3rd December’s Wanstead Vintage Fashion & Brocante Fair for 2011 will be a Christmas Spectacular where you will be able to buy a wonderful range of vintage Christmas presents and your party season vintage outfit, (not to mention the odd treat for yourself ) all under one roof.
Christmas present ideas for vintage lovers
With the Great British Bake Off having attracted millions of viewers – the sale of cupcake holders and baking books have gone sky-high. Why not gift some vintage baking items or cookery books which are often beautifully illustrated, have fantastic old advertisements and great tried and tested recipes.
And according to Daily Candy, Jelly is the next big thing, with Harvey Nichols selling the new Aeroplane Create-a–Jelly. All you need do, they say, is “add boiling water and 200 mls of any drink – coke, champagne, chai tea – to a packet of clear Create-a-Jelly to turn it into a wobbly wonder” and what better way to make the Jelly than in a vintage jelly mould. Many sizes and shapes will be available at the fair.
DIAMANTE JEWELLERY
Diamante earrings or necklaces are a lovely present to give and much coveted at the moment – they are set to become a girls best friend! In the twenties they were a great alternative to diamonds. Also very popular during the 1950’s with many a prom girl accentuating her dress with a diamante necklace or earrings. It is important to check the diamantes are secure if in a prong setting or that they have not become dull or green (often a sign of becoming wet).
Coco Chanel loved to use a diamante brooch to embellish her little black dresses. Christian Dior, Miriam Haskell, Trifari, Butler & Wilson and Swarovski have all used diamantes in their costume jewellery.
Judith Miller has written a very informative book on Costume Jewellery – a must for any vintage jewellery collector. These gorgeous, eye-catching diamante pieces are from this book.
There will be some stunning diamante pieces at the Christmas fair so be there early as they go very quickly.
VINTAGE GAMES & TOYS
Instead of the children sitting in their room playing on the computer or DS – buy an entertaining old-fashioned board game which the whole family can enjoy. Some of my fondest memories of growing up were playing the old traditional games – long may they continue.
And for even younger children what about a vintage toy – well made and well loved!
Vintage gardening books – why not add some lovely seed packets; fashion prints; tea sets; vintage linen tablecloth and napkins; vintage Christmas decorations – the hand blown baubles being particularly collectable; cufflinks; a stunning vintage scarf; compact or vintage perfume atomiser which looks lovely on the dressing table; vintage glasses; or a vintage handbag – the evening ones are ideal.
And if you’re looking for your Christmas party dress what about one of these two gorgeous dresses both from Lottie Vintage who always has one of the most amazing stalls – be sure to visit her.
And don’t forget the Vintage Café will be selling their range of fashion tribute cakes and a delicious selection of Christmas treats including mince pies and Christmas cake with an array of lovely teas all served on dainty vintage china. Perfect pick-me-up before starting on the second round of shopping (just in case you missed that all important find!).
