding! ;)

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

PS. Just as a final little anecdote, I was further shocked to hear from my dance teacher, Nick Kirby of Jive Connection, that he was called up by the organisers and asked if he would take a group of dancers to some southern shopping malls to promote the festival. The exchange he relayed summed up the organisers' ethos perfectly, I felt.

"OK," he said. "How much are you paying us? Oh, nothing? OK, how much will we get for expenses? Nothing. Right, well, how many free tickets will we get? None?? Goodbye!"

Edit: Firstly, in the interest of fairness and honesty, I must mention that I was taken into a stall called Bellapacella (I hope that is the right link) by my dear mum, who had found a 20s-inspired headband she loved. She bought herself one, and then after leaving, she asked me if I would buy her another one. I did so, and thus this could be counted as shopping. Let me clarify, that I didn't go off and browse through the stalls at any point, looking for vintage goodies to buy. That is what I mean when I say 'shopping' - I literally walked up and down looking at the wares on display, none of which caught my eye. So that is what I mean when I say 'I did no shopping'. I did no shopping 'for me'. Apologies.

Secondly, I am being informed that I was seen dining in the Torch, and watching an act. This is news to me. The first time I was in the Torch, I was drenched and cold, trying to get signal on my phone so I could find where Naomi was. There were some people dancing, I think to a DJ. This does not count as an 'act' which I was using to mean a band or a performer. On the Sunday, as mentioned, I was in there for approximately half an hour having a glass of champagne, after which I left to go with my mum to the aforementioned headband stall. As far as I was aware during this second sojourn, there was another DJ on - some of my colleagues went up and did a foxtrot at one point. I honestly have no recollection of a band coming on stage, and I'm sure I would have noticed? Bear in mind I was worn out and dying to go home and see my cat by this point (how rock and roll). The above blog is my own account of my own experience at Vintage at Goodwood, where I WORKED and was not there as a punter. And, as mentioned, the weekend did improve for me to the point of being bloody good fun on Sunday. I do not appreciate being accused of lying (why on earth would I), nor do I appreciate the insinuation that I am in some way bitter about not being involved with the organisation. Like my curator friend, I would probably have dropped out when I saw the direction it was taking. I still have only praise for Harry and Edna for their loveliness and hard work in the 40s area. Also, again, whether an act was on in the Torch or not, that is completely beside the point, as I didn't see any acts on the main stage (except Aswad while I was queuing for the loo), nor did I visit any of the other tents - Northern Soul, Blues, Rave, what have you. I did not make a note of the acts on offer and go and see them. This is what I mean when I say I didn't see any acts, whether one might have been playing while I was nearby... which I genuinely do not remember.

Thanks for listening, and if anyone else who enjoyed the festival would like to accuse me of lying and unsubscribe, please go ahead. ;)

Booze, Glorious Booze! Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Following neatly (if not promptly) on from my last post about Gin, is today's offering, which is in fact about Cider. Those who knew me in my late teens and early twenties will know that I have imbibed a fair amount of cider in my time, particularly one memorable (or perhaps I should say dimly remembered by me but nonetheless notorious) incident involving several litres of Strongbow (also known as Wrongbow), the steps at The Dome in Tuffnell Park, and a badly bruised posterior... a photo of which was kindly photoshopped into an amusing picture by none other than Dave Gorman. But that is a story for another day ;)

No, cider holds a special place in my heart, and so, when David Carter of Tart and 40 Winks fame invited me and Naomi along to the launch of a rather stylish, fruity cider-themed event, I couldn't possibly say no. But before we get to the cider, something a bit more traditional! I had Afternoon Tea at Brown's Hotel with my dear mum!

Oh, I do love an Afternoon Tea, and it's particularly delicious at Brown's! My favourite bit is the sandwiches, my mum's the scones, clotted cream and jam. What about you?

After I'd eaten my bodyweight in sarnies and cakes, and drunk a couple of litres of tea, I swooped off to Vintage Secret Towers to get changed for the party. Suitably attired, Naomi and I then headed off to Fitrovia, to 33 Fitzroy Square, to be precise.

The Jacques Townhouse is a splendidly stylish venue, designed top to bottom by Mr Carter, filled with delicious treats and Dragon Den favourite Vintage Patisserie cupcakes, Benefit eyelashes, dressing up clothes and... Cider! The cider itself is something I have always seen in the supermarket but never tried - a fruity, fizzy draught, in two flavours, Fruits Des Bois and Orchard Fruits. I loved the Orchard Fruits variety! The idea behind the event was to introduce girls to the delights of Jacques, by getting David in to design this pop-up townhouse and hosting mini-parties several times an evening for a couple of weeks. But how about a peek inside the house?

The intricate cakes were just for show, but Angel's cupcakes and the assorted canapes went down a treat. Everywhere you looked, there was something to see, from frothy pompoms, to vintage suitcases and hatboxes, old photos and ephemera, plus a secret 'garden' filled with glowing bunnies, plush cushions and vintage tea cups.

I wore my well-loved but still fabulous Whirling Turban outfit (I wish I could get another!), while Naomi wore a smashing early 60s cotton, floor-length evening gown, which could have been made for her, it fitted so well. There were some truly gorgeous outfits on display as well, which were all captured by the official photographer. We of course, couldn't resist having a go in front of the camera!

Here we are, posing away, with a snap of the gal in my favourite outfit. It's a playsuit/overall with a very 30s look, and the girl (I think her name was Adele...) looked amazing in it. If you're curious for more, have a browse on the Jacques Facebook page for more. All in all it was a splendid night, and lovely to see some famous faces up close, including Sophie Ellis Bextor (incredibly stylish but so thin), Donna Air (also very thin) and a girl from the Sugababes. David did a wonderful job with the decor, and by all accounts the 10+ day event has been a great success. It's certainly made me very amenable to Jacques cider!

The official events were slightly different, in that each girl received two drinks and a cake, and was let loose in the house for an hour and a half. If any attendees or girls who unfortunately missed out on the free spaces are interested in something similar, hosted by yours truly, Naomi and of course, Mr David Carter, then why not come along to Tart! You get the dressing up, the makeup, unlimited food, cake and drink, plus four glorious hours of fun! You can get in touch with David for more info... and gosh do I have some wonderful photos to post very soon, to tempt you all further!

Must dash, love to each and every one of you!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Booze, Glorious Booze! Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 19:40:00 +0000

Hello everyone and welcome to this well and truly overdue update! I'm so glad everyone loved the Fleur dress as much as me. Shona and I have some new fabric variations coming up, so stay tuned, especially if you fancy something darker for autumn! This week, however, I'm not talking about frocks. I am talking about Booze!

It will come as no surprise to regular readers of Diary of a Vintage Girl that I am partial to a splash of gin every now and then. So when an invitation come through to attend the launch of a brand-new gin brand, from one of the world's oldest wine merchants (who, it must be said, know their stuff), I hardly had to devote a moment's thought to my answer. So when last Wednesday arrived, I put on one of my nice frocks and toddled off to Berry Bros. & Rudd to sample their No. 3 London Dry Gin.

You may remember the last BBR launch event I attended, for The King's Ginger liqueur, way back in November. It was such a wonderful evening that I had high hopes for the gin tasting, plus I had the added bonus of being able to try more than two cocktails, since I didn't have to drive anywhere. Hurrah!

I arrived at BBR and was immediately ushered down into the vaulted caverns underneath. Down there were three bartenders, famed the length and breadth of the country for their skills in mixology. I did endeavour to sample everything on offer, but sadly fell slightly short! The gin itself was lovely. Although I frequently post about another brand of gin here, it must be said that actually, I just enjoy that particular spirit. I am not going to pretend that I can write a serious critique of No. 3 Gin, but I know what I like! It has a slightly citrus flavour, with the spices just creeping in as an aftertaste. The cocktails on offer really made the most of the gin's unique botanicals, and were all made with wonderfully fresh herbs and fruit, including super-expensive Sicilian lemons. And they were blooming strong!

I must confess, I have still never tried a martini! My favourite cocktail was the French 75s by Alessandro Palazzi from Dukes, which is a marvellous place to visit (although I haven't been there since Christmas 2008). A close runner up was Miles Davis's Aviated Smash. Mr Davies works at the famous Hix Bar in Soho, and his creation featured cherry infused No. 3 and lemon verbena, among other ingredients. Delicious. The canapes were also sublime. But what of the clientele?

I had the pleasure of the company of such fine chaps as Atters and his lovely friend Francesca, Mr Neil Ridley (whose blog Cask Strength is worth a read if you're a fan of whisky), Mr Marcin Miller from Quercus, who kindly invited me along; and of two other sterling coves - Darren The Whisky Guy and Ben the Master of Malt. As you can see, everyone else there knew far more about booze than I! So instead of holding forth (badly) about the flavour of the gin itself, let me instead show you something I can do well - pose! Here are some final photos of me with the (rather stylish) No. 3 Gin bottle and a brand-spanking-new Aston Martin!

The bottle itself was beautifully designed, with a key etched into the front. It's a replica of the original key to No. 3 St James's Stree, also known as Berry Bros. & Rudd! The car was almost straight off the production line, and belonged to the head of HWM, an Aston Martin dealership which is close to where I live (and housed in an amazing Art Deco building). I wore my 1940s Swirl dress for the occasion, paired with my much-loved green Rocket Originals Connies.

Sadly, the evening ended with me leaving empty handed, since all the crazy people who eschewed further free cocktails and canapes snaffled all the goodie bags. I am now awaiting a shipment of No. 3 London Dry Gin to place in my own Art Deco cocktail cabinet, to sample, and just make absolutely sure that I really do like it... ;) Honestly chaps and chapettes, if you enjoy gin, then do give it a try.

I'll be back with one review of one more booze-filled launch - this time the Jacques Townhouse in Fitzrovia. This one is far more girly, too, so expect some pretty photos to look at.

Until next time, adieu!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

A dream come true...

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:49:00 +0000

Although I know a few people have spotted, and indeed indulged themselves in the frock I'm about to unveil to you all, I shall nonetheless make my very exciting announcement now, as if no one in the world has yet discovered the news. This project has been a good while in the planning, because nothing other than perfection will do, for myself, or for you. But finally, it's here, it's arrived, the realisation of a long-time burning ambition. I am delighted to tell you all that there now exists a dress, co-designed, inspired by and named after yours truly! Can you believe it?

Allow me to introduce...

The Fleur dress from Heyday!

The Fleur dress is inspired by the vintage wrap dresses that I love so much, and is based on a dress in my collection that's actually handmade, but in the same style. Our inaugural, limited edition version has been called 'English Rose', and the design has a late 40s silhouette, with a gored skirt that's not too full. Shona and I wanted to find a print fabric that works for ladies who love the 40s and the 50s, and with this lovely quality, 100% cotton, scattered with lush roses, we think we clinched it. The Fleur wraps from the back, fastening with a single button (which will change with each design, and in this case is a perfectly matching rose design), and closes with two long ties that can be fastened in a bow at the front, or the back, depending on your mood! It has two crescent shaped patch pockets, and features tucking at the pocket tops and neckline; and should fall somewhere around mid-calf, for a truly authentic 40s look.

Although the originals were mainly worn as house dresses, as you all know, I will happily wear them out shopping, to parties, to nightclubs... it's all about how you dress it up or down. We wanted to create something versatile and easy to wear for all shapes and sizes. The Fleur costs £80 and is available in sizes XS (about a UK size 6-8/US 4-6) to XL (UK 20-22/US 24-26). And I'm not just saying it, but they look fabulous on ladies at both ends of the spectrum, as I have seen with my own eyes!

So, what do you think of our first Fleur, ladies? Head over to Heyday for a closer look if you like! But do hurry if you fancy owning one of your own, because we only did a small run this time, and we anticipate them selling out quite quickly. As far as future designs go, the possibilities are almost limitless, and we certainly have some spectacular ideas in the pipeline.

I may have a further update for you soon, including a possible exciting opportunity. So stay tuned!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

PS. All photos by Tony Nylons. And just by the by, Shona has taken Heyday and her stock of Fleurs to the War and Peace Show this weekend, so any gals heading there can go and try one on!

When Chaps Attack...

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:44:00 +0000

Happy Monday to all my blog followers and droppers-by. I hope you all had splendid weekends? Mine was the very best in recent memory. Or, at least, the Saturday was, because it was the long awaited, 6th Annual Chap Olympiad 2010! Held in Bedford Square Gardens, it's in Central London, but tucked away from the unwashed masses and the hoi polloi. As I told all and sundry, I was supposed to be recording the scores this year, reprising my role from 2009, and since I actually wanted to participate in some events this year, I had devised a cunning plan. Basically, in true Chap fashion, I would name myself the winner of any event in which I took part! Clever, non?

But it was not to be, since Mr Temple, editor of that fine periodical, The Chap Magazine (the organisers, of course), forgot to bring my chalkboard. So I was merely a punter this year, although I did make use of some distinctly underhand tactics. More on this later.

After a week of changeable weather and rain, it was actually the perfect day for the Olympiad. Not too hot, not too sunny, but not too cold or windy. No rain either, thank goodness. Nonetheless, I had to keep my cardigan on all day, and I'd taken the precaution of an updo to save my coiffure from disaster. I was wearing a vintage 50s cotton frock (with victory rolls, oh well!), my white Dixabilly bolero and white Remix sandals. And fully fashioned seamed stockings from What Katie Did, as it was not too warm. Hurrah! On to the photos!

After the lighting of the Olympic pipe and the opening ceremony, the first event I entered was the Martini Relay. The aim is for a team of four to use their cumulative skills to mix the perfect dry martini, compered (as was every event) to perfection by Antony Elvin. My task was to do the shaking, pouring and garnishing the finished drink with an olive. My 'rival' was Miss Minna aka Red Legs, and we employed our womanly wiles, showing the Mr Temple our stocking tops to try and persuade him ours were the best. I have no idea who actually won!

I snapped a quick picture of Naomi Vintage Secret and the lovely Lisa, but here you'll see me showing off with my martini, and our team, which comprised New Sheridan Members The Chairman, The Colonel (who'd flown all the way from Last Vegas to attend), myself and the Whistling Tailor.

I then took part in the Cucumber Sandwich Discus. I didn't win. Neither did The Chairman or W. Tailor. Close came last year's Bronze Cravat winner, then Louise Quatorze, this time rechristened as 'Heidi Heil' the evil Chappist Fuhrerin. It's very utterly British to have a pantomime Nazi villain, so I hope no one will be offended (I have experienced this before, but chalk it up to cultural differences). Heidi threw her sandwich then ran ahead and snatched it up on the first bounce, ate it and then goose-stepped back to the starting line.

During the Umbrella Jousting, Heidi Heil got her comeuppance as her opponent knocked her to the floor and snatched the British flag from her evil grasp. W. Tailor disarmed the dastardly Atters - you can see the remains of his weapon to the right...

Shown here is the Tug Of Hair, sponsored by the splendid Bounder Wax. Not-so-sharp-eyed readers will see Mr Wax himself in the top right there. Bottom left is the eventual victor and Gold Cravat winner 2010, The Great Colonesse, who cheated outrageously by using his ridiculously cute daughter to distract his opponent in the Pipeathlon. I gave W. Tailor a piggy back during the same event, which consists of a 10-yard saunter, 10 yards on a bicycle, and 10 yards without one's feet touching the ground, all the while maintaining a fully lit pipe. We took a tumble but came back fighting. Sadly, we were opposite Heidi Heil, who used a carpet of living men to walk back to the finish line. No contest, really.

Here's one final collage featuring yours truly and a selection of spiffing sorts. You'll see me here with the Whistling Tailor, with that cad Atters, with the Butler, and with the gorgeous Retro Chick! I loved meeting you lady, if you're reading! I'll stop boring you all now, but instead say that if you'd like to see more photographs, including Mr Ridley's extreme bicycle stunts, plenty of action shots and chaps in tweed; head over and view my Flickr set here.

I leave you with some video links... watch me in the Cucumber Sandwich Discus (and hear the cheer when I am announced :D). Brits can watch this totally inaccurate review from London Tonight (chaps only events? What rot!). Lots of videos cropping up on One's Tube as well.

Can't wait for next year now.

Chin chin!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Edit: RegLegsinSoho has explained the whole Heidi Heil thing, which has caused some small controversy, far more succinctly than I.

"It was intended in the same way as Chaplin's film The Great Dictator. To ridicule fascism is the most effective way to demean and reduce it. The very opposite of hero-worship."

There's nothing much more to add.

Ravishing vintage repro

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:29:00 +0000

Back at the end of May, I was privileged enough to do a shoot at the simply beautiful house of a friend of mine, Jenny. She and her husband are regulars on the swing scene, and I'd heard rumours about how gorgeous their house was. So when another mutual friend, Shona of Heyday, got in touch about a shoot for some new products, we asked Jenny if it would be ok to do it there. She said yes, and I got to prance about in her stunning garden for the day. :)

I was shooting some new lines for two of my biggest supporters, and friends, Heyday (of course) and Rocket Originals. A few other fabulous vintage companies will also pop up, so keep your eyes peeled! But as always, it's such an honour to work with these fabulous British brands, because these are the clothes I actually wear, day in and day out. The pictures were taken by another friend, Tony Nylons, whose magazine Glimpse is really worth checking out. So forgive this for being rather sponsor-tastic, but do please remember that I only promote companies I love, and not only do I love them, but they help me out immensely.

First up, we have Heyday's new french navy swing trousers, which are the perfect summer shade - not too dark so they aren't hot, and not too light, so they're perfect for picnics! The new fabric she's used is slightly linen-like in appearance, but is very crease resistant. They are gorgeous, and I have worn my pair so much already! I'm wearing it with a Natasja tie blouse with a lovely tiny floral print. Can't see it on the site, so get in touch if you would like one! My shoes are the Rocket Original Kate in navy blue. The leather on these is so soft! I've lived in mine since the shoot.

Next in line is this lovely 1940s style fairisle jumper from Rocket. It's cream with a brown and navy blue pattern, and so authentic looking. I now have two of these and actually can't wait till autumn to wear them (although I would like the sun back in time for the Olympiad on Saturday please)! I'm wearing it with brown Heyday trousers (which are mine) and now sadly discontinued Rocket Originals Connie wedges. The smashing vintage sunglasses are from Dead Men's Spex!

A better look at the blue Kate wedges, worn with a fetching navy blue squareneck sweater, also from Rocket.

These Moss Green Heyday trousers are another shade that works all year round. Worn with the tie top in Elly May green gingham. Now, on the right hand side, you'll see me holding a rather super handbag. I'm so overdue to show this bag off to you, so I hope dear Julie will forgive me! But it's the limited edition Leilani handbag from Lily Bamboo! I've never been one for big handbags, but this one has me well and truly converted. It's spacious and well designed, with beautifully carved wooden handles and a fruit embroidery that would do Carmen Miranda proud! For such craftsmanship they are incredibly good value too. Do check out the Lily Bamboo site, and tell them Fleur sent you!

Last but not least, Jenny lives right next to a river, and we immediately got rather excited about doing a few nautical shots. Sadly, getting the boat actually into the water proved far too much like hard work, so we just pretended... ;)

Ahoy there! You'll see I'm back in my navy trousers, but this time I'm wearing one of my very favourite purchases ever, a white cotton bolero from Dixabilly. It goes with absolutely everything, especially in summer when I mostly wear white shoes. Ooh it's smashing. I also have on a lovely bakelite and silver anchor pin inthe right hand picture, which belongs to Jenny. And her husband's hat. I had to give it all back, sadly. ;)

So there we have it. A bit of shameless promotion of some companies I love. Thank you Jenny, Tony, Shona and Kaye. The very best is still to come, but the eagle eyed may spot it if you follow all the links. Untill next time... avast ye landlubbers!

Fleur xx

DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Keeping your vintage cool

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 15:37:00 +0000

Huzzah, an informative post for once! This is the full version of a short article recently published in Milkcow Magazine. Much of it is probably teaching vintage girls how to suck eggs, but newbies on the scene might find it of interest. Either way, enjoy!

We're currently in the height of summer (or so the calendar says), and although this doesn't necessarily guarantee us good weather here in the UK, there's no doubt that it's been rather warm recently. Of course, as fate would have it, this post is going to go up on a dreary grey and drizzly day in the Home Counties, but it's still on the muggy side!

We all know that vintage ladies never sweated, only glowed; and the same can certainly be said today. I never sweat, no siree! But in case you find yourself 'glowing' rather a lot, as I *ahem* tend to do, here are some of my top tips for keeping your cool, and maintaining your pinup porcelain complexion!

Firstly, I've professed my love of cold cream on this blog before, but I must confess I find it far too much in the summer. I switch to a lighter organic cream cleanser to keep my skin bright and clear, but still with my beloved witch hazel as a toner. Sweeping a cotton wool ball loaded with witch hazel is a fabulous summer refresher, too, although you may have to reapply your foundation afterwards!

I can't wear sunscreen on my face – I've completely failed to find one that doesn't look like I've thrown a bucket of chip fat over myself, so instead I rely on Lily Lolo mineral foundation, which contains a natural SPF, and makes you look radiant in natural sunlight. I find it's good enough for the UK summer sunshine. However, thanks to riding my vintage bike about, I have had to go up a shade from Porcelain to Blondie!

Try to keep your hair off your neck – Betty Grable-inspired updos, plaits and rolls are perfect for this! The rat that I use in my faux bangs tutorial can be used at the back of your head for a quick and easy vintage 'do.

The rat-roll! I just start at the bottom and roll up, sticking lots of bobby pins in to secure. Simple! Do rolls or faux roll 'twists' of hair at the front.

Two plaits wrapped over the head is quick, easy and very 1930s Teutonic!

Invest in some chiffon headscarves to tie around a French pleat for a super quick, easy and cool (in the temperature sense) 'do. And procure yourself at least one of those absolutely essential vintage accessories – a parasol! A few years ago (at least in the UK) you would have attracted looks of disdain for carrying a cute paper parasol around, but I've spotted many 'normal' ladies sporting umbrellas as sunshades recently – you're more likely to be complimented than criticised these days! They're a particular must when you're bargain hunting around car boot sales, with the sun beating down relentlessly.

(Do excuse me just posting pictures of myself to illustrate these points, but I am too lazy to search beyond my own Flickr photostream today!)
A hand fan is also an absolute must-have, especially if you're unlucky enough to have to use public transport...ever! Vintage souvenir fans can be picked up on eBay for small change, and fragrant sandalwood ones are a fabulous alternative. I have bought quite a few parasols and hand fans from this UK store, Exotic & Oriental. They don't seem to have many paper parasols in stock, but they do have lovely fabric ones.

Finally, a tip from those who are more averse to machine washing vintage cotton frocks than I. My theory is that vintage housedresses are meant to be laundered, and all mine are absolutely no worse for multiple washes. I halve the spin speed though... it's the high speed spins that put strain on seams and fabric. However, if you have more precious pieces, do invest in some dress shields. My granny, being a lady of the 1940s, was also an advocate of bathing once a week (having a wash around the key areas every day, of course), and cleaning her clothes much less often; and she swore by dress shields.

Granny, looking a little like Ingrid Bergman here!

It's these little wonders that enable one to go a whole week in a single frock, as this nifty little video demonstrates. Though I do still believe that Lancelot might be slightly put off if you leave your date until Sunday after a hike or a bike through the country on Saturday! There's only so much a dress shield can do!

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Put all of these things together, and hopefully you'll manage to beat the heat, even in your most exquisite 40s dress. And that, in a rather long nutshell, is that.

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Catch-up once more

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:39:00 +0000

Hello everyone!

Popping my head in to let you all know I'm still alive and muddling through. Glad you all loved Miss Hannah's photos in my last post. She's really rather fabulously talented, don't you think? She's just bought a Flickr pro account, so do go and check out her sets over there - you won't be disappointed!

So what's new with me. Well the kitty is improving, though it was over a week until some signs of healing appeared. Fingers crossed it's plain sailing from here.

I was honoured to be asked by Vivien of Holloway if I would model their brand-new pin-up shorts and 3/4 sleeve blouses. I did the 'official' shoot with Tony Nylons of Glimpse Magazine and general pin-up photography fame, and you can see them if you follow the links; but here are some more candid shots I did with my dad. :)

I am getting to keep a couple of pairs in return, so expect to see me out and about with them on!

The big thing on the horizon that I'm looking forward to immensely, is the annual Chap Olympiad 2010, which takes place next Saturday, July 17th. If you toddle over to the link, you'll see a video of last year, in which I appear twice! I really cannot wait. I shall be looking after the scoreboard again this year, giving the victors in each game the recognition they don't deserve for their sporting unprowess and general inebriation. Do come along if you're free... but hurry - last year was a total sellout! Now to decide what to wear... I wanted to sport my pink bow Swirl that I wore on my birthday, but sadly the Whistling Tailor has it for repair after its mishap, and I don't think I'll have time to grab it off him before next Saturday. Outfit Plan B still to be devised! Here are a couple of snaps I took last year.

Myself, Stefanie and Naomi Vintage Secret

Atters looking up the skirt of yours truly

Atters and the Tug of Hair (a giant moustache)

Last year's Gold Cravat winner Farhan and partner doing the Three-Trousered Limbo

Torquil Arbuthnot and Miss Minna (do read her much more eloquent Olympiad post on her blog)

It's always a wonderful day, though you can easily spot who's a Chap and who's a tourist... first time visitors do not grasp the concept fully, and race off their marks, and take it all far too seriously. At the Olympiad, you get more points for fiendish cheating and louche style than you do for speed and accuracy!

You'll find my full review, and many more pictures from last year's Olympiad right here, and I hope to return with similar such photographic evidence of this year's revels, to entertain those who are unable to make it.

Do head on over the The Chap's webular site for more information, though I believe tickets should be purchased from thechapolympiad.com site itself. See you there!

Toodle pip,

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Less talk, more photos

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Thu, 01 Jul 2010 21:29:00 +0000

Last Saturday, my best vintage girlfriends and I were invited to a shoot at Cosmopolitan Magazine.

They were writing a piece about groups of girls getting ready to go out for the night, and they picked us; some Geordie lasses with blonde hair extensions, fake tans and long talons; some students; and some upper class debutantes. They picked us up from our homes, drove us there, shot us, gave us a slap-up lunch and drove us home. If only all shoots could be the same! It was a lovely day, and the results will be in the September issue, which comes out in August.

Here are some utterly fabulous photos taken by the one and only Hannah Asprey.

Naomi from Vintage Secret

Darhling and Ally

The talented Hannah herself, who is a vintage graphic designer.

L-R: Me, Darhling, Faye (shoe designer extraordinaire), Naomi, Ally, Hannah and Lisa

Thank you all for your kind words on my last blog post. My luck has not yet changed, sadly, because my remaining kitty, Inigo received a terrifying puncture wound in his eyeball on Sunday. My poor little man was so scared and sore, and the car journey to the emergency vet was awful, me crying and him yelling all the way there! Thank goodness he is insured because it's already cost me almost £600 in vets bills! Luckily it's looking very likely it'll heal fine *touch wood*, with no loss of eye or sight... or beauty. He is, however, taking his confinement like a man (cat) and whinging and whining from morning till night. (Thanks again to Hannah for the analogy!)

Please save your kind thoughts for Ini this time, he needs them more than me. :)

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

All a-Swoon

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:39:00 +0000

Hi all...

I'm still here, although I'm feeling very down about a few things at the moment, and not much like blogging about my 'glamorous life', as it's rather lost its sparkle at the present time. That's why time between posting seems to be getting longer and longer... I'm sorry. Anyway, enough moping, let me tell you why I'm really posting! I can't bring myself to post anything I have done recently, so let me tell you all about someone else instead.

I just wanted to pop in as I recently 'rediscovered' an old favourite designer, and I wanted to tell you all about it. I say 'rediscovered' as I wear my purchases from them a lot, but haven't visited their store in ages. I will say that although I do get a lot of lovely freebies, I only ever review or promote companies and products I genuinely love. In this instance I have not been given anything by this particular company, I have only ever been a customer to them.

The company is called Swoon Lingerie, and never has a name been more apt since the mere sight of the lovely designs sent me all a-flutter. I first discovered Swoon on Etsy, where they do still have a store, although head designer Gerry told me she is now focussing more on her website.

I was captivated by the beautiful fabrics, whimsical designs and great copywriting that accompanied the listings. Each vintage-inspired piece marries two different but complementary fabrics, which are always crisp 100% cotton. While some of the prints used are more contemporary, there are a lot of golden-era themed fabrics on offer, novelty ones, delicate florals and so on. Even some actual vintage fabrics... one of my purchases features a lovely, semi-sheer 40s or 50s cotton. There are some beautiful confections on offer, from knickers to bras, to laundry bags, and I adore the bloomer-style sleep pants and the camisoles. On the same page as the latter, though, are my favourite Swoon designs - 1930s style camiknickers. I own two sets of Swoon camiknickers, which I wear as nightwear although they'd be fabulous to wear underneath looser 30s style dresses.

And I have even worn one set on a shoot... many moons ago...

(Photo is by Chris Drzymalski)

I did send these photos to Swoon after I did the shoot and I'm delighted to say that I've starred on their Etsy store ever since! The uppermost fabric of my camiknickers is the vintage one I mentioned earlier... it's so soft and patterned with tiny cameos.

Please do go and have a look at the Swoon site. They have a vast stock of vintage style fabrics available for you to choose from, so you can always mix and match between prints on existing garments. They also make items to your measurements for no extra cost, essential if you're tall and long like me and want a pair of camiknickers! Everything is hand-made with love and care in an atelier in the Scottish Highlands, and the quality and customer service are second-to-none.

Highly recommended in every way. Oh and if you like what you see, please become a fan on Facebook too, as I just did!

Lots of love,

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Shenanigans & a sorry

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:41:00 +0000

Hey fabulous people of blog land!

Sorry it's been a bit quiet round these parts, I'm going through some things at the moment and don't feel much like blogging... although I am not going to let it stop me for long! I can't let any more of the week pass without showing you some photos of my frankly fantastic birthday party last Saturday. I shared the occasion with my dear friends Torquil Arbuthnot and Fruity Hatfield-Peverel, who also had a splendid time. All over for another year! I didn't take many pictures sadly, so here are a few that I did!

There were gorgeously attired friends, who sang me a helium-filled happy birthday (Darhling is breathing in, not blowing!), and who performed burlesque for us! We had the stunning Emerald Fontaine, the tempting Tallulah Tempest and the vivacious V.J. Spankie who all wowed the crowd, which included some of my oldest and dearest friends (Hello Jo, Jo, Katherine, Stacey, Paul and Steve!) who had never seen burlesque before.

I was absolutely delighted that my lovely vintage friend and fellow blogger Jeni Yesterday Girl could come. She asked if she could bring a friend, little did I know her 'date' was the equally lovely, also fellow blogger Stefanie Valentine!! Such a wonderful surprise! Thank you both so, so much for coming girls, and for bringing me such a lovely gift. I can't wait to see you both again. Jeni and Stefanie have also been much more on the ball than me and have already posted blogs about the party. I'm sure many readers will have already read them, but if you haven't, click their names to be taken to the respective posts, full of more photos!

The rest of the lovely, and splendidly-dressed people in the photo are, clockwise from top: Lord Compton-Bassett and The Conte from the New Sheridan Club, Mr Bounder Wax himself and his gorgeous wife Kezia (who was looking enviably resplendent in a blouse from NudeeDudee on etsy, several of whose creations I aspire to own one day), and Hal Iggulden and his beautiful wife Grace.

Last but by no means least, photos of yours truly: me with the Whisting Tailor, looking the bees knees in a sports coat made by his talented self from 1950s Huntsman Tweed (any suit-loving chaps reading this, go and look at some better photos here); me with the simply stunning Agness (who took my photo for the Watercress Line Calendar, and who is pictured in her very first ever vintage frock... um... made for vintage or what??); and with the two birthday boys, Torquil Arbuthnot on the left and MC Fruity Hatfield-Peverel on the right. Sadly my beautiful pink bow-print Swirl suffered a mishap later that night due to an unfortunate juxtaposition of tipsy me, a pocket and a bathroom door handle, so it is currently awaiting repair by the aforementioned talented Whistling Tailor. In this war on modern slobbishness there must be a few casualties. To my Swirl (and to my birthday!).

Lots of love,

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

D-Days and B-Days

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 14:13:00 +0000

Gosh, how did it get to be Friday, again? I meant to update earlier than this, Brownie's honour (I was never a brownie - did they actually say that?).

Last weekend I popped along to the Watercress Line for War on The Line, which coincided with the anniversary of D-Day; to see and sign the 2011 Calendars in which I star! It was a lovely day, very hot and muggy, but such a great event. Friendly people, some fab outfits and plenty of calendar sales! I know that quite a few readers and fans are interested in buying a calendar, so if that's you then please do purchase one on the Watercress Line site, or click the picture below.

Photographers Sean & Agness and I gave our time free of charge, and every penny of the proceeds is going to charity - an even split between Help for Heroes and the Watercress Line itself (which is run by volunteers). It's an honour to support these causes since I have both friends in the armed forces and loved the WL as a small child. I hope anyone who buys one will enjoy seeing my face every day for a full 12 months ;)

I didn't get to see much of the event, which was spread out over all four stations, with music, dancing, displays and more. I did get to watch a Hurricane fly over, which was spectacular. At Ropley, where I was based, there was a tempting cake stand run by some lovely ladies and gents, with all the cakes made to wartime recipes. I sampled the chocolate and beetroot brownies (seen here at the front of the table) and I was very impressed! Everyone who came to have a calendar signed was thoroughly lovely, too.

Wednesday was my birthday, and I spent a perfect morning with my chap before heading off to spend the afternoon with my parents (curse the workload of a bespoke tailor!). So here's a snap of me on a typical relaxed day - not dissimilar to the one a few posts ago. No lipstick, hair simply brushed (although I set it the day before) and repro clothing. Including my smashing new French navy trousers, a present from Shona Heyday! I have received some fabulous presents (so far... I am seeing my best friend tonight and she usually spoils me rotten - slightly embarrassingly so, even!) and I have to show them off. Pictured here are two amazing art deco teacup sets from my chap (both are lovely but the trio is outstanding and in as-new condition), and a promotional shot of the gorgeous Able Grable Lola Burns frock sent to me by Miss Matilda. My folks gave me money, so I will be treating myself to some nice new things; however my mum also bought me some tickets for us to go and see my favourite musical ever - 42nd Street. I think I last saw it on stage when I was about 10, so I am extremely excited! So my presents this year have been a real example of quality over quantity, I'm sure you'll agree!

I leave you with a final picture from the War on the Line, me posing with the always darling Viv the Spiv. Now if this isn't an advert for what good posture does for one (or rather what bad posture does), then I don't know what is! Any girl can look slim yet fabulously curvy and pin-up perfect if she poses right, shoulder back, arm bent, tummy in and bust proud. However here I manage to look flat-chested and utterly shapeless! I still love the shot though - Viv is such a character!

It's my party this weekend, so I shall report back with more photos after I have recovered. ;) Have a good one chapettes and chaps!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Vintage Cycle Chic!

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 15:00:00 +0000

I'm on the cover of the current issue of London Cyclist magazine with a fellow Chap-scene regular (and in fact fellow reformed Guildford heavy metaller) Jon Fowler. Admittedly, we probably aren't typical of your usual London cyclist, but the photo was taken during April's Tweed Run, and of course, we wholeheartedly believe that those on vintage velocipedes should dress the part too!

Photo is by Daniel Bosworth and is courtesy of the LCC. Thanks to both, and do join the LCC if you're a London cyclist!

I do enjoy overtaking old-age pensioners clad in sportwear as I furiously pedal Virginia up the tow path to the shops, usually because they close in 5 minutes... otherwise I might go at a more leisurely pace! I have to say, my lovely old boneshaker has been worth every penny since I ride her so often. When she gives up on me (which may be never since she is so sturdy despite celebrating her 60th birthday), and I can afford it, I will definitely get my money's worth from a Pashley Princess!

Tally ho!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

A Thousand Words

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 16:53:00 +0000

Hey all,

I'm sitting on a few loads of event photos and photoshoots, and I can't post any of them just yet, so here's an end of week roundup consisting mostly of random photos from my recent adventures. I'm at the Watercress line for War on the Line tomorrow, and I'll be at Ropley station from 10am signing calendars and just generally hanging out. Hope to see some familiar faces there!

Blue flowers and blue Rocket Originals shoes on a photoshoot!

Details of a steam powered car from 1911 at the Haslemere car show. Totally steampunk-tastic! I'll show the whole car soon!

Sweet tea at Bea's of Bloomsbury with Gustav Temple and Miss Mink, to discuss The Chapette!

Laughs at The Chairman's New Sheridan Club talk!

And finally some Hipstamatic photos - I love this app!

A nearby house with its own footbridge!

Lurking in Lounge Bohemia...

Inigo is the king of the castle, er, shed...

Me with some Crabbie's!PS. This one's also for Mary Deluxe, this is as unvintage as I get - unstyled hair, no lippie and a tank top (40s seersucker skirt just out of sight!)

See you all next week!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Bits and bobs

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Fri, 28 May 2010 10:06:00 +0000

Gosh, time flies doesn't it!

I'm just popping in for a catchup, and a quick post about something I am up to this weekend.

I get the odd request for appearances at events, but this is one that is quite close to my heart (or at least close to home!). I grew up in Haslemere, Surrey, and this sleepy little Home Counties town now has its very own Classic Car Show! This year is only the second year they're doing it, but it looks set to be a fun day. It starts at 10am with a tour of the local area (in classic cars of course), beginning and ending at Lion Green. I will be there from 1pm until 4pm and am looking forward to modelling, meeting people and browsing the stalls. If any readers are local, perhaps see you there!

I also haven't yet posted my photos from the last Tart. It was the usual glamorous affair, with lashings of vintage style. As always, delicious food and refreshing cocktails were served by Angel of Vintage Patisserie, we had a cocktail class from Emerald Fontaine, and a rather splendid talk on Etiquette from the smashing Liz Brewer from Ladette to Lady. We had some really fantastic vendors this time around, too, with Fifi Wilson's dresses and accessories going down a storm. The Benefit and Lipstick and Curls ladies worked their magic on a host of gorgeous ladies...

But this time, the transformation led one lucky girl to be crowned 'Queen of Tarts' and win an amazing powder-blue scooter, worth £650! Our gorgeous winner, Claire, was beaming from ear to ear. Doesn't she look lovely in one of my dresses (which is for sale if anyone's interested ;)...)?

That last shot is of her with 40 Winks' Severina and Mark from Direct Bikes, who generously donated the prize. I couldn't resist posing myself, of course... I think it went very well with my bow-print Swirl!

I leave you now with a mysterious teaser picture from a shoot for an incredibly exciting new project, which will be unveiled very soon...

Guesses below if you have any...

Enjoy your bank holiday if you have one, and your weekend if you don't!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Oh, Calendar

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Thu, 20 May 2010 16:14:00 +0000

I've just heard the most marvellous news - the calendar I did especially for the Watercress Line steam railway, has just gone to print! How exciting!

It's going to be on sale at the Watercress Line's summer War on the Line event, which is taking place on the 5th and 6th June, and also commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. I'll be there on the Saturday, signing calendars and posing for photos. They're only printing 500, so perhaps they'll become a collectors' item in years to come.... ;) But seriously, all proceeds are going to be split between the Railway and Help for Heroes, so every penny of the £10 cost is going to a very good cause.

The best part is, I can now reveal some of the shots which didn't make it into the final calendar, but which bear some showing off, and will hopefully tempt some of you into buying a calendar to see the rest! The photographers for both days were my good friend and highly talented snapper Sean Kelly, aka O'Malley and the lovely Agness Lugowska. Thank you, both, and thanks to Tim Beere of the Watercress Line for having us!

We did the first shoot in chilly February, and the second in unfortunately almost-as-chilly early May, and though both days were extremely long and required at least 6 outfit changes per day, I think the final shots were worth every second of shivering! There were a few main themes. The first was to portray the less glamorous side of life on the railway during WWII - the working woman. Obviously, some artistic license was taken... I don't think red overalls would have been much in evidence! Never mind, eh?

We had authentic steam, authentic coal, and I was covered in authentic smuts and grime afterwards! Clockwise from top right, my outfits are: overalls from Vivien of Holloway and shirt from Heyday, 40s style fairisle jumper from Rocket Originals and trousers from Heyday, same outfit as before, and trousers from Heyday, short sleeve green jumper is from Dressing4Impressing and the cardi is from Dixabilly.

The next thing to depict was the other kind of working woman - safely clean and indoors in her workday frock, but no less demanding a job!

Secretarial duties, cleaning and serving at the canteen, carrying a fire bucket (OK, this definitely isn't standard uniform!). Everything is vintage, except for the Able Grable Hedy and the snood, but I can't remember where I got it! Red FF seams are from What Katie Did's old stock. Shoes are Remix!

And last but certainly not least, we did some more gratuitously glamorous and cheeky pin-up shots for good measure!

The gown in the top left is from Able Grable, the rest are all vintage, including a white feedsack frock from Q's Daydream Vintage and the black velvet jacket is part of a stunning suit from VioletVille Vintage!

Hope you like the photos. The calendars will be first available at War on the Line and then they will be for sale from the Watercress Line. When I have details I will of course pass them on. Plus, I do have some more informative posts coming soon, so stay tuned!

Pip pip!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

But what are the 39 Steps...?

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Wed, 19 May 2010 19:03:00 +0000

A fortnight ago, I had the honour of attending a very special performance of a rather marvellous play. And, I'm delighted to say that by all accounts the first ever 39 Steps Vintage Gala night was a roaring success!

There was a fantastic turnout of impeccably dressed vintage folks, most of whom I knew, so the afterparty was something akin to a private party held in a beautiful old theatre, and preceded by a wonderfully entertaining play! The whole thing was masterminded by a sterling cove called Will Sudlow (the one who contacted me in the first place about his idea) and my gorgeous friend Naomi of Vintage Secret (whom I put in touch with Will and whose organisational skills put me to absolute shame). I arrived early to help Naomi with her hair, before rushing off to scoff a Bodeans and returned to find the bar area set out with vintage cake stands, hats on antique shop fittings, and a vintage 'Accessories Bar', beautifully styled by Naomi and her sister.

The cakes were supplied by the incredible Angel Adoree of Vintage Patisserie, famous across the UK for her personalised cupcakes. For this occasion she pulled out all the stops, so we had moustaches, logos, Harris Tweed, pipes, police badges and film noir style lamp posts; all of which were designed by Mr Sudlow and put onto cakes through Angel's patented magical processes! Mr Sudlow also rustled up a recipe for some incredibly strong G&Tea drinks, namely Gin and iced tea, which were gamely mixed by the Criterion's bar staff, and proved a hit with the guests. There were costumes displayed around the bar, so everyone could get a closer look at Annabella Schmidt's lovely black coat and skirt; and because it all took place the night before the General Election, the place was bedecked by Angel's custom bunting, in election colours. Splendid.

The play had had a change of cast since my last (and only) viewing, but the new actors did a magnificent job. I was pleased to see the costume department had taken my one and only criticism on board - Hannay now has his bottom waistcoat button undone, which he didn't before. I am nothing if not a stickler for sartorial traditions! As before, it was thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish! I don't think such a witty and well-directed play could ever get dull! But what about the outfits of the attendees? Well, a special mention must be given to Naomi, who wore two amazing dresses - a 1930s watered silk evening gown, and a peach 1920s silk gown, which still has its original shop tag. Will was replendent in white tie...

And, of course, you can always rely on London's vintage crowd to look superb, and this occasion was no exception! I wore my Able Grable Countess again, which is both practical for running about in, and suitably glamorous, I hope!

The infamous Johnny Vercoutre of Time for Tea tried on one of Naomi's menswear items - a dressing gown with matching cravat! Also in evidence above are Various Chaps, including Torquil Arbuthnot in blue waistcoat (with whom I am sharing a birthday party next month), Christopher Ihan Choy, former Hannay actor Callum Coates, and my unbelievably gorgeous boyfriend the Whistling Tailor in his finest Tweed. Keeping the ladies' sartorial standards as high as ever are my stunning friends Hannah Asprey, who designs Era Magazine, Miss Mink the Pinup Poet, the impeccably turbanned Emma and my kiwi pal, designer and newly fellow blogger (go read if you're interested in vintage and sewing!) Shona with her husband Twan.

So that was that! All-in-all an amazing evening. I can't wait for the next one, and I hope any vintage Londoners who missed out this time will come along to a future event. I promise it will be just as splendid.

And as to the title of this blog, well, if you want the answer to that question, you'll have to go and see it yourself! This production is being staged in dozens of countries all round the world, so you have no excuse at all! ;)

Let me know when you've found out!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

Kiss Me Katie

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Fri, 14 May 2010 14:52:00 +0000

It's been hard to escape the incessant doom and gloom of recession and the turmoil that's blighted this country in the past few months: economically, politically and environmentally! Especially when it's plastered all over the newspapers and beaming out from every television set. The good news is that there are a few products which can truly be deemed 'recession proof', and one that is a legendary morale booster... lipstick! The idea of using makeup to 'put on a brave face' has seen us through two World Wars and several recessions. And the 'Lipstick Effect' is clearly in force today, where, despite many luxury brands suffering, makeup sales are still going strong.

Once, as well as cheering us up, lipsticks and compacts themselves were true art forms. But over the years, the stylish designs of yesteryear have given way to dull, mass-produced plastic, although the formula and staying power of cosmetics have of course vastly improved. However, there is one modern makeup company trying to revive the art of beautiful vintage packaging: America's Besame Cosmetics. How very apt, then, that What Katie Did are now stocking the full range of Besame, their cosmetic counterparts, on their website (in the Wardrobe section) and in their Portobello Road Boutique! And guess who was asked to do a shoot for them this week?

Meee! :)

Just like What Katie Did, Besame produces products with a real old Hollywood flair. The beautifully crafted metal containers, etched with art deco flourishes contain period perfect lipstick shades like Carmine and Noir Red and blusher that would produce cheeks as peachy as Rita Hayworth's. The chic little Classic Enchanting Lipsticks come in a 1940s style bullet-shaped tube (perfect for a small evening bag), and are specially shaped to help you create a film star pout. The newly introduced Voluptuous Lip Colour sets contain a full-sized, black enamel-clad lipstick, along with a matching lip pencil and ergonomically designed brush... the ultimate gift for a glamorous girlfriend! The rest of the line features equally stunning products with evocative names: Enriching Lip Glaze, Vintage Boudoir Rouge, Vintage Alluring Eye Shadows, Classic Masterliner Pencil and the Signature Compact with Cashmere Pressed Powder – which looks equally at home on a dressing table or being pulled out of your vintage handbag! If that wasn't enough to tempt you, Besame pride themselves on only using the purest, natural ingredients, and never test on animals meaning their products are as ethical as they are elegant. I managed to model SIXTEEN different shades of lipstick, gloss and balm, so as you might imagine, my lips were feeling a bit worse for wear by the end! But they're such moisturising lipsticks that it wasn't too bad. All the products are wonderful to use... it was all I could do not to buy everything on the spot. I already own one Besame Classic lipstick in a lighter pink, that I tend to blend; loose powder and a lovely pink blusher, but now I am definitely going to invest in a set of Rapture Rose - Katie and I both fell in love with it as a perfectly vintage alternative to red!

Some more piccies:

All photos by the super talented Tony Nylons. Find him at Peek Magazine (his new venture)!

The site and shop will have everything in stock, saving you both shipping and customs fees (and in fact I don't think Brits will be able to shop from the US site at all now...). But it's worth visiting the shop if you can, to see and touch these gorgeous products in real life. If you fancy a pillar-box red pout, but don't know where to start, you'll be delighted to hear that almost every staff member at the boutique is a trained makeup artist! I guarantee you won't find any better vintage makeup advice anywhere else!

Do hop over and have a look. I just need to decide what to buy first...

Have great weekends everyone!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

As scooters can be...

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Thu, 13 May 2010 11:19:00 +0000

Regular readers of my blog will know all about Tart, the event I co-host with Mr David Carter and Miss Naomi Thompson, but our next instalment this coming Saturday is a little bit special. Not only do our gorgeous ladies get to eat delicious Vintage Patisserie cakes, try on What Katie Did corsets and sample divine cocktails made by burlesque star and bartender extraordinaire Emerald Fontaine (in addition to all the pampering and shopping), but we have an incredible new sponsor for our 'Queen of Tarts' prize.

This prestigious title is awarded at the close of the day, to the girl who has undergone the biggest transformation since her arrival, from modern to vintage fabulous. The prize this month is being provided by Direct Bikes, the UK’s no 1 scooter brand, who have generously donated one of their stunning 50cc Retro Scooters in a very pretty baby blue finish, worth an astonishing £649!

I now want one, of course, and am wracking my brain for disguise ideas... ;)

What you may not realise is that every guest takes home an amazing goody bag, stuffed to bursting with treats like Benefit makeup, vintage knick-knacks, What Katie Did stockings, retro accessories, magazines, discount flyers and more. This month and onwards, guests will also be delighted to find a bag of old fashioned sweet shop goodies from the rather fabulous Suck and Chew, a lovely shop located on the famous Columbia Road in London's East End. Rhubarb and Custard anyone?

We'll also have some amazing custom-made Tart jewellery to pop in the goodie bags, hand-crafted by Kali Anderson of Lush & Lovely. Kali came along to Tart a few months ago as a guest, and loved it so much that she's come on board as a sponsor, so thank you Kali for being such a doll.

If anyone out there is a purveyor of vintage style goodies and would like to come on board as a sponsor of Tart, then we would be absolutely delighted to hear from you. We have 30 immaculately attired ladies attending every month, up to five press guests (always from national newspapers, magazines or huge blogging sites) and a combined mailing list of over 20,000 on which to promote you. We'll also have our very own website soon!

And to the rest of you, I hope we'll be seeing you at a Tart in the near future!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com

How do I love thee, House Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Fleur de Guerre) — Thu, 06 May 2010 19:22:00 +0000

Since I have nothing constructive to say today (I have done some things, but the photographic evidence is still forthcoming), I thought it was time for a plain and simple outfit post.

Now, as many of you know, I do love a house dress. Swirls are my favourite, yes, but there's plenty of room in my heart for frocks that wrap around the front instead of the back. Essentially, I just love a wrap - they're easy to wear, flattering and you just can't really go far wrong buying them online. Even if the seller has got the measurements out by several inches, there's always leeway. I could live in wrap dresses. If it didn't mean catching hypothermia from September to April, of course.

But a wee while ago, Miss Matilda of Able Grable fame got in touch to tell me about her new wrap house dress design. Would I like her to send me one, she asked. Err... let me think, I replied. Do bears relieve themselves in tree-rich environments? Unfortunately, though I have worn it approximately eleventy thousand times since then, this is the first time I've had it captured on camera. Because that weekend was the first time it was warm enough to actually wear it out of the house! Et voila!

So here it is, the Ready Hedy floral house dress! It's made from an authentic-feeling rayon, with a very 40s-looking rose print. It wraps with an internal tie and closes with a hook-and-eye, the belt is separate so you can tie it wherever you like. It even has a cute patch pocket over the right hip. So all in all, pretty much my perfect dress!

Something I learned while having these photos taken is this: It's hard to get a flattering angle for your legs when in flat shoes. I hardly ever wear flats, because I'm quite paranoid about my wide calves, which at least look slimmer in wedges and heels. I can just about cope with them in real life, but on camera they looked worse. If a lens adds 10lbs, I'm sure it's all on my lower legs!

I wore the Ready Hedy with my peach Dixabilly bolero, and aforementioned flat sandals, which I do actually love, and come from Schuh. They can't really be described as repro, but they have a vintage-esque quality. As the Vintage Baroness established, flat gladiator sandals were popular in the 30s, and the woven front and straps definitely remind me of other 40s sandals, even if they might have had a heel or wedge.

I finished the outfit with my Dead Men's Spex sunnies (wrong era...don't care!) and some peach rose vintage earrings. Oh, and a Hedy type hairdo in tribute, not as well brushed as it might have been... oh well!

Hope you have all had lovely weeks, and, if you're in the UK, that you went out and voted today.

Toodle pip!

Fleur xx
DiaryofaVintageGirl.com