tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10785433687453135292024-03-14T04:25:26.157+00:00Perdita's PursuitsQuirky West London Mama On A Budget.Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.comBlogger202125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-4547679369509526022017-05-05T12:22:00.001+01:002017-05-05T12:22:14.357+01:00Tinsel, Tat & Treasure: New BlogHi all<br />
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Thanks so much for all your support and readership over the years. As you may have noticed, due to changes in my lifestyle I've not had time to maintain Perdita's Pursuits.<br />
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I am in the process of transitioning to a new blog: it will cover all my usual topics, plus some more local and family posts. Posts will be short and sweet.<br />
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Please follow <a href="http://tinseltatandtreasure.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tinsel, Tat & Treasure</a> for all future posting.<br />
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Thanks again,<br />
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PerditaPerdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-73457981845326167782016-09-12T11:05:00.000+01:002016-09-12T11:05:07.476+01:00Five Pound GlamourLast weekend was my first night away from The Tiny Overlord*. Wah! She's growing up.<br />
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However it does represent a milestone in terms of life: a year of trying to balance a baby and work has changed into balancing a little girl and work. And as such, although it is busier in some ways, it is easier in others - she doesn't need mummeh milk in the night anymore, which means parenting can be shared more flexibly.<br />
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I'm hoping this will enable me to get back into vintage and thus blogging more regularly. This first night out was a 20s-30s themed night at <a href="http://www.harrysbarandrestaurant.co.uk/frinton/home/" target="_blank">Harry's Bar in Frinton</a>. It was really nice to catch up with an old friend, get thoroughly impressed/envious of her cottage home and chill by the seaside.<br />
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I wore a skirt and top which both together cost just £5! I bought it on <a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/en/" target="_blank">Everything Five Pounds</a>, a site I have blogged about before - it's brilliant because it sells old stock from well known shops (so not throwaway stuff, decent clothing) at just £5. The outfit - originally by Boohoo - is a gun metal lace with a pretty scalloped edge. It's lined throughout - it's very fitted and the skirt is nice and long, with a cropped top. This means it is easily adapted for a range of vintage inspired looks; by pulling up the skirt, you get a 60s-does-20s vibe with no midriff on show, or you can wear it as a crop top and maxi for a 90s style --yes I know that's far too young to count as retro-- or indeed break the items up (the skirt is a perfect 50s wiggle with a blouse, and the crop top would go well with velvet flares). It's practical too - machine washable at 30. I can foresee using this outfit a lot, from formal to relaxed nights out. Or rather, using it a bit because I'm hardly a party animal these days. Given that, I might team the skirt with smart knits for work and church!<br />
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The thing with bargains is, they aren't really bargains unless they are of good quality and wearable. This outfit ticked both boxes and I'm really pleased with it. Have you had any bargains recently?<br />
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*Did. Not. Care. Waved me a cheery hello like I'd popped out to Tesco.Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-12724509117710505152016-04-24T21:36:00.001+01:002016-04-24T21:37:50.540+01:00Perivale Wood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1CMLspGy_ak/Vx0uVPw3wHI/AAAAAAAABRE/fMCv692hFE0/s1600/20160424_131203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-1CMLspGy_ak/Vx0uVPw3wHI/AAAAAAAABRE/fMCv692hFE0/s640/20160424_131203.jpg"> </a> </div>Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-24773331705215572992016-02-18T20:44:00.001+00:002016-02-18T21:34:58.073+00:00Coffee In Ealing (1)<div dir="ltr">
Ealing Broadway has a host of places to enjoy a cheeky cuppa or up your caffeine. As well as all the usual chains (indeed two of most!) there are a host of small independent shops to choose from. Although it is most economical to bring your own coffee and enjoy it in the wonderfully re - landscaped Walpole Park, a coffee is a deserved little treat many of us enjoy on a busy day. <br />
I'm going to start with two down to earth coffee shops selling great quality drinks and food: Artisan Coffee and Electric Coffee. Both are stop offs of choice for me and much preferred to your usual Costas etc.</div>
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<b>Artisan</b> <b>Coffee</b></div>
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The vibe here is quirky and artistic with coffee workshops taking place regularly in the back area. The coffee is excellent: the owners use to grow coffee so are real experts in the field. Their food is also great - particularly the cakes which are less sickly sweet that elsewhere.<br />
There is plenty of seating and toilets are accessible to those with mobility needs and/or young babies.<br />
Very family friendly, but equally a haunt of those quietly getting on with some work on the free wifi. </div>
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<b>Electric</b> <b>Coffee</b></div>
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Again, really excellent coffee here. The interior is more pared back and minimalist than Artisan, with tiles and retro wooden chairs. Coffee is well presented (for example Lattes come in a bistro style glass) and the food is of course hand made from premium ingredients. I had a bacon and cheese bagel and it was suberb.<br />
Electric coffee is very friendly for families, with high chairs etc. Unfortunately I couldn't find an accessible toilet or baby change, although there is a toilet for customer use. However during the day it's more a pit stop and relatively close to the Broadway Centre which has recently refurbished facilities including a fully accessible toilet with hoist etc.<br />
As an added bonus, Electric is licenced in the evenings and serves craft beers, wine and cheese boards. </div>
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My next installment will focus on that faithful friend of the cuppa, the slice of cake ... There are several award winning patisseries in Ealing, and the new Polish restaurant Sowa is making waves too ... watch this space and do let me know where your favourite spot for coffee is!</div>
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Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-76744779836653260242015-04-18T21:05:00.001+01:002015-04-18T21:05:56.550+01:00Hello Again!Well I'm back blogging after a bit of a break. I can't promise posts will be daily - or even weekly, but I'm going to do my best to continue in the shoddy vein of stingy lifestyle that you know and love*.<br />
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Don't worry. I'm not going to start a "mummy blog". I could tell you (in a simpering tone) that this is because I can't write with the sharp good humour of <a href="http://www.eehbahmum.com/toddler-hats/" target="_blank">Eeh Bah Mum</a> or <a href="http://hurrahforgin.com/2014/04/19/before-life-gets-a-little-serious/" target="_blank">Hurrah For Gin</a> but actually it is because this would mean starting from scratch and thinking up new ideas with my brain and shiz and I can't be doing with that. You know me, I sat slack jawed in front of cartoons from long before sleep deprivation kicked in.<br />
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So it's gonna be the same old, same old. Only with added fascination for the toilet and changing facilities on days out.<br />
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To whit - the toilets are the only down side to my recent favourite picnic spot: <a href="http://www.ealing.gov.uk/info/200073/parks_and_open_spaces/628/animal_centre" target="_blank">Brent Lodge Park</a>. This park, owned by Ealing council, is a fantastic free day out with or without the overlords. Great for a picnic and with the kinds of views you just wouldn't believe from London, it's the epitome of a great freebee.<br />
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First off there's a zoo. Yep. An actual small zoo, One which does proper rare breed protection (of small animals, rare farm animals and birds) - and it's free. They fundraise via a small butterfly house and a bouncy castle. If I was some kind of proper blogger I would have a photo of an endangered crane or giant rabbit (yes, these exist and they do exactly what it says on the tin). Somehow I've managed not to take a single photo with an actual animal in it, so you'll just have to take my word for it. Honestly, swear down there <i>is</i> a little zoo.<br />
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There's also a maze. Which I got a photo of!<br />
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In addition, the cafe is excellent. They do the usual light snacks and coffee and more complex meals such as pasta dishes. However I would bring a picnic if I were you: one side of the park drops off towards the River Brent and golf course, giving the impression of being in a country meadow (with benches and plenty of space to spread out). The other benefits from an amazing view of one of Brunel's historical Viaducts. If you walk under this and across a further meadow, you get to a pub of the same name. Just saying. It's a summer afternoon in the bag.<br />
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There are two well equipped playgrounds and basketball courts in the recreation ground area of the park.<br />
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The main entrance to the park is an easy walk from Hanwell overground station - if you're up for major house envy! It's a beautifully picturesque neck of the woods. There's also a small car park and street parking (keep an eye out for where you're actually allowed to park though).<br />
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Oh, and the toilets and changing? Fecking rank. Accessible luckily, but made of that bobbly 80s metal and dubiously stained. Hover and bring your own tissue and hand gel - if you've got a nappy to change, it's time to use that travel changing mat on the grass. Because y'know... park toilets. Tis the way of the world.<br />
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Anyhoo, this is the bit where I ask everyone to comment and tweet and such like. So do tell. <b>What's your most 'value added' local park?</b><br />
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<i>*Thank you. Thank you Motorola for your gift of video baby monitors, AKA 2 hours of freedom between 8pm and 10pm.</i>Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-73459608471215473512014-11-05T12:10:00.001+00:002014-11-05T12:10:45.452+00:00Look What I Made...This might explain the lack of posts.<br />
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Will be back soon ... as soon as little bean is big enough for trips beyond Costas and the local mum and baby club. So please don't delete me from your blog roll ...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was when she was box fresh, She's loud and a bit<br />bigger a month on!</td></tr>
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<br />Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-71242908839560110072014-08-31T12:51:00.000+01:002014-08-31T13:06:46.036+01:00No-Heat Hair Tips & TutorialsYup, back again. Not really been anywhere to be honest - hence lack of blog posts! Being of the same measurements as Mr Greedy and having to do a wee every fifteen seconds does not make for exciting around-town journeys.<br />
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With it being summer (well, hopefully it will hang on a few more weeks!) one thing that a lot of us have in common is wanting easy, low-fuss hair - often a bit more natural and tousled than in the winter months. I dye my hair red which is notorious for dulling with heat, so am always on the look out for no-heat curls and other easy overnight styles. Here are a few of my most recent online finds...<br />
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5) <a href="http://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/2014/06/19/how-to-air-dry-your-hair-for-summer-by-george-northwood" target="_blank">Vogue features celebrity hairdresser George Northwood's advice to wash-and-run summer hair.</a> A natural, beach wavy look for modern styles or 60s-70s hippy chic looks. He recommends keeping hair long and trimmed for this look: I often trim my own hair, and this tutorial is a good starting place:<br />
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4) The Youtuber Lilith Moon (who made the video above) has some amazing styles created simply with braiding and clever pinning. If your hair is shoulder length or longer, there are some whimsical romantic looks to be found on <a href="http://www.lilithmoon.com/" target="_blank">her blog here</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/lilithedarkmoon" target="_blank">Youtube channel here.</a><br />
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3) The easiest way to avoid blow drying your hair every day is ...<i> just not washing it. </i>Unless you have very greasy hair, most people wash every other day or even further apart. This updo by The Cherry Dollface is an easy way to make wild second day hair look chic and neat.<br />
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2) So now we get to the top two ... and they're both methods of curling. Now of course we all know how to use foam rollers, bendy rollers and even pin curls. But are there even easier ways - with cheaper kit? Yes indeed! This method for paper towel curls, which I found on Pinterest, works fantastically. I have also used this method with "J cloths" (those blue and white striped cleaning cloths) and they have the same quality of curl and absorbency as paper towels with the advantage of lasting a few uses.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From <a href="http://pinterest-tutorials.blogspot.co.uk/">pinterest-tutorials.blogspot.co.uk</a></td></tr>
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1) The number one is the classic 2-in-1, low cost, low fuss hair. The bun-into-curls. All you need is an old (washed) odd sock: cut the toe off and use the sock to roll your hair into a bun (when slightly damp). Style your fringe or add flowers in the day, and by evening you will have long, loose curls. Or just sleep on it overnight. There is a plethora of tutorials out on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/explore/sock-bun-curls/" target="_blank">Pinterest and other sites</a>, it's a modern classic for a reason. Here's the simplest diagram I found: honestly this is foolproof and works perfectly every time!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/scoutegear/diy-clothes/" target="_blank">Pinterest board "DIY Clothes"</a></td></tr>
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Well that's my count down of my top 5 heat free styles. Do you have any favourites?<br />
You may have noticed that many of these ideas are from my Pinterest boards. If you are on it, please to follow my board<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/perditaspursuit/face-n-hair/" target="_blank"> "Face and Hair" </a>(and all of them!) - new pins on thrifty chic, food and lifestyle are added daily. I'm also now on <a href="http://instagram.com/perditaspursuits" target="_blank">Instagram @perditaspursuits</a> so follow me there too (warning: current content is entirely comprised of cake and funny things I've seen at hospital check-ups).Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-59020927180180541412014-06-10T10:07:00.000+01:002014-06-10T10:08:07.497+01:00Review: Draper's Arms EalingWaaay back in the day, Ealing had a Firkin pub (remember them?) where I used to go with my geeky sixth form buddies and drink Two Dogs and Breezers. Ah, those were the days... they don't make music like that anymore. Anyway, after a while, the Firkin became O'Neills, and I went there with my work buddies and drank Guinness.<br />
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And now, it is The Draper's Arms. But all I get to drink there in my current condition is lemonade or the odd 0% fake-beer-like-product (wave the label around so haters don't think you're poisoning baby: 0% ABV OK??). It's a bit more grown up and well dressed than previous pubs on the site, which might be karma telling me something. I dunno.</div>
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Anyway, The Draper's is a sister-pub to the ever popular North Star: but with more floor space, laid back sofas and a more chilled out vibe. Less DJ sets and Friday night shenanigans, more big sofas and Sunday roasts. The kooky lighting and vintage furniture is still there but in a lighter, airier atmosphere. It's a great idea because the drinks and food reflect the North Star's high quality - but the five deep queue for the bar is absent and you can find a seat. Sometimes that's just what you need! It also appears more accessible in terms of room shape to those with pushchairs or additional needs - however the toilets are down a flight of stairs (there is a disabled toilet tucked away on the main floor though). </div>
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The drinks include high-quality international lagers, real ales and a good wine list, as well as various soft drinks including hot drinks, the usual soft offerings and vintage-style bottled juices and lemonades. I've eaten there twice now; the food is really tasty, service is quick and it is a pleasant airy space to have a meal. This week I had the Sunday Roast (choice of 4 - I had pork loin) which came in a good sized - but not overwhelming - portion. The meat was very well cooked and not dry at all, even though we ate about 3pm: the sides were tasty too. There was a mixture of leeks and peas, roast new potatoes, a bit of crackling and a gigantic Yorkshire pudding - another plus point being they put enough gravy on the plate. This is a big thing to me, a big thing indeed. You have to have enough gravy. It did.</div>
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The music and ambiance was just right too: well-chosen choons 'not to loud, not too quiet' for a daytime pub. It was nice to see a really varied clientele making use of the new pub from couples, to families, to tipsy grannies. All in all a great atmosphere.</div>
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Any cons? Well, sadly it has no beer garden ... however this is not, for me, a deal breaker as the windows have great views for people watching on all but the hottest of days.</div>
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<a href="http://www.thedrapersarmsealing.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Draper's Arms website is here</a> and find them on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drapersarmsealing" target="_blank">Facebook </a>and <a href="https://twitter.com/drapersealing" target="_blank">Twitter </a>here.</div>
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<i>This is a personal review based on a personal/anonymous visit with my own money. </i></div>
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Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-14656817848891790672014-05-26T17:51:00.000+01:002014-05-26T17:51:48.412+01:00Back With A Bump! Bargain Maternity Tips...Hi everyone, yeah I'm back. Been away from blogging and pretty much everything as it's been a bit of a whirlwind. As regular readers may know, we had a bit of a scary situation last year with losses and a scary trip to oncology... the knock on effect being the last few months have been a bit of an anxious kerfuffle of hospital appointment and worry.<br />
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Well so far so good. I'm 24 weeks pregnant now, and thanks to my diagnosis and medication all seems normal at the moment. Fingers crossed.<br />
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Anyway enough of the House episode. I'm going to get right back into my usual bargain shopping type thing now. One thing I've realised over the last couple of months is that maternity wear is both expensive and incredibly boring if you're into vintage or alternative fashion. No, in fact it's pretty darn boring if you're into mainstream fashion too. Unless you really, really like navy blue and cream stripes with everything - oh, and spending £30+ on a jersey top you're only getting 4 months wear out of.<br />
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Here are some of my tips for saving money and looking unique...<br />
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<u>Check What You Have</u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bloody terrible picture of me in a hospital corridor @16 weeks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When you start to <strike>expand like a balloon</strike> get a little bump, spend a couple of hours going through your regular wardrobe. Put aside anything with no stretch, high on the waist, tight on the bust or with pictures/patterns that might distort for a few months time! Bring to the front:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Loose, wide t-shirts, tunics or dresses;</li>
<li>Low waisted skirts, jeans and trousers (use a hair elastic to 'expand' the fly button a few inches);</li>
<li>Leggings, generously sized tights and hold ups;</li>
<li>Jersey 'fitted' tops or dresses, such as you'd find on <a href="https://www.everything5pounds.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=midi+dress&search_in_description=1&e5pids=6llh9118b255dmivtts5nck527&x=0&y=0" target="_blank">Everything £5;</a></li>
<li>Loose jumpers and twinset-style cardigans you can fasten at the neck, leaving open at the waist.</li>
<li><b>Belts</b>. Fasten them under the boobs. If you've ever had the "is she pregnant or constipated" stare from a stranger, you'll know why an above-bump-belt is wonderful for feelgood factor.</li>
</ul>
I'm still wearing a lot of this kind of thing at 24 weeks, with a proper bump. Having spoken to friends with children, these adaptations can save you money and preserve your style up to 30 weeks!<br />
Some investments I would recommend would be: a <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/maternity/shop-department/maternity-3-pack-navy-bump-bands_240639141?extcam=UK_PPC_PLA_2406423_CR_36855621874_DV_c&tmcampid=155&tmad=c&tmplaceref=UK_PPC_PLA_2406423_CR_36855621874_DV_c&gclid=CLC1wZX1yb4CFUXnwgodsXoA3w" target="_blank">bump band </a>(a band which masks extended trousers or the dreaded builder's bum!) and a couple of pairs of maternity leggings. Oh, and some comfy bras. The only pretty maternity ones I found were in Debenhams, but Primark and <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/total-support-all-over-fleur-lace-non-wired-b-g-bra/p/p22220849" target="_blank">M&S standard nonwired bras</a> are just as good and cost much less: the <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/2-pack-textured-non-wired-a-dd-bras/p/p22289994" target="_blank">boxed ones from M&S are a favourite of mine.</a><br />
<br />
<u>Adapt Your Shopping</u><br />
<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="https://scontent-a-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1.0-9/10153914_10152450492597193_327116919161924798_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://scontent-a-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1.0-9/10153914_10152450492597193_327116919161924798_n.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We're going to need a bigger dress.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
OK, so after a while you'll want to add to your wardrobe. Many of your saved items will still fit, except that all the belts in the world won't hide the fact you're in Tescos in your knickers with your jeans round your ankles because the hair elastic holding your trews up just busted loose. My moment was 23 weeks. I had some eye watering ligament pain and my waist vanished in 24 hours flat. You'll go into Mamas & Papas <strike>do a little bit of sick in your mouth</strike> and walk directly out again. Here are some ideas for when you actually need to buy clothes...<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>By now, you will probably have the leggings and tights and bump bands. If not, invest. They're perfect bases for everything. I promise you they'll be on you or in the washing machine 90% of the time;</li>
<li><i><u>In charity shops...</u></i></li>
<li>Maternity jeans. Choose them for the right season - ask mates who have kids, they may well give, sell or swap an old pair. Ditto black or grey trousers;</li>
<li>Second hand maxi dresses - just normal ones - often they're very flared with plenty of space for bump growth. Look for adjustable straps and be open to trying various sizes. These can be picked up at any charity shop, EBay and of course those cheap, slightly dodgy shops on the high street that spring up where there used to be a Woolworths or Jessops. In cooler weather, a loose t-shirt or blouse over the top makes them do double duty as a skirt;</li>
<li>Band t-shirts (or any oversized T). Again, charity shops and even Primark stock these cheaply. They're a perennial favourite and can be worn all year round. Plus, they're meant to be baggy, so will be fine when you <strike>hopefully </strike> spring back into shape afterwards.</li>
<li>Look out for longer, tunic style jersey tops. Bought in a larger size, these are an easy way to mix n match in colours you actually like.</li>
<li><i><u>New...</u></i></li>
<li>The most stylish reasonably priced maternity shops I have come across are all online. <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/category/clothing-427/maternity-456/?cmpid=brandgen_uk&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=COvBm6_8yb4CFa3LtAod2jMAtg&geoip=noredirect" target="_blank">Topshop</a>, <a href="http://www.asos.com/Women/Maternity/Cat/pgecategory.aspx?cid=5813" target="_blank">ASOS</a>, <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/maternity/view-all-maternity_1920039?extcam=UK_PPC_KW_new%20look%20maternity_MT_e_CR_39266339936_NTW_g_DV_c_ACE_&tmcampid=152&tmad=c&tmplaceref=UK_PPC_KW_new%20look%20maternity_MT_e_CR_39266339936_NTW_g_DV_c_ACE_&gclid=CPeLusn8yb4CFScHwwodzEIA3w" target="_blank">New Look</a> and<a href="http://direct.asda.com/george/womens/maternity-clothes/D1M1G20C19,default,sc.html" target="_blank"> George (Asda).</a> Unfortunately with the exception of Toppers, few high street shops keep their range on the shop floor these days, so P&P it is.</li>
<li>EBay is great for basics. I have made several purchases from<a href="http://www.purpless.co.uk/" target="_blank"> Purpless </a>- great value basics in a range of colours. <a href="http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Happy-Mama-Boutique" target="_blank">Happy Mama Boutique</a> also does some great jersey bits, and their cropped jeans are excellent.</li>
<li>With all this 90s stuff in the shops, harem pants and maxis with elastic waists are everywhere. They're cheap and cheerful - I buy a size up and pair with a long top (worn 'under bump') with ballet pumps for work. Again, as well as the high street keep an eye out at markets - the cheap and cheerful 'one size' versions have a LOT of stretch!</li>
</ul>
<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="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/v/t34.0-12/10382158_10152062349370899_3014584280145998137_n.jpg?oh=cb8579516ddb7ac247baf7127a6ddebb&oe=5385AD91&__gda__=1401271629_377a4d778795ee7910811da8d0f90166" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/v/t34.0-12/10382158_10152062349370899_3014584280145998137_n.jpg?oh=cb8579516ddb7ac247baf7127a6ddebb&oe=5385AD91&__gda__=1401271629_377a4d778795ee7910811da8d0f90166" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Mama dress, Purpless Leggings.<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<u>For Best...</u><br />
<u><br /></u>
<u><br /></u>
<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;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.isabellaoliver.com/uk/shop/maternity-clothes/maternity-dresses/gathered-detail-maxi-dress-cobalt-blue.htm" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://d2pf71t7p3yw1o.cloudfront.net/assets/+size:512:700:fit/+v:c73a53/product/DR121-CBL-1ZZZ_1.jpg" height="400" width="292" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.isabellaoliver.com/uk/shop/maternity-clothes/maternity-dresses/gathered-detail-maxi-dress-cobalt-blue.htm" target="_blank">Blue Maxi Dress £129</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<u><br /></u>
<u><br /></u>
If you have a wedding or event to attend, you will need to invest in a better quality, specially designed item. Check out <a href="http://www.isabellaoliver.com/uk" target="_blank">Isabella Oliver </a>- a known brand for classic chic which can be adapted to a sophisticated vintage style if that is your taste.<br />
Yes. Yes it is a bit expensive and posh for me isn't it? Just as well they have an <a href="http://www.isabellaoliver.com/uk/outlet/outlet-m-dresses" target="_blank">OUTLET </a>then isn't it?<br />
<br />
<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;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.asos.com/Asos-Maternity/Asos-Maternity-Exclusive-Lace-Bodycon-Dress-With-Ribbon-Detail/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3747925&cid=14551&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Coral" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://images.asos-media.com/inv/media/5/2/9/7/3747925/coral/image1xl.jpg" height="400" width="312" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.asos.com/Asos-Maternity/Asos-Maternity-Exclusive-Lace-Bodycon-Dress-With-Ribbon-Detail/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3747925&cid=14551&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Coral" target="_blank">ASOS Maternity Lace Bodycon Dress £40</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a href="http://www.asos.com/Women/Maternity/Maternity-Party-Dresses/Cat/pgecategory.aspx?cid=14551&WT.ac=CP|WW|maternity|head|partydress&CTAref=Cat_Header" target="_blank">Asos </a>also have some slightly edgier and more fashion-forward formal wear, as does <a href="http://www.debenhams.com/women/rock-a-bye-rosie" target="_blank">Rock-A-Bye-Rosie at Debenhams</a>. These are rather more affordable than Isabella Oliver.<br />
<br />
A nice thing about maternity evening wear is that it holds its value, so you can always EBay it afterwards. And of course, for a cheaper option (which avoids the turning-up-in-the-same-outfit situation too) it's a great idea to pop these brand names into a second hand EBay search. I have two weddings and a prom (to chaperone) this year - all three dresses purchased for under £30. I used my usual Ebay rules (low top bid, try unusual end times, blurry photos ... ) and it paid off: all three have clearly only been worn once and will be re-saleable after I've used them.<br />
<br />
Well there you go ... my tips. Have you got any?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-32536852677948833702013-12-10T10:05:00.002+00:002013-12-10T10:05:27.753+00:00All About Me (Tag)<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">
Sorry folks ... been obscenely busy of late and blogging has had to take a back seat. I found this great quiz tag thingy over at<a href="http://thejollyfashionista.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/the-all-about-me-tag-personal.html" target="_blank"> The Jolly Fashionista</a> and thought I'd give it a go...</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">
<b>First of all tell us your name and what you do...</b></div>
<div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">
I don't give my real name online. I am a teacher, Head of Department and Head of Year at a large comprehensive so online me has to be official and serious if I name myself <strike>fat chance of that happening.</strike></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>I live at home with...</b></div>
</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
My husband.</div>
</span><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>My favourite thing(s) to do are...</b></div>
</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<strike>Drinking Baileys coffee in PJs</strike> long walks, meaningful books, exercise. Hahaha who am I kidding? I like buying crap and going to the pub and doing my nails. This is why I can't name myself on here.</div>
</span><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>My favourite thing to eat is...</b></div>
</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Japanese food - sushi, tempura, noodles, salads. Any of that.</div>
</span><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>When I get cross...</b></div>
</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
I get my way. </div>
</span><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Sometimes I worry because/about...</b></div>
</b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">
My health at the moment. The situ is OK right now though, thanks to the NHS.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>My favourite book is...</b></div>
</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Fiction: The Complete Sherlock Holmes Colllection</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Non-Fiction: Nigella Kitchen #TeamNigella</div>
</span><b><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>My favourite toy...</b></div>
</span></b></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">
My tablet/kindley thing and my Nicer-Dicer (in the kitchen).</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>I dislike...</b></div>
</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
Cold, wet weather. Clothes that accidentally don't match. Liars and hypocrites on any level (bar hilarious blatant lies that make me laugh e.g. people smuggling booze in tucked in their stocking etc').</div>
</span><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<b style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<b>When I grow up I want to be...</b></div>
</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<strike>All powerful </strike> Comfortable and healthy. Preferably well dressed.</div>
</span></div>
Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-57288354408642974462013-11-16T14:02:00.000+00:002013-11-16T14:12:04.006+00:00Party Frocks For PenniesWell, not quite pennies. But not breaking the bank. You know what it's like ... Christmas again and you have soooo many glamour-filled parties to go to*...<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/-AXKx-yqJim4/TRjwsjuvWJI/AAAAAAAAADo/ToZURPQTMnw/s1600/DSC_0159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AXKx-yqJim4/TRjwsjuvWJI/AAAAAAAAADo/ToZURPQTMnw/s400/DSC_0159.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whoo yeah! Chrimbo! Let's party like it's 1899!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Great: an excuse to buy a new dress. Only there are a few problems; Christmas is a fricken expensive time of year, you're likely to get photos all over Facebook so are perhaps reluctant to wear the same thing again and again and it's freezing cold out so all day shopping would be a pain. Yeah. And you need to save your pennies for Bailey's mint chocolate liqueur and biscuit selection boxes. If your anything like me, that is...<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Thankfully one of my very limited talents is buying really, really cheap stuff and then passing it off as posh stuff (until I open my maaahf that is). Here are some of the places I will be looking for Christmas party frocks:<br />
<br />
<u><b>Ebay Charity Shops</b></u><br />
<br />
Like real charity shops, but without aggro grannies or colour coded rails (why don't they sort by size grrrrrrrr...!). Plus, the warm feeling you get inside is matched by a warm feeling outside, as you're shopping from your house in a onesie with a hood on it, wrapped in a duvet. <a href="http://pages.ebay.co.uk/ebayforcharity/" style="text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Ebay's Charity Page</a> is great - you just click and search as usual, but only charity items (second hand and new) come up. Great for vintage bargains or designer items.<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://i.ebayimg.com/t/70s-vintage-retro-stunning-black-silver-lurex-frilled-evening-dress-Size-10-/00/s/MTYwMFg4OTY=/z/6g4AAMXQfvlSgmKm/$_12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/70s-vintage-retro-stunning-black-silver-lurex-frilled-evening-dress-Size-10-/00/s/MTYwMFg4OTY=/z/6g4AAMXQfvlSgmKm/$_12.JPG" width="223" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/70s-vintage-retro-stunning-black-silver-lurex-frilled-evening-dress-Size-10-/350926773122?pt=UK_Women_s_Vintage_Clothing&hash=item51b4dd9b82" target="_blank">This 70s (or early 80s) dress is delightfullydaring and supports a hospice.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TOMMY-KATE-LTD-EDITION-Flat-Shoes-Pumps-Gem-Leopard-Sparkle-Party-39-6-S02-/181260270232?pt=UK_Women_s_Shoes&hash=item2a33f43a98" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="366" src="http://i.ebayimg.com/t/TOMMY-KATE-LTD-EDITION-Flat-Shoes-Pumps-Gem-Leopard-Sparkle-Party-39-6-S02-/00/s/MTQ2OFgxNjAw/z/FqkAAMXQfvlSgjgz/$_57.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TOMMY-KATE-LTD-EDITION-Flat-Shoes-Pumps-Gem-Leopard-Sparkle-Party-39-6-S02-/181260270232?pt=UK_Women_s_Shoes&hash=item2a33f43a98" target="_blank">Sparkly Shoes from the BHF... might bid myself!</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Discounted Clothing Websites like "Just For Five Pounds"</u></b><br />
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You may have read my previous post about using these sites. Essentially, they buy and sell end-of-line or large wholesale lots online from a simple 'no frills' site - so there are massive bargains to be had! Unlike the digital high street, these shops don't replenish sizes or colours, so there's an element of "when it's gone it's gone" - but if you browse daily when they put up new stock, you may well find something bang on-trend, in your size, for £5. Brilliant!<a href="http://www.justfor5pounds.com/" target="_blank"> Just For Five Pounds</a> sent me some photos of upcoming stock...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.justfor5pounds.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LY6jmVfLqs8/Uod2zRXYH3I/AAAAAAAABJ0/Y9jnQE1LEp4/s400/MGoOry77BQdmAN5czfzPXP5U4dGenm8H-F3RJpEMaW8.jpg" width="266" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.justfor5pounds.com/" target="_blank">A pretty gold number perfect for Christmas!</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.justfor5pounds.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eIqUnHVRvMI/Uod3Uf_8z6I/AAAAAAAABJ8/eIPfX36pBNE/s400/MQ_YfR9N6PZZOOAkn3QBLiASj9bN1SOIa_XhnYE8R34.jpg" width="266" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.justfor5pounds.com/" target="_blank">A versatile dress with a sexy twist.</a></td></tr>
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<u><b>Sale Sections Of High Street Websites</b></u><br />
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The January sales are no more! As our spending habits have changed, so have sales. You can now find a sales section in most high street shops and online shops year-round. Again, there's an element of luck in finding your colour and size, but I always peruse online brands for discounted frocks in November and early December.<br />
<a href="http://www.boohoo.com/restofworld/sale/icat/dresses/maggie-leopard-print-sweetheart-dress/invt/azz46100" target="_blank"><br /></a>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.boohoo.com/restofworld/sale/icat/dresses/maggie-leopard-print-sweetheart-dress/invt/azz46100" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.boohoo.com/content/ebiz/boohoo/invt/azz46100/azz46100_natural_xl.jpg" width="266" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.boohoo.com/restofworld/sale/icat/dresses/maggie-leopard-print-sweetheart-dress/invt/azz46100" target="_blank">Modern with a hint of vintage- and just £15in Boohoo.com's clearance shop.</a></td></tr>
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Other sale sites I visit regularly are <a href="http://www.riverisland.com/women/sale" target="_blank">River Island</a> (always a bit daring- meaning lots of statement pieces to be had), <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/sale/clothing-sale/dresses/_/N-bidZepn" target="_blank">New Look</a> and <a href="http://www.tkmaxx.com/clearance/womens-clothing-clearance/icat/2515" target="_blank">TK Maxx</a> (for branded and designer).<br />
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Do you treat yourself to a Christmas frock - and where do you go for yours?<br />
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<i>*Actually: one party. And maybe some beers after work one Friday. But you know...</i>Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-6864358661903414772013-11-09T15:34:00.002+00:002013-11-09T15:34:48.105+00:00Oakley Court Hotel ReviewIf Oakely court looks familiar, that's because it is. Before it was a hotel, it was owned by a local production company and used as the setting for a host of movies and TV shows including the St Trinian's series, various Hammer Horrors and the singalong favourite The Rocky Horror Picture Show. In fact, so recognisable are many of the fixtures and fittings that you may, if you are a kitsch film buff, start pointing out where famous scenes were filmed the moment you walk into the venue.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recognise me?</td></tr>
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Thankfully there are no monsters or monstrous schoolgirls there now, it's a four star hotel.<br />
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We went for the weekend two weeks ago (when Storm St Jude was gearing up) and sadly, due to the appalling weather there are no elegant outfit posts or pictures of me frolicking in the grounds. This is a real shame as the grounds themselves are beautiful; a terraced garden leading down to the river. The garden has works of art in it, and on the river there is a steam barge for parties and some small boats to hire. You can walk to Windsor through some lovely countryside or play pitch-and-putt golf if the weather is good. At night, they place candles around the entrances to add to the Gothic glamour. Sadly, whatever I snapped turned out grey and windswept, so you'll have to make do with ONE rather spooky shot the husband took after dinner. The weather did, however, give us a good chance to sample the food, drink and comfortable bar area.<br />
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<b><u>Rooms</u></b><br />
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We went for a deluxe double. These are housed in a modern extension to the original building and are decorated in quite a traditional style (albeit with a large flatscreen TV, WiFi etc') - ours was spacious, with a good sized bathroom. When we booked we were told there was a minibar in the room, so my only gripe would be that there wasn't one! The rooms are well heated and there is also air conditioning - all in all I would say it's a comfortable room but not quite as characterful as the main building. There are some suites in the original house and if you want that feeling of romance and history, you could book one of those.<br />
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<b><u>Bar</u></b><br />
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The bar consists of several rooms on the ground floor; they are all decorated wonderfully and - apart from the main bar which feels like a warm, panelled upmarket hotel bar - give the impression of visiting a fine English home like Downton Abbey! The largest room is the conservatory area, very popular for afternoon tea it seemed, and all pastels, fine china and champagne. The library has real books and board games for rainy day (thankfully) and the sitting room is filled with comfortable armchairs and smaller tables around a grand fireplace. Quiet mood music is piped through and fresh, natural decorations (gourd and pumpkin themed when we went - for halloween) are used to give a sense of season. All the rooms have fantastic views over the grounds.<br />
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As well as afternoon tea, they do serve a range of beers, wines, fine spirits and cocktails. We tried some of their cocktails; my Winter Pimms was excellent, his Martini was OK but not the most amazing ever. If you are a wine buff and want a longer wine list than is available at the bar (it specialises in champagne and has limited reds) they are more than happy to bring you the restaurant wine list, which is a nice touch.<br />
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<u><b>Food</b></u><br />
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On the night we went, the restaurant was fully booked so do call ahead if you want to dine in the restaurant. It serves classic fine dining. We had actually decided to go for their relaxed dining option (i.e. very posh bar food!) because the menu seemed more varied and there was a great selection of seafood dishes. A word of warning though: unlike some upmarket 'snacking' menus, their portions are hearty and it's easy to over order! I went for a pint of prawns (yum!) and the pressed ham hock (really nice, superb pickle ... <b>enormous portion</b> which I could have had as a main on its own). Himself enjoyed half a dozen oysters and super-posh Welsh Rarebit with chips. And what was left of my ham! I would heartily recommend their relaxed dining, it is special-occasion-suitable and the ambiance of the bar makes it unique.<br />
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We were in the restaurant itself for the breakfast (a hot buffet with full English, toast, fruit, yoghurt and hams/cheeses for a continental choice) - not as attractive as the bar area, but classic and classy. The breakfast was hot and well prepared, especially considering it was a buffet.<br />
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<u><b>Service</b></u><br />
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Throughout our stay, staff were polite and actively friendly. There were nice touches in the decor and I could see the hotel catered to all visitors, businesses, couples and families.<br />
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Overall, for a weekend away in Windsor with a touch of luxury, I wouldn't hesitate to book the Oakley Court again; not so much for an 'out and about' trip (a lot of the value of the relatively expensive stay lies in using the grounds and facilities to their full potential) but for a really relaxing break.<br />
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<a href="http://www.theoakleycourthotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Click here for the Oakley Court's website.</a><br />
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<i>I booked and paid for this hotel myself as an anniversary gift and only decided to review it afterwards... all opinions are my own!</i><br />
<br />Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-29424401021154743432013-10-17T20:14:00.000+01:002013-10-17T20:23:08.355+01:00Bargain Review: "Everything £5"£5 clothes, brand new. I know what you're thinking: how could there possibly be a website selling clothing for just £5? It sounds too good to be true. It sounds like they must sell seconds or the garments would fall apart. You wouldn't go for it unless you head someone tell you it's OK.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/images/131013/1975B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.everything5pounds.com/images/131013/1975B.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/multicoloured-skater-satin-dress-p-21399.html" target="_blank">Skater Dress: £5</a></td></tr>
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So, I tried it. And I can tell you ... <i><a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/" target="_blank">"Everything Five Pounds"</a></i> is OK! The clothes are absolutely, positively normal high street stock. Indeed, my latest purchase had a tag on it with an RRP of £15.99. I would guess that they buy up old sale stock, deadstock and the like and sell it on - meaning, interestingly, that those of us with slightly alternative tastes are well catered for. Many of their items tend towards a retro or rock-chick style (perhaps that's why they didn't sell out on the high street?) and I've noticed the plainer and more 'key basics' an item is, the more unusual the sizes (top tip for you big or small footed ladies- black flat shoes- only ever in large or tiny).<br />
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When browsing, I've found it best to go in with an open mind. If you wait and wait for your perfect black work trousers in your perfect size (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/comments.php?api_key=512893125433784&channel_url=http%3A%2F%2Fstatic.ak.facebook.com%2Fconnect%2Fxd_arbiter.php%3Fversion%3D27%23cb%3Df361d5685c%26domain%3Dwww.everything5pounds.com%26origin%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.everything5pounds.com%252Ff22a1e8f8%26relation%3Dparent.parent&href=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everything5pounds.com&locale=en_GB&numposts=4&order_by=reverse_time&sdk=joey&width=806#" target="_blank">as some commenters, oddly, choose to</a>) you'll be on a hiding to nothing. You can't rely on this website for that kind of shopping. However, if you browse thinking "I need a new knee length dress, don't mind about colour" or "some new boots - not bothered if they're patent or suede" you may well find something in a pattern you like, and in your size. Payment is straightforward and secure - various bank choices and of course Paypal. There's an option to 'join' (which allows reviews etc') when you shop but you don't need to do this and can proceed directly to checkout.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/contrasting-platform-velour-shoes-p-21360.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.everything5pounds.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/121013/1940B.jpg&w=280&h=418" width="267" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/contrasting-platform-velour-shoes-p-21360.html" target="_blank">Contrasting Platform Velour Shoes: £5</a></td></tr>
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I have bought from Everything £5 on three occasions; a pair of brown suede shoes with floral decoration, a stretch wiggle-type dress in 90s-style chintz (you'll know what I mean if you were there!), and most recently (together) a paid of brown suedette boots with a 70s feel and another stretch jersey dress, this time in a leaf print which reminded me of late 50s-early 60s barkcloth. All of the items cost £5 (duh) and P&P depended on the weight of what you buy; as a rough guide, the dress + boots cost about £4 in postage, bringing the total to £14 which is still pretty cheap. They say items are sent out the next day: mine were dispatched 48hr after purchase but as they were tracked and arrived the day after, that wasn't a problem. If you want something more quickly, there's always a premium mail service (personally, I wouldn't use this for £5 clothes though - the postage would cost more than the clothes)!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JEYF1wJStx4/UmA0tAZ3yaI/AAAAAAAABJQ/KqQUzs932J4/s1600/everythingfive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JEYF1wJStx4/UmA0tAZ3yaI/AAAAAAAABJQ/KqQUzs932J4/s400/everythingfive.jpg" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My £5 dress!</td></tr>
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All the items I had have fitted fairly well. As they come from a range of factories and indeed shops, there is some variation in sizing from item to item (the second dress came up smaller than the first) and I must admit I anticipate this so tend to look only at stretch items or those intended to be worn loose. The first pair of shoes I purchased were slightly tight, although still reasonably well fitted - I went up a size for the boots and I'm glad I did as with an insole they fit properly. The quality for all items was what I would describe as 'regular high street' - think along the lines of New Look or H&M; not luxurious but they wash fine and definitely aren't defective in any way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/snowflake-print-midi-dress-p-21167.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.everything5pounds.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/071013/106578.jpg&w=280&h=418" width="267" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/snowflake-print-midi-dress-p-21167.html" target="_blank">Snowflake Print Midi Dress: £5</a></td></tr>
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Would I use this shop in future? Well, yes I would: for the right thing. It's almost like browsing the sales (which is probably where most of their stock once was); if you shop cleverly, and choose wisely, you can pick up really wearable bargains. If you have your heart set on one thing, though, you might end up disappointed as your size or colour sells out. It's a definite addition to my thrifty shopping collection.<br />
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<a href="http://www.everything5pounds.com/" target="_blank">Everything Five Pounds may be found here online.</a><br />
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<i>NB: I purchased these items with my own money, have not been approached by everything £5, and this review is 100% my own opinion.</i>Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-4248734669545726572013-10-10T11:02:00.000+01:002013-10-10T11:02:29.403+01:00I'm still here! Rambling...I'm still here! Still alive and kicking. It's just this old blog that's gone all droopy and wilted like a neglected houseplant at the back of an office. Interesting metaphor, given the reason for my absence has been the fact that I myself have been droopy, wilted and at the back of an office. I'm a curriculum developer. That means I figure out how to fit all the things kiddliwinks in my school need to learn into the school year. Now, as you'd expect, usually the National Curriculum and exam contents are published the year before so I can set it all up. Which I do, over the summer holidays. But oh no, <i>this</i> government like to make major changes saaay ... over the weekend in the middle of term time. Requiring an extra fortnight's work to be done on top of my term time workload, quickly, without error or teething room. Irritating. Not going to bore you with some political rant but suffice to say it has, as they write in management documents "impacted upon my work life balance" (and I've had to do things twice, down to someone else's fickleness. A pet hate of mine).<br />
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So, I have done nothing of any interest to anyone since early September. Honestly, the highlight of my month has been finding a runner bean cutter at a boot sale and being able to trim vegetables more neatly. Sad!<br />
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Anyway, if you want to be more interesting than me at the moment (and trust me, that is <i>very</i> easy. You could be a potato, or a neatly machine cut runner bean, and be more interesting) here are some of my favourite blogs, they actually post stuff (!!) and don't abandon y'all for months at a time. You all know my usual list of vintage reads (they're linked down the side of my page, innit), but these are some more eclectic choices:<br />
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<a href="http://www.athriftymrs.com/" target="_blank">A Thrifty Mrs</a> - currently my go-to lifestyle blog. Realistic, thrifty, witty. Also, she has a tiny little miniature doggy and basically when I'm not being all cynical and Lahndan I secretly click and go "aww look at the ikkle puppy!!" before normal service is resumed.<br />
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<a href="http://onenailtorulethemall.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/china-glaze-monsters-ball-halloween.html" target="_blank">One Nail To Rule Them All</a> - If I wasn't a rambly slightly vintage type blogger I'd blog nails. But not as well as this site. A-maz-ing and UK based so you don't love a colour then find you have to pay for postage from the US...<br />
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<a href="http://www.allthedresses.net/" target="_blank">All The Dresses</a> - a new project from Gemma of <a href="http://www.retrochick.co.uk/" target="_blank">Retrochick</a>. Just loads and loads of dresses. All the dresses, indeed. AAALLL OFFF THEEMMMMM!<br />
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Do you follow blogs of the same genre, and if so what? Or do you have a more eclectic reading list..?<br />
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<br />Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-77506797444858520982013-08-29T18:07:00.000+01:002013-08-29T18:07:56.429+01:00My Youtube ChannelHowdy folks! Hope you're enjoying ekeng out the last few weeks of summer. If you shun the sun like a mysterious vampyre, delicate flower or erm like, a worm or something you might enjoy going on Youtube. Even if you enjoy the sun, Youtube waits faithfully for those rainy weekends <strike>or days when you're on your own in the office.</strike><br />
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Why not watch my most recent attempt at a video? As with this here blog, I can't always guarantee focused content (Vintage? Beauty? Creepy? WTF?) but the general theme is nosing around my stuff. Don't worry, burglars wouldn't want my stuff. I don't even want some of my stuff (see freaky musical box for details) but it's there for your viewing pleasure.<br />
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<u>Nose Through My Nail Art Stuff!</u></div>
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Yes, I know green isn't a primary colour. Sue me.</div>
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And heyyy, subscribe while you're at it! I haven't got a cute or funny kitten but I do have a purple Hello Kitty onesie so a cute cat video isn't out of the question. Although I would also need beer to do that. Lots of beer.</div>
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<u>Classic Creepy Music Box Video</u></div>
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<u>Actual Vintage-Educational-Type Video! Wonders never cease...</u></div>
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Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-72032093513443714952013-08-11T17:25:00.002+01:002013-08-11T17:25:59.524+01:00Swimming at Serpentine Lido As we are having such a great summer (compared to last year) I thought I would share an idea for a thrifty and fun-filled day out in the centre of London, with a difference.<br />
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<a href="http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde-park" target="_blank">Hyde Park </a>is a wonderful resource and a fantastic day out for anyone living in, or visiting London. Served by several tube stations, and with a wealth of free attractions such as the Diana Memorial and<a href="http://www.serpentinegallery.org/" target="_blank"> Serpentine Gallery</a>, the highlight on any sunny day has to be a stroll around the epic man-made water feature The Serpentine. Created for Queen Caroline in 1730, a walk around this lake (starting and ending at Lancaster Gate tube) offers a range of elements. You start at the Italian fountains - this formal garden is incredibly beautiful on a summer's day; benches face white stone fountains - lots of them - with the odd swan swimming in the pools. A dramatic waterfall fountain with ornate carvings sends the water crashing down into the next phase of the lake; a section where reeds and plants are encouraged and many rare water birds feed in peace. Following on from that, The Serpentine becomes more recreational, and it's here that you can hire rowing boats or, for a unique experience, spend some time swimming in the lake yourself in the wonderfully beach-like<a href="http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde-park/sport-in-hyde-park/serpentine-lido" target="_blank"> Serpentine Lido.</a><br />
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It's an incredible experience sunbathing and swimming surrounded by the world famous park and rooftops of London. What's even more incredible is it only costs £4.50 (Adults - £1.50 kids) for unlimited time - and you can bring your own snacks (although there is a tea/coffee/ice cream stand too). There are changing rooms (of course) but also a well maintained garden with picnic benches, separated by a small footbridge from the lakeside sunbathing/swimming zone - so it really is set up for you to stay all day! Now that is fantastic value.<br />
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As the water is in a lake, in the full sun, it is not as cold as sea or river bathing. The lake swimming area is safely roped off from boats and pedalos (although ducks do pop over to look at the curious swimmers) and fully supervised by lifeguards. In the garden area, there is a kiddy-pool with fountains - and if swimming isn't your thing, many people came to sunbathe and enjoy the beach-like ambiance.<br />
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We went on a Sunday afternoon - we expected it to be rammed full but actually, we were pleasantly surprised! The building dates from the 1930s and is quite quirky, so a few tips I would suggest are:<br />
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<li>The Ladies' changing rooms are very small. If you're shy about changing, I would suggest wearing a cossie under your clothes upon arrival, and waiting for a cubicle only as you leave;</li>
<li>Lockers cost 20p, however they sometimes run out on busy days. The Lido itself is secure, and many people choose to bring their bags with them to the lakeside, perhaps leaving someone who swims less to keep and eye on them;</li>
<li>You may hire sun loungers but there is a grassy bank on the lakeside upon which most people simply used towels to sunbathe;</li>
<li>The showers are outdoor cold water showers and you can't use soap (because it would run into the lake!). If you have very sensitive skin - or are worried about being muddy - do as I did and take some baby wipes.</li>
<li>You cannot take alcohol or glass over the bridge to the lake area, however disposable plastic containers are fine. Normal picnic ware was being used (even champagne bottles!) in the garden area, and there are tables there too.</li>
<li>There is a cafe just outside the Lido, however it is quite expensive. If you don't want to bathe but fancy a picnic instead, the grass area by the Italian fountains has a marvellous view <i>and</i> toilets, recycling bins, benches etc'.</li>
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Now I have tried the Serpentine Lido I shall definitely be returning; a clean, comfortable beach-like experience in the centre of the city. It goes without saying, I paid for my own ticket and this review is simply based on a day out we thoroughly enjoyed!</div>
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<b>Where is your favourite 'unexpected gem'?</b></div>
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<br />Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-24351741135451672162013-07-30T14:03:00.001+01:002013-07-30T14:03:58.939+01:00Holiday Highlights: Sheringham & The Poppy LineI'm back! Had a month of busy busy work and then a lovely holiday last week. But now I'm home, dropping stinky little blog drops all over your carpets. Haha.<br />
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Now I'm not going to bore you with my whole holiday album, both for consideration's sake and because, <a href="http://www.retrochick.co.uk/2013/07/22/love-ur-look-dress/" target="_blank">as Gemma of Retro Chick revealed, some of it was debauched gambling of the most sordid nature.</a> Well, going for a drink down Great Yarmouth way and putting all my pocket money into the 2p falls machines. I won a little plastic horsey. Class.<br />
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Here's a little video of our time in Yarmouth...(it isn't actually of my chest, for some reason that's what the editing app put as the first shot!).<br />
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Anyway the thriftier and more sophisticated resort on our little East Anglian driving route was<a href="http://www.experiencesheringham.com/?page_id=4" target="_blank"> Sheringham</a><a href="http://sheringham./">.</a> Sheringham is slap bang next door to Cromer (famed for seafood and well worth a visit). It's a small resort but well served by shops, cafes, bistros and pubs. The larger hotels tend to be pricey compared to B&Bs and the wealth of self catering, camping and caravan places around - we did stay in a hotel, but this was our big holiday. The nice thing about the town is that there is accommodation for all group sizes and budgets.<br />
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It is a very typical traditional resort, suited to families and couples alike. There is plenty of maritime history explored in two museums<a href="http://www.sheringhammuseum.co.uk/" target="_blank"> "The Mo" </a>and<a href="http://www.maritimeheritageeast.org.uk/exhibitions/fishermens-lives" target="_blank"> The Fisherman's Heritage Centre</a>. Of course, Sheringham has a broad and clean beach (we were there during those seriously hot days- it was fantastic) lined with colourful beach huts, tea rooms and a couple of pubs with great views! Amazing sunsets to be viewed from <a href="http://www.thetwolifeboatssheringham.com/" target="_blank">The Two Lifeboats</a> (try their steak... a real treat) and <a href="http://www.crown-sheringham.co.uk/home/" target="_blank">The Crown</a> is a great spot for the evening, with live bands outside in summer. Off the seafront but with a great beer garden and epic menu (especially seafood) is <a href="http://www.the-lobster.com/" target="_blank">The Lobster</a>. On rainy days, their indoor ambiance is great, a real place to relax.<br />
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OK enough about His Lordship and I filling our bellies! We did stuff too! As well as the beaches and walks, charity and craft shops and views, Sheringham has another great value day out: riding the <a href="http://www.nnrailway.co.uk/page.php?pid=25" target="_blank">North Norfolk Railway "Poppy Line" to Holt</a>. This is a restored steam line with 3 stations. Each station has refreshments, museums and things to see such as model railways. It is a wonderful day out for just £11; the return ticket allows you to ride up and down the line getting off at Weybourne and Holt. Holt itself is a charming little town (one of the residents did joke it was "Chelsea on Sea", I guess it's not fascinating 24-7) - especially if you like to hunt round charity shops and antique markets, picking up what the wealthy locals have donated! There's a routemaster bus from the station to the town centre, £2 return ... everyone got very excited about this (me for a slightly different reason - it was built in Park Royal and suggestions inside were it ran out of Acton Depot back in the day - I may well have been on it before as a kid! Showing my age!). On a pleasant day you could also definitely walk the route. We enjoyed all the activites on our little jaunt, but in terms of value this was superb: a whole day riding in beautiful old carriages, superb views, museums and new towns for just over £10.<br />
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Unfortunately the weather has now turned and we're definitely NOT on hols anymore. Are you planning a trip in the UK this summer? Where are your favourite thrifty days out?Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-53626653726436399002013-06-22T19:19:00.000+01:002013-06-22T20:02:39.900+01:00Another little Video! Bargain Retro-Style Haul.Here is a little haul video of things I have found on EBay, Poundland, Primark and my local YMCA charity shop... enjoy, nosey peeps!<br />
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Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-14461680128279415232013-06-17T21:10:00.000+01:002013-06-17T21:10:10.104+01:00Cheap Chappette Style (Olympiad & Vintage Event Dressing On A Budget)There are some events where everyone dresses up. Events where half the point is to people watch, to see and be seen. Events such as<a href="http://thechapmagazine.co.uk/2013/04/tickets-on-sale-for-chap-olympiad-2013/" target="_blank"> The Chap Olympiad</a>, which pop up once a year in the vintage calendar and provoke a mad panic of 'what shall I wear?'. It's part of the fun and part of the hell of getting ready ... and sometimes all those lucky people with perfect late 40s Dior or made-to-measure repro can be pretty intimidating to those of us on a more modest budget. Ha, never fear! One of the great things about these events is their creativity - in all but the most joyless, geekiest snobfest (and who would want to go to an event like that anyway?) when you look closely you'll see a myriad of different styles, budgets and methods. If you look closely at some of the perfect 'just got papped' blogger types, you may well note it's their sharp eye for styling and not their budget that gave them the edge. So here are some ideas on how to dress for those 'big' vintage days out without breaking the bank...<div>
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<b><u>Be Yourself</u></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, being kitsch and 70s (Holly Hobbie anyone?)<br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.467999463210161.113009.114163695260408&type=1" target="_blank">photo courtesy of Penny Dreadful Vintage.</a></td></tr>
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There is no point in trying to be someone you're not. Trust me, I learned the hard way. The first Olympiad I attended I wore a beige tea-dress and a bun. Yes. Because that was like what proper vintage ladies were wearing. I felt like a right plum - it just wasn't me. There are no photos, thankfully. Think about your style and combine it with the style or era of the event - for example the 50s covers everything from beatniks to bombshells to bobby-soxers. Sure, now I might never look quite like a 40s aristocrat, I don't do victory rolls or buns and rarely red lips- but no-one objects. I've only ever had one comment at a vintage event (Vintage at Southbank) and they were a knob. I never met them before or since, but the fact they made such comment made them a knob and "I diskard them".</div>
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My usual 60s-70s-indie style is not really Olympiad material. As dressing up is part of the fun, I do adapt my look to the event - however, I learned my lesson with the beige year - and patterns, favourite colours, wacky shoes and patterned tights are all part of the look. Last year I went OTT on the 'nostalgia' element and went for late 70s Victoriana; it fitted in perfectly, enabled me to wear things I would anyway, and there was none of that skirt-tugging-this-just-feels-odd you get sometimes. Not only is this more comfortable, it's also budget friendly; even buying new within your usual style will save you money on accessories, make up and so forth. Plus, you're much more likely to get wear out of the item in future. The variety of styles and looks is illustrated beautifully by <a href="http://www.pennydreadfulvintage.com/the-chap-olympiad-2012/" target="_blank">Margaret of Penny Dreadful Vintage in her post on last year's two-dayer.</a> Also check out her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.467999463210161.113009.114163695260408&type=1" target="_blank">Facebook Album </a>of the event; count the different looks ...when you look closely even something as niche as 'Chap' isn't quite as niche as it seems.</div>
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Basically, yeah, don't feel obliged to go down <a href="http://www.vivienofholloway.com/?gclid=CPjKqNXk67cCFSGWtAodRgkAEA" target="_blank">Vivien of Holloway</a> and spend your life savings on dresses the moment you get your mitts on a ticket. Unless of course you're rockabilly or 50s or someone who wears lots of frocks!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elegant 20s style from Penny Dreadful: <br />you don't need victory rolls to do vintage!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Charity Shop & EBay Style</u></b></div>
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Yeah, you knew I was going to say it. Find items in charity shops (or with an infamous "max price £5" search on the Bay of E) and dress them up. Sounds more simple than it is in real life? Yep. This method takes forward planning; you can't (unless you are my lilac-loving drinking buddy who has the chazza shop zen) just walk in and find a perfect event dress the week before. You have to go every week or two, year round. Keep a little shopping list in mind. Something that takes account of day-to-day wear, and events (both vintage and mainstream) you go to. My little mental shopping list goes:</div>
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<li>Maxi and midi skirts (especially checked & A-line)</li>
<li>70s blouses</li>
<li>60s-80s kitsch dresses especially in teal, black, brown, red or multicolour</li>
<li>Floaty hippy crap</li>
<li>Any<i> reasonably priced </i>modern clothing that can pass for the above...</li>
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...sometimes I find nothing of this list. Sometimes I find a teal maxi bridesmaid dress circa 1978 for £3.99. You just don't know. However the crucial bullet point, if you're going to find something for events like The Olympiad, is the last one. Don't hold out for a perfect 40s frock: not only is it highly unlikely one will appear these days in a charity shop, it will also be expensive, likely as not the wrong size, and may require restoration. Forget those people on twitter who 'just find stuff' - it's their job to just find stuff. Remember: if no one can see the label and it looks vintage-good,<i> it's all good</i>. You may well find an M&S Classics twinset or a Debenhams prom dress for under a tenner. Put them with the right stuff and they'll look brill. They're cheap. They'll wash well without worry. And - I feel - they're almost more ethical than lovely vintage, delightful as it is. No one chucks proper vintage away - but everyday clothing, much of it fine to wear, does end up in landfill. Landfill ...or fabulous? Plus, if you go to chazzas in the right area, you'll find designer and 'branded' items hardly worn. I cannot tell you where these areas are, because my fellow members of the Secret Guild Of Charity Shoppers would throw me to the gigantic granny in the volcano as a punishment if I did, but let's just say anywhere with well-off people with teenage or older kids still at home... maybe the smaller, local high street not the big flash one... that's all I can say. Now GO!</div>
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You might be surprised at how many really very stylish vintage bloggers use charity shop finds for event wear.<a href="http://www.retrochick.co.uk/2012/07/09/the-chap-olympiad-2012/" target="_blank"> Gemma of RetroChick wore an amazing sports-themed novelty print dress</a>, cut on the bias in a 30s style to last year's Olympiad. Oh, and it was... from a chazza. This woman is a LEGEND of the charity shop sweep. A LEGEND I tell you. Her post on <a href="http://www.retrochick.co.uk/2013/04/29/polyester-vintage-dress/" target="_blank">re-styling polyester charity shop dresses</a> is a must-read for any budget vintage fan</div>
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<b><u>High Street "Repro"</u></b></div>
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Just as charity shops are a source of items both value vintage and vintage-alike, the high street can definitely hide gems. On the one hand, classic lines (aka granny lines) are great places to source knitwear, blouses and classic cuts of trouser and skirt. On the other, even fast-fashion 'young' shops come up with some belters now and again: you have to keep your eye out, but with the recent trends for retro and 'shabby chic' all over the place, there are definitely items to be found. And they can work out a lot cheaper than 'proper' repro brands (of which, ironically, you are more likely to see two girls in the same at a vintage event!).</div>
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As with every purchase, always check it's worth it. Does it fit? Will it wash? Can you wear it with other items in your wardrobe? Ultimately; will you wear it again? If the answer's yes, then a high street find styled well can look stunning at a vintage event. I tend to accessorise with vintage or simply items from different brands/years - going with the 'suggested' accessories can seem same-y.</div>
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Have a good look at details, some can be overcome, some less so. If you're going for pre-60s and not sportswear- the skirt needs to be below the knee. Similarly, no low-rise waists for anything before the Summer of Love. But a bit of cleavage and a tight belt may well up the bombshell-factor. Think about patterns too; novelty prints are fun, but cheap lipsticks-and-handbags prints can look very 'dressing up', and unless you want to kitsch it to high heaven (which is always an option!) more basic prints may work better. Or, go bigger, bolder and more extreme for a clearly 'pin up' or 'pop art' take on your era... comic book and pop art prints are big this year, and can make a big ultra-glam impact.</div>
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As you may notice from these pictures, certain patterns and colours are particularly useful and crop up perennially. Leopard print, polka-dots, florals and checks are all classic patterns. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jane Norman and River Island for Ric Rac... via the sale.<br />With lots of old charms and bling.</td></tr>
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<b><u>Investments</u></b></div>
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Of course, the original price of something is not the only indication of value. If you follow the 'is it me?' path, then treating yourself to some lovely original vintage or repro items for an event will become well worth it as you wear them again and again. I recently purchased some tweed swing trousers from <a href="http://www.heydayonline.co.uk/" target="_blank">Heyday!</a> and although they were more than I usually spend, their versatility and quality have had me wearing them at least once a week since. So if you're looking for a great LBD or a perfect vintage handbag, and you know you'll use it again and again, a more costly item may actually be the best choice.</div>
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<b><i>What are your favourite bargain outfits? Have you ever wowed at an event in something that you got for a snip?</i></b></div>
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Post with many thanks to <a href="http://www.pennydreadfulvintage.com/" target="_blank">Margaret of Penny Dreadful</a> and<a href="http://www.retrochick.co.uk/" target="_blank"> Gemma of Retrochick </a>for kindly sharing their photos.</div>
Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-9551169057166988112013-06-08T13:43:00.000+01:002013-06-08T13:50:00.778+01:00Review: £99 Spa Break at the Belstead Brook Hotel.Hi all! As you may know, I have been ill recently, and am still under regular treatment at Charing Cross Hospital (if you would like to read up on my condition, click <a href="http://www.molarpregnancy.co.uk/info.html#what" target="_blank">here</a>). This has taken a bit of a toll on the old blogging of late; although I do not have 'day to day' symptoms the worry and very frequent blood tests have meant I'm just about managing to do my day job and so forth (essentially, I have to be monitored at least weekly, then reprieved from some heavy duty drug treatment 'till next week... then tested again, and so forth. Ironically the best thing to be is on tenterhooks for 6 months, because the other option is six weeks of mexo injections in yer bum).<br />
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Anyway, that's by the by, this is a review. My friend decided that we all needed a break and suggested we go to her local spa hotel <a href="http://www.swallow-hotels.com/hotels/belstead-brook-hotel.aspx" target="_blank">The Belstead Brook Hotel, Ipswich</a>. This is a hotel and spa built around an ancient manor house, with, as the name would suggest, some attractive wild gardens and a brook. It is part of the Swallow Hotels group.<br />
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Now, a spa break might not seem the thriftiest of weekends away, lovely though it was. The thing is - this break was only £99! Intriguing - usually you'd pay far more. So what did I get for my cash?<br />
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<li>One night in a single or twin (if sharing) room. We all opted for single rooms as for various reasons we were all knackered!</li>
<li>Use of the leisure and spa facilities on the day of arrival and the next morning</li>
<li>One treatment at their Blissful Spa</li>
<li>A three-course dinner in their restaurant</li>
<li>Full English Breakfast</li>
<li>Chocolates and flowers in the room</li>
<li>Use of a luxury bathrobe and slippers</li>
<li>Free Wi-Fi as standard</li>
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...Which is quite a fullsome package. Even with wine with dinner and a beer beforehand, my total spend came in at about £110 for a whole weekend <i>including food and accommodation. </i>OK, my mummy-mate did make us a picnic lunch on the first day, but bar that everything you'd need was included.</div>
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The spa area was excellent - warm, with a huge, clean pool. There is also a hot-tub spa, sauna and steam room (which smells minty fresh!). They provided a <a href="http://www.swallow-hotels.com/wmslib/Belstead_Brook/Blissful_At_The_Belstead_Brook.pdf" target="_blank">good choice of treatments at their <i>Blissful Spa</i></a> - I went for a back massage which was uber relaxing (and not back-bashing as some can be!). My mates opted for facials and a manicure, again superbly executed and not rushed at all. When one of us was late due to traffic they were exceptionally helpful about moving the appointment.</div>
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There is a sunbathing area next to the spa - sadly for us, much too cold to use that day. However the grounds themselves are peaceful and spacious. You would imagine you're in the middle of the countryside not in the suburbs! The suburban location makes it quick and easy to reach though, whether by car or train.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out my drying bikini photobombing my chocs-and-flower </td></tr>
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After splashing around for the afternoon, we went up to our rooms. One thing I would suggest is, if you go with a friend, opt for the twin rooms. A couple of my mates had been before and whilst the single rooms are pleasant, quiet and clean, they need a bit of a fresh lick of paint here and there whereas I hear the twins and doubles are more modern. The facilities you'd expect from a good hotel were all in place though: toiletries, fluffy towels, a decent sized TV, hairdryer (important post-spa!) and of course the Kirby Trouser Press! With the spa package you also get a sweet surprise... a little box of luxury truffles and a bunch of flowers. The bed itself was extremely comfortable with a huge thick duvet - too thick for me, I had to open the window as the night became quite humid.</div>
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The bar and restaurant are located in the oldest part of the hotel, complete with historic wood panelling. It's quite a special space in which to have your dinner and the food itself was delicious and <i>very</i> ample. You pick off the set menu - with about four choices per course, but if you fancy a massive steak you can have one by paying a small supplement, We could hardly eat dessert. By which I mean we ummed and ahhed and then did and then rolled up to bed like weebles. I chose a goat's cheese salad to start, followed by a delicious creamy wild mushroom pasta and finally a fruity meringue. Given that I was off my food at the time, it was just what I needed. The fruity dessert was an absolute winner, and I'm not even a big dessert person.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me looking ill with bad hair</td></tr>
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Again, at breakfast the portions were generous. It is a 'serve yourself' full English - I tested an egg (the best way to check how long a breakfast buffet's been hanging around) and it was all good. Well, I tested an egg, bacon, sausage, mushrooms and toast. And tea and juice. </div>
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All in all, I must say I was astounded that it only cost £99. A superb package for the money. I will return soon... celebrating my recovery. Belstead Brook do a variety of low-cost breaks (<a href="http://www.swallow-hotels.com/hotels/belstead-brook-hotel/belsteadbrookpackages.aspx" target="_blank">click here for everything from relaxation breaks to 70s nights!</a>) so I might have to encourage my gal-pals to embrace my love of all things 70s next time, and break out the flares and maxis! With these breaks, costing in the main the same as a B&B but including food and entertainment, you really do save a packet compared to a night in (say) a Premier Inn, with dinner, overpriced city bars, cinema or nightclub ... if you're not visiting somewhere for he sights, but are after a good chinwag, a glass or two of wine, some luxury and a chillax, I would thoroughly recommend this kind of package. Or maybe I'm just an oldie!</div>
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<a href="http://www.swallow-hotels.com/hotels/belstead-brook-hotel.aspx" target="_blank">Belstead Brook Hotel website.</a></div>
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I paid for this trip and the hotel folk had no idea I was a blogger...</div>
Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-78116773296338647652013-05-25T14:32:00.000+01:002013-05-25T14:32:48.690+01:00Button Revamp - New Old Top!Hi all! I hope you're enjoying the bank holiday in all its glory. I was a little worried yesterday as I could see my breath and it was pouring with rain, luckily it's brighter today! I shouldn't really be blogging now if I was a proper blogger, as people don't read it straight away - but heh, you guys can read this whenever. If it starts raining again you can thank me for something to do.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miss Selfridge via a Chazza</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute Pocket detail</td></tr>
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I was rummaging through my wardrobe recently and found this shirt, which I bought for about £3 from a charity shop a year or two ago. I love the pattern and cute pockets - it also lends itself to being styled with casual jeans or work wear, and can look very 50s gypsy style or hippy chic. Bargain! However, as you can see, it was all crumpled and folorn at the back of the shelf when I found it...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Urgh HORRID</td></tr>
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This was because I had become tired of the buttons. As you can see they are really generic and cheap looking. Kind of Tesco value, does-exactly-what-it-says-on-the-tin looking. Seriously, I would take the top out of the wardrobe, put it on, and the buttons would just stare at me with their soulless round button faces. Ugh. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Button_Moon" target="_blank">Mr Spoon wouldn't get out of bed for buttons like these</a>, let alone build a rocket! It is a well known rule for budget fashionistas that cheap buttons make things look cheap: boring buttons make things look boring too. So I decided to take a twist on the old 'sew posh buttons on a cheap coat' trick and sew some bright summer buttons on this shirt.<br />
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These buttons are identical to some which cost several pounds in Hobbycraft. However I purchased mine from <a href="http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Punch-N-Julie?_rdc=1" target="_blank">Punch 'n' Julie on EBay</a>, where the full range is much cheaper. Delivery was reasonable (she combined postage for multiple items) and quick. For convenience and price I really prefer EBay to big craft shops like Hobbycraft these days.<br />
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Anyway, I'm not going to tutorial you guys on something as easy as 'cut old buttons off, sew new ones on'!<br />
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Here is the finished top. I was concerned it might look a bit too 'Blue Peter presenter', but actually with the floral buttons it just looks very summery. The buttons aren't exactly corporate but as I work with kids it's still fine for workwear, and all the more fun for spare time wear. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to wear it out because of the disgraceful weather we've been having, however I am keeping my fingers crossed we'll have at least one warm day in the future. As in, ever.<br />
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What are your quick updates for old and folorn clothing?Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-65050901445488570192013-05-04T16:56:00.002+01:002013-05-04T16:57:50.423+01:00Poundland HaulSorry I've been away. I've been quite poorly recently unfortunately.<br />
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Never mind. Local Poundlands had a chance to re-stock. Here's a V-log about my latest Poundland and 99p Stores haul...<br />
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Enjoy! And if you do YouTube, subscribe to my channel as I am planning to do more video stuff in future. Just don't expect expert camera action, it's gonna be more You've Been Framed than BAFTA material.Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-4293453592579105432013-04-03T09:47:00.001+01:002013-04-03T09:47:44.066+01:00Dying Hair With Spices... Dare I?I have been considering giving my hair a break from harsh permanent dyes recently. Mainly because it's crispy fried and dry, good if it was fried seaweed from the local takeaway, bad for hair. Not sexy. However I am not prepared to forgo dye altogether - I'm one of those people who (up until a few weeks ago) couldn't tell you what my natural hair looks like. Well, I let some roots grow a few weeks back and I was like 'NOOOO' ... I don't want to see my natural colour. It's brown - not lustrous rich brown but cool, dull crap brown, and where there used to be streaks of red and blonde there are now streaks of grey. Ugh. So, what were my options?<br />
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The first, from<a href="http://www.superdrug.com/" target="_blank"> Superdrug</a>, is simply wash-in-wash-out <a href="http://www.superdrug.com/superdrug-effect-mahogany-55/invt/400955&bklist=" target="_blank">'Effects'</a> dye. The stuff you used as a teenager in the 90s! It's pretty quick, easy and cheap, but I have to apply the dye and wait 15 min (to get a good colour) every other time I wash my hair, which is a hassle. I don't mind once a week - or preferably once a month if I can get away with it. So I'm looking at other natural alternatives. At first, I was primed to pop off to Westfield and pick up some <a href="https://www.lush.co.uk/category/153" target="_blank">henna from Lush</a> (only buy henna from reputable sources m'kay - as a West London girl I've seen the<a href="http://www.hennapage.com/henna/warnings.html" target="_blank"> allergies and scars using adulterated, cheap - especially black- henna can cause</a>). But then I got wind of a thriftier, home-made alternative from Youtube; spice dying.<br />
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As anyone who has got haldi (turmeric) on their clothes will attest, it's a pretty strong natural dye. The same goes for paprika, cloves, coffee and saffron. See how they can be used on these Youtube clips:<br />
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So, shall I try it? Do you want to see if my plain brown roots turn a nice chestnut? Or, which will probably be more entertaining, do you want to see me with an orange scalp and no decipherable change to my hair?</div>
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I even have some old bags of spices I forgot to unpack when I moved... lacking in flavour but perfectly OK for DIY dye...</div>
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Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-37990965471012349542013-03-19T10:12:00.000+00:002013-03-19T14:05:51.241+00:00Electric Dreams At The Towner, EastbourneTime to get in some culture, innit. A couple of weeks ago I visited the gallery my sister works at - the Towner Gallery in Eastbourne - for a club-style evening event. Themed around 'Electric Dreams' and neon electronica, it was a party inspired by the<a href="http://www.townereastbourne.org.uk/exhibition/kelly-richardson/" target="_blank"> Kelly Richardson: Legion exhibition</a>. The exhibition is still on and FREE - it is well worth a visit if you are in the area. Richardson layers photographs she has manipulated into eerie, almost mystical worlds of enhanced colour and odd perspective. These are projected onto huge screens, with natural soundtracks ... the effect is very ghostly and atmospheric, it immediately triggers a mood change even if you are not into very conceptual modern art. All of the works in Legion are about the environment - in one, a 'ghost' stag walks into a strange, misty forest. Sometimes he is there, sometimes he isn't... he leaves a trail of smoke behind him, like a memory of an extinct animal that used to walk in the woods.<br />
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The evening centred round a dance performance by Ceyda Tanc Dance, who used the giant screen art as a set for their piece. It was a really impressive piece (says I as an out-of-shape very-ex-performance person) and captured the strange combination of anger and whimsical mystery in the artwork itself.<br />
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Anyway, enough with the culture ... this is what I wore:<br />
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Excuse the fuzzy picture, it was quite dark. As there was a neon theme and neon is one of the few colour schemes I don't have, I had to ring my sister in a panic. She suggested electric blue... which I do have. A lot of. So voila, it's my old chestnut £1.99 of EBay JC Penney disco dress, along with sequin shoes, belt and a solid glitter resin Hello Kitty pendant. As usual I didn't quite match everyone else but what's new.<br />
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There were some fun twists on a normal evening opening. For example, not only was there a bar... it was in the lift! A party lift. This was a great idea as not only was it fun in there, with cider and lethally strong blue cocktails but as it stopped and opened on every floor, it lifted the atmosphere throughout the event as neon-clad dancers and costume scouts jumped out and got everyone else involved.<br />
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As you can see some of the costumes were really amazing. My favourites were these 'silver people' which, like the exhibition, were spooky and beguiling in equal measure ... the photo is right - they didn't have eyes! But they walked round fine. Don't ask me how.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yQVSZh7Wti4/UUg6ho4qrgI/AAAAAAAABDE/VERGkSFgKYA/s1600/silverpeopletowner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yQVSZh7Wti4/UUg6ho4qrgI/AAAAAAAABDE/VERGkSFgKYA/s400/silverpeopletowner.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.townereastbourne.org.uk/" target="_blank">The Towner</a> is a gem of a gallery, in a state of the art building. It hosts many events and exhibitions, many of which are free - so if you are ever down in Sussex, be sure to pop in!<br />
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Find them on the web <a href="http://www.townereastbourne.org.uk/" target="_blank">here</a> and on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/townergallery?ref=stream" target="_blank">Facebook here</a>.Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com5Eastbourne, East Sussex, UK50.768035 0.2904720000000224950.687718499999995 0.1291105000000225 50.8483515 0.45183350000002248tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1078543368745313529.post-21751096633028931322013-03-11T21:08:00.001+00:002013-03-11T21:09:34.202+00:00Hickory Vintage ... A Vintage Fashion FilmI was recently sent this fabulous film by Hickory Vintage. With a tense, atmospheric thriller feel, it showcases their garments fantastically, covering four eras - the 40s, 50s, 60s & 70s and the 80s. There are some wonderful scenes and superb looks - check it out...<br />
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I think my favourite look it the 80s one - it's so striking with the make-up and oversized hat providing maximum impact!<br />
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Directed by Lauren Midwinter, this video overtook Prada in its first week on Youtube. Not bad for a vintage video in the world of mainstream fashion!<br />
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If this has piqued your interest in Hickory Vintage, do check out their <a href="http://www.hickoryvintage.com/vintage-clothes-blog" target="_blank">blog </a>and <a href="http://www.hickoryvintage.com/" target="_blank">store</a>. There's lovely stuff to be found...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hickoryvintage.com/dresses/vintage-1960s-day-dress-12.html" target="_blank">60s Dress £14</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hickoryvintage.com/tops/vintage-1970s-bright-flowers-top-14.html" target="_blank">70s Hawaiin Top £6</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hickoryvintage.com/dresses/vintage-1970s-grecian-column-maxi-dress-10.html" target="_blank">70s Grecian Maxi £14</a></td></tr>
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Perdita Tinselhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01741015473009270250noreply@blogger.com7