tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1366148457186848542024-03-13T00:15:05.150+00:00alex drake vintage | purveyor of quality vintage goodsJoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-73642489252308985062015-11-18T12:52:00.000+00:002015-11-18T12:52:58.568+00:00From Finland to Dulwich Modern Show<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R GA3 Teapot by Ulla Procop<span class="Latn" lang="mul">é</span>; Fish Trivet/Chopping Board/Cheeseboard by Kaarina Aho; 'Mushroom Bowl', graphics by Esteri Tomula, bowl shape by Kaj Franck. All 1960s original from Arabia, Finland. </td></tr>
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Hi everyone.<br />
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Three more days and it's Dulwich Midcentury Modern Show once again.<br />
Today, I've been mainly packing items and it suddenly occurred to me that I was handling timeless, iconic pieces which are intrinsically related. The designers of these items all used to work together in the same factory, same office, same team and I can just imagine them now huddled up working on their next project in the 1950s-1960s. Team Kaj Franck participated in all design competitions held in Europe and in the USA with great results.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">L-R Ulla Procop<span class="Latn" lang="mul">é, Kaj Franck, Esteri Tomula; no photo Kaarina Aho. Photo credit Wikipedia</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Latn" lang="mul"><br /></span></td></tr>
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Finland, as part of Nordic countries practicing Scandinavian design, has produced many influential designers. Scandinavian design conveys simple beauty inspired by nature and items needed to be accessible to all. It is our aim as traders of mid-20th century Nordic homewares to share that passion and life motto with you: good design is not exclusive. It is for everybody.<br />
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See you all at our stall, Alex Drake Vintage, Lower Hall, Dulwich.<br />
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Last minute discount tickets can be found here: <a href="http://modernshows.com/the-shows/dulwich-nov-2015/">http://modernshows.com/the-shows/dulwich-nov-2015/</a><br />
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love,<br />
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<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-14455018433956818882015-11-09T12:22:00.001+00:002015-11-10T08:51:51.614+00:00Colour Therapy Nordic Style<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>'Shelf-iesh, moi?'</i></td></tr>
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Happy Monday, everyone! Hope you're all well.<br />
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With our seven days and seven nights of rain recently, I wouldn't be surprised if you're all fed up by now. Just like me.<br />
In between though, I've kept my spirits up by re-arranging my shelf displays. <br />
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This made me understand a little bit more as to why Nordic people on Instagram love to take photos of their shelves full to the brim of gorgeous, colourful enamel, ceramic, plastic homewares. Besides their collectability value, they lift moods up thereby sustaining motivation for daily work or chores.<br />
Happy to say it worked for me. <br />
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We've also been busy sourcing awesome items for you so it would be great to see you again at Dulwich College for the Dulwich Modern Show on Nov 22. Be there or be square! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Available at our stall, Lower Hall, Dulwich</td></tr>
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Save the date for Nov 22. 10am - 4pm. There are over 60 midcentury and modern traders of furniture, lighting, homewares and textiles within 2 buildings so you'll need comfy shoes! <br />
Early bird discount tickets are available via <a href="http://modernshows.com/the-shows/dulwich-nov-2015/">http://modernshows.com/the-shows/dulwich-nov-2015/</a><br />
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<span style="color: red;">♡♡♡</span><br />
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<i>Alex Drake Vintage will be at Lower Hall, Space 12, Dulwich College.</i><br />
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love,<br />
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<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-1859223355286411362015-10-12T12:56:00.000+01:002015-10-12T13:00:26.846+01:00From Berlin to Erno Goldfinger's Haggerston Modern Show<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage fabrics and these fun egg cups were best sellers. </td></tr>
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Hi all.<br />
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Hope you've all had a great Summer. I know. I know. It's Autumn already and I've just resurfaced now. We've been working away hence the super late post. I just wanted to say thanks to all who said hello and/or bought pieces from our stall at Erno Goldfinger's Haggertson School. Our Berlin haul is now gracing wonderful homes in the UK so I'm honoured you've chosen to source from us, Alex Drake Vintage.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original 1960s poster from our favourite Danish graphic designer, Ib Antoni.</td></tr>
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This massive poster is now a new addition to a buyer's home studio. See us in Dulwich next month for more.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saying goodbye to our regular pieces.</td></tr>
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Missed yesterday's Midcentury East Modern Show?<br />
We will be the Dulwich Modern Show on November 22, 2015 with our Copenhagen haul.<br />
Save the date folks.<br />
Check out <a href="http://modernshows.com/the-shows/dulwich-nov-2015/">http://modernshows.com/the-shows/dulwich-nov-2015/</a> for more details and <a href="http://modernshows.com/the-shows/dulwich-nov-2015/" target="_blank">discount tickets. </a><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Scandinavian homewares on show at Dulwich on Nov. 22, 2015. See you there!</td></tr>
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Have a great week everyone!<br />
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Love,<br />
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<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-4763059832246055212015-05-27T19:16:00.000+01:002015-05-27T19:16:07.642+01:00Colour Your Kitchen Enamel<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scan me for more info.</td></tr>
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Thanks again to those who stopped by our stall. It was great to talk about Scandinavian inspiration.<br />
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Hope your kitchen is glowing right now.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A special tonic. These will lift your spirits up.</td></tr>
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Have a lovely Wednesday everyone! :)<br />
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Our shop is open 24/7 so check it out : <a href="http://alexdrakevintage.com/">alexdrakevintage.com</a>.<br />
And of course, we'll return to Haggerston School for the October 11th Midcentury East Show. Tickets are available at <a href="http://modernshows.com/the-shows/haggerston-oct-2015/">http://modernshows.com/the-shows/haggerston-oct-2015/</a>. <br />
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<br />love,<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-52693213068124171692015-05-19T14:34:00.002+01:002015-05-19T14:55:09.705+01:00SS15 - More Eyescandi Please<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This time, Finel and Krenit bowls stole the show.</td></tr>
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Sunday, May 17th saw us trading at the recent Midcentury East Show hosted by Modern Shows at Erno Goldfinger's School.<br />
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I've never met enamelheads/enamel converts before who literally couldn't face leaving our stall for fear of going home with a negative bank balance. (Well, thank you folks!) for purchasing our items first. This is not to brag about how well we've done selling our stuff. It's more to state my personal satisfaction in seeing buyers buy their items because they love what they see. I'm happy to be told that they've searched high and low in the UK for quality pieces and found them in my stall.<br />
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For those who missed us, we'll be back at Haggerston in October and Dulwich in November.<br />
So plenty of time to plan and save up. (Our website will be updated too so you can directly purchase our enamelware from there. Don't forget, we ship worldwide).<br />
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One last thing. The danger of trading in a high-calibre Midcentury Modern Show is that you never really get to keep your sales. I blame this wonderful piece below. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sir Terence Conran's shelves now finally in our home.</td></tr>
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Have a lovely week, my friends.<br />
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love,<br />
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<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-35666928116080683692014-11-04T12:30:00.000+00:002015-11-08T17:15:08.023+00:00Collecting Scandinavian Enamelware<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex Drake Vintage's Cathrineholm Lotus Ware Collection</td></tr>
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A thirty-second history lesson:<br />
From the 1940s to the 1970s, Scandinavian enamelware design and manufacture was at its peak. It ruled the kitchenware roost.<br />
Scandinavian designers were known to embrace ultimate form and function.<br />
Grete Prytz Kittelsen (for Cathrineholm) and Herbert Krenchel (for Torben Orskov and later Glud & Marstrands) emphasised that the purpose of a simple bowl, for example, should be to work well both as a tableware piece and an object on display.<br />
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Why enamel? <br />
The strength of materials (metal, hard enamel) and almost limitless colourway possibilities. Its versatility - not easily breakable despite easy chipping on rims. Easy to clean and displays well.<br />
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Why so costly? <br />
From crystallised powder (glass, white sand, potash, etc) applied to metal, an enamelled object is fired up to 1470 F or around 800 C in a kiln. <br />
Any dirt, finger mark, miscalculation, wrong technique etc will ruin a piece. Production of any enamel object is painstakingly long.<br />
Hence, fast forward more than 60 years later, talented UK ceramic designers Hannah Dipper & Robin Farquhar's (People Will Always Need Plates) create their limited-edition <a href="http://insidemodernism.co.uk/rare-collectables/" target="_blank">"tenbytwo"</a> set of nesting bowls at a not-unreasonable £2500.<br />
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Existing vintage Scandinavian enamel pieces on the Internet and in high street vintage shops thus hold a relatively high retail value. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Krenit bowls and salad servers. Photo from <a href="http://liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com</a></td></tr>
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Cathrineholm vs Krenit<br />
At time of writing, despite other vintage Scandinavian enamel collectables out there, Cathrineholm and Krenit enamel bowls are two of the most popular collectable pieces for most midcentury enthusiasts. Comparing the two is almost always a delightful and sometimes fervid point of discussion for enamel traders and collectors.<br />
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Cathrineholm Lotus Ware was made from 1962-1965. Plates, bowls, casseroles, coffee canisters, coffee pots and percolators, tea kettles, spice jars and soup tureens are distinguished by their lotus leaf decoration. They were made in about 11 colours, including combinations.<br />
According to literature, Kittelsen was responsible for the form and colour whilst Arne Clausen, another Cathrineholm designer, pushed for the idea of lotus leaves. Lotus ware became irrefutably trendy, not just in its native Norway but across Europe, in Japan and the USA.<br />
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Krenit (<b>kren</b> from Krenchel and <b>nit</b> from eternit, which is a fibre cement Krenchel used as an engineer), only made bowls with accompanying salad servers. The bowls' interiors were shiny, contrasting stunningly the matte black exterior. The colour palette was simply beautiful.<br />
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Cathrineholm Lotus ware was produced more than a decade after Krenit bowls came into production.<br />
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What it means to the collector:<br />
Some will favour the simplistic, timeless look of Krenit bowls, whilst others will bask in the colourful vibrance of Cathrineholm, particularly Lotus Ware.<br />
At the Haggerston School Modern Show in Oct 2014, a few visitors muttered the word Kitsch in reference to the bright presence of the Cathrineholm pieces I was showcasing. (I have an archived blog about <a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.it/2011/07/misunderstood-world-of-kitsch.html" target="_blank">Kitsch</a> here. Make a cup of tea and give it a read.) <br />
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We can all be a bit self-righteous, holding to a variety of unshakable notions and beliefs.<br />
I'm happy to share the following points though:<br />
Cathrineholm Lotus Ware has a truly strong presence because of its colourways. The factory has been shut since 1970 and so far, there has been no attempt by any design company to re-issue. Yes, there are Deka plastic bowls made in Elizabeth, New Jersey, USA. These bear lotus leaves which <br />
apparently Arne Clausen, the Lotus ware designer, permitted Deka to re-use. But it's the enamel pieces that we're examining.<br />
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Krenit bowls, since 2008, have been re-issued by Normann Copenhagen. In the world of collectables and antiques, it is held that any original piece, once reproduced will loose some, if not a chunk, of its commercial value. Only time and market behaviour will tell.<br />
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If you're a disciple of design wanting to collect according to the creative merits of both designers, then consider this: <br />
Krenchel's Krenit Bowl won the Gold Prize at the 1954 Triennial Award whilst Kittelsen won Grand Prix for her enamel work at the same design event. Only bowls and salad servers were created by Krenchel whilst Kittelsen produced enamelled pieces from jewellery to tablewares and kitchenwares.<br />
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There is no right or wrong about collecting. If you're after muted colours and a classic look, go for Krenit. If you'd rather feel cheerful, happy and energised, then get Cathrineholm Lotus.<br />
If you're collecting for financial purposes, then be prepared to know the market and look after your pieces well.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3rQH6eG7JwQ/VFjCrDm4bMI/AAAAAAAAA6k/EP6e9ImAQ7c/s1600/finelbowls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3rQH6eG7JwQ/VFjCrDm4bMI/AAAAAAAAA6k/EP6e9ImAQ7c/s1600/finelbowls.jpg" width="494" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finland's Finel Bowls. Photo from etsy via <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/fuzzandfu?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank">fuzzandfu</a> shop</td></tr>
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Ultimately, you as the collector/enthusiast/end-user will be the one constantly seeing and handling the enamel pieces you've acquired. <br />
So choose well and most importantly, enjoy them.<br />
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<i>Alex Drake Vintage will be showcasing Cathrineholm, Krenit and Finel enamelware</i><br />
<i>at </i><i><i><a href="http://modernshows.com/the-shows/haggerston-oct-2015/" target="_blank">Midcentury Show East</a>, </i>Space 12, Lower Hall, Dulwich College, London on November 22, 2015. </i><br />
<i>Over 60 midcentury and modern furniture, homewares and collectable dealers will be showing high-quality midcentury and modern items.</i><br />
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Want to buy Scandinavian enamel? Head on to our site <a href="http://alexdrakevintage.com/">alexdrakevintage.com</a>.<br />
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Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-66518542081193123002014-10-30T17:41:00.000+00:002014-10-30T18:17:45.510+00:00 Life Happens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Hello fab friends!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">After three years of blog-bernation, I'm back to stay and play.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Blogs these days do come and go and as a bonafide human being I can finally admit that it's absolutely difficult to find work-life balance demanded by modern living. Two countries and three </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">job changes later made me let go of blogging eventually. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">As the direction of my interests changed, I'm back to share what I've been up to. And as for a final motivation to continue with blogging, it's because I recently found out that my blog about <span style="color: #cccccc;"><a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.it/2011/07/misunderstood-world-of-kitsch.html">Kitsch in 2011</a></span> has somewhat been lifted by <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/jonathanjonesblog/2013/jan/28/kitsch-art-love-loathe-jonathan-jones">The Guardian</a> in 2013.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Was my content copied because my blog was inactive? We'll never know. I could ask the article writer but friends have said I should take it as a compliment. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">So what have I been up to? I'm still nursing, now in ICU; still climbing and now preparing for ultra run races; still trading in vintage furniture, homewares and occasionally, clothing;</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">recently amassed a horde of Cathrineholm of Norway's </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Lotus Ware and a few other superb Scandinavian enamel wares. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">And yes, they're all vintage.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I'm also on <a href="http://instagram.com/alexdrakevintage" target="_blank">Instagram</a> so would be so great to catch up with all of you! </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I hope you're all well.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"><br />Have a happy day, wherever you may be.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Love,</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #e06666;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">Joy :D</span></span></span></div>
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Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-83477405988369921912011-12-23T10:16:00.001+00:002011-12-23T10:32:11.300+00:00Christmas Charity Shop Swap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xqlqJmyXVgA/TvRKaPHbegI/AAAAAAAAAj4/40OkONFhJlA/s1600/dalahasten.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xqlqJmyXVgA/TvRKaPHbegI/AAAAAAAAAj4/40OkONFhJlA/s320/dalahasten.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Happy Friday! <br />
How's everyone? Now that it's only a couple of days before Christmas, I now have the luxury to stop working and be a little be more sociable. I miss you all!<br />
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This post is to share what my partner Loll, from <a href="http://www.toadstoolvintage.com/">Toadstool Vintage</a>, sent me for the Christmas Charity Shop Swap, organised by <a href="http://faithhopeandcharityshopping.blogspot.com/">Lakota</a>. I love all her items!<br />
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After all the frenzy of ebaying, this little parcel, addressed to me, got delivered yesterday when I wasn't expecting anything to arrive. Yay!<br />
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Thanks to Loll, I now have a sweet little sewing box. This one is vintage (obviously), from the 1970s and it's in perfect condition!<br />
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I'm also now the proud owner of two pretty 1960s red bell baubles, one christmas tin which can be used for coin/notes storage, one little notepad made from recycled materials and one 1950s/1960s green apron.<br />
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Thanks so much, Loll....Hmm....I better start cooking.<br />
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Have a great Christmas, my lovelies!<br />
Keep warm, be safe, wherever you may be and may your holidays be filled with love, light and peace.<br />
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Joy x<br />
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❤❤❤</div>
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<br />Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-71117442890830182752011-11-27T16:44:00.001+00:002011-11-29T11:29:52.956+00:00Diary of a Vintage Trader: When Online Buyers Misbehave<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pgklk-N98NQ/TtJyjQzGaSI/AAAAAAAAAis/hL_f-hpZl2U/s1600/IMG_7962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pgklk-N98NQ/TtJyjQzGaSI/AAAAAAAAAis/hL_f-hpZl2U/s640/IMG_7962.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image by Alex Drake Vintage</td></tr>
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Happy weekend, my cupcakes!<br />
I hope you've all been well. I've spent a lot of time deliberating on what to do next with my new website. But because it's less than a month before Christmas, I am absolutely sure I will not be able to achieve what I'd like. Hence, I've been spending my spare time "working" as an eBay trader to earn some dosh. For the past month, I have encountered a range of buyers: a stalker buyer, friend-of-a-celebrity buyer, commendable buyer, fellow Soundclouder buyer , and a couple of tyre-kickers; i.e. time-wasters.<br />
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I thought I'd share some tips for other vintage retailers on eBay and if you happen to be a buyer, I hope you can understand why I wrote this post.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvX45V_JotE/TtJrAfDdeEI/AAAAAAAAAiU/AK7eO3Drcyo/s1600/vintage.sale.lady.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvX45V_JotE/TtJrAfDdeEI/AAAAAAAAAiU/AK7eO3Drcyo/s400/vintage.sale.lady.jpg" width="393" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://nashvillefashionblog.blogspot.com/">nashvillefashionblog.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
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The Good Seller<br />
1. Accurate description is the core of your trade. <br />
Make sure every single fault is mentioned if there are any. Do not be frugal when it comes to photos. I know eBay charges sellers for this but the photos will be your ultimate evidence to further support the narrative in your description. There are other internet tools you can use like Photobucket, GaragaSale, etc which displays extra large images. This will save you a few pennies from being charged by eBay for super-sized photos.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OLU_cyYbQvw/TtJxcJ40ufI/AAAAAAAAAik/uQmVB7GoPcI/s400/andy_warhol_diamond_dust_shoes_d5371761h.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.christies.com/LotFinder/lot_details.aspx?intObjectID=5371761">Christies.com</a>, Andy Warhol, Diamond Dust Shoes</td></tr>
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2. Create a Fair Return Policy<br />
I'm usually a trusting, Pollyanna kind of person. At first I thought this policy is only made by meticulous sellers. I was proved wrong!<br />
Being an eBay Business Seller, at the start of trading, I've stated a "Returns Accepted within 7 Days" as per "Distance Selling Regulations". This entitles the buyer to return the item. But what do you do if the item was used within the said 7 days? If you're the seller, will you still accept returns? In the past when I had a retail shop, I've witnessed one girl trying to return a 1950s dress just because she changed her mind. On immediate inspection, the dress smelt of cigarette smoke and had a tiny lipstick smear. It was a Monday and she bought the dress on a Friday, just before closing time. Very convenient as it was the weekend and the dress could have been worn at a party. Well, that was just my theory but one doesn't have to be a forensic expert to confirm that. Bottom line is that the dress was not in the original condition as when purchased. That incident made me think there really are people who live in a bubble, even online shoppers —that it's OK to buy and pay and return because "the customer is always right".<br />
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For eBay traders, have no fear. eBay will back you up if you decide not to accept returns even if you've stated "Returns Accepted". Their customer support is available via live chat and in the UK, you can call them now on 0800 358 6551. I say that's a great leap for eBay and I'm very grateful to find out that sellers are also protected.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIi3hd1wdLU/TtJxLxOhZyI/AAAAAAAAAic/OGDjKjjbPNs/s1600/return-to-sender-grunge-style-on-a-1930s-tag--thumb9475476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIi3hd1wdLU/TtJxLxOhZyI/AAAAAAAAAic/OGDjKjjbPNs/s400/return-to-sender-grunge-style-on-a-1930s-tag--thumb9475476.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via dreamstime.com</td></tr>
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3. Refund your buyer if you haven't described accurately and/or as per eBay's decision.<br />
Life's going to be more complicated if you protest, especially if the buyer has blatantly won the case against you.<br />
Sometimes, you just have to go with the flow. Selling is a business and losses should be factored in. You can always relist the item or you can claim any loss against your tax. It's not the end of the world.<br />
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4. Be vigilant.<br />
Report any suspicious emails or offers you get from other traders especially if they have special requests like splitting your job lots or asking to change your delivery service from a Recorded Signed For to No Signature required. What, one would think, is the buyer aiming for an unsecured, untrackable item? Scary, dodgy stuff, indeed! At the end of the day, trust your instincts. Sometimes odd requests you get can be from honest traders too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_I-BhtwaLQs/TtJo1mqusOI/AAAAAAAAAiM/5CbhoK5ukfw/s1600/DSC_0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_I-BhtwaLQs/TtJo1mqusOI/AAAAAAAAAiM/5CbhoK5ukfw/s640/DSC_0053.JPG" width="428" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Vintage-Original-Retro-1950s-Martin-Crocodile-Handbag-Pre-Russell-Bromley-/110784307571?pt=UK_Women_s_Vintage_Clothing&hash=item19cb426173">Alex Drake Vintage eBay Shop</a></td></tr>
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The Good Buyer<br />
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I believe in humanity's intrinsic goodness but we're all different.<br />
1. If you're the type who likes to hunt for sellers offering a "No Quibbles Return Policy" so that you can wear items for an event only to return them thereafter, please think again. This is a distilled form of theft. You simply have wasted a seller's precious trading hours. Do you know it takes a few hours to list items on eBay? Once an item is sold or ended, eBay takes off commission and listing fees, etc. Engaging in an activity like this is taking the concept of shopping experience to a new level: the crass level. Remember: this is a form of dishonesty and sooner or later Karma will catch up. Believe me. <br />
Independent shops and sellers depend on every sale to make a living. What makes me livid is the notion that just because one has a shop means one is "well-off".<br />
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2. If you discover your eBay purchase is not right, damaged, etc, take a few Zen breaths. I've been on that side and it's generally upsetting to receive something different from what you've paid for. Next, photograph and document the item, and promptly send your seller a calm eBay message informing them of the situation. Do not wait another day as the sooner you do this, the better the chances are that you'll be refunded. You do not want your seller to concoct some theory against your favour as to why it's taken you a few days to report the problem.<br />
If you don't hear from the seller within 24 hours (unless they've specifically indicated they're on holidays/vacation), by all means contact customer support through a live chat or in the UK call 0800 358 6551 for advice. If it makes you feel better, open a case in the Resolution Centre but be sure to message your seller and state that you're opening a case against him/her. This is one thing that eBay customer support looks at. Possibly something to do with point system if they have to decide on who should win the case.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-huwHQtFr6ro/TtJ3HQtoKVI/AAAAAAAAAi8/kFwncjo3gC8/s1600/scrabbleconverse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-huwHQtFr6ro/TtJ3HQtoKVI/AAAAAAAAAi8/kFwncjo3gC8/s400/scrabbleconverse.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://alyiafarzana.blogspot.com/">alyiafarzana.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
3. If you think your seller deserves a negative/neutral feedback, then do so. Do not be surprised though if eBay customer support remove your feedback. This is only for proven cases of Feedback Extortion. eBay now investigates negative/neutral feedback threats. If you've been telling your seller you will leave negative feedback unless seller gives you what you want, e.g. a refund, full/partial, you may find yourself in an utterly disappointing and confusing place.<br />
There are of course dishonest sellers and it's very distressing to come across them. Try and be calm at all times and when you open a case against them, make sure your messages are quite intelligible, polite, and at all costs do not be hysterical. Again, eBay customer support has evolved immensely and if you have the correct evidence (photos and narrative) and you've kept it together, they will turn the case in your favour and a refund will be given.<br />
<br />
I can't stress enough that earning a living through internet selling is truly challenging. Unlike being in a physical store where people can touch and feel and smell your items, your online buyers will need to be able to trust that what they're buying are exactly what they have in mind. A seller must be able to provide accurate information for buyers to purchase in your online shop.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKHtDZU_tes/TtJ4Bua7RtI/AAAAAAAAAjE/HDIJTcBHv58/s1600/postitnotes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKHtDZU_tes/TtJ4Bua7RtI/AAAAAAAAAjE/HDIJTcBHv58/s400/postitnotes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Will I stop doing it? At this point, I'm still thinking of giving up nursing practice for good. I've only just started selling regularly on eBay and already have a 'tick list' on improvement for customer-satisfaction experience. There have been teething problems but nothing that a passionate vintage trader like myself can't sort out.<br />
<br />
Best thing to remember is that no matter how careful you are in trading, there will always be negative people who will always find something wrong with everything. If you get a negative feedback and you've done everything right, do not despair. It's just the way it goes. Tomorrow is another day.<br />
<br />
<br />
What are your experiences on eBay? Is Etsy a good site for vintage traders? Do you think it's right to return goods bought after a few days, with or without faults? Do you support independent traders?<br />
<br />
Until then my dear friends.<br />
Special thanks to my eBay buyers who are now my readers. Your custom has kept me off the streets :)<br />
<br />
Ciao! Ciao!<br />
Joy x<br />
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
❤❤❤</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-11800259775769836552011-11-05T21:54:00.000+00:002011-11-07T13:32:21.309+00:00Hoot-hoot Hooray!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Happy Guy Fawkes Day! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sounds like you've all been busy. Me too. Sadly, not in our beloved blogosphere.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Just created a little den for my pooch to help him cope with fireworks noise tonight. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm also working on the website. Still.</div>
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Throw in a few household jobs and I can never seem to be on top of things.</div>
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I'm sure you're all having fun whatever you may be doing.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The other day as I was opening more surplus shop stock from our storage, bagfuls of costume jewelleries spilt onto the floor and out came this little owl brooch from my 1950s collection, leading to this little post.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3s98gUcAtpM/TrV83Ak3T6I/AAAAAAAAAes/auBI1u1G_cc/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3s98gUcAtpM/TrV83Ak3T6I/AAAAAAAAAes/auBI1u1G_cc/s640/photo.JPG" width="514" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alex Drake Vintage Shop, 1950s Original Owl Brooch</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Large pearl, diamante, emerald and gold — they're what every stylish girl wants. Or not. It certainly looks fab on anyone's clothes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iyj-7RJ3ZWk/TrV-lvrjY-I/AAAAAAAAAe0/yNLhH6JUm2U/s1600/butterflypapers_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iyj-7RJ3ZWk/TrV-lvrjY-I/AAAAAAAAAe0/yNLhH6JUm2U/s640/butterflypapers_400.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://thebutterflypapers.blogspot.com/2011/07/whoo-costume-dilema-to-be-or-not-to-be.html">thebutterflypapers.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
1920s flapper-influenced costume. I bet this is great in the flesh! Roll on Christmas parties.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Bz7eFrZnLk/TrWAs_TTdHI/AAAAAAAAAe8/7FgVOh5rniU/s1600/lookbook+-pax_owl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="596" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Bz7eFrZnLk/TrWAs_TTdHI/AAAAAAAAAe8/7FgVOh5rniU/s640/lookbook+-pax_owl.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://lookbook.nu/look/2339257-Owl-Patrol">lookbook.nu/Pax I.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I love Pax's ensemble and this owl bag certainly completes her look.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OpHJh0Kii3o/TrWBgVFZbFI/AAAAAAAAAfM/cicxDTGea6M/s1600/vintage-owl-bank1-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OpHJh0Kii3o/TrWBgVFZbFI/AAAAAAAAAfM/cicxDTGea6M/s320/vintage-owl-bank1-300x300.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://imfeelingnail-venturous.blogspot.com/2011/07/i-dont-give-hoot.html">I'mfeelingnail-venturous.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This little blue owl money bank looks so cute I could eat it up. Look at those googly eyes!<br />
('<i>You talkin' to me</i>?)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spECueFtI0E/TrWBeJzoNbI/AAAAAAAAAfE/3qwNLe_RLks/s1600/blackbaroque_etsy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-spECueFtI0E/TrWBeJzoNbI/AAAAAAAAAfE/3qwNLe_RLks/s640/blackbaroque_etsy.jpg" width="568" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69306294/upcycled-dictionary-page-upcycled-book?ref=sr_gallery_2&ga_search_submit=&ga_search_query=steampunk&ga_noautofacet=1&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade%2Fart">Etsy/Black Baroque Shop</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Retails at $10 on Etsy via Black Baroque. I say, what a snip! Perfect little Christmas present, don't you think?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w2Xbpy3rRXU/TrWKCZEVXLI/AAAAAAAAAfU/WFau5fKqV5c/s1600/doris2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="522" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w2Xbpy3rRXU/TrWKCZEVXLI/AAAAAAAAAfU/WFau5fKqV5c/s640/doris2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://textisles.com/">textisles.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Look at the sweater closely. Can you see the buttons? What a lovely way to complete knitted owl details. When I came across this photo my broody tendencies suddenly resurfaced. Beautiful baby. Beautiful sweater. Hmmm...maybe another baby next year? We shall see. This knitwear is called Owlet and pattern available for purchase from <a href="http://textisles.com/designs/">Textisles.com</a>. They also have an adult version. Get knitting!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kAJSmFCwHe0/TrWMHRtnNaI/AAAAAAAAAfc/g1yzOHWmq3I/s1600/river-island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kAJSmFCwHe0/TrWMHRtnNaI/AAAAAAAAAfc/g1yzOHWmq3I/s1600/river-island.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River Island Vest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Buy stuff when you want and you can. This tasty little number is not available online anymore. I doubt if they're still in the shops. I could be wrong.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PdMJSm1f97E/TrWOaNdiOJI/AAAAAAAAAfk/zHD8P3rWXUg/s1600/vintageowls-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PdMJSm1f97E/TrWOaNdiOJI/AAAAAAAAAfk/zHD8P3rWXUg/s1600/vintageowls-300x225.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://interactive2010.journalism.cuny.edu/2009/10/18/vintage-voyage/">Interactive 2010 Journalism</a>/vintage owl pendants</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>“Costume is a wonderful alternative because </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>you can get the same look
without the investment. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>After all, jewelry should be about enjoyment –
not about being preoccupied.”</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
These are the words of vintage jewellery dealer H. Deirdre Geary of De Jewels (at the Manhattan Vintage Clothing Show) quoted from a post called Vintage Voyage on Interactive Journalism 2010. Wise words, indeed.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WyaWZirol3I/TrWVBlVdAsI/AAAAAAAAAfs/cksJUbuqZcY/s1600/topshop_earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WyaWZirol3I/TrWVBlVdAsI/AAAAAAAAAfs/cksJUbuqZcY/s640/topshop_earrings.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://topshop.com/">Topshop</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fringe is still in, vintage still trendy and figural costume jewellery is still on the rise. Get thriftin' peeps. There are so many variations that are available for less in your favourite charity shops, flea markets and jumble sales.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Dfu3IgsTo4/TrWln18G_7I/AAAAAAAAAf0/Oq0PeZ6bVns/s1600/nightowls_t-towel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Dfu3IgsTo4/TrWln18G_7I/AAAAAAAAAf0/Oq0PeZ6bVns/s640/nightowls_t-towel.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://lisajonesstudio.bigcartel.com/product/owl-towel">Lisa Jones Studio</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Take a tiny step towards caring for our planet. <br />
This tea towel is one ethical product. It's printed on 100% organic fair trade cotton. What gorgeous graphics too!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9dXvPNHZ_us/TrWn--pNAdI/AAAAAAAAAf8/yXJ_OoPnPPQ/s1600/urbanoutfitters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9dXvPNHZ_us/TrWn--pNAdI/AAAAAAAAAf8/yXJ_OoPnPPQ/s640/urbanoutfitters.jpg" width="432" /></a></div>
A nice little item to end this post. What a gorgeous brolly holder. I want one.<br />
<br />
How about you? Any feathered friends in your home? <br />
<br />
Have a great weekend my lovelies.<br />
Ciao! Ciao!<br />
<br />
Joy x<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
❤❤❤</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<span id="goog_985294764"></span><span id="goog_985294765"></span>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-80595634235649705132011-10-30T16:48:00.000+00:002011-10-30T16:48:10.152+00:00IFB Weekly Round-up October 27thHappy Sunday, my darlings!<br />
I hope you're all having a restful weekend.<br />
Please read the other 19 blogs as chosen by the lovely Fajr of <a href="http://stylishthought.com/life/advice/33-tips-to-finding-your-passion-today/">Stylish Thought</a> (thanks so much for including me, Fajr!).<br />
<br />
Ciao! Ciao!<br />
Joy x<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<a href="http://heartifb.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/LALM1027.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13120" height="272" src="http://heartifb.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/LALM1027.jpg" title="LALM1027" width="533" /></a></div>
<h2>
Still Evolving</h2>
Edited by: Fajr Muhammad of <a href="http://stylishthought.com/">Stylish Thought</a><br />
<h2>
THE IFB WEEKLY ROUNDUP: LINKS À LA MODE: OCTOBER 27TH</h2>
<div>
I love how multi-faceted fashion blogging has become. In the beginning it was mostly celebrity style driven but has evolved to include everything from personal style, social commentary, fun fashion trends and high fashion! While blogging is becoming a staple of our everyday world, fashion blogging is continuing to push the envelope.<br />
Fashion is converging into lifestyle and we are defining the medium and what it means to be a fashion blogger. Check out the diverse links this week that our pushing our craft to new places.<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011/10/vintage-photography-inspirations-for.html">Alex Drake Vintage</a>: Vintage Photography Inspiration</li>
<li><a href="http://beingzhenya.wordpress.com/2011/10/21/friday-diy/">Being Zhenya</a>: Friday DIY</li>
<li><a href="http://beyondfabric.tumblr.com/post/11857712616/urban-menswear-myths-3">Beyond Fabric</a>: Urban Menswear Myth #3</li>
<li><a href="http://brunetteblogging.com/2011/10/the-blogger-and-the-brand/">Brunette Blogging</a>: The Blogger and the Brand</li>
<li><a href="http://cadenceandclementine.blogspot.com/2011/10/cut-above-rest.html">Cadence and Clementine</a>: A Cut Above the Rest</li>
<li><a href="http://www.considermelovely.com/2011/10/defying-expectations.html">Consider Me Lovely</a>: Defying Expectations</li>
<li><a href="http://consumerismkilledmysoul.blogspot.com/2011/10/thoughtful-thursday-arguing-for-barbie.html">Consumerism Killed My Soul</a>: Arguing for Barbie</li>
<li><a href="http://ethicalfashionblog.com/2011/10/24/ethical-fashion-conundrums/">Ethical Fashion Blog</a>: Ethical Fashion Conundrums</li>
<li><a href="http://www.fashiondynamite.com/2011/10/soft-dressing.html">Fashion Dynamite</a>: Soft Dressing</li>
<li><a href="http://ladyofashion.blogspot.com/2011/10/game-art.html">Fashion Tales</a>: Game Art</li>
<li><a href="http://loveatfirstblush.blogspot.com/2011/10/in-her-closet-print-designers-pad.html?">Love at First Blush</a>: In Her Closet- Print Designer</li>
<li><a href="http://www.oranges-and-apples.com/2011/10/ffb-workwear-women-and-ageing.html">Oranges and Apples</a>: Workwear, Women & Aging</li>
<li><a href="http://www.practicallyspoiled.com/2011/10/24/closet-challenge-lace-and-lines/">Practically Spoiled</a>: Closet Challenge- Lace and Lines</li>
<li><a href="http://shrimpsaladcircus.blogspot.com/2011/10/how-to-sday-piano-clutch.html">Shrimp Salad Circus</a>: How to Day- Piano Clutch</li>
<li><a href="http://simplyfrabulous.blogspot.com/2011/10/spend-or-save-low-price-high-style.html">Simply Frabulous</a>: Spend or Save- Low Price High Style</li>
<li><a href="http://snapshotfashion.blogspot.com/2011/10/fashion-icons.html">Snapshot Fashion</a>: Fashion Icons We Grew Up with</li>
<li><a href="http://www.style-love-repeat.com/2011/10/style-printed-blouse.html">Style. Love. Repeat</a>: The Printed Blouse</li>
<li><a href="http://stylishthought.com/life/advice/33-tips-to-finding-your-passion-today/">Stylish Thought</a>: 33 Tips on Finding your Passion Today</li>
<li><a href="http://thechicsheet.blogspot.com/2011/10/what-we-want-nowthe-new-geometrics-of.html">The Chic Sheet</a>: The New Geometrics</li>
<li><a href="http://what2wearwhere.com/blog/2011/10/bette-midlers-day-of-the-dead-hulaween-2011/">What 2 Wear Where</a>: Day of the Dead Hulaween</li>
</ul>
</div>
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<a href="http://www.shopbop.com/clothing-jackets-coats/br/v=1/2534374302066271.htm?all" style="color: black; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" title="Shopbop">New Jackets </a> at <a href="http://blog.shopbop.com/" style="color: black; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Shopbop</a>: <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/opening-ceremony/br/v=1/2534374302081913.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Opening Ceremony</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/add-down/br/v=1/2534374302065941.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Add Down</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/red-valentino/br/v=1/2534374302180660.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">RED Valentino</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/rlx-ralph-lauren/br/v=1/2534374302183700.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">RLX Ralph Lauren</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/mackage/br/v=1/2534374302164834.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Mackage</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/jen-kao/br/v=1/2534374302183340.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Jen Kao</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/vena-cava/br/v=1/2534374302045358.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Vena Cava</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/doma/br/v=1/2534374302195560.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Doma</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/winter-kate/br/v=1/2534374302170978.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Winter Kate</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/halston-heritage/br/v=1/2534374302168683.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Halston Heritage</a>, <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/veda/br/v=1/2534374302108251.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;">Veda</a>,<a href="http://www.shopbop.com/gryphon/br/v=1/2534374302082851.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;"> Gryphon, </a>&<a href="http://www.shopbop.com/ella-moss/br/v=1/2534374302023753.htm?all" style="color: #666666; text-decoration: none;"> Ella Moss</a>.<br />
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If you would like to submit your link for next week’s Links à la Mode, please <b><a href="http://heartifb.com/members/account/register.php" target="_blank">register first</a></b>, then post your links <b><a href="http://heartifb.com/members/mod/groups/topicposts.php?topic=1838953&group_guid=34" target="_blank">HERE</a></b>. The HTML code for this week will be found in the <b><a href="http://heartifb.com/members/pg/groups/34/links-la-mode/" target="_blank">Links a la Mode</a></b> group will be published later today. ~Jennine<br />
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</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-15407502998766867422011-10-20T14:02:00.002+01:002011-10-28T09:06:08.601+01:00Vintage Photography: Inspirations for an Online Boutique<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xr7r2StmotQ/TqARsSU_iAI/AAAAAAAAAcY/Fj7jzoNB8zM/s1600/alex_beadon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xr7r2StmotQ/TqARsSU_iAI/AAAAAAAAAcY/Fj7jzoNB8zM/s640/alex_beadon.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.alexbeadonphotography.com/blog/2011/06/06/a-vintage-styled-photo-shoot-in-great-malvern/">Alex Beadon Photography</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> </span><i style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">This post is part of <a href="http://heartifb.com/2011/10/27/links-a-la-mode-the-ifb-weekly-roundup-77/">IFB's Links à la Mode: Weekly Round-up</a></i></div>
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Happy Thursday, my darlings!<br />
As I've been trying to organise my vintage clothing site, I've been looking at some vintage photographs created by some wonderful and talented people I've come across on the net.<br />
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Please enjoy them....<br />
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I hope to reveal the revitalised website soon.<br />
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Joy xx<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eB2YbpvO_-I/TqASOjr1dvI/AAAAAAAAAcg/xgS7OtlbEXk/s1600/david_long%253Aflickr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eB2YbpvO_-I/TqASOjr1dvI/AAAAAAAAAcg/xgS7OtlbEXk/s640/david_long%253Aflickr.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/fromthefrontend/4956127351/">David Long/Flickr</a></td></tr>
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Look at Anita's shoes! Fierce or what?!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AzDf7LCnGXU/TqAS610LMfI/AAAAAAAAAco/_AG_QOhl0B8/s1600/alexbeadon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AzDf7LCnGXU/TqAS610LMfI/AAAAAAAAAco/_AG_QOhl0B8/s640/alexbeadon.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.alexbeadonphotography.com/blog/2011/06/06/a-vintage-styled-photo-shoot-in-great-malvern/">Alex Beadon Photography</a></td></tr>
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I love this shot and the dress. There may be a few dresses on my studio rail that certainly look like this. I'm really excited to share my collection with you...sharpish!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aRj8mxYagDY/TqAT_cNKO_I/AAAAAAAAAc4/iX2ocNJkFjM/s1600/lullablogchictopia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aRj8mxYagDY/TqAT_cNKO_I/AAAAAAAAAc4/iX2ocNJkFjM/s640/lullablogchictopia.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://lookbook.nu/look/1920608-God-save-the-Queen">Jessica D/Chictopia</a></td></tr>
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This clever photograph is oozing with patriotic cool — if there's such a term. Check out Jessica's fab blog on <a href="http://lullablog.net/">Lullablog.net</a>. You won't be disappointed!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4zv5MJV1wsY/TqAVBwh8AuI/AAAAAAAAAdA/mfX39iXkMfU/s1600/andrea_rose_flickr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4zv5MJV1wsY/TqAVBwh8AuI/AAAAAAAAAdA/mfX39iXkMfU/s640/andrea_rose_flickr.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andrearosephotography/4691438073/in/photostream/">Andrea Rose/Flickr</a></td></tr>
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This photo is just soothing to look at. Andrea's friend Racheal is a beautiful subject and that lovely mustard coat is just divine!<br />
Travel in style. Have an old suitcase. And yes, don't forget your cuddly friend to warm up your lap.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtNNesPqYZU/TqAZLuhktVI/AAAAAAAAAdI/2qhrPmsdSUE/s1600/lena_hoschek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MtNNesPqYZU/TqAZLuhktVI/AAAAAAAAAdI/2qhrPmsdSUE/s640/lena_hoschek.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from<a href="http://shop.lenahoschek.com/"> Lena Hoschek</a> Postcard collections</td></tr>
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Austrian label Lena Hoschek has been busy with showing at Berlin Fashion Week and selling online goodies. Check out her collections.<br />
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And that's it my lovelies. I hope you're all having fun.<br />
I promise to post regularly. <br />
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Ciao! Ciao!<br />
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<br /></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-44306142272873843672011-10-04T18:13:00.003+01:002011-10-04T20:14:14.076+01:00Charity Shop Swap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_5SE7GnYt2I/Tos5zURx8hI/AAAAAAAAAcU/YlZ6I43nIPU/s1600/SDC11830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_5SE7GnYt2I/Tos5zURx8hI/AAAAAAAAAcU/YlZ6I43nIPU/s320/SDC11830.JPG" width="254" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This post is four months late due to logistical limitations. I sincerely apologise to <a href="http://faithhopeandcharityshopping.blogspot.com/">Lakota</a> who organised this wonderful swap that you always see on my sidebar since the summer, and to my swap partner Jo of <a href="http://vintagelovinglibrarianin6inchheels.blogspot.com/">Vintage Loving Librarian in 6 inch Heels</a>, for coming up with this just now.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My items were waiting for me in England whilst I was living in Italy. And now that we're back, I finally have this post.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So here you go, ladies and gents. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pprO1VggMZY/ToshB4x0wII/AAAAAAAAAcE/hHOfIWiMtXU/s1600/joycollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pprO1VggMZY/ToshB4x0wII/AAAAAAAAAcE/hHOfIWiMtXU/s400/joycollage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I received a lovely 1960s tea set, a knitted tea cosy, a pair of vintage pearl clip earrings, a 1960s apron, a very useful 1960s sugar shaker and a CD of my now-favourite singer from The Netherlands, Caro Emerald. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since then, here's what I've done with them so far:</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R7gDL_VxVZA/Toss29zM4kI/AAAAAAAAAcM/wzukU0UM9wc/s1600/tatin+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R7gDL_VxVZA/Toss29zM4kI/AAAAAAAAAcM/wzukU0UM9wc/s640/tatin+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top photo of Hotel Tatin via <a href="http://www.frogmom.com/2010/01/lamotte-beuvron-home-of-tarte-tatin.html">frogmom.com</a>; Secret to a good tarte tatin: Cast iron skillet</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">❤ Thanks to my new apron, our kitchen's been busier with moi creating stuff. My favourite dessert is a speciality from the famous Tatin Sisters of Sologne, France called <a href="http://www.tartetatin.org/home/history-of-the-tarte-tatin">Tarte Tatin</a> (Upside down apple tart).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>Here's the recipe from France, The Beautiful Cookbook:</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>3 0z (90g) soft butter</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>1/3 cup (3 oz/90g) sugar</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>3 lb (1.5 kg) Golden Delicious or pippin apples or pears if you fancy</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>1 roll puff pastry (this is my replacement for 250g sweet pastry)</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i><br />
</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>❶ Preheat oven to 425 F (215 C). Grease a 9-in (24cm) cake pan, or in my case, a cast iron skillet, with 2/3 of the butter, then sprinkle over 2/3 of the sugar.</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>Cut the apples (or pears) in two, peel and core them, and arrange halves upright, tightly packed in the pan or cast iron skillet. Sprinkle with remaining sugar and the butter which has been cut into small pieces.</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>Place the pan/skillet over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes until a light caramel forms on the bottom.</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>❷ Transfer the pan/skillet to the oven and bake for 5 minutes to cook the top surface. Remove from oven.</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>❸ Roll out the puff pastry. Place over the pan/skillet and pass rolling pin around the edge to remove overhanging pastry. The dough will sink down the sides of the pan/skillet onto the top of the apples.</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>❹ Put pan/skillet back into the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until pastry is well browned.</i></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: justify;"><i>❺ Invert tart onto a serving plate and serve at once. Caution: there will be liquid in the pan so be very careful you don't get burnt.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Eat and think of me as I love this tarte!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lBtKpjhQlUA/ToszwUEdZzI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/PNa9DS5X6N8/s1600/caro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lBtKpjhQlUA/ToszwUEdZzI/AAAAAAAAAcQ/PNa9DS5X6N8/s400/caro.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">❤ Caro Emerald CD</div><div style="text-align: justify;">My fingers are quite calloused now from strumming my poor, old guitar since listening to Caro Emerald's music. I've been trawling Youtube to look at some of her videos and it's highly satisfying to see incredibly talented musicians like her. Her band has it all — vintage wardrobe, great voice, excellent double-bass player, wonderful guitar player, a DJ, and other sessionists like trumpet, sax and clarinet players. I am her newest fan and I shall be for quite a long time. I hope you agree. You'd have heard her voice on Martini adverts in Europe for those of you who think she's familiar. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I love this acoustic version of her Back it Up.</div><br />
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❤ Sugar shaker, tea cosy and tea set are being used.<br />
❤ Pearl earrings reserved for a special occasion.<br />
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So, thanks so much to Jo once again. <br />
Happy Tuesday, everyone!<br />
Have a great day whatever it is you're doing today.<br />
<br />
Baci,<br />
Joy x<br />
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</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-36428936951213321152011-09-29T14:41:00.001+01:002011-10-11T22:42:52.494+01:00Autumn 2011<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">This post is part of <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2080314791">Links à Mode: IFB Weekly Round-up</a></span></i></span> <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2080314791"><br />
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Happy Thursday, dear friends!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Everyone enjoying the 'heat wave' in good, old Blighty?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's been a few marvellous days and I must say it's been great setting up home and tidying up the garden considering it's October in two days!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've been reorganising my vintage clothing site and I hope to share it with you soon. Apart from that, I've been looking at photographs of Milan Fashion Week SS12 and it's been a fun-themed show. And as you probably already know, vintage is still on trend. I'll talk about it soon.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the meantime, hope you like my inspirations.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Have a great weekend.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Baci,</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Joy x</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6uzQ0t2646Q/ToRTQzSLDjI/AAAAAAAAAbk/eKJHkBZfPW0/s1600/burberryfall2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="356" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6uzQ0t2646Q/ToRTQzSLDjI/AAAAAAAAAbk/eKJHkBZfPW0/s640/burberryfall2011.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.footluxe.com/2011/06/fashion-color-trend-fall-winter-2011-2012/">footluxe.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Love Burberry Prorsum's hues for Autumn 2011. As most of you will know, I can't bear monochrome palettes. I believe bright colours make the world a cheerful place. But that's just me.</div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I7YgDggjkB0/ToRUa9mgaUI/AAAAAAAAAbo/S9dj6LuUKeQ/s1600/Colour-strip-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I7YgDggjkB0/ToRUa9mgaUI/AAAAAAAAAbo/S9dj6LuUKeQ/s640/Colour-strip-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.digitalartistdaily.com/blog/2011/02/pantone-announces-fall-2011-colour-trends/">digitalartistdaily.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Oh wait...I think Pantone agrees.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ojsLfwCuLhA/ToRVdpyBRYI/AAAAAAAAAbs/Lo8KmskqHHs/s1600/sgl6474_main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ojsLfwCuLhA/ToRVdpyBRYI/AAAAAAAAAbs/Lo8KmskqHHs/s640/sgl6474_main.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://frenchicandshabby.com/">frenchicandshabby.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">I couldn't resist including this photo. It should be a spring photo but there's no stopping anyone to use these lovely lanterns in the garden whilst catching the last warm days of autumn - especially this week in Britain. The lanterns seem to have Pantone's colours too. </div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbeRftYjn1I/ToRWt3EEGiI/AAAAAAAAAbw/YTTltvhVflM/s1600/retro-orange-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LbeRftYjn1I/ToRWt3EEGiI/AAAAAAAAAbw/YTTltvhVflM/s640/retro-orange-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://deardesigner.co.uk/2009/11/25/living-with-orange/">deardesigner.co.uk</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Lay your softest rug on the front room floor. Put the fire on if you have one. Snuggle up on the sofa with your favourite blanket; reach out for your warm apple and cider drink on your side table whilst you read a book...</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Life is good.</div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GSxPdbeGwK0/ToRYwcmQ_4I/AAAAAAAAAb0/ryIBt4mkJfo/s1600/2010-wuthering-heights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="414" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GSxPdbeGwK0/ToRYwcmQ_4I/AAAAAAAAAb0/ryIBt4mkJfo/s640/2010-wuthering-heights.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.sublackwell.co.uk/portfolio-book-cut-sculpture/">sublackwell.co.uk</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">This book sculpture by Su Blackwell reminds me of a clear autumn night when you're just about to go inside a country house. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I love Su's art. She's the most prolific and leading paper sculptor in Britain and last year collaborated with Nicole Fahri. See the link <a href="http://www.sublackwell.co.uk/2010/11/23/191/">here</a>. For my friends in the US, you'd have seen her work on the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFtoLBaJPS0">Beringer</a> 'Vineyard' advert in 2007.</div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0SWd8R6ErYc/ToRu7yWwfVI/AAAAAAAAAb8/nOBcYsUxhRg/s1600/tumblr_ls0wluTmGn1qe4ikwo1_500_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0SWd8R6ErYc/ToRu7yWwfVI/AAAAAAAAAb8/nOBcYsUxhRg/s640/tumblr_ls0wluTmGn1qe4ikwo1_500_large.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/15252678">weheartit.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Remember the fireflies in your back garden when you were young? For those who haven't seen them at all, fairy lights carefully placed inside a glass jar or old demijohn is close enough to the real thing. Prepare to be mesmerised...</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤<br />
<br />
</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-14901222969788399802011-09-20T14:46:00.000+01:002011-09-20T14:46:10.326+01:00Is London Fashion Week Poor?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXAvcy9qtzM/TniIKJ8qg6I/AAAAAAAAAbU/9R725URqUSA/s1600/LFWcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nXAvcy9qtzM/TniIKJ8qg6I/AAAAAAAAAbU/9R725URqUSA/s640/LFWcollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LFW SS12 From L-R: 1&2 Matthew Williamson; 3&4 Julien Macdonald; Photos via <a href="http://londonfashionweek.co.uk/">London Fashion Week</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hello my darlings! How's everybody?<br />
Apologies for the 2-week silence. Now that we've moved back to England and that the Internet is back just 5-minutes ago, we're back to business. Thanks to all your messages of concern. Nothing untoward has happened. Just moved house 1,200 miles away and waited for Internet connection for a few days. I am really touched by your kindness.<br />
<br />
Today is the last day of Women's Wear at the London Fashion Week (LFW) SS12 and there has been wonderful shows. As most of you would’ve seen live presentation or live streams, I won’t be talking about them.<br />
I did receive an invite for Day 1’s Orla Kiely show but due to domestic constraints, I couldn’t come. So where’s this post leading to?<br />
The other day, I happened to read a week-old article in the Guardian which talked about top models avoiding the London show due to poor pay. Worse, this morning, there is another related piece on the Telegraph (both articles below). Let me share what I think of it.<br />
<br />
As most of you will know, I've only been fashion blogging since May this year. I love the process of gaining new knowledge on just about anything interesting. I'm just beginning to understand stuff about the fashion industry. <br />
<br />
So let me continue.<br />
A couple of months ago, when the unconfirmed details of designers showing at LFW were released, I had a quick look and made me ask "where are the well-known luxury brands?". Then I tried reading some more to find out if it's in fact traditional for bigger brands not to show in London. <br />
<br />
There are two things I've recently found out: One, that LFW is known for its distinctively creative shows and new designers come to showcase. Two, big brands still prefer to show in Paris, New York and Milan. This begs another question: What's wrong with London? If top models are unhappy with their pay and the logistics of getting to London whilst trying to get cast for Milan (Milan show starts soon after London show ends), then it means something’s not right.<br />
<br />
Some observers pointed out that if companies like Topshop and Tesco are major sponsors, then LFW gives off an impression that the event is not haute fashion. But then someone needs to sponsor a big event like this. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aJvWRKZ5iow/TniXtsEp5wI/AAAAAAAAAbY/lj3cBl3gu0Q/s1600/marykatrantzou+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="392" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aJvWRKZ5iow/TniXtsEp5wI/AAAAAAAAAbY/lj3cBl3gu0Q/s640/marykatrantzou+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mary Katrantzou SS12 at LFW today via <a href="http://glam.co.uk/2011/09/lfw-ss12-mary-katrantzou/katrantzou-rs12-0358/">Glam.co.uk</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
I don't personally know anyone working in the British Fashion Council (BFC) but I do know the organisation exists as an advocate of new and established British designers. I trust that they are diligently fulfilling their duties. It’s not an easy job and as British supporters we should also do our part to promote and spread the word about LFW’s unique, unconventional and fresh home-grown designers. Maybe then we’ll be at par with Paris, New York, and Milan. Then again, maybe we do not need to be at par with anyone. Maybe we just need to be different, to be truly great at what we do. It's comforting to know that several well-known designers have all studied in the UK's Central St. Martins College. Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, Stella McCartney, Christopher Kane, Jenny Packham, Katherine Hamnett, Matthew Williamson, Bruce Oldfield, Riccardo Tisci, Mary Katrantzou are among a few of these big names.<br />
<br />
How about you? What do you think of London Fashion Week? Do you agree that LFW is better or worse than Paris, New York and Milan shows? Is London being 'bullied' by the other three shows?<br />
<br />
Read the Guardian article <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2011/sep/04/london-fashion-week-milan-paris">here</a> and quite a controversial piece from Fashion Telegraph <a href="http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/columns/belinda-white/TMG8774945/London-Fashion-Week-crisis-after-Gucci-summon-models-to-Milan.html">here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hope you're all well.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's great to be back!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-24661670242750658832011-08-25T16:08:00.000+01:002011-08-25T16:08:54.328+01:00Model of the month: Ros Georgiou for Gorgeous<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Meet 17 year-old Rosanna 'Ros' Georgiou. </div><div style="text-align: left;">She started modelling in October 2010 and got a few 'double-takes' in Paris Fashion Week 2011.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x5wiK3QXPFo/TlZWTvFIjrI/AAAAAAAAAaY/3JUxnlmrKUg/s1600/pphpWQ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x5wiK3QXPFo/TlZWTvFIjrI/AAAAAAAAAaY/3JUxnlmrKUg/s400/pphpWQ.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> “</i><i>Quando l’arte diventa vita la vita diventa poesia!”</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">When art becomes life, life becomes poetry.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">— Gabriel Caruana, Italian artist</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">She is simply stunning. A true representation of poetry in motion. Blessed with an unusual facial structure and an adorable freckled skin, she's already been 'judged' by people who know models and modelling. They say she's not versatile, but not boring, and some seemingly have a clear idea already of who she is and what she can do.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;">I say she's young and with a mother who is also a model, her natural abilities are in her genes so all we have to do is watch her cruise to stardom. I believe she will be a top model soon. Her looks are reminiscent of '90s Guess and Calvin Klein campaigns. I think she pulls-off the 'hipster/rock chick look' and haute fashion. But that's just my personal view.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are some photos I found for you....Hope you like them.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So what do you think of our newcomer?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Bacissimi,</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Joy x</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3C2x6Rg4Rvo/TlZZU5_nOKI/AAAAAAAAAac/2hjIzDK_kyg/s1600/6a00e54ef9645388340147e1832b8a970b-500wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3C2x6Rg4Rvo/TlZZU5_nOKI/AAAAAAAAAac/2hjIzDK_kyg/s640/6a00e54ef9645388340147e1832b8a970b-500wi.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NrV_oNxQ58M/TlZestR6bxI/AAAAAAAAAag/AOepGeQVFGQ/s1600/ros-vnmodels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NrV_oNxQ58M/TlZestR6bxI/AAAAAAAAAag/AOepGeQVFGQ/s640/ros-vnmodels.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3YwR7o61Gc/TlZfIwaPvqI/AAAAAAAAAak/jzPoe4IE3TE/s1600/rosgeorgiou4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D3YwR7o61Gc/TlZfIwaPvqI/AAAAAAAAAak/jzPoe4IE3TE/s640/rosgeorgiou4.jpg" width="426" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVsN1ZWJ55g/TlZfUNKKSBI/AAAAAAAAAao/nZvJTMb8k9s/s1600/rosgeorgiou1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVsN1ZWJ55g/TlZfUNKKSBI/AAAAAAAAAao/nZvJTMb8k9s/s640/rosgeorgiou1.jpg" width="472" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AHqE-QI47u0/TlZfb7qViNI/AAAAAAAAAas/S79COJZhhk8/s1600/f_J2Q0162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AHqE-QI47u0/TlZfb7qViNI/AAAAAAAAAas/S79COJZhhk8/s640/f_J2Q0162.jpg" width="488" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ajJqqyj_aOs/TlZflLBm3bI/AAAAAAAAAaw/ik1XJqpm8JU/s1600/151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ajJqqyj_aOs/TlZflLBm3bI/AAAAAAAAAaw/ik1XJqpm8JU/s640/151.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p7GSjlGUdDI/TlZhpf9f-uI/AAAAAAAAAa8/z-I914vrt_E/s1600/15-1889640_0x440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p7GSjlGUdDI/TlZhpf9f-uI/AAAAAAAAAa8/z-I914vrt_E/s640/15-1889640_0x440.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qZrewidgLjs/TlZg1jCaQFI/AAAAAAAAAa4/D1SviibJcEA/s1600/rosgeorgiou2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qZrewidgLjs/TlZg1jCaQFI/AAAAAAAAAa4/D1SviibJcEA/s640/rosgeorgiou2.jpg" width="482" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--SwZp_mGmRs/TlZhzkr6ehI/AAAAAAAAAbA/suvodsG1arU/s640/154.jpg" width="426" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iigUDYKsKog/TlZiXRtuBPI/AAAAAAAAAbE/IlqbDkrflBM/s640/3-1554020_0x440.jpg" width="640" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MVGr9vs8Qv8/TlZikObg6oI/AAAAAAAAAbI/7Nwlu84xL5c/s1600/196488_10150135299806465_750041464_6162373_7402808_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MVGr9vs8Qv8/TlZikObg6oI/AAAAAAAAAbI/7Nwlu84xL5c/s640/196488_10150135299806465_750041464_6162373_7402808_n.jpg" width="492" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Photo credits:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://www.vogue.it/en/vogue-starscelebsmodels/new-faces/2011/07/ros-georgiou">Vogue Italia</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://forums.thefashionspot.com/f52/rosanna-ros-georgiou-116065-13.html">Fashion Spot</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://www.supermodels.nl/rosgeorgiou">Supermodels.nl</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-58191627721309190932011-08-23T22:38:00.001+01:002011-08-25T21:56:09.169+01:00Why music is important for runways... and some free tracks<div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zd9spR4cvRM/TlP--gDljkI/AAAAAAAAAZg/kxbYSHLSdxI/s1600/tsumorichisato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="438" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zd9spR4cvRM/TlP--gDljkI/AAAAAAAAAZg/kxbYSHLSdxI/s640/tsumorichisato.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tsumori Chisato Fall 2011, Paris FW, Image via <a href="http://busk.com/">busk.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Hi everybody!<br />
Is it just me or is everyone brimming with excitement each day for the London Fashion Week and the London IFB (Independent Fashion Bloggers) conference? <br />
<br />
In the meantime, I've been tripping on Soundcloud and found these tunes for all you fans of the runway. <br />
<br />
Music is an indispensable part of any collection during a fashion show. If clothes are the heart of any collection, then music is the soul. When the models are released on the catwalk wearing the designer's creations, the music accompanying their movements is critical. It can swing the collection either way - it can boost the desirability of the collection, or kill it and relegate it to the concept bin. <br />
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I hope you like my hand-picked selection. The artists that I've chosen are absolutely talented, and if you like music, put your dancing shoes on right this minute. It all begins with a shimmy.... <br />
<br />
Enjoy... <br />
<br />
PS. Let me know what your favourite runway tunes are. I'd like to think there are lots of you who can't live a day without listening to music. <br />
<br />
Joy xx</div><br />
<div style="margin: 1ex;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6xbj8zCBh4A/TlQI8pA77zI/AAAAAAAAAZk/UTlBbsSUdwE/s1600/isseymiyake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="438" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6xbj8zCBh4A/TlQI8pA77zI/AAAAAAAAAZk/UTlBbsSUdwE/s640/isseymiyake.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Issey Miyake, Fall 2011, Paris fashion week, Image via <a href="http://busk.com/">busk.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><span style="color: #ff6666;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Lucida Grande;"><span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></span> </div><div><span style="color: #ff6666;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: Lucida Grande;"><span style="color: black;"></span></span></span></span>For maximum pleasure, I recommend leaving this page on (if you're working or browsing) so you can carry on listening to these delightful tunes.</div><div><br />
</div><div>❤ Laurent Garnier</div></div></div><object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F3274727&show_comments=false&auto_play=false"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F3274727&show_comments=false&auto_play=false" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/laurent-garnier/laurent-garnier-wake-up">Laurent Garnier - Wake Up</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/laurent-garnier">laurent garnier</a><br />
<br />
<br />
❤ Adam Beyer<br />
<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F15849606&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F15849606&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/drumcode/adam-beyer-simple-maze">Adam Beyer - Simple Maze</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/drumcode">Drumcode</a><br />
<br />
❤ John Tejada<br />
<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F16815871&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F16815871&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/kompakt/john-tejada-subdivided-from">John Tejada "Subdivided" (from the new album "Parabolas")</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/kompakt">Kompakt</a><br />
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❤ Röyksopp<br />
<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F5784304&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F5784304&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/grayleaves/royksopp-this-space">Röyksopp - This Space</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/grayleaves">grayleaves</a><br />
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❤ Scottie B uk<br />
<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F12517102&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F12517102&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/scottiebuk/scottie-b-drama">Scottie B - Drama</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/scottiebuk">ScottieBuk</a><br />
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❤ Drum & Bass World Records<br />
<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F17053658&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F17053658&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/world-records-dnb/drum-and-bass-detail-living-in">Drum and Bass - DETAIL - Living In Liquid Harmony</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/world-records-dnb">Drum & Bass World Records</a><br />
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❤ Oni Ayhun<br />
<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F3921742&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F3921742&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/electralina/oni-ayhun-oar003-b">Oni Ayhun - OAR003-B</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/electralina">electralina</a><br />
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❤ Killing Joke's Asteroid (track by Scott D Thompson)<br />
Try and listen to Killing Joke <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5ujsROMsAU">here</a> to feel the full effect of 'an army of drummers' <br />
Dave Grohl did the post-production drums for this phenomenal band!<br />
<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F16952337&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="http://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F16952337&show_comments=false&auto_play=false&color=ff7700" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/scott-d-thompson/scott-d-thompson-asteroid">Scott D Thompson Asteroid</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/scott-d-thompson">Scott D Thompson</a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-83382645351194327782011-08-18T22:40:00.000+01:002011-08-18T22:40:02.779+01:0010 Things I like about the 1990sHi everyone!<br />
Hope your week's going great so far.<br />
This week, I'm back to the world of blogging and today I'm continuing my '10 Things I like' series.<br />
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The '90s feel like only yesterday, yet they began twenty-one interesting years ago. For fashion, this fascinating decade seems never to have ended.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TkROB0BIsu8/TkpVVET8rPI/AAAAAAAAAYY/PYlp9NuYSFg/s1600/kate-johny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TkROB0BIsu8/TkpVVET8rPI/AAAAAAAAAYY/PYlp9NuYSFg/s640/kate-johny.jpg" width="610" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kate Moss & Johnny Depp in the '90s, Image via <a href="http://fashiongrunge.com/tag/grunge-fashion/page/2/">fashiongrunge.com</a></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Fashion (con)fusion<br />
After the garish fashion trends of the '80s and the residual glamorous, seductress look, there was an urge to tone things down. This resulted in the first wave of eclectic trends. Retro, grunge, preppy, goth and everything else in between seemed to be going off all at the same time in the early '90s. Clearly, consumers started to use their own styling skills rather than wait for the next fashion trend. We saw a lot of 'reverse influence' – when street style appeared in high fashion collections. The book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fashion-Since-1900-Second-World/dp/0500204020?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Fashion Since 1900</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0500204020" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> states that Dolce & Gabbana showed Hippie, Karl Lagerfield for Chanel used B-Boy and Surf, Rifat Ozbek had Rasta, while Jean-Paul Gautier focused on ethnic-subcultural styles.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZUtyYhZzUE/Tk1_lmKsi5I/AAAAAAAAAZc/XxWGbfalTPE/s1600/url.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="449" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZUtyYhZzUE/Tk1_lmKsi5I/AAAAAAAAAZc/XxWGbfalTPE/s640/url.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell and Linda Evangelista for Anna Sui, 1994; Image from <a href="http://blogs.sun-sentinel.com/features_fashion/category/fashion-week/page/6">blogs.sun-sentinel.com</a> </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">Dominant colourways of the early '90s were coral, hot pink, and turquoise. Later on, The Gap and Banana Republic popularised black, white and khaki. Flannels were in and jeans were a staple of most wardrobes. Come 1998 to 1999, fashion houses used ultra-luxurious materials like super-fine suede, leather, fur, tweeds, exotic feathers and hand-felted wool.<br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In my previous post <a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011/04/soleful-monday.html">Soleful Monday</a>, my shoe designer friend explained that the economic recession of the '80s resulted in higher heels — a projection of denial from financial worries. Historically, heels were associated with wealth and rank; in modern times shoes with higher heels have remained a signifier of wealth, although this is decreasingly true nowadays.<br />
A major feature of the 1990s was financial recovery in the developed world. High-income countries were enjoying affluence, and fashion seemed to relax – becoming more casual and eclectic. Ladies were happy to wear flats and chunky boots. </div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t0J-wyYGAtY/TketO6gBQQI/AAAAAAAAAWU/bM1_V_LlEnQ/s1600/dms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t0J-wyYGAtY/TketO6gBQQI/AAAAAAAAAWU/bM1_V_LlEnQ/s320/dms.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://felipe.gcomweb40.com/rude-dr-martens-johny-gussett/">Felipe Gcomweb40.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>2. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dr-Martens-1460-W-Boot/dp/B004P1JAV0?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Doc Martens</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004P1JAV0" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> and the fat, chunky ones<br />
DMs, trekking boots, and any kind of boots were favourite footwear. Women paired them with floral dresses, jeans or shorts, to go galavanting with friends or on dates.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udMYSamMnvg/Tk0Qt-eDhhI/AAAAAAAAAZI/uiFw6aI1AJA/s1600/luluguinness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-udMYSamMnvg/Tk0Qt-eDhhI/AAAAAAAAAZI/uiFw6aI1AJA/s400/luluguinness.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lulu Guinness 2011, Image via <a href="http://www.retrotogo.com/2011/02/red-perspex-lips-clutch-by-lulu-guinness.html">Retrotogo.com</a></td></tr>
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. The rise of handbags</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Towards the end of the decade, accessories gained momentum and fashion houses focused on the all-important and lucrative handbag as the ultimate accessory. Handbag designers like American Judith Leiber and British Lulu Guinness hit a roll. As glitteratis were photographed everywhere clutching handbags, demand skyrocketed.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--d_MhyYr5ak/TkgGxU20rxI/AAAAAAAAAWY/VLeF5iVrGL0/s1600/90s+tv+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="373" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--d_MhyYr5ak/TkgGxU20rxI/AAAAAAAAAWY/VLeF5iVrGL0/s400/90s+tv+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>4. TV series<br />
Right. This is a bit tricky as I like most of the '90s television serials. My best four are as follows:<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">❤ <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Friends-Complete-Collection-Jennifer-Aniston/dp/B000H6SXMY?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Friends</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000H6SXMY" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000PFU9GA" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> became the most popular sitcom because it was funny and everyone can relate to the intimacy of friendship as a universal language. Jennifer Aniston also started the "The Rachel" hair phenomenon. Girls would copy her hair style. This solidified Aniston as an icon of 1990s sitcom and she hasn't left the pages of celebrity magazines since.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">❤ <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dawsons-Creek-Complete-Seasons-Finale/dp/B000PFU9GA?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Dawson's Creek</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000PFU9GA" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> was the first teen drama which highlighted music as an integral part of the show. I remember waiting, wondering what song will be featured at the end of each episode. The singer or band were also usually up-and-coming artists, which made me admire the series more.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">❤ The original <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beverly-Hills-90210-Jason-Priestley/dp/B0040NFQ0C?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Beverly Hills 90210</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0040NFQ0C" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> aired first in October 1990. It featured beautiful, wealthy, troubled teenagers living their lives in a fictional upscale community. All viewers had a crush on most of the beautiful characters and people loved the idea of spying on how residents of Beverly Hills 'live their lives'.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">❤ <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Northern-Exposure-Complete-Rob-Morrow/dp/B000V6LSO0?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Northern Exposure</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000V6LSO0" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> was my all-time favourite. With its unique combination of poetic comedy and drama, clever story lines and great actors, it was indeed an intelligent TV show. I'll never forget the day I first saw John Corbett and the way he played his part — an unassuming gorgeous DJ in the deepest, coldest Cicely, Alaska. I'm surprised the place didn't melt.</div><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Dawsons-Creek-Complete-Seasons-Finale/dp/B000PFU9GA?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank"></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f7haf8Sg4qo/TklNtFKSWUI/AAAAAAAAAYU/u0hdbKwRvW0/s1600/url.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="410" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f7haf8Sg4qo/TklNtFKSWUI/AAAAAAAAAYU/u0hdbKwRvW0/s640/url.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://eu.movieposter.com/poster/MPW-40715/Nirvana.html">movieposter.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>5. Nirvana<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Every decade has its distinctive sound as fashion has its distinctive look.<br />
To say that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Nevermind/dp/B000V698DI?ie=UTF8&tag=aledravinblo-21&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Nirvana</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=aledravinblo-21&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000V698DI" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />, a band from Seattle, was the last best band of the 20th century is an understatement. Regardless of the controversy that it copied the opening riff of "Come as You Are" from UK's Killing Joke, which, in turn, is said to have copied from The Damned, Nirvana successfully became the premier ambassador of grunge music and fashion. Listening to its <i>Nevermind</i> album opened several layers of delicious tunes for me. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Grunge fashion was further supported by Anna Sui and Marc Jacobs.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PRhWpH77XF4/Tkp6HgtcPDI/AAAAAAAAAYc/NltQN95TOsI/s1600/alexander_mcqueen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PRhWpH77XF4/Tkp6HgtcPDI/AAAAAAAAAYc/NltQN95TOsI/s400/alexander_mcqueen.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/fashion/fashion_week/alexander_mcqueen_found_dead_b80hQVbVldMfSgQuJ75axL">nypost.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">6. Alexander McQueen</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dubbed as "l'enfant terrible" of British fashion due to his unconventional designs and theatrical runways, he was awarded British Designer in 1996 and 1997. His designs were easily recognisable because they broke the mould. Lisa Armstrong of the <i><a href="http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/fashion/article7024334.ece">Times Online</a></i> summed it up perfectly — "It was not just the props and the models that provided the frisson...showers of live moths; amputees; walking on water; a woman reclining in a vast glass box, almost swallowed up by her rolls of fat and naked apart from her elaborate breathing apparatus; the model Shalmom Harlow being spray-painted by a machine in Jackson Pollock style".</div><div style="text-align: justify;">He was credited for the return of low-rise jeans or "bumsters". He never stopped concocting new designs until his death in 2010.</div><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld1d39vTXRw/TkzuJCrfYQI/AAAAAAAAAY8/4PBkOG9sdso/s1600/neo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ld1d39vTXRw/TkzuJCrfYQI/AAAAAAAAAY8/4PBkOG9sdso/s640/neo.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keanu Reeves, The Matrix (1999); Image via <a href="http://www.fanpop.com/spots/the-matrix/images/6100683/title/matrix-neo-wallpaper-wallpaper">fanpop.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">7. The Matrix<br />
The film that changed movies forever. The action sequence of Keanu Reeves bending backwards to dodge bullets in slow-motion and characters floating and walking on walls, since then, have been the standard of achievement of many good movies in the 21st century. One of the highlights for me was hearing Massive Attack's "Dissolved Girl" quietly playing in Keanu's headphones whilst he was asleep on his desk.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eaMk10ANYPw/Tk0RWT_QuuI/AAAAAAAAAZM/mHSu2LSvZsA/s1600/nokiaevolution.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eaMk10ANYPw/Tk0RWT_QuuI/AAAAAAAAAZM/mHSu2LSvZsA/s1600/nokiaevolution.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://kingygraphicdesignhistory.blogspot.com/2010/06/nokia-phone-history-and-advertising.html">kingygraphicdesignhistory.blogspot.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">8. Nokia phones</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We can thank the Finnish company Nokia, for revolutionising phones and digital communication. I remember going through three different mobile phones, trying to have something 'cool' – settling with the 3210. It was the first handset which looked streamlined, thanks to its hidden antenna; it had a bigger screen for text messaging, and a composer function, where you could create your own tunes. I remember creating the X-Men animation's theme tune and thought it was a pretty cool phone.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Without Nokia, there won't be iPhones.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWUP4XpSa4g/Tk0S1rAB-AI/AAAAAAAAAZU/uVof-e7Vc2M/s1600/url.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWUP4XpSa4g/Tk0S1rAB-AI/AAAAAAAAAZU/uVof-e7Vc2M/s320/url.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://retail-guru.com/">Retail-Guru.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">9. Ebay</div>The world's first-ever internet marketplace reinforced globalisation — anywhere in the world, one could suddenly purchase commodities locally or internationally. It may have caused auction houses to lose business but it gave untold opportunities to work at home and sell on-line. It also paved the way for on-line shopping.<br />
Without Ebay, there won't be Etsy. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1jyMBcSDXg/Tk0TSyTZlBI/AAAAAAAAAZY/AelaglqBWDo/s1600/Google1998.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1jyMBcSDXg/Tk0TSyTZlBI/AAAAAAAAAZY/AelaglqBWDo/s400/Google1998.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Google">Wikipedia.org</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">10. Google</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Microsoft's Hotmail may have rocked the world in 1996 as the first free web-based email service, but Google, which officially launched in 1998 as a result of a research project two years before, became 'dot.com's' search engine authority. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Remember the thrill of 'googling' your crush on the internet? Year after year, it has gone from strength to strength and so we're currently enjoying the maturation of the digital age. These days, there is little that we don't Google.</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">So what are your memories of the 1990s? Was it a good decade for you? Are you a '90s fan? What don't you like about the decade?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Looking forward to hearing your thoughts.</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Source:</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://wikipedia.org/">Wikipedia.org</a><br />
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More to read:<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011/07/10-things-i-like-about-1980s.html">"10 Things I like about the 1980s"</a><br />
<a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011/05/10-things-i-like-about-1970s.html">"10 Things I like about the 1970s"</a><br />
<a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011/05/10-things-i-love-about-1960s.html">"10 Things I love about the 1960s"</a><br />
<a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011/04/10-things-i-like-about-1950s.html">"10 Things I like about the 1950s"</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
❤❤❤<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-88221637269578202282011-08-15T14:38:00.000+01:002011-08-15T14:38:54.299+01:00I love You with My Beating Heart<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RRGf-9xsxmA/Tkj-QNuBc7I/AAAAAAAAAYE/LupjBYpjDYI/s1600/url.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RRGf-9xsxmA/Tkj-QNuBc7I/AAAAAAAAAYE/LupjBYpjDYI/s400/url.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://noupe.com/">noupe.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">How are my lovely friends doing?</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hope you all had a great weekend. It's great to be back after last week's unrest in our English cities. The future is always uncertain but life goes on.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">So here are my Monday inspirations.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hope you like them.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fmJseTYM6NE/TkkaiHDXIQI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/9lR4DNUG7oU/s1600/favim-com.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="406" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fmJseTYM6NE/TkkaiHDXIQI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/9lR4DNUG7oU/s640/favim-com.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://favim.com/image/123502/">favim.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">When my daughter was three, I said: "May you find true love. That is my greatest wish."</div><div style="text-align: center;">Yesterday, I asked her: "what's my greatest wish for you, Olivia?"</div><div style="text-align: center;">She said: "true love".</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KzyFcn0L5BY/TkkA3CWocfI/AAAAAAAAAYI/GlAFNWlfU7A/s1600/nymphont+deviant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KzyFcn0L5BY/TkkA3CWocfI/AAAAAAAAAYI/GlAFNWlfU7A/s640/nymphont+deviant.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image by <a href="http://nymphont.deviantart.com/art/Love-3d-Typography-Wallpaper-154663589">Nymphont via deviantart.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Love is multi-dimensional.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYadgebP2x8/TkgaUQNvZRI/AAAAAAAAAWw/MGp0bhY0e-w/s640/Love_is_Lust_by_jeffrey.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image by <a href="http://jeffrey.deviantart.com/art/Love-is-Lust-157691013">Jeffrey via deviantart.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love and lust intertwined. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oqqJX4KoxCA/TkgfvXnL1cI/AAAAAAAAAW8/QbmIbPwdQ24/s1600/lovetoast1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oqqJX4KoxCA/TkgfvXnL1cI/AAAAAAAAAW8/QbmIbPwdQ24/s400/lovetoast1.jpg" width="370" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://weheartit.com/entry/11042765">vickyautumn on weheartit.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My husband brings me coffee on my sidetable every morning</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">from the first day we shared our love nest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Tomorrow, I'll make coffee and bring this toast to him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uXrWS6nFOII/TkjuMeXKTtI/AAAAAAAAAX0/cofY0tb0Njk/s1600/yuliabrodskaya.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uXrWS6nFOII/TkjuMeXKTtI/AAAAAAAAAX0/cofY0tb0Njk/s400/yuliabrodskaya.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paper Illustration by Yulia Brodskaya via <a href="http://illusion.scene360.com/">illusion.scene360.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Paper art is one of the most difficult medium in art and design.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It requires the steady hand of a surgeon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aZlUQ0yirG8/Tkjv7A7-KEI/AAAAAAAAAX4/8sD7TjGDXKE/s1600/pic_saks-valentine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="377" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aZlUQ0yirG8/Tkjv7A7-KEI/AAAAAAAAAX4/8sD7TjGDXKE/s400/pic_saks-valentine.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bantjes.com/project/saks-valentine">Marian Bantjes</a> for Saks Fifth Avenue; (I found my name inside this heart!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Another stunning art from Canadian Marian Bantjes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Did you find all the words? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Visit her site. You won't be disappointed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sZunYODSbzk/TkkDYqGR5FI/AAAAAAAAAYM/xnHzUzTtCaU/s1600/sayingimages.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sZunYODSbzk/TkkDYqGR5FI/AAAAAAAAAYM/xnHzUzTtCaU/s640/sayingimages.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://sayingimages.com/saying-image-5495/">sayingimages.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Today is Italy's Ferragosto - a national holiday to celebrate the end of hard labour in the fields.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Last night, we watched their impressive fireworks from the marina.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Since my camera was playing up, I found this photo instead.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzL86Dgl-iI/TkjkCMhb4CI/AAAAAAAAAXk/C7IExrOGcTg/s1600/url-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="340" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzL86Dgl-iI/TkjkCMhb4CI/AAAAAAAAAXk/C7IExrOGcTg/s400/url-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paper Illustration by Yulia Brodskaya via <a href="http://illusion.scene360.com/">illusion.scene360.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Love is a magical feeling.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Sans toi, les émotions d'aujourd'hui ne seraient que la peau </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>morte des émotions d'autrefois.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">Without you, today's emotions would be the scurf of yesterday's.</div><div style="text-align: center;">-Hipolito (<i>Le fabuleux destin d'Amélie Poulain, 2001</i>)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r3zhu0_zSn8/Tkjn-0DPxZI/AAAAAAAAAXo/v1ojZscp5ZE/s1600/Solomon%2527s-Knot-309x437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r3zhu0_zSn8/Tkjn-0DPxZI/AAAAAAAAAXo/v1ojZscp5ZE/s400/Solomon%2527s-Knot-309x437.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.someprints.com/Solomons-Knot-Print-by-Graphic-Nothing.html">someprints.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;">Love's infinity is a mystery that will never be solved.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Why would anyone want to?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zac63gZBhBI/Tkj987kVAyI/AAAAAAAAAYA/nLKx7eUhdyc/s1600/love%252Csky%252Clove%252Ccrossing%252Cgraphic%252Cheart%252Croad%252Csign-e3af69e73743b231fbdc40ef0ff1fc97_h_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zac63gZBhBI/Tkj987kVAyI/AAAAAAAAAYA/nLKx7eUhdyc/s640/love%252Csky%252Clove%252Ccrossing%252Cgraphic%252Cheart%252Croad%252Csign-e3af69e73743b231fbdc40ef0ff1fc97_h_large.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://vi.sualize.us/view/e3af69e73743b231fbdc40ef0ff1fc97/"></a><a href="http://overflowing.tumblr.com/post/65361236/mimin-dirt-road-by-salie-sd">With Love & Such/tumblr</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">True love leads to eternal happiness.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Life is short but always sweeter when lived in love.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I hope that everyone's still in love.</div><div style="text-align: center;">For those seeking: "don't give up until you drink from the silver cup".</div><br />
All my love,<br />
<br />
Joy x<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-89373164995125677452011-08-09T17:40:00.001+01:002011-08-13T10:25:32.906+01:00A black arm band for London Riots<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYWYG7RoYdo/TkFap6sOpXI/AAAAAAAAAWI/V5gdoX6l24M/s1600/3002611228_e1c33cdd6a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sYWYG7RoYdo/TkFap6sOpXI/AAAAAAAAAWI/V5gdoX6l24M/s1600/3002611228_e1c33cdd6a_b.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do not forget the lives lost of those who fought so that peace may be restored.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="quotes1">Our lives begin to end<br />
the minute we become silent<br />
about things that matter.</span><br />
<span class="quotesauthor">- Martin Luther King </span></i> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>My dear friends, as much as I'd like to carry on with my life, a few thousand miles away from the place I call home, England is currently in deep trouble.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">The London Riots which started as a peaceful protest for a man shot by the police a couple of days ago are now simply full-blown. Utter chaos and random looting are sweeping across cities of Britain. And whilst the mobs destroy innocent lives and buildings, police, fire and emergency services are working overtime to contain this nonsense violence. I've just watched a video of a young man nursing a nose-bleed when another man approached him, purportedly to help, then opened the injured's rucksack and helped himself with the contents. Absolutely disgusting. </div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">I'm all for demonstrations and all that (I was young once) but I prefer peaceful ones and to set fire on other people's small businesses and steal their properties in these economically hard times is a complete disrespect for human rights. End of. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having a retail shop doesn't mean the owner is rich. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's disappointing to realise that Britain and the Commonwealth's triumph during the two World Wars has now gone to waste. We're supposed to be acknowledging courageous efforts of both surviving and fallen civilians and soldiers when they fought to stop tyranny so that the future generations may have democracy, peace and wealth. And now, we're in complete decline. </div><br />
As much as I'd like to pretend everything is OK, I can't ignore this unrest. As my protest against the senseless riots, I'm taking a few days off blogging and I'm hoping that this horrendous situation that's gripping the country will soon be resolved.<br />
<br />
Keep safe, everyone.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Photo: Flickr by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cataniamichele/3002611228/sizes/l/in/photostream/">Michele Catania</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-9772868353969713692011-08-06T12:00:00.002+01:002011-08-08T12:28:11.402+01:00Eye Scandi<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vbxwEk9gvQ0/TjvbaDc-kbI/AAAAAAAAAVc/YxoacoGvJhY/s1600/Linea-Studio-6-541x444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="327" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vbxwEk9gvQ0/TjvbaDc-kbI/AAAAAAAAAVc/YxoacoGvJhY/s400/Linea-Studio-6-541x444.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Art + Design = Scandi sweetness</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Happy Saturday, everyone!<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">For quite sometime I used to buy and sell mid-20th century furniture. About four years ago, I realised vintage design has finally gone viral. I knew then it was truly thriving and will do so for a long time. I hope.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Amongst my collection, Scandinavian pieces are always popular, just after Americana. I believe it's because they are organic, useful, and radiates unparalleled elegance and simplicity.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tlUb-FbGJXY/TjvmzC7w-oI/AAAAAAAAAV0/t_Y0RKh8Qwo/s1600/kathryntyler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tlUb-FbGJXY/TjvmzC7w-oI/AAAAAAAAAV0/t_Y0RKh8Qwo/s400/kathryntyler.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathryn Tyler's kitchen </td></tr>
</tbody></table>❤ Furniture <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Last week, I sent an email to Kathryn Tyler, a young interior designer whose Falmouth home was featured a year ago on Channel 4's Grand Designs. Originally, I was going to ask her a few questions as part of my blog Q & A. She replied to my email immediately but politely declined because she's been constantly subjected to similar things, presumably as an aftermath of her TV appearance. Nonetheless, she was happy for me to have her home photos shown here.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZehX2KQQCko/TjvpOpLVIJI/AAAAAAAAAV4/znUBv-GmfWk/s1600/images-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZehX2KQQCko/TjvpOpLVIJI/AAAAAAAAAV4/znUBv-GmfWk/s400/images-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathryn's Corkellis House </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">Kathryn's house — which she designed herself and project-managed — exudes magnificent sense of space, fluidity, and freshness. Thanks to her understated aesthetic ideals and her choice of Scandinavian furniture. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzIOHQxu67o/Tjvl_9XYezI/AAAAAAAAAVw/1WoRPzRhda4/s1600/Acne-Resort-2012-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzIOHQxu67o/Tjvl_9XYezI/AAAAAAAAAVw/1WoRPzRhda4/s400/Acne-Resort-2012-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sweden's Acne Resort Collection 2012 via <a href="http://blogg.flingly.com/flingly/acne-resort-2012-collection/">blogg.flingly.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">❤ Clothing</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When it comes to fashion, Scandinavian designs are now getting more noticed. With their history of producing high-quality textiles, it's no surprise that the next logical step is to create clothing designs that are well-researched, well-constructed as influenced by their love of architecture, and are affordable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-01yGQs7aXxw/Tjwwh1TAsTI/AAAAAAAAAV8/7UedwqyTwI0/s1600/SS111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-01yGQs7aXxw/Tjwwh1TAsTI/AAAAAAAAAV8/7UedwqyTwI0/s1600/SS111.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finnish brand Marimekko SS11 via <a href="http://www.2pintaa.com/2011/05/marimekko.html">2pintaa.com</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.marimekko.com/products/clothes">Marimekko</a> has been one of the leading textile companies since the 1950s in Europe and now that vintage is back, they're stronger than ever. Spots, stripes, and big flowery pot prints are their trademark and they've never stopped re-inventing them. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qbVqctFX_AA/Tj0Pb1YLNNI/AAAAAAAAAWE/kYSroLNH3GY/s1600/copenaghen-fashion-week-ss2011_784x0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qbVqctFX_AA/Tj0Pb1YLNNI/AAAAAAAAAWE/kYSroLNH3GY/s640/copenaghen-fashion-week-ss2011_784x0.jpg" width="634" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://www.vogue.it/en/shows/fashion-daily-reports/2010/08/copenaghen-fashion-week"><i>Vogue.it</i></a>, <i>Black Noir, Henrik Vibskov, Moonspoon Saloon, Peter Jensen, Vilsbøl de Arce, Wood Wood</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
From furniture to clothes, Scandinavian design is true to its roots - minimalistic yet sophisticated, luxurious yet functional, and ethical (as in not a 'rip-off' like most fashion brands we see globally).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I personally would wear any Scandinavian clothing, anytime.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">How about you, any thoughts on Scandinavian designs? Are you a proud owner of their clothing lines or using their furniture in your lovely home? I'd love to hear from you.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Credit:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://jobingco.com/">Jobingco.com</a> for Kathryn Tyler's house </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://linea-studio.co.uk/">Linea-Studio.co.uk</a> Kathryn's design studio</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-10966181188585330482011-07-29T23:51:00.001+01:002011-08-02T12:28:42.398+01:00Summer 2011: Why Nautical is Here to Stay<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lF1k8JDw0_4/TjKXaBmjJnI/AAAAAAAAAUM/RwN6HFtpY8s/s1600/YSL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="380" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lF1k8JDw0_4/TjKXaBmjJnI/AAAAAAAAAUM/RwN6HFtpY8s/s640/YSL.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">YSL Resort 2012, Image from <a href="http://clothingbrands24.com/fashion-news/designers-are-going-in-for-resort-collections.html">Clothingbrands24.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Ahoy there, my hearties!<br />
Hope your Friday is smooth-sailing. <br />
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</div>A good friend recently asked if I still sell nautical-themed items. She said she remembered the sailor shift dresses and red anchor cushions in my Leeds and Harrogate shops. It triggered happy memories for they were my best-selling stock in 2008- 2009. This reminiscence prompted her to ask why the nautical/sailor theme is still going. <br />
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Research yielded the following reasons:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">❤ Support for the Royal Navy</div>The Victorians and Edwardians were heartily supportive of the Royal Navy, which would travel to new undiscovered nations to extend the Empire.<br />
In 1846, 5-year-old Prince Albert (who would later become Edward VII) wore a custom-made sailor suit for use aboard the Royal yacht. He looked adorable and so started an unprecedented trend for the children of the middle and upper classes. The Edwardian era — also called 'The Age of Opulence' — was emblematised by the leisurely pastimes of affluent people. These included yachting, bathing and promenading. Railway, tram and bus services developed, many of which aimed at transporting the masses to seaside resorts. There was even a charitable organisation in London which organised trips to the beach for the poor. The sailor look never left the fashion scene. <br />
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</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t3HuXTfCI68/TjMXcIEmKgI/AAAAAAAAAUU/wc8es_R70tc/s1600/170px-AlbertEdward.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t3HuXTfCI68/TjMXcIEmKgI/AAAAAAAAAUU/wc8es_R70tc/s320/170px-AlbertEdward.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from Wkipedia of Prince Albert</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> ❤ Coco Chanel</div>In 1917, Coco Chanel took inspiration from Breton fishermen wearing stripy shirts. She was visiting Brittany at the time. Her relationship with the Duke of Westminster from the 1920s to 1930 brought her into frequent contact with the yachting fraternity. Since then, the loose trousers and stripy shirt has become Chanel's trademark look.<br />
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</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GtYJXtVoU4/TjMXlwdDA0I/AAAAAAAAAUY/dpgDQ53d0OQ/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="438" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5GtYJXtVoU4/TjMXlwdDA0I/AAAAAAAAAUY/dpgDQ53d0OQ/s640/9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenzo 2006 Nautical Collection</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">❤ YSL, Kenzo, Vivienne Westwood & Adam Ant</div>Yves Saint Laurent introduced a naval collar and reefer jacket in his catwalk show of 1962. <br />
Later, Paris-based Kenzo adapted the reefer jacket in the late 1970s and in 2006, Kenzo's catwalk under Antonio Marra made a sensational comeback. In 1980s England, Vivienne Westwood created the pirate look and English musician Adam Ant wore naval-inspired costumes.<br />
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</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ckJtiEH8ec4/TjMYwcvLpAI/AAAAAAAAAUg/lc0cfkoL3D8/s1600/images-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ckJtiEH8ec4/TjMYwcvLpAI/AAAAAAAAAUg/lc0cfkoL3D8/s320/images-7.jpg" width="264" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adam Ant via <a href="http://adam-ant.net/">adam-ant.net</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">❤ That breezy, care-free feeling</div>The nautical look never came from high fashion. Its roots were adapted by fashion houses simply because of the assured calm and lightness that it evokes. And from a business of point of view, translating it to daily wear for ordinary folks like us has never been easier because there's not much to modify. People simply love the nautical look because it projects the ambience of relaxing seaside holidays. And who doesn't want to be on the beach?<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLHHkxa_2YU/TjMvbmNpDTI/AAAAAAAAAUk/7YVzTvMyMHE/s1600/nautical.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLHHkxa_2YU/TjMvbmNpDTI/AAAAAAAAAUk/7YVzTvMyMHE/s640/nautical.jpg" width="444" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer 2011 Photoshop by yours truly. View my <a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011/04/spring-2011.html">Spring 2011</a> here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">How about you? Are you feeling sea-sick that nautical is still on trend? </div>Love it? Loathe it? I'd like to hear your thoughts. <br />
Thanks for reading!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Vintage Dress (sold), <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MsZinski?section_id=10011563">Ms Zinski on Etsy</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Scarf, <a href="http://www.scarfworld.com/online_store/blue-square-satin-scarf-sailor-stripe.cfm">scarfworld.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bedroom, <a href="http://squidoo.com/">squidoo.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Chanel bag, <a href="http://littlekyan.blogspot.com/">littlekyan.blogspot.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Red aviators, <a href="http://10dollarmall.com/">10dollarmall.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Shoe, <a href="http://shoeperwoman.com/">shoeperwoman.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cushions,<a href="http://homesandbargains.co.uk/"> homesandbargains.co.uk</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>References:<br />
<a href="http://wikipedia.co.uk/">Wikipedia.co.uk</a><br />
<a href="http://edwardianpromenade.com/amusements/summer-at-the-beach/">edwardianpromenade.com</a><br />
<a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-468691/Hello-sailor-Why-nautical-fashion-floats-boat.html">dailymail.co.uk</a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-42725948269797829472011-07-27T01:52:00.005+01:002011-07-28T14:57:47.869+01:00Hot Stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hello my lovelies!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I hope everyone's enjoying the heat. Time flies and soon it will be autumn so I'm hoping you're all having fun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This post is for <a href="http://heartifb.com/2011/07/22/ifb-project-6-heat-waves/">IFB Project no. 6</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">I hope you like it.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6yksm6Ftz8/Ti85tdWWuqI/AAAAAAAAATg/8dhu-Zmcjfw/s1600/EndlessSummer3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6yksm6Ftz8/Ti85tdWWuqI/AAAAAAAAATg/8dhu-Zmcjfw/s640/EndlessSummer3.jpg" width="406" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With apologies to surfer and artist John Van Hamersveld, the original creator of The Endless Summer movie poster</td></tr>
</tbody></table>❤ No surf? No problem.<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">All the resorts are packed with tourists wanting to bake themselves tan. Bars and cafés are full. So, I was on the cycle path with my daughter — she documenting our little escapade with an old digicam, I yelling "go! go! go!" — praising her elegant balance on her board and her remarkable fearlessness.</div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dXX0CelBUQk/Ti9ZXNcf0RI/AAAAAAAAATw/tFzvFNNklTY/s1600/joylongboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dXX0CelBUQk/Ti9ZXNcf0RI/AAAAAAAAATw/tFzvFNNklTY/s640/joylongboard.jpg" width="442" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eyewear Headworx, Board Sector 9, Bambi Shirt ASOS, Denim Alex Drake Vintage, Canvas Shoes Alex Drake Vintage </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9fI7YzZZ4wk/Ti9qxkuWfRI/AAAAAAAAAUA/NwHVQ370Aqw/s1600/Picnik+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9fI7YzZZ4wk/Ti9qxkuWfRI/AAAAAAAAAUA/NwHVQ370Aqw/s400/Picnik+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photos by Olivia, 6 years old</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">❤ Dawn swim? Well, not quite.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Getting ready to get in the water before the throng of grockles arrive.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">You wont be in anybody's way, and you can practice your solo synchronised swimming techniques (yes apparently there is such a thing as solo synchronised swimming).<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ReUs9UckRw/TjBc22QAiVI/AAAAAAAAAUE/vC2YjV9t1pA/s1600/joy+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ReUs9UckRw/TjBc22QAiVI/AAAAAAAAAUE/vC2YjV9t1pA/s640/joy+photo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>❤ Gelato: The ultimate refreshment<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbRhkeyFaDM/Ti9Rpuq0AOI/AAAAAAAAATs/xfC0AB7XjLA/s1600/gelaticones.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbRhkeyFaDM/Ti9Rpuq0AOI/AAAAAAAAATs/xfC0AB7XjLA/s400/gelaticones.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
We have a few more weeks before we go back to our beloved old Blighty so I'm mostly soaking up the heat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bee2D5FJeP8/Ti9bCrGRR9I/AAAAAAAAAT4/1cQG30LIWn0/s1600/joy_pinkflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bee2D5FJeP8/Ti9bCrGRR9I/AAAAAAAAAT4/1cQG30LIWn0/s640/joy_pinkflowers.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>How about you? How's your summer going so far? Any stunning photos to share?<br />
Thanks for reading and do keep in touch!<br />
<br />
Joy x<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Photo credits:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://thecreativepath-redssr.blogspot.com/2010_10_24_archive.html">The Creative Path Blog</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
</div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-39450626232196601842011-07-22T18:51:00.001+01:002011-07-22T19:53:01.421+01:00Unforgettable Visual TreatsHow's it going, my creative readers?<br />
<br />
Here are some astounding adverts and typography I've come across whilst waiting for some inspiration to zap my brain into writing mode.<br />
Enjoy...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BoicNrk3s3s/TimfoJ3AWZI/AAAAAAAAASE/YC7mc6se4h8/s640/australia-post.jpg" width="444" /></div><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;">Snail mail, anyone? I miss that familiar thrill of surprise and anticipation that comes with everything in the post. Remember IYS (International Youth Service)? Happy memories.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MEY-2Edrbmw/Timn28OgqkI/AAAAAAAAATU/7Olvu0UP9UQ/s1600/ZU-Shoes-1o2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MEY-2Edrbmw/Timn28OgqkI/AAAAAAAAATU/7Olvu0UP9UQ/s640/ZU-Shoes-1o2.jpg" width="472" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Do it for yourself, not for anybody else. Need I say more?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Weyxkj2ARqY/Timnxub9c1I/AAAAAAAAATM/fR3AfKX932U/s1600/print-ads-typography-13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Weyxkj2ARqY/Timnxub9c1I/AAAAAAAAATM/fR3AfKX932U/s640/print-ads-typography-13.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> I'd like to think it's nice to have both, especially if you're a guy.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_bRIN6Ddws/TimnwFZ3NrI/AAAAAAAAATE/KVsgwFu2LMA/s1600/porsche01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_bRIN6Ddws/TimnwFZ3NrI/AAAAAAAAATE/KVsgwFu2LMA/s640/porsche01.jpg" width="456" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Speed kills, indeed. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TNmiieHluyw/Timno29UUcI/AAAAAAAAAS0/PGvx6Ir1B8c/s1600/interesting-advertisement-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TNmiieHluyw/Timno29UUcI/AAAAAAAAAS0/PGvx6Ir1B8c/s640/interesting-advertisement-19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">For those considering a degree.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzQnjCrQwDs/Timn2HOfKqI/AAAAAAAAATQ/cKZVOjSL5kQ/s1600/Typographic_Portrait_by_staceygrove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzQnjCrQwDs/Timn2HOfKqI/AAAAAAAAATQ/cKZVOjSL5kQ/s640/Typographic_Portrait_by_staceygrove.jpg" width="578" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">How clever is this?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bdr6AONTOsQ/TimnuP5uJmI/AAAAAAAAATA/ahJ38tmq9f8/s1600/Mahatma_Gandhi_in_Type_by_Dencii.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="451" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bdr6AONTOsQ/TimnuP5uJmI/AAAAAAAAATA/ahJ38tmq9f8/s640/Mahatma_Gandhi_in_Type_by_Dencii.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My favorite typography so far.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysV0wx2G4o8/Timnn2skuQI/AAAAAAAAASs/3btI00JKRIY/s1600/eurostar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ysV0wx2G4o8/Timnn2skuQI/AAAAAAAAASs/3btI00JKRIY/s640/eurostar.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">For that fruitful weekend.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9hHPT2iHaBw/TinFqnfUnSI/AAAAAAAAATY/jL0Kx-tv2DA/s1600/05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9hHPT2iHaBw/TinFqnfUnSI/AAAAAAAAATY/jL0Kx-tv2DA/s640/05.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>Nurture our one and only planet.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ff9ej15rTaY/Timnww8QDgI/AAAAAAAAATI/-sPqRIUxKbU/s1600/print-ads-typography-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ff9ej15rTaY/Timnww8QDgI/AAAAAAAAATI/-sPqRIUxKbU/s640/print-ads-typography-12.jpg" width="412" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And don't we know it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Blogging is a tool to share one's creativity and unique voice</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">in order to help create a more interesting world. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Stop that "my-fashion-blog-is-better-than-yours-so-I-won't-follow-you" already. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now is the time to communicate, collaborate and celebrate</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">21st century media.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Won't you join me?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Thanks for reading.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Photo credits:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://hongkiat.com/">hongkiat.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://noupe.com/">noupe.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-136614845718684854.post-60427547385202474762011-07-19T14:08:00.030+01:002011-07-21T19:29:23.104+01:00In the Hood<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy Tuesday, everyone!
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This is my contribution for the <a href="http://heartifb.com/2011/07/15/ifb-project-5/">IFB Project no. 5</a> - finding inspiration in one's neighbourhood, which is now included in the round-up. Thanks for all your wonderful feedback.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>“Your next-door neighbour is not a man; he is an environment. He is the barking of a dog; he is the noise of a pianola; he is a dispute about a party wall; he is drains that are worse than yours, or roses that are better than yours.” </i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>- GK Chesterton</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vHpnEnefGxc/TiSgQCeKl0I/AAAAAAAAARU/acrCYgpvgHM/s1600/polo+bouy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vHpnEnefGxc/TiSgQCeKl0I/AAAAAAAAARU/acrCYgpvgHM/s640/polo+bouy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Alex Drake Vintage Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The beach beckons... let go of everything. Quietude, repose — all in the balmy breeze. Breathe in...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOiDrOWy_WQ/TiSo5sFWubI/AAAAAAAAARk/WyyLlke8ewo/s1600/joy_rainbow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SOiDrOWy_WQ/TiSo5sFWubI/AAAAAAAAARk/WyyLlke8ewo/s640/joy_rainbow.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Alex Drake Vintage Photography</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div>This is where dreams are made... believe and they'll come true.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ttCJXpR3wxc/TiV9-6wIHrI/AAAAAAAAAR8/6iTvL-paCqU/s1600/pink+pigeon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ttCJXpR3wxc/TiV9-6wIHrI/AAAAAAAAAR8/6iTvL-paCqU/s640/pink+pigeon.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Alex Drake Vintage Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>We are all surrounded with good things.</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3XApu6GQbw/TiVuSirZ_bI/AAAAAAAAAR0/dmmTTVLw4U4/s1600/joy_fiat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--3XApu6GQbw/TiVuSirZ_bI/AAAAAAAAAR0/dmmTTVLw4U4/s640/joy_fiat.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Alex Drake Vintage Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>Happiness is evident everywhere... even in little things.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSc0yQvT55I/TiSpDUThs5I/AAAAAAAAARs/B2dqkwTvcVU/s1600/Message+in+a+bottle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSc0yQvT55I/TiSpDUThs5I/AAAAAAAAARs/B2dqkwTvcVU/s640/Message+in+a+bottle.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Alex Drake Vintage Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Spread the word... let's all link in and share the love.<br />
Keep in touch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aFXf7RydZ4s/TiWFsIRXkTI/AAAAAAAAASA/q0ZSsdrpEj8/s1600/Picnik+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="322" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aFXf7RydZ4s/TiWFsIRXkTI/AAAAAAAAASA/q0ZSsdrpEj8/s640/Picnik+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Alex Drake Vintage Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;">These are our exceptional neighbours Ippocampo and La Bussola. Once, my husband broke our only bottle of wine for dinner. Shops were shut in the night, so I headed down to Ippocampo and came out with an unopened Vino Frizzante. Last week, we ran out of milk, again, in the night. I went to La Bussola and having told them of our problem, the owner sent me home with a carton of milk. Both neighbours refused to take my payment. Perhaps to get rid of me. Nevertheless, I feel I've integrated into the usually insular Italian community where we're currently based. Being friendly usually helps. I guess they like that I try so hard to converse, even in my broken Italian.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JZ1UqkpJaFQ/TiVw-QIk_aI/AAAAAAAAAR4/Qrj99D3NeHc/s1600/joy_sailboat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JZ1UqkpJaFQ/TiVw-QIk_aI/AAAAAAAAAR4/Qrj99D3NeHc/s640/joy_sailboat.jpg" width="550" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">© Alex Drake Vintage Photography (photo appeared <a href="http://alexdrakevintage.blogspot.com/2011_05_01_archive.html">here</a>)</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Hope you're all having a nice day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">❤❤❤</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"></div></div></div>Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13139525044888275072noreply@blogger.com16