I want to ride my bicycle...

I'm really smitten. I've just been given this lovely old Halfords Gemini 44 bicycle and love it. I've been wanting a bike all summer for Brighton is quite perfect for cycling. We are blessed to have the promenade, under cliff path many cycle lanes around the city and The Downs so near.  I'm not really a fan of your usual high-tec mountain bike and when this was offered to me I couldn't believe my luck!  It was perfect for me! 

I haven't been able to take it out for a test ride yet as the tyres need pumping and the back brake isn't working. I didn't seem to think it was a problem cycling with a broken back brake but Mr D has  advised this is not a good idea especially if you are going down hill. And there are many hills in Brighton! Even though it has some minor problems... I love the fact that it is a bit rusty and not very modern. Especially love the original white bike bag on the back and the addition of a 'I love dachshunds' sticker from a previous owner. Just need a dachshund to go with it now (hint, hint Mr D)

It needs a little TLC but I think I'm the lady to give it a new lease of life. The question is how much of a new lease of life do I give it? I will definitely give it a good old MOT but Mr D thinks I should give it a new lick of paint. Should I?  Or would that be sacrilege? I love the fact the labelling for Gemini 44 is a bit worn away and faded. Would painting it take away its character?

Hmmm....

Any ho, all opinions welcome!

Jennie x

It's competition time!

The Vintage Owl team have put together our first competition! We have a fabulous vintage goody bag up for grabs for one lucky follower. You will win a vintage ceramic owl, tea-cup pin cushion, straw hat fascinator, £10 off your next purchase, necklace and a vintage copy of The Three Musketeers from Dunn & Sons.

For your chance to win all you need to do is to like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter. You will then need to tweet the following message "RT and follow @VintageOwl on Twitter & Facebook to #win goody bag http://bit.ly/mPgdmF #giveaway". You will then be entered into a prize draw which will be held on Friday 26th August (after 6pm). The winner will then be contacted so please check your private messages on Facebook and Twitter.

Good luck and here are some piccys of what you can win!

 

The woodland creatures come out to play...

I was very lucky to experience a very enchanting and magical festival in Tunbridge Wells over the weekend, due to a competition held by Don't Panic. I only found out I had won a couple of days before Playgroup Festival was to occur and there was lots to organise. Plus I am not very good at last minute preparation. Especially when it involved putting together a fancy dress outfit that had to consist either of a stag, owl, fox, toad, mouse, wasp, hare or badger. I got very excited when I saw I could dress up as our favourite feathered friend, the owl! With only 2 nights to organise I had to put my thinking cap on and decided to make a top which had layers of feathered shaped fabric. I was also very lucky to already own an owl masquerade mask. Outfit sorted. Just need to pack!

Unfortunately I had to work on the Friday and my only mode of transport was to catch the Big Lemon Bus from Hector's House after work. Unfortunately my dear husband was unable to join me but it didn't take long for me to find a friend to come along. The lovely HoBoJoBo was keen and willing and before we knew it we were on the 7:30pm bus to Elridge Park. We both had never travelled to a festival by public transport and I have to say it was a very pleasant experience. Not only was it only £13 return (bargaino!),we were soon getting into the festival spirit and chatting to other excited festival goers. It only took 1 hour to get there and didn't take long to put our tent up and get ready to go for a wonder and find food. I have to say I'm pretty proud of our efforts in erecting our tent up, seeing that we had to do it in the dark and both of us had forgotten to bring torches... ooops!

For that first night HoBoJoBo and I was just wondering in a daze and sapping up the magical energy. There were lots of nooks and crannys to explore and people had really made an effort with the dress code. It only made me wish I had more time on my outfit but was pleased when people automatically recognised me as an owl. Hoot Hoot! 

'Suck My Rock' free photo booth

 The food was certainly scrumptious and not a burger van in sight. You could choose from stone baked pizzas, local sausages, Caribbean Jerk Chicken and comforting Japanese noodles. All at reasonable prices! The Granny Cafe was also an experience not to forget, where you could get hot beverages and cake served by the wonderful Granny Team.

Granny Cafe

There was some truly fantastic things to see and do. Lots of different types of music from local bands giving a good choice to choose from. To be honest I didn't really think it was a festival that you went to for the music, but to be creative, interactive and to be part of something magical.  I did however discover new bands and DJs and was very smitten that we got to see Quantic on the Saturday night. I felt very spoilt having been treated to a 2 hour set! 

Wonderful owl costume. The homemade ones were definitely the best!

The main stage on a Sunday afternoon. What a beautiful day!

Picture frames hanging from a tree

Next vintage fair....

 
We will be at the fabulous Always Uncommon Pop-up Market this Sunday!

Please come to visit us! I will be there with our beautiful on-trend vintage clothes and Cassie will be there selling her re-worked collection, Champamalini.

There will also be fabulous music from Meerkuts and lots of jumping and jiving from the wonderful people at Brighton Jive! 

Meerkuts is a dear friend of ours and last year he made a fabulous mix for 

Vintage Owl Boutique.If you haven't heard it already you can find it here.

Sewing with Gretchen Hirsch...

I am very very excited! I have just signed up for an online sewing course with Gretchen Hirsch to make a retro inspired Bombshell Dress.  I love sewing but wish I could be better. My business partner, Cassie, is just amazing at it and long to be as good as her. I have always wanted to do a dressmaking course but have never had the time or money but this morning I came across this online course by Gretchen Hirsch and I thought, 'Why not?!'. It was 1/2 price and only had to pay about £20.  Bargain! And what is even more perfect? I can take as long as I want with it!

By the end of it I should have made an amazing dress like this.....

                                                                                                      ...... Love love love it!

I will be blogging about the course as I do it and hopefully I will have a dress that will look as beautiful and fitted as the one in the picture above. If you would also like to sign up for this course, click here.

Any ho.... keep your fingers crossed for me!

Image taken from Gretchen Hirsch's blog

ASOS Marketplace

Vintage Owl Boutique are launching a boutique with ASOS Marketplace this Friday. We have lots of new things happening and not only will we be having our usual vintage range, we will also be launching a new reworked range, Champamalini,  and unique jewelery from, Thread Army. 

Here are some piccys to get your taste buds going!

Vintage Owl 

Vintage Owl Boutique have been busy bees searching and gathering unique vintage items to sell on ASOS marketplace. We have a fabulous collection to share with you on Friday that I think you will love and adore! 

Vintage Summer Cardi & Floral Blouse

Vintage Denim Jumpsuit

Champamalini

Champamalini is a Sanskrit name meaning 'She who wears a garland of champa flowers'. The champa flower is a wonderfully fragrant and exquisite flower that grows on the champak tree of India. 

The Champamalini range is a little collection of customised vintage clothes designed with the wearer in mind. They are delightful handpicked pieces with something special added just like a flower garland! Champamalini will also be launching a 'ready to wear' collection later in the year based on the designs of the 30s, 40s and 50s. Champamalini also offers a unique dressmaking and alterations service so you can get the vintage look tailor-made especially for you! Please contact us for more information. We would love to hear from you! 

Thread Army

Thread Army is Rebecca Ridgers. Bex quit the corporate treadmill to become a full-time Mum and all round better person. Whilst being at home she found she had time to explore her creative side to set forth in discovering the wonderful world of crochet. Whilst happy making large patterned and boldly coloured pieces, she found more satisfaction in making smaller and smaller crocheted items and eventually settled on a very individual style of micro crochet using tiny needles. These pieces of crocheted jewelry are unique and lovingly crafted in the fabulous city of Brighton.

Crocheted Red Bird Necklace by Thread Army

Crocheted Dog Necklace by Thread Army

Your vintage home in print...

Jo-Ann Fortune, from Vintage Brighton, and Mat Keller, from Southern Retro, have joined forces and are creating a coffee-table book on vintage interiors in Brighton and are looking for people to share their time warped homes. 

Are you interested or do you know someone who would be perfect ? 
Contact Jo-Ann at vintagebrighton@gmail.com for more details!

Kate Moss' Wedding Dress....

 

 

Fashion icon, Kate Moss, got married over the weekend to The Kill's guitarist, Jamie Hince. It was a 3 day event which included a mini festival, MossStock, with performances from Beth Ditto, Snoop Dog, Shirley Bassey, Iggy Pop and Bryan Ferry. 

I was on tender hooks to find out what Moss would be wearing as her wedding dress and was pleased to find out it was a vintage inspired dress by John Galliano. On first sight I thought it looked a little understated (maybe the Royal Wedding had got to my head a bit too much) but on further inspection I noticed there was beautiful gold detail in the trail and veil which goes perfectly with Moss' bohemian look. Moss also wore Manolo Blahnik heels which had a hidden something blue and her Maid of Honour's dress was designed by Stella McCartney. The groom was also looking fabulous in a custom grey suit by Stefano Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent making Moss and Hince a very good looking newly married couple.

The bridesmaids looked fabulous and carried on the bohemian look especially with their hair accessorised with flower head bands. These are very on trend at the moment and they go well with "MossStock" as I saw these every where at Glastonbury.

What do you think of Kate Moss' dress? I definitely think it is one that grows on you more and more.

Images courtesy of Neil Mockfeld/FilmMagic and Indigo/Getty Images 

BFW: Couture Show

On June 3rd BFW opened their doors once more for the Couture show. There was certainly a lot more hustle and bustle in the candle lit church and we were treated to some live music from a trio of musicians. A DJ laid down some housey-housey beats whilst a violinist added a classical tone, and a soulful singer added accompanying melodies and vocals. It was an interesting and eclectic blend of styles that actually made the audience think about what they were hearing. On the back wall of the church you could see shadows of the models and designers, all back stage getting ready for the first collection of the evening. It was great to see this; it added a sense of excitement and anticipation that was only present towards the end of the previous nights show.

Tim Rhys-Evans

As soon as I was settled in my seat we were graced with the presence of Tim Rhys-Evans’ all black collection. He had taken the Elizabethan neck ruffle and added a modern twist. The detail was focused on the upper body and new necklines gave the models a powerful and statuesque look. This is a look I would definitely love to see more of.

Tijana & Mila Popovic - Fairies from the Heart of the Forest

The collection by Serbian design duo, Tijana and Mila Popovic, was a contrasting difference from Tim Rhys Evans gothic collection. ‘Fairies from the Heart of the Forest’ was a very delicate and romantic white collection with only the flashes of lime green eye make-up for colour. Queen Adreena’s Pretty Polly echoed around the church adding to the dreamy atmosphere. I found myself instantly thinking “I want one of these dresses!” Lace has been quite a big trend this season and they had used beautifully crocheted detailing in their dresses. Some of the models were even wearing handmade crocheted lace as head-wear that slightly came over the eyes. 

Studio 805
 

We were then treated to the only menswear couture collection of the night from Studio_805. The models walked down the catwalk in quite a menacing manner with Mickey Mouse style ears and garments that reflected quite a dark theme. The garments were in black and white and had quite a strong sportswear / S&M look.

Hayley Lai

Hayley Lai took inspiration from Star Wars for her BFW collection. Her garments had dimensional, futuristic, geometrical shapes. Hayley Lai had also stated that Katy Perry and Kanye West’s music video "ET" was also an inspiration to her in terms of styling. 

Masato

The Masato collection was amazing and the more I look at it the more I fall in love with it. It was incredibly stylish with 1940s and 1950s tailoring in beautiful warm tones.

Millie Betito

Millie Betito was certainly another gothic collection but her usage of soft knits and luxurious pleated fabrics was cleverly done so that it added an air of sophistication. Betito used similar techniques to origami to get layered ruffled effects, and I can tell you it worked! This girl has only graduated one year ago from Manchester Metropolitan University and if she is designing eye catching pieces like this now, I would definitely love to see what she will produce in the future.

Alexei Izmaylov

After all these fabulous collections so far tonight, Alexei Izmaylov, was the first to receive a standing ovation from the crowd. The usage of his Club 101 silk scarves was certainly a work of art. His abstract prints on structured dresses, styled with big romantic hair was truly wonderful.

Jess Eaton - Roadkill Couture

 

Next was the designer I had been waiting for all evening, showcasing her 'Roadkill Couture' collection. No one had an inkling of what Jess Eaton was going to produce for this year’s BFW until the day of the show. And I can tell you it was a jaw dropper and made you think about the ultimate nature of sustainability. Eaton had made items out of fur and bones from dead animals that died from natural causes, were bought over the counter at the butchers or even found dead on the side of the road. Beautiful hats from magpie wings and buffalo horn went well with her punk styling. Among her more unusual creations were a hat made from a fox’s head, a necklace made from rat skulls and a cape made from a Shire horses tail. Her application of feathers was the most striking thing of all, however, especially the dramatic array of pheasant and magpie feathers, which were styled with Prince of Wales check, Argyle or latex. Fabulous. Absolutely, truly fabulous.

Edward Finney

The Jess Eaton collection was the hardest act to follow. Edward Finney’s collection was a Parisian wonder, consisting of a black Edwardian dress that had a skirt with so many layers and ruffles that I was surprised that the model was able to move down the catwalk at all! Gorgeous! His finale for the night was a white dress that had purple ink spots dripping down the fabric. It was a great collection but it paled in comparison to the bizarrely beautiful work of Jess Eaton.

Here’s to BFW 2012. I wonder where they will go from here?

Images taken by Jennie Davies from Vintage Owl Boutique

Videos taken by Jo Bowden

(Please ask for permission if you would like to use any of the pics or vids)

BFW: Brighton Frocks Show

St Martin’s Church, Lewes Road. June 2011. The setting for Brighton Fashion Weeks’ Brighton Frocks and Couture Shows. This gorgeous, gothic setting was perfect for the designers to showcase their fabulous collections.

On Thursday 2^nd June Brighton Frocks took over the 19^th Century chapel for a show described as “a dramatic and visually astounding theatrical performance showcasing off the wall designer collections in an unconventional manner”, promising a dynamic, colourful and eclectic performance and fusion of styles and eras. I was intrigued to see how the designers and organisers of the show would do this and me-oh-my, they did not fail to disappoint!

 

Katie Newsam - Candied Taunt

Starting with Katie Newsam’s ‘Candied Taunt’ collection, models moved like statuesque broken dolls in brightly coloured clown like garments. Eerie circus music echoed through the cloisters to add to the tone. Newsam described her collection as “The sweet and the sinister! The evil that lurks behind the face paint”. I really admired how this collection was brought to life, despite my indescribable fear of clowns! I especially loved the looped geometric fabrics, along with big hair, accessorised with colourful mini top hats. 

Red Mutha - Mutha Vuggaz

Red Mutha was next with her “Mutha Vuggaz’ cut up collection. The use of sock monkeys as accessories was a touch of whimsical genius and the plain white logo on the back of black jackets looked as if Mickey Mouse was the bastard child of Noel Fielding and Vivien Westwood. It was good to see these local heroes of fashion up on the catwalk. Their 'cut and paste' trademark is a great way to be individual as every piece is unique and complete one-offs.

Natalie Wileman for Former Glory - Gone But Not Forgotten

Natalie Wileman for Former Glory’s re-worked vintage collection, ‘Gone But Not Forgotten’, paid homage to three of fashion’s iconic figures. Starting with a dedication to Gianni Versace, the models wore black and gold, 80s, Italian style, body-con dresses. This was followed by a selection inspired by the late Alexander McQueen, where the models lumbered like zombies down the catwalk. The final homage was to the recently controversial John Galliano, with models drunkenly shambling down the catwalk in beautiful ruffled Parisian style dresses. Each designer was introduced by news reports of their “deaths” in the fashion world.

Sarina Poppy - The Dream (Silent Movies)

This was quite a hard act to follow but Sarina Poppy’s collection, ‘Dreams’, took us by storm. Her models floated and danced in expertly crafted 1920s inspired dresses, drawing from silent movies, depicting a theme of timeless grace. Sepia tones were used throughout to add to this theme. The models carried a range of spectacular antique clocks, complimenting the flapper style dresses sublimely. To complete the outfits Ms. Poppy collaborated with theatrical milliner, Anushka Tay. I have a huge love for vintage so obviously this was one that was going to pull at my heartstrings. I think Sarina Poppy is absolutely amazing after seeing this. I couldn’t stop thinking about this collection all night. Definitely one to watch!

I.Am.Ralph - Who Needs a Superhero? Vs Will you be my Best Friend?

After a short interval we were offered a bold menswear collection from London based designer, I Am.Ralph. The designer stated, “It is inspired by all my favourite superheroes - Power Rangers, Superman, Spiderman, X–men, Pokemon - the list goes on!” This was translated to the catwalk as bright, bold and blocky colours, using reds, bright blues and greens, worn by skateboarding models ollie-ing onto the catwalk.

Bugsy Pants - Beside the Seaside

 The fun continued as Brighton-based, Bugsy Pants came out with their “build your own” range of swimwear called, Beside the Seaside. A very British collection with newspaper print fabrics and an almost 1940s feel. For the finale of the collection, two models strutted on the catwalk with William and Kate masks whilst wearing union jack swimwear.

 

Joy Williams - Hybrid Walkway

After this, Joy Williams overwhelmed us with her ultra sexy latex earth tone collection called ‘Hybrid Walkway’. The collection was amazing with some very clever embossing and embellishments. Very futuristic. It made me think what clothes would be like if they were designed by Lady Gaga and H.R Geiger. 

Briar-Rose Kelleher - Marie Antionette took DMT

Briar-Rose Kelleher then blasted us back into the 18^th century. The idea behind this collection was ‘what if Marie Antionette went to a free party and took DMT?’ The collection depicts the journey that Antionette would go on and demonstrated the different stages in which the drug affects her. The collection was full of bustles, lace and frills. Intense hardcore Gabba music added to the slightly trip-gone-wrong vibe! It was a truly breathtaking selection and brilliantly executed.

Secret Apple Yard - Charged Up

The night was ended with a visual treat from Secret Apple Yard who gave us a light show spectacular, infused with clothing and amazing visuals to match. The collection, called Charged Up, used cutting edge technology and LCD lights for a futuristic, neon dream. It was like Jean-Paul Gautier doing Tron!

I certainly left the church feeling quite excited. I'm looking forward to tomorrow night's Couture Show where Jez Eaton will be showing off her new collection. Eaton's collection at last years BFW: Trashion Show was quite spectacular and she impressed the audience with her dresses made out of Lidl bags and barbie dolls.

Images taken by Jennie Davies from Vintage Owl Boutique 
Image of Jez Eaton's Lidl dresses courtesy of  telegraph.co.uk
This article was also written for Pretty Litter Magazine

(Please ask for permission if you would like to use any of the pics)

Owl Corner

Gorgeous owl locket I bought at Judy's Affordable Vintage Fair on Sunday.

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.7

It's Vintage Owl's 1st Birthday!!

Twit twoo, twit twoo!!!

I am very proud to say that Vintage Owl Boutique is 1 year old today! One whirlwind year on and we have created our own online shop and have also been doing the circuits of vintage fairs around Brighton and Sussex. We have executed 2 highly successful photo-shoots and have featured in several publications, online and in print.

There are so many people that we need to thank for their continued support over the last 12 months. Our families; Molly, Felix, Pete, Alex, Mums, Dads, Sisters and Brothers. Our many friends; J & Jo, Katie & Carlo, Emer Gillespie, Beth Steddon, Kate Forester, Michelle Cooke, Tanja Stocklin, Panwad Maneetapho, Dave Pop & Jeremy, Gemma Wheatcroft, Choccywoccydoodah, Vintage Brighton, Roses All Over, Frock Me, The Vintage Fair, Jenny & Paul Banham and everyone else that's been there along the way - You Know Who You Are!! The past year would have been impossible to curate, organize and deal with were it not for your love and belief in what we're doing.

I am so excited about where we could be by this time next year.  Vintage Owl is evolving for the better. We will be embracing and expanding our homemade-handmade section and you will be able to witness some of this new collection at AOH Artists Open House in the month of May (watch this space for more info on that). Cassie is designing a new made-to-measure collection for those who like the vintage look but not the vintage sizes and has also started an alterations service  (call 07876128884 for more details or even just come and see us at one of our fairs).

We hope you have enjoyed the journey so far as much as we have. Thank you, for following us.

Much love and best wishes,

Jennie and Cassie.

Photo courtesy of Beth Steddon of Garage Studios.

Models - Michelle Cooke, Tanja Stocklin and Panwad Maneetapho
Stylists - Jennie Davies and Cassie Heighton

Make-up Artist - Gemma Wheatcroft

Hair - Alex Graham of Ciscos Karma

Cake courtesy of Choccywoccydoodah

Vintage china courtesy of Roses All Over

Can you keep a secret?

There are three ladies who share a secret. And if you’re lucky enough to be in the right place at the right time, or if you know the right people, they might just share it with you. Sneaking from place to place spreading the vintage and nearly new gospel, Secret Store is operated by JH, FW and HW. Three friends with an eye for fashion, a stash of quality stock and collectively, a gazillion tons of fashion knowledge.

 

For the past few years, they’ve been quietly masterminding a revolution in home shopping and styling. Vintage Owl caught up with these mysterious entrepreneurs after their most recent operation at an undisclosed location in old Bright Town. 

Well, Hove. Actually . . .

VO: What is Secret Store?

SS: Secret Store is currently an invite only event selling high end, high street womens clothing, like Jigsaw and Whistles as well as independent designers and vintage. We provide a space for women where they can have the shopping experience, enjoy a drink with friends and get beautiful well-priced clothes and accessories. 

VO: How did it start?

SS: We met when we were working for Jigsaw. After several years of accumulating lots of clothes we started small evening sales for potential clients, family and friends. Five years on, Secret Store has grown and grown with the help of word of mouth.

VO: Do you think people are becoming more eco-conscious when they are shopping?

SS: Yes, definitely! People are aware of how much money they are spending. In our case, they like to spend their money in a place where they can buy high quality in a nice environment.

VO: What else does Secret Store offer?

SS: All three of us also offer personal shopping and styling on a one to one basis. We also source items on a request basis so our guests can make up a wish list and we’ll find what they’re looking for.

VO: What will be Secret Store’s next step?

SS: Next step is a vintage emporium. It wouldn’t be secret though, we’d tell you where it is! We’re currently looking to set up shop in several locations around Brighton and Sussex. Watch this space!

VO: Would you continue the Secret Store home shopping events?

SS: Oh, of course. But don’t tell anyone!

VO: When is the next event?

SS: It will be in May, at a secret location somewhere in Haslemere! And then a high summer event back in Brighton.

VO: How can people find out about upcoming events?

SS: Well, if you know someone who knows someone, you might hear about us through word of mouth. Or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

VO: What garments are you currently coveting?

SS: I don’t particularly covet garments, but more looks. I currently love all of  YSL spring summer collection. I love the 70s look, high waist flares, high wedges. Mr Jacobs new collection – all those polka dots...I could go on...and on..!

VO: What’s your top tip for buying vintage?

SS: Search everywhere! You never know what will turn up. Where possible always try on, it is easier to see if there is anything wrong or any marks. Turn inside out and look at how it is sewn and finished, a good indication of quality. However, don’t dismiss if a little shabby as could be a homemade or a sample and therefore a one off!

Currently look out for 30s style dresses – so next season.

Secret Store Team

Solea Pumps £20

Jewellery designed by Nicci Bethnell

Mulberry Bag £120

All Saints leather shirt £50

Ralph Lauren blouse £40

Moschino belt

Chloé bag

Vera Newman scarves £10

Images taken by Jennie Davies and top image courtesy of Secret Store