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FASHION / BEAUTY / WELLBEING / LIFESTYLE / HOME / FOOD / CULTURE / SOCIETY ISSUE 86 / FEB 18

LIFE

HER

ISSUE 86 FEB18 £4.50

Valentine Sparkle

IN THIS ISSUE...

• PRETTY IN PUNK

YOU’LL BE MADE UP!

• TWEED & TALONS

Get

• GROW CONFIDENCE

Ahead

• MAD MEN DESIGNER T H E V O I C E O F V I N TA G E

• VINTAGE WATCHES

GET A HAT!

• STREET STYLE

Escapes

• FONDANT FANCIES

ART DECO

Victory

V is for...

W W W. V I N TA G E L I F E M A G A Z I N E . C O M

FEB 18 ISSUE 86 £4.50

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WE CHAT WITH MISS VICTORY VIOLET

PLUS: STYLE / HAIR / MUSIC / REVIEWS / EVENTS 22/01/2018 17:22

fashion

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Contents FASHION

BEAUTY & HAIR

8. Get ahead...

Take a look to see how you can transform or finish off an outfit!

36. Beauty Must Haves Time to look after yourself and have a relaxing detox.

11. FASHION SHOULD BE FUN Haili’s top tips for injecting your modern outfit with a vintage twist.

37. vALENTINE’S SPARKLE A make-up look you’ll love.

14. PRETTY IN PUNK A funky retro alternative wedding.

17. THE ENDURING STYLE ICON Taking at look at Elvis Presley 40 years on and how he’s still an icon!

22. Street Style ‘Best Dressed’ gallery - see what our readers are wearing this month.

24. TWEED AND TALONS Follow Melanie and her eagle eye for fabulous vintage fashion!

26. MAD FOR IT...

We talk with Janie Bryant, costume designer for Mad Men! 30. A RIGHT SEW & SEW How to improve the period look of your next sewing project!

33. WEARABLE HISTORY The story behind the garments.

40. EDWARDIAN HAIR TUTORIAL A step by step guide to follow!

WELLBEING 43. Kitty’s NEW TRICKS Five social media top tips for creative reinvention.

45. GLAMOROUS Façade The story behind the scenes!

47. V is for victory We chat with Miss Victory Violet.

49. Subscribe Today Don’t miss an issue and save money off the cover price!

LIFESTYLE 50. EXPLORE YOUR CONFIDENCE Dawn Gracie talks about how to feel great and build your confidence.

54. DIG FOR VICTORY Dean Turner talks about growing your own victory garden!

55. TIME ON YOUR HANDS Interview with a watch collector! vintagelifemagazine.com | 3

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contents FASHION / BEAUTY / WELLBEING / LIFESTYLE / HOME / FOOD / CULTURE / SOCIETY ISSUE 86 / FEB 18

LIFE

HER

Cover Girl: Miss Victory Violet Photographer: myboudoir.co.uk

ISSUE 86 FEB18 £4.50

Valentine Sparkle

IN THIS ISSUE...

• PRETTY IN PUNK

YOU’LL BE MADE UP!

• TWEED & TALONS

Get Ahead

• GROW CONFIDENCE

• MAD MEN DESIGNER T H E V O I C E O F V I N TA G E

• VINTAGE WATCHES

GET A HAT!

• STREET STYLE

Escapes

• FONDANT FANCIES

ART DECO

Victory

V is for...

W W W. V I N TA G E L I F E M A G A Z I N E . C O M

FEB 18 ISSUE 86 £4.50

WE CHAT WITH MISS VICTORY VIOLET

PLUS: STYLE / HAIR / MUSIC / REVIEWS / EVENTS

cover copy.indd 1

22/01/2018 17:22

DON’t Miss ouT Subscribe And Save on page 49

HOME

CULTURE

59. Reader’s Home 1920s chalet transformed into a vintage paradise!

75. A REAL DREAMBOAT We talk with lead guitarist from Dreamboats and Petticoats.

61. GOOD CLEAN FUN Seren Hollins discusses cleaning away the January blues!

78. Vintage TV Shows Goodnight Sweetheart.

62. Mid-century modern One of the most significant developments in architecture and interior design.

FOOD 66. POUR ME A GLASS Bourbon whiskey tasting!

68. COFFEE & WALNUT CAKE Seren shares her favourite recipe.

70. TEA AT THE RISE A superb spread!

79. MARGARET LOCKWOOD A silver screen star!

80. THE TIME IS NOW The Tootsies talk time.

82. Reviews Books to read this month.

83. Art Deco Escapes Genista talks art deco hotels.

86. BOBBY FITZPATRICK First dates with a vintage twist!

SOCIETY

71. Gin is in!

Gin tasting in Liverpool.

90. Marvellous Meet-UPS News from the MMM.

72. FONDANT FANCIES A magical treat!

92. LET’S GO RIDE A BIKE 94. THE PRINCE EXPERIENCE 95. THE RHYTHM RIOT 98. Events

Issue 87

on sale on Wed 28th Feb 2018

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Perfect for your Valentine...

by Kooki de Lou Lucite bags stocked by Tiki-Lou Hawaii at Crews Hill Vintage Emporium, London / facebook.com/tikilouhawaii/

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take Vintage life everywhere with you!

12 month digital SubScription only ÂŁ21.99

Download VL from any of these:

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14/12/2014 21:59

editor’s letter...

CONTRIBUTOR SPOTLIGHT:

I

s it too late to say happy new Year? Well, I didn’t want you thinking I’d forgotten! It’s been so crazy busy here, that I already feel like I’m half way into the new year and an exciting one it’s set to be.

It’s still chilly, but I for one am enjoying the cool climate as it’s a great excuse to keep wearing my huge faux fur coat. I literally feel like I could hibernate in it... oh if only. Wishing for warmer weather is a great waste of a vintage winter wardrobe! so what do you have planned this year? With all the vintage events coming up, there is something for everyone and you can certainly have a fun filled diary, getting out and about across the country. We’d love to hear from you about events you’ve attended, you might even get featured in the magazine! valentine’s day is approaching, whether you’re sharing it with a loved one, or cuddling up alone on the sofa watching netflix, or reading your copy of vintage life, while munching on a huge bar of galaxy, enjoy it.

I’ll leave you to read this magazine and get your vintage fi x for another month! see you next issue...

Rae Evans

rae evans editor in Chief / publisher

LIFE

FACEBook @VINTAGElIFEMAG TWITTEr @VINTAGElIFEMAG INsTAGrAM @VINTAGElIFEMAG

EDITorIAl: +44 (0) 7896 475130 haili@dragoonpublishing.com

EDITor-IN-CHIEF rae Evans

suBsCrIPTIoNs: +44 (0) 1260 291536 judith@dragoonpublishing.com

DEPuTy EDITor Haili Hughes ProDuCTIoN EDITor Judith Evans

ADVErTIsING: +44 (0) 1260 291536 alex@dragoonpublishing.com

DEsIGNEr Twigs Art ADVErTIsING MANAGEr Alex Haigh FINANCE MANAGEr Mark Evans DIsTrIBuTIoN MANAGEr susan Brennan

VINTAGE lIFE MAGAZINE, DrAGooN PuBlIsHING lTD DANE MIll BusINEss CTr, BroADHursT lANE, CoNGlEToN, CHEsHIrE, CW12 1lA uk

HAILI HUGHeS dePUtY edItOR Haili is an experienced national newspaper and magazine journalist and a vintage fashion and lifestyle expert who has appeared on TV and radio. She loves femme fatale style and American looks of the 30s and 40s.

PAUL MARLANd GRIFFItH SINGeR & PeRFORMeR Paul is a vintage singer and entertainer with ‘Vintage Rewind’ who enjoys dancing and attending 40s events.

He enjoys writing and has even written his own novel. You can see him driving round in his Vintage ‘Woody.’

KIttY vON tAStIQUe WeLLNeSS edItOR A qualified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, fitness nutrition coach and wellness coach. She has a passion for everything eco, ethical and sustainable.

You can also see Kitty on our VL Facebook Live Streams.

MD/PuBlIsHEr rae Evans ProDuCTIoN MANAGEr Judith Evans FINANCE MANAGEr Mark Evans PrINTED IN THE uk By PENsorD DIsTrIBuTors: WArNErs Contributions in the form of articles are welcomed. Whilst every care will be taken of submitted material and/or photographs the publishers cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage which may occur. The material in this magazine (including ad design) is copyright of Dragoon Publishing ltd 2017/2018 and may not be reproduced in part or whole without permission of the publishers. Any individual providing material for publication must ensure they have obtained the correct permissions before submission to us. Every effort has been made to trace copyright holders. The editor and publishers apologise for any unwitting cases of copyright transgression. opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers.

No political affiliation is implied or intended.

IssN 2052 8825 Vintage life Magazine is published twelve times a year.

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Get ahead...

Transform or simply finish off an outfit You know that old saying, “If you want to get ahead, get a hat” well, especially during the winter, they can transform or simply finish off an outfit. I certainly have an affinity with them, and started wearing hats in my late teens.

L

ast year, I aimed to wear them all, over the course of the year – no easy task!

At first, it can feel peculiar to wear a hat on a daily basis, but you soon get used to it and start feeling naked without! I took major inspiration from my own Nana who wasn’t seen without one in the winter time.

She suited turban styles and wool based cloche hats that fitted snuggly onto the crown, but my

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favourites are large brimmed styles, which aren’t the best choice for winter!

Why not start with a beret? They are smart, stylish, cheap and snazzy! I have probably a dozen of them in various colours. They are easy to put on and in my opinion, at an angle, towards one ear is the best way to wear them - unless you prefer the pulled down ‘Some mothers do ‘ave em’ - Frank Spencer look!

You could progress to vintage styles with more height, a fedora, trilby, or vagabond shape, start with muted tones, or be brave and tackle a bright stand out piece to make a statement.

Try and think classy before attempting a full vintage look, as if overdone, it can appear costume like in a fancy-dress way.

Maybe matching hat and bag colour only, or maybe affordable vintage gloves as an accent, or dress down a little, giving a funky slant on Sunday best. Contrasts work really well, like lime and teal, coral and turquoise, or purple and green. Try your hat with different colours in your wardrobe and experiment: it’s the best way to discover what works well, and see if you look neat or nuts!

There’s lots of wonderful hats for sale at vintage fairs, but don’t wind up the vendors by trying all

Images: Anne Costello Photography facebook @Fineartprintsbyanne / Model: Rachel Connolly / Stylist & hair: Majella Connolly

Words Melanie Calland

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of them, giggling and taking photos. These are delicate items that need to be treated with respect. If you ask politely, they will help you discover what suits you, how to wear that particular shape and how to look after them as well.

They soon get to know you and your style, and come up with great suggestions!

Windy days need hatpins, or you will be chasing your beautiful hat down the road, in puddles and mud. Recently, I saw a lady wearing one vertically sticking out of the top of her hat, I’m not sure if she was participating in a dare, or had a polystyrene head, but really that’s not going to do anything other than hurt! Pin your hat at the side, or both sides by placing the pin through the fabric catching as much of your hair as possible within it, before pushing it back through the fabric so the point is on the outside of the hat, usually on the base of the crown. I also always sew a slide comb into the front of each of my hats to secure at the front as well.

Remember to enjoy your hats, accept the compliments - as you will get them. People have respect for those wearing hats, like the saying goes, get ahead!

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fashion

should

be fun!

Words haili hughes

It is my aim to wear vintage pieces always, but as a busy mum, teacher, and magazine journalist with a boisterous son, that is sometimes neither practical or advisable!

S

o, I often mix modern pieces with a vintage look, with original vintage accessories. That way, I can still look the part but not worry that expensive, irreplaceable pieces will get damaged on the football run or at a kid’s birthday party.

So many high street stores make vintage inspired clothing. A trip into Topshop will highlight 40s peplums, shoulder pads and nipped in waists and last summer, Primark sold out of their 50s inspired lace up Ghillies. So why not mix it up? After all, fashion should be about fun, not trying to outdo each other on who can look the most authentic.

With this mantra in mind, here are my top tips for injecting your modern outfit with a vintage twist: 1. It’s all about the cut Look for modern pieces which are cut in the same style as vintage. This winter, there have been many sheer blouses and dresses on the high street which are very reminiscent of original 40s items. Websites like ASOS and Boohoo have also been full of faux fur jackets in coloured Mongolian style faux fur, which look just like their 70s counterparts. vintagelifemagazine.com | 11

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3. Mixing eras While I feel dramatic and fabulous when I only wear 40s items, real life sometimes means I need to mix my eras. I am not precious about being era specific or being a vintage ‘snob’ and looking down on others’ outfit choices. If you love it, rock it!

The useful thing is that there was a 40s resurgence in the 70s and really similar styles can be picked up for much less of a price tag than their original counterparts. Due to the fact that so many of the items are timeless anyway, you will be surprised what you can find…even your local supermarket clothes department may yield a few surprises.

4. Hats - the cherry on the top I have a huge issue with weight fluctuation and this means that I have a variety of different sizes in my dressing room. When I am at my biggest, much of my original vintage doesn’t fit, so instead I turn to stretchier modern clothing that has a vintage vibe. If I pair this with a hat, I can get away with still looking the part, like these images where I am wearing a vintage and vintage reproduction hat with modern dresses.

5. In the bag Vintage bags can be picked up cheaply in charity shops and on auction sites. Things such as a Kelly bag can give instant vintage chic to most outfits and will not cost a fortune too.

Importantly, remember that it is all about feeling great. Vintage shouldn’t be a competition.

Do you and be fabulous!

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Images: V’s Anchor Studio / Dresses: Scarlett & Jo / Green Hat: Little Shop of Gorgeousness and Fripperies

2. Jewellery makes a look If you are wearing a modern frock, vintage jewellery can tie it all together. Some confetti Lucite earrings and a Bakelite brooch with a few bangles will ensure you still get the mid-century look.

There were also lots of 40s and 50s inspired pieces made in the 80s which are a cheaper alternative.

Most people will not be able to tell the difference!

Photographer: V’s Anchor Studio / Model: Haili Hughes / Styling: Rosie Red Corsetry and Couture / Headpieces: Ice crown – Doll’s Mad Hattery / Other pieces – Lilly Lewis Millinery

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Pretty in punk Words Kate Beavis

Those of you who love the 1970s and 1980s punk look; be it for the music, the fashion or simply the attitude, will love this wedding shoot by Erin Balfour, the founder of the fashion forward blog, Way Out Wedding.

E

rin and her great team have created a look that reminds us of icons such as Debbie Harry and Siouxsie Sioux but given it a modern touch that would work for an alternative wedding today.

Their vision was full of tulles, embroidered upcycled dresses, separates, DIY’d t-shirts, slogans, song lyrics, androgyny, undercuts, faux hawks, heavy set jewellery, Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen (from Lee’s days), a bit of Manic Street Preachers early days, and Sid and Nancy!

This vision has been truly met, but with added details that make this feel accessible for today, such as flower hair pieces, co-ordinating wedding dresses with leather and crystal table accessories.

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Credits: Creative direction and styling: Way Out Wedding Photography: Oobaloos Photography / Dresses, bustle, jewellery and embellished leather jackets: Atelier 19 / Tulles and DIY ‘Pretty Vacant’ shirt: No Debutante / Veils and headpieces: Gemma Sangwine / Millinery: La dame au béret / Jewellery & accessories: stylist’s own; Atelier 19; Gemma Sangwine; La dame au béret / Suit, embellished acid denim: Frock It Bride / Heroes t-shirt: Lush Stuff / Shoes: Charla Tedrick; No Debutante / MUA: Bella Bridal Hair by Sandie / Hair: Joanna Vallender at Vallender Salon / Cake: French Made / Stationery: DeWinton Paper Co. / Flowers: The Flower Girls / Props: Teapots and Tiaras / Crockery and tableware: stylist’s own; Wild & Violet / Venue: | vintagelifemagazine.com The Barn100 at Upcote / Models: Tammy Jaqueline Snipe; Emily Ball

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The Enduring Style Icon Elvis Presley 40 Years After His Death

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fashion ‘Fashions fade but style is eternal’, said the late fashion pioneer Yves Saint Laurent.

The very nature of fashion, with its relentless quest for the new, means that only in hindsight can we access what was a fleeting trend and what made a real impact on the style world. The legendary performer Elvis Presley, who passed away forty years ago, is one of those rare icons whose style influence has outlived their career.

Zoey Goto, author of the recently published book Elvis Style: From Zoot Suits to Jumpsuits takes a look at the King of Style’s legacy and cherry-picks his most enduring style contributions.

Bling Culture Elvis was born in a wooden shack in the Deep South of America and spent his early years living a hand-to-mouth existence. Having risen above his impoverished childhood and found monumental fame and fortune, Elvis was able to finally indulge his taste for ostentatious stage-wear. He did this spectacularly in 1957 with his sensational gold suit, which cost $10,000.

His dazzling outfit was really a precursor to bling culture, where

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hip hop stars use flashy clothing and diamond-encrusted jewellery to visually signal that they’ve hit the big time. What Elvis’ blinding suit lacked in subtlety, it made up for in spectacle, communicating to the world that the poor boy from Tupelo was ready to take his throne as the golden boy of entertainment.

Double Denim ‘Elvis’ legacy can really be seen in the enduring appeal of jeans and jackets’ says GQ’s fashion editor Alex Bilmes. Towards the end of the 1950s Elvis famously wore double denim - the pairing of a denim jacket with denim jeans – for his role in the film Jailhouse Rock, helping to cement denim’s onscreen association with youthful rebellion. Strangely enough, the alliance between denim and delinquency wasn’t just a romanticised, Hollywood fabrication – it actually had its roots in the American penitentiary system, which since the 1920s had often clothed its inmates in denim due to its durability and ease of washing.

In his off-screen wardrobe, Elvis tended to avoid denim as it reminded him of work-wear and the poverty of his childhood. However, by endorsing a range of jeans for Levi’s, and through his movie career that included many onscreen denim-moments, Elvis became, in the collective mind at least, the archetypal denim wearer. Design houses including Calvin Klein, Chloé, Ralph Lauren

Images: Library of congress and heritage auctions

T

he Memphis Flash, as he was known in his youth, continues to influence contemporary design culture – from pop stars and high-end fashion houses to street style. Walking through most major cities, it is hard not to notice the guys and girls channelling their inner-Elvis, with Americana and rockabilly styles being constantly reworked and revived on the streets. ‘Even today, a distilled version of his look has filtered down into the wardrobes of many self-respecting teenage rebels,’ so says the British menswear designer Joe Casely-Hayford ‘The “Elvis Style” remains a potent and relevant signifier for certain subcultural groups’.

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and D&G have since flirted with the idea of head-to-toe denim and the consciously casual style continues to grace runways seasonally.

Images: Library of congress and heritage auctions

The Pompadour Even as a high school student Elvis understood that hair was loaded with social meaning. While his fellow classmates sported the standard post-war short back and sides, Elvis set his sights higher and looked toward Hollywood’s leading men for guidance. His references included Marlon Brando’s greaser style, Tony Curtis’ slick pompadour and the debonair Dean Martin, whose hair was worn indecently long for 1940s America.

Presley lost no time in trying to coax his own hair into a greased, finger-curled quiff, falling seductively across his forehead. Elvis teamed his sky-high pompadour with a duck’s-tail and a pair of menacing sideburns, creating a style that managed to be shockingly effeminate – further emphasized by Elvis’ very public haircombing performances – while at the same time also contentiously macho and working class.

Elvis’ hair inspired a generation of teenage rebels globally, including the British Teddy Boys who used lashings of Brylcreem to imitate the slick, patent leather appearance of Presley’s style.

The men’s grooming brand American Crew have recently launched a range of products to help with achieving Elvis’ legendary hairstyle. vintagelifemagazine.com | 19

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Gender Fluid Fashion When Elvis burst onto the scene in the mid-1950s, he managed to single-handedly change the way that America, and much of the world beyond, dressed.

As many Americans attempted to put the chaos and carnage of WWII behind them, they now faced a fresh set of anxieties with the rise of the Cold War era. A climate of conformity was created, which was particularly evident within men’s fashion and the domination of sack suits from Brooks Brothers, teamed with club ties and penny loafers.

Within this climate, it took courage to stand apart from the crowd. Elvis’ image was seen as antagonistic, as it so skilfully played with gender stereotypes. His fondness for make-up – at which he was so adept he would often apply his girlfriend’s mascara – and penchant for lace and navel-baring cropped shirts were seen as effeminate and highly suspicious.

Elvis also helped in liberating men to wear colours that previously had been considered exclusively for females. This included wearing bubble-gum pink clothing. ‘Back then “real men” wouldn’t wear pink’ says Hal Lansky of Lansky Bros, Elvis’ favourite tailoring house in Memphis. Yet with Elvis’ help, ‘it soon became a 50s thing, with pink clothing, Cadillacs and flamingo motifs becoming popular’.

Elvis Style: From Zoot Suits to Jumpsuits

by Zoey Goto is available from Amazon and all major book outlets.

So how has Elvis Presley remained a menswear icon 40 years after his passing? Perhaps the answer lies in the fact that although he may have dipped in and out of fashion throughout his career, he always retained his natural style. All that Elvis was – from his fondness for gravity defying hairstyles, to his theatrical stage-wear, was an uncompromising expression of his unique identity – now that’s true style!

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Housed in an Edwardian Mill 60 traders sell from 26,000 sq ft offering a selection of Ladies’ and Gents’ fashion, Homeware, Decorative Objects, Furniture, Taxidermy, Salvage, French and Industrial Chic along with an array of other eclectic items.

The Vintage Emporium, Pear Mill Industrial Estate, Stockport Road West, SK6 2BP, Lower Bredbury INSTAGRAM: THEVINTAGEEMP FACEBOOK: THE VINTAGE EMPORIUM TWITTER @PEARMILLVINTAGE OPEN 7 DAYS 10-5 (5:30 SAT) WITH FREE PARKING AND ONLY THREE MINUTES FROM THE M60 (J27) WWW.PEARMILLVINTAGEEMPORIUM.CO.UK

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Courtney Roberts Outfit: This original red polka dot dress with wrap top is from the 1950s and is from a vintage shop in Stourport on Severn, called Vintage Vanity.

STREET

Lisa Fox Outfit: A vintage dress I managed to pick up at Wilton’s Music Hall as part of a Pop-Up Vintage Fair in London, in August. It makes me feel wonderful and the fact it’s from a collection of costumes from the TV show ‘The Crown’ is a bonus - I loved this show.

Michelle Auer and Terry Outfit: My dress is a repro grey, heavily beaded evening dress and Terry’s suit is a Texan Ranchman.

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Pauline Saffery Location: Folkestone, Kent Outfit: A 60s vintage mod dress, 60s vintage wool English Lady mod coat and a 60s vintage mod Peter Black holdall.

STYLE BEST DRESSED

GALLERY

Miss Dallas Starr Location: Dallas, Texas, USA Outfit: Cherry print full swing pinup dress from Modcloth. Earrings, necklace and bracelet are white pearls.

Bonnie Glynne Photography

Laura Dickson Location: Sittingbourne, Kent Outfit: I am a dressmaker and I made this beautiful 1960s shift dress from pattern ‘Simplicity 1609.’

I wore it with block heels and a cardigan, and my beehive hairstyle. The bag is original 1960s from The Vintage Wardrobe in Broadstairs.

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Rita Location: Bristol Outfit: A wine coloured coat with a faux fur trim from Collectif, a matching wine beret, a tartan navy dress from Miss Candyfloss and lace up boots

Yvonne Somrani Outfit: Both my hat, dress and bag are original 1940s from America.

The shoes are rare 1940s purple suede from Berlin, Germany.

Rachel Outfit: Original 1940s shoes and a 1940s handmade black ladies coat, sourced from a trader who frequents the events I attend, with a reproduction perch hat.

Elaine and Jay Stott Outfit: Here I am with my husband wearing a 1950s original coat, dress, hat and Lucite bag. Jay’s suit is a 1950s replica, teamed with a blue velvet 1960s jacket for an eclectic look.

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Lorraine Morgan Outfit: A dress from Lindy Bop, with a winter scene in New York.

I love it and can’t wait till it’s wintery enough to wear it again!

Emma Ellson Location: Northamptonshire Outfit: This is a 1930s inspired outfit made by James Campbell for a musical performance I was in. The song was Boulevard of Broken Dreams from the original Moulin Rouge musical.

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Those of you like me who have multiple sisters know that they vary - there’s the pretty one who is always trying out new make-up and hairstyles, then there’s the one who keeps eagles, hawks and owls at the bottom of her garden...what do you mean, no? Oh! That’s just my family then is it?!

M

Photos by Mandy Abbott

Words Melanie Calland

andy’s passion for falconry started when her daughter Sophie fell in love with them, and started helping at a birds of prey centre every weekend whilst still at school. After a few years, they had their own centre, and an array of beautiful exotic taloned birds.

With our busy work schedules, we each eventually got around to booking some time off to get together, so I could fly the birds. It was such an amazing unforgettable afternoon, and I had such a fantastic time. I sampled her “owl experience” starting with an Asian brown wood owl called ‘Neeka.’ Then we moved onto ‘Wesley’ the handsome barn owl, and then to a favourite of mine, ‘Willow’ the great grey owl, with his striking yellow eyes. Absolutely stunning! They bought him at only three weeks old and I haven’t seen him since he was an ugly young owlet!

Eventually we moved onto the majestic European eagle owl, who weighs around eight pounds, pretty weighty on my rapidly weakening arm!

We then embarked on a ‘Hawk Walk’ with ‘H’ an impressive Harris hawk, where we strolled around the adjacent grounds of Swinton Castle Park, flying him from tree to tree, making him work for his rewards, which Mandy sneaked between the fingers of my suede falconry gauntlet, until I was ready to stand with outstretched arm to beckon him to my side.

The feeling is amazing, again tak-

ing me back in history. Birds of prey were the first animals to be trained to hunt for humans!

Mandy specialises in one to one experiences, she shows you how to fly a bird and then it is down to you, with her helping only if needed, rather than the usual bird shows at most centres. Photography days with the birds are also very popular.

Mandy can also do guided walks of the area she has lived and worked in for over 35 years. New to her agenda is guided dog walks, where she can even supply her own dogs to walk, if you haven’t got one!

An avid photographer, Mandy even managed to take all of the photos for me, whilst my normal photographer, Frankie was being dragged around the park by our six lively poodles, who we needed to keep away from the birds!

As usual, I wanted to be dressed for the occasion, with a tweed shawl made from some fabric gifted to me, which was really just a ‘skirt length’ which is a piece of fabric ready cut to make a plain straight skirt. I folded the fabric lengthways and cut probably two thirds up, curving around to make a back neckline. I curved around the folded part to create a cape shape, and I then neatened around the edges, to finish. I pulled the weft threads to create fringes, which I then tied into knots. I thought making a skirt was too boring and wanted something more dramatic!

I added an epaulette to tuck the fringed edge into on one shoulder. I

will do a sketch on my blog!

I managed to squeeze a little hat out of the scraps and added some vintage feathers I was once given.

I’m also wearing a beautiful Lilli Ann jacket known as the ‘Swashbuckler.’

It has amazing accordion pleated sleeves that bellow out and a slim fitted bodice with three metal buckles encrusted with diamante. It was featured in an advert in a 1955 issue of Vogue magazine modelled by the famous Dorian Leigh, and has a wonderful slogan ‘For young and exciting women of all ages,’ which at my age, sums me up really! I was lucky to find it for a snip, although there was no matching skirt. However, I discovered this old ‘Pendleton’ skirt which is a pretty good match really.

Pendleton were a well-known American firm who made the renowned button front wool plaid jackets. I needed sturdy shoes for my adventure, and I had bought these green suede boots around 20 years ago for a trip to Switzerland.

So, if you have ever hankered after meeting such impressive creatures, I urge you, just to do it! You will create some amazing memories to treasure and you will not be disappointed!

Catch up on retropoodles.wordpress.com for further photos, or follow us on Instagram retro_poodles For further information on Mandy’s events please contact Swinton Park Birds of Prey on 01765680900 or email enquiries@swintonpark.com. They are based near Masham, North Yorkshire.

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Mad for it...

We talk with Janie Bryant Costume Designer, Fashion Designer & Author

Janie Bryant is an Emmy® Award winning Costume Designer well known for her designs on AMC TV’s Mad Men and HBO’s Deadwood, as well as being the costume designer of the new Amazon show The Last Tycoon, with Lily Collins and Matt Bomer, scheduled to premiere on July 28th, showcasing Hollywood glamour of the 1930s. She is so influential that her costume design has been cited as influencing designers Michael Kors, Vera Wang, Prada and Marc Jacobs to name but a few.

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Images: c/o Unique Vintage

Words Haili Hughes

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A

fter studying fashion design, moving to Paris for design and then New York, where she got involved in the TV and film industry, Bryant then moved to Los Angeles to follow her passion of continuing her career as a Hollywood costume designer.

Along with her critically acclaimed and prestigiously awarded costumes, Janie has designed a twelve-piece collection of dresses and separates for US based brand ‘Unique Vintage,’ which was inspired by actual 1950s vintage pieces - many from Bryant’s personal collection.

The vintage-inspired designs adhere to the structured fashion of the era, with both wiggle and swing silhouettes that accentuate the classic feminine hourglass shape and boast unique, delicate details from scalloped pearl necklines, to dotted mesh overlays.

We caught up with Janie to find out about her love for vintage and this new collection.

What were you most excited for when you found out you were going to design your new collection?

I was most excited about designing a 1950s inspired collection. I love the silhouettes, shapes, details and colours of the decade; Unique Vintage is an amazing partner in this effort.

Katie, the CEO, and I hit it off right away with our shared passion of vintage clothing and the 50s!

Where did you get the inspiration for your designs? Is any particular era your favourite?

My inspiration came from some of my own personal favourite 1950s vintage pieces.

I love the red and black velvet halter swing dress, as the shade of red is perfection and the fits are so flattering to the body. It is a great dress for special occasions too.

Who would you love to see wear the collection and why?

Of course, I would love to see the cast of all the Mad Men ladies in my collection. vintagelifemagazine.com | 27

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Our readers know you best for your work on Mad Men. What was your favourite thing about working on the show?

Costume design is all about the transformation from actor into character. With Mad Men being set from 1960-1970, it was so important to create an entire world and for the audience and actors to be transported back in time. It really is like magic. I’m truly passionate about seeing characters come to life through costume design.

I love that the fans were so excited and engaged with the costume design of the show for each episode.

What advice can you give to aspiring designers?

I think the most important thing is to be true to yourself, believe in your dreams, and never give up on your passions.

What has been the biggest success in your career so far?

Mad Men has definitely been my biggest success design wise. The costume design affected fashion for men and women on an international level. I loved working on The MadMen Collections at Banana Republic and now this capsule with Unique Vintage will enable me to continue to bring my designs to fans of the show.

Janie can be found on Instagram and Twitter @janiebryant 28 | vintagelifemagazine.com

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a right sew & sew Words scarlett sew and sew

There is more to sewing authentic looking clothes than just picking the pattern and choosing a fabric you like. The more vintage clothes I made, the more I was drawn into making them as they would have been made and eschewed all advances in machinery, fabrics and techniques made since that era. It truly makes for a more authentic looking garment and immerses you more in that period.

Sewing Machines and Irons: A basic lock stitch looks and behaves the same whether it’s from a hand cranked Singer from the second half of the 19th century, a very heavy, newly electric sewing machine from the 1930s or a brand new computerized. It will not change the look of the garment, so what you use depends on you. It must be regularly serviced and oiled and if you buy an old electric machine, get it safety tested by whoever does your servicing before you use it, especially if it has a non-moulded plug.

It is of course easier to use a new modern iron with a separate steam box, but you can manage quite well with an iron that has a reservoir for water (they came out in the early 1940s) or a plain electric iron (the early ones had no thermostat!) and a cloth rung out in clean water. It won’t impact on the authentic look of the garment but we do want to reject the authentic tendency of old clothes to shrink if they get wet. So if you can’t get a really good head of steam up, make friends with the dry-cleaners and get them to give your fabric a good press first, especially if it’s not washable.

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Equipment: Sleeve-boards mine was pinched from my Grandmother and comes from the 1950s), hams, needle-boards, pattern wheels, scissors, pins and needles haven’t changed in centuries. You can use pinking shears for the 1940s onwards.

I don’t ever use old pins and needles: they tarnish and will leave marks on light fabrics. I like straw needles as they are long and thin and glass headed pins.

I lose less as I can’t bear to hoover them

up and my dogs can see them better and step over them. Me too! Use a new machine needle for each new garment, change the moment it gets a burr or hits a pin and throw it away.

Do not be authentic with either thread or elastic. Elastic degrades very quickly and although those wooden cotton reels look really good, display purposes only please. Thread gets weaker over time and sooner or later a seam will pop. I am a Guetermann girl through and through

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and then swap to silk or cotton thread for handwork or topstitiching and buttonhole thread for handworked buttonholes.

Patterns: The greatest joy is an uncut, factory folded original pattern from any era.

It’s pristine, complete and unaltered. It also has no influence from what came after( which is the really important bit), so it is as true as you can get, as are the instructions. After that, a re-issue from the likes of Vogue and Butterick.

The instructions are original and the advantage is the pattern is printed unlike the originals that seem to make no sense at all with all the bewildering holes in random pieces of tissue. I will tackle that in a future article.

Fabrics: Natural fabrics: cotton, wool, silk, linen. Artificial fabrics came in the 1930s and viscose comes close to fabrics like rayon. Nylon appeared in WW2, polyester in the 1950s and the 1960s were awash with synthetics like spandex.

Artifical fabrics are developed from natural sources and imitate natural, whereas synthetic are completely new. Up to the 1960s it’s best to stick to natural fabrics and even reject a mix but after that think Space Age, Courreges and Carnaby Street and use what looks right.

There is also a conundrum here: Authentic, vintage clothes look aged.

If you make a garment with the correct fabric, with an original pattern, correct notions and construction, it looks new.

It would have done too, if you had made it the same way then. So there are always two different looks. I have been known to tone down really bright prints by leaving them in the wash-machine for a week’s worth of cycles, over press blouses to age them and take sandpaper to new suits. Both looks are correct, it’s a matter of personal taste.

Moth holes are incidental!

Construction: No overlocking, no fusible interlinings, no plastic zips and machine made buttonholes with plastic buttons. These four things are the quickest way to spoil your garment.

Overlocking: although commercially used, domestic machines didn’t appear until the late 1960s and it just looks and feels wrong. It’s got a fast moving blade: everyone I know has a horror story of something that ended up being cut by accident. Look to vintage pattern construction instructions of the correct era as how to finish edges, even if you are not using that same pattern.

Fusibles: Sorry, not until the late 1960s when Kufner in Munich developed the glue method, still used today. Until then, only men’s removable collars and cuffs used a type of fusible. Using fusible just gives that cardboard look, no matter what you pick. Always choose a natural fibre, sew-in: cotton sheeting, silk organza, horsehair or linen canvas, and give it a good steam to shrink.

Zips: From the late 1930s after Schiaparelli used them as a feature in her collections, and only metal until 1963 at the earliest. I know it’s a pain to struggle in and out of a side-zipped dress and you have to be dressed before doing hair and make-up but don’t be tempted to move it from where it is supposed to be, especially before the mid 1950s.

Buttonholes: Please ignore the fact that your machine can do an automatic one. Make bound buttonholes or handworked ones (even if they look a bit iffy). Automatic/machine stitched ones are a 1960s development, although there were industrial ones as early as 1912. Domestic buttonholes still look dire even today, so I avoid them especially for vintage. For buttons, I always look for real vintage or get fabric cov-

ered buttons made. May I recommend Taylors in Cleveland Street, London for the best vintage buttons and service. A treasure trove.

Hopefully all of the above will add to your knowledge of what it takes to make a garment true to the decade it belongs to, so wind up your gramaphone or twiddle with your vintage radio dial and get sewing! vintagelifemagazine.com | 31

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Wearable

History

One thing I have always loved about vintage clothing is the stories they come with. Some of my favourite finds have even come with photos of the original wearer or a letter or receipt in the pocket...

Words emma adams

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n fact, a fur coat I recently purchased from America had an initial monogrammed into it and I got a lot of pleasure out of imagining the original wearer sashaying around wartime New York, thinking herself glamorous.

It got me thinking about what I would do with my clothing collection when I am no longer here. Our clothes tell personal narratives without us always knowing. It is wearable art. It is wearable history. As clothes are passed onto new owners, messages are layered onto the ones put there by the previous owner. This idea of vintage clothing expressing even rich narratives, by being passed from wearer to wearer is shared by design duo, Chloe and Abigail – also known as Buttercrumble.

Fresh out of the University of Leeds, they launched a collection of vintage-inspired silk scarves in April 2016.

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The scarves were met with an amazing response, even securing a place on Art&’s RAW Talent programme. These talented ladies offer business consultancy, rebranding, custom artwork, workshops and exhibitions as well as working with major retailers such as John Lewis.

There are currently five scarves in the collection, all with inspiring and cheerful titles: Chocolate Pie, The Call, All In A Day’s Work, Best Foot Foward and Red Lipstick.

Each scarf in the collection is inspired by vintage artefacts collected around Yorkshire and this is reflected through their rich, nostalgic colour schemes.

The Buttercrumble business described itself as ‘The happiness Atelier’ and that their scarves are ‘Wearable History.’

They said: “Fashion is often thought to be the ultimate form of identity and self-expression” and I couldn’t agree more.

Images: Buttercrumble - www.buttercrumble.com

fashion

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Beauty Must Haves Now the excess of Christmas and New Year are over, it is time to start looking after ourselves and having a detox. Here are my top pics for February Beauty Must Haves.

Words haili hughes

The Hollywood Browzer, £15 This is the perfect beauty tool to shape your eyebrows and remove unwanted hair on the face and body with virtually no pain, redness or irritation.

Maso n When Pearson Ju it n no be comes to b ior Hairbru tte sh ru brush r than Mas sh-outs, th , £74 on Pe e is arson re is bristle handmad . Th ew a dark ru nd nylon tu ith natura is l boar fts an by, pin d it c k, ivory white, omes in or blu e.

Strobe MUA Prism hters, £4 lig h ig Cream H brighten lighter will This high to any e c n ia d ra and add skin. suffering

shes, from £6.99 Oval Make-up Bru shes allow you to Bru up keMa al Ov mlessly, to give apply make-up sea smoother and e, ag ver co r a highe ation. They put plic ap al more natur you need it. ere wh ctly product exa

rs, £3.99 Jelly Bean Hand Sanitize convend sanitizers slip easily and han ising stur moi ius These gen out ped whip be can dbag and they iently into the pocket or han to kill 99.99% of bacteria en Prov s. palm the to on for a quick spritz out feeling sticky or heavy. with one or two sprays, with

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Novexp ert Boo ster with Vit am It is no doubt th in C, £44 at the p atmosp arty on your here can take its toll skin a dull c . This will brig hte om powerfu plexion and h n as a l anti-ag ing form ula.

Novexpert Booster Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, £44 A real miracle product, this smoothes out tired skins and seems to fill wrinkles. Four different molecular weights of hyaluronic acids act on all layers of the skin, ridding the complexion of those Christmas toxins!

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beauty

valeNtiNe’s sparKle! WOrdS INDIA JADe CluTTON

Skin Prep: To prepare, firstly we cleansed the skin ensuring all make-up and impurities were removed; leaving a blank canvas. We then toned the model’s skin to close any pores that were opened and prevent the make-up from clogging them, in order to prevent breakouts - toner also has an additional benefit of removing impurities! I have used Elemis products here, as I truly do find these to be the best cleansers and toners around, however, there are many alternatives that can be almost as good for a fraction of the price!

The model used today had particularly dry skin due to the change in weather, so if you find yourself also having this issue, we used ‘hot springs hydrating gel’ from the urban Decay Rehab make-up prep collection in order to combat this. We applied a thin layer of this, particularly focusing on the mouth and nose as these were the driest areas.

Then, using select cover up from MAC in shade ‘NW20’ on a MAC ‘252’ brush, we cut out the eyebrow to create a sharper line and enhance the definition of the brow, ensuring the brows were clean cut.

I then used the remaining select cover up with the same brush to pull down and cover up the entire eyelid, providing a good base for the eyeshadow to sit on and priming the lid. This also helps to blend the fact we have cut out the eyebrows.

Eyebrows & Eyes: We always apply micro-porous tape to the under eye following the natural curve of the eye when applying winged eyeliner! Micro-pore tape is hypoallergenic and therefore safe to use on most skin, it also helps us to create that perfect, striking wing.

Micro-pore is particularly useful if one does not have the steadiest of hands, as it helps even the messiest of eyeliner applications get that crisp wing line. starting with the eyebrows, I used a brown eyebrow gel from Illamasqua with an angled eyeliner/brow brush from the same brand, in order to create an eyebrow shape to compliment the model’s face. For this model, we have used the shade ‘strike’ and feathered out the inner eyebrow to create a more natural look. however, we have strongly defined the outer tails of the brows to make them more striking! vintagelifemagazine.com | 37

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Using a mixture of ‘Nylon’ eyeshadow by M.A.C and ‘Shima Shima’ by Makeup Geek, plus a ‘Smudger’ brush from Zoeva, I added highlight to the inner most corner of the eye and under the arch of eyebrow on the brow bone.

Highlight was applied to the inner most corner of the eye, somewhat in the socket, as this is the darkest place on the face and the highlight brightens this. Whereas highlighter is applied below the arch of the brow, to give the illusion that the eyebrow is higher.

Now for the eyeshadow. Using ‘Foxy’ from the Urban Decay, ‘Naked 2’ palette, I covered the lid to set the Select cover up so that it didn’t move when I applied the eyeliner shape. For today’s look we have mainly used the Anastasia Beverly Hills, ‘Modern Renaissance’ palette as it has a wide selection of pink tones for Valentine’s day. To start we deepened the crease of the eye by blending in the eyeshadow colours ‘Burnt Orange’ and ‘Raw Sienna’ using the Spectrum blending brush ‘BO6’.

Then we used the shade ‘Realgar’ underneath the previous colour in order to deepen the socket and intensify the previous colours. On the actual lid of the eye, we blended the shade ‘Cypress Umber’ from the very outer corner of the eye to the halfway mark, going from dark (outer corner) to light (halfway point).

Next, we used our finger to tap eyeshadow from the Urban Decay ‘Heavy Metal’ palette in the shade ‘Angel Fire’, on to the inner corner of the eyelid to the half way point in order to blend. We then went over the same area in the colour ‘Scream,’ blending in with the previous colour. Using the Kat Von D ‘Tattoo Liner’, we then mapped out an exaggerated cat eye style and removed the micro-pore tape to reveal that sharp, defined wing of eyeliner and eyeshadow. This is usually where we apply false eyelashes but this model was already wearing Semi-Permanent lashes.

We then applied the MAC eye pencil in shade ‘Coffee’ to the waterline and went back over the inner eye highlight to avoid it being lost in all the different eyeshadow colours and this adds a little extra definition!

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Skin: Using a Spectrum foundation brush, I applied Smashbox ‘Photo Ready’ primer all over the face. We then applied M.A.C ‘Studio Fix’ fluid (foundation) in shade ‘NC25’ using a Peaches and Cream foundation brush in ‘PC019’. We then applied the same foundation under the eye using the Peaches and Cream foundation brush in (PC018) as this is slightly smaller and allowed for more accurate application. Using the same ‘PC018’ brush we applied Maybelline ‘Fit Me’ concealer in shade ‘20’ under the eye and on top of the cheeks and blended the darker under eye.

We then set the foundation using M.A.C ‘Mineralised Skin Finish’ powder in shade ‘Medium’. This was applied using a Morphe brush. Using the same brush, we applied ‘Dark Tan’, ‘Mineralised Skin Finish’ in order to contour.

Then Illamasqua’s blusher in shade ‘Lover’ was applied to the apple of the cheeks to give that little pop of colour.

We then applied Urban Decay ‘All Nighter’ setting spray in order to have a wet base to apply the highlighter to and to prevent the face looking too powdery. Illamasqua ‘Beyond’ highlighter powder in ‘OMG’ was applied to the top of the cheekbones, above the eyebrow arch and the cupid’s bow.

Lips: Today we chose the Caite London, glitter flip liquid lipstick in shade ‘Forbidden’. We are currently obsessed with this lipstick! When it is first applied, the colour is matte, once the lipstick has dried for 2 minutes, if you rub your lips together it then becomes glittery!

This completes our take on a classy, flirty Valentine’s day look. We hope this is helpful and if you choose to recreate this look at home feel free to tag us in selfies using #NVBeautyRecreate

CREDITS Words: India Jade Clutton - NV Beauty Makeup: Nastassja Victoria Clutton - NV Beauty Hair: Nastassja Victoria Clutton - NV Beauty Model: Chelsie Pickford Photos: Rebecca Tyson @Beckalouisaphoto

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step-By-step eDwarDiaN Hair tutorial Beauty 85 copy.indd 6

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before

Follow these simple steps...

1. Brush hair through and spray on some setting spray.

2. Roll all the hair up into hot rod rollers.

Hair: Betty’s Rock & Rollers / Photographer: Marc Prior Photography / Model: Domenica Cockle / With special thanks to Stephanie Kaye.

3. Once the hot rods have cooled, remove from the hair and brush the hair through.

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4. Create a square section of hair around the crown area and secure with a hair band.

5. Divide the bottom section into three sections. Backcomb each section and roll up at the back. Secure with bobby pins.

6. Create a section either side. Backcomb the hair and roll up too.

7. Take the hair band off the square section you created at the start and place the curls in the gap that has been created by rolling up the back and the sides and loosely secure with pins.

8. Take the section at the front, back comb and let a parting naturally fall and pin the hair back gently off the face.

20/01/2018 15:54

n o V y t t i K Tastique Writer and YouTuber with a huge passion for everything eco, ethical and sustainable.

Certified Personal Trainer, Wellness Coach.

kittyvontastique.com

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Kitty’s

NEW tricks Words Kitty Von Tastique

With the sea of millions of voices that make up social media today, it’s so easy to feel like you are drowning under the pressure of comparison.

Y

ou might feel that you’ve become too old or outdated. Your Instagram isn’t ‘curated’ well enough. Your content is not quite good enough and you can never have enough followers.

Rather than let the sea of internet opinions swallow me, I have chosen to take social media and use it as a way to empower myself instead.

Although, it may seem that the modern online world is a place for only the very young, at 46, I’m here as living proof that you can teach an ‘old cat’ new tricks.

Today’s media is a very different landscape to when I was growing up. Back then you had to wait to be discovered but today, thankfully, we have the power to create our own content and be heard.

Over the past few years I have taught

myself how to film and edit my own videos and achieved one of my biggest dreams of going back to my make-up roots, through my Vintage Life livestreams.

I’m here to tell you that if I can do it, you can too! You are never too old to reinvent yourself. To learn new skills, create new hopes, goals and dreams!

Here are my five top tips for creative reinvention (and these aren’t just for social media)...

1. Do what you love.

However you decide to express your creativity, focus it on what you love and what you are passionate about. You can only maintain that momentum if the passion is there. In the same way, don’t let your creative pursuit turn into a chore. vintagelifemagazine.com | 43

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2. Give yourself permission to make mistakes The pressure of comparison makes us feel like we need to be churning out amazing work from the get-go but the reality is that the best creators have usually been honing their craft for a while.

Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to evolve.

3. Don’t let other people decide when you are too old to try Age limits and age related expectations are not set in stone. It’s completely ok to try your hand at something creative no matter your age, as long as it makes you happy.

4. Learn to analyse your progress without self-hate If you are a hard task master on yourself like I am, it’s very easy to beat yourself up when you feel like you have failed. It’s really, important to learn how to detach yourself from your work and be objective. Sometimes it’s useful to get a second opinion from someone you trust to put things back into perspective.

5. Celebrate your wins Celebrate your new skills and give yourself credit when it’s due. Accentuate the positive whenever you can and be your own cheerleader.

Having the chance to make my own videos and do my recent Vintage Life livestreams has shown me that social media has a huge power to do good in the world.

Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me with my dreams so far and I wish you all the absolute best with your own creative visions.

I would love to say “Hi” to you on my Vintage Life livestreams where I will be sharing some more of my latest ‘new tricks’!

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behind that glamorous façade

Photos by Emilia Gaza (@cinnamongazephoto)

Words Mina Von Vixen (www.minavonvixen.com)

Marilyn Monroe is one of the biggest and most well-known sex symbols of the 20th century.

She’s a huge style icon and a modelling inspiration for me. I wanted to pay homage to her by recreating the photo shoot she had with Canadian photographer, Douglas Kirkland. The images with the white sheets are such stunning photos of the blonde bombshell. But the story behind the images is just as fascinating…

O

ne year before Monroe’s death, a 27-yearold Douglas Kirkland found himself in an apartment alone with the most gorgeous woman in the world. He had been commissioned

by Look magazine to take photos of her for their 25th anniversary edition. Monroe insisted on having silk sheets, Dom Périgion and Frank Sinatra playing in the background as she was flirting with both Kirkland, and the camera.

Nobody would have known that behind that glamorous façade, earlier that year she had spent three weeks in a psychiatric ward.

Norma Jeane Baker was born on June 1st 1926, and unfortunately, her demons started here. She would never know her biological father, and after asking many questions the only thing she found out was that he had a moustache. The man she wanted as her father was Clark Gable; she used to fantasise he was each time she saw him on screen. Her mother suffered with severe physiological issues, which meant Monroe spent her childhood in foster care.

Whilst in foster care, she was told that her body was something to be ashamed of and was physically and sexually abused at a young age. She was frequently told that she would go to hell for her wild aspirations for fame. This lead to depression, anxiety and later in life - substance abuse. To escape the care system, she married at just 16 years old in 1942, but quickly divorced soon after.

During her life Monroe had two high profile marriages, one to Joe DiMaggio for one year, and the other to Arthur Miller for five years. These marriages sadly both ended in divorce.

At the height of her fame in the 50s, Marilyn hated the fact that she was typecast as the ‘dumb blonde’ but just couldn’t shake it. In an effort to be rid of it once and for all, she studied method acting, in an attempt to be seen as a more serious actress. The classes called for the actors to recall certain moments from their past to evoke an emotion to bring to the scene. It was reported that during this exercise, Monroe broke down in tears in front of the vintagelifemagazine.com | 45

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group after recalling her time in foster care.

Marilyn once told her psychiatrist that she always felt alone, and wrote in her diary that she desperately didn’t want to disappoint those she loved, almost referring to it as a fear. She wanted to feel like she could fit in, find true love and to be loved and wanted in return.

Then came an outstanding moment for Marilyn that would make her incredibly happy. She met the play-write Arthur Miller.

They were an unlikely couple but Marilyn fell head-over-heels in love with him. This era in Marilyn’s life could quite possibly be seen as the happiest years, the photos of them together and just photos of Marilyn certainly project joy and love.

They endured some hardships within their relationship, which included her insecurities and substance problems. They also endured the heartache of two unsuccessful pregnancies possibly linked with her endometriosis, this caused her insomnia and paranoia to run riot. She became very jealous of Miller’s past lovers, her substance abuse got so bad that make-up artists were applying her make-up whilst she was passed out.

After moving to a new house together, she found one of his documents in which he

wrote he had become ‘disappointed’ with her.

Reading this in her own husband’s hand left her distraught - her worst fear had come to fruition. Soon after, they divorced.

In 1961, she was admitted to a psychiatric ward for three weeks. However, even this didn’t help settle any traumas. One day she threatened to cut herself with broken glass if they didn’t release her immediately.

Afterwards she would see the psychiatrist Ralph Greenson, he would listen to her day or night. If you listen to some of the recorded sessions he had with Marilyn on YouTube, they’re quite haunting. Greenson took Marilyn into his family home as a form of adoption therapy, she became a much-loved surrogate daughter to them.

One year after the Douglas Kirkland photo shoot, the news shocked the world that Marilyn had been found dead in her Brentwood home on August 5th 1962 aged just 36, of a suspected suicide.

The message behind these pictures is: no matter how beautiful, or mesmerising the images are, there’s a deep vein of unimaginable pain and anguish that nobody sees that created the 50s sex symbol that we’ll never forget…but also, beauty can come from pain and there is a way to defeat it.

v

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v is for

lifestyle

viCtorY

We talK With

Photos by myboUDoiR WWW.myboUDoiR.co.UK

miss viCtorY violet

A

vintage loving gal from new Zealand with a huge appetite for travel, Miss VV and her husband came to the uK about 18 months ago. In new Zealand, she worked as a hairdresser and make-up artist but also started her blog in 2014 which steadily grew over the years. After moving to London, she decided to take a risk and work for herself. she now tours the uK, europe and beyond, offering hands-on vintage hair and make-up workshops as well as the odd modelling gig.

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how did you become interested in vintage?

I was exposed to little influences as a child like watching Grease on repeat, and as I started to develop my individual sense of style as a young teen, I found myself gravitating towards more classic silhouettes which definitely suits my pear shape better. During my training as a hairdresser, I loved doing styling and updos and took a lot of inspiration from vintage hairstyles, I was always searching online for reference pictures. It was then I found a well known vintage reproduction brand and realised that I could buy a 50s style dress. new Zealand isn’t known for particularly good vintage shopping, so I’d never found much success with true vintage - reproduction made the style much more accessible and soon, I had completely switched over and have never looked back! why the 50s particularly?

When I first started dabbling in the style, 1950s was my silhouette of choice as I absolutely love the femininity of an ultra-full swing skirt. I find them easy to wear and feel completely comfortable in the style. is there a vintage scene in new Zealand?

The vintage scene has grown exponentially over the last five years. I think this is down to a combination of things: there are some great vintage events like ‘The Very Vintage Day Out’, numerous local designers and stores and a supportive social group on Facebook which encourages meet-ups, plus the fact that we have had great success on the international scene - Miss Monique sweet won the Miss Viva Las Vegas competition last year.

your proudest achievement so far?

On a personal and professional level, I think making the leap to move to the other side of the world and deciding to work for myself and build a business out of nothing. It’s terrifying and not easy at times, but I’ve learnt a heck of a lot in the last 18 months any exciting plans coming up?

I have a few long term goals that you’ll just have to wait for, but as for 2018, I’m hoping to continue offering Hair and Make-up Workshops around the world and welcome any new opportunities that may come up! www.missvictoryviolet.com @missvictoryviolet / facebook.com/Missvictoryviolet

Photos by myboUDoiR WWW.myboUDoiR.co.UK

where is your favourite place to visit and why?

I absolutely love France and Italy - the food and the history is just wonderful. Of course, we love heading over to the usA for events like ‘Viva Las Vegas’ and the epic vintage shopping to be had.

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Explore your

confidence

Words Dawn Gracie www.dawnsvintagedo.com

I

’ve spoken a lot during my Facebook live sessions from the Vintage Life Magazine page about self confidence and personal presence.

Without sounding like a cliché, I believe that the dawn of a new year should be a time when we welcome changes, plan improvements and map out our fresh ideas to make positive changes. It gives us the opportunity to draw a line under bad habits, negative mindset, and take a moment to draw breath and re-evaluate our life choices. Again, I know it’s a corny subject to bring up as soon as the Christmas decorations have been put away but why not? Why can’t we give ourselves this opportunity to consider a fresh outlook? Throughout my time as a burlesque instructor and self confidence coach, I’ve heard time and time again how my ladies wish they had more courage to embrace what they have, rather than constantly wishing they were thinner/taller/ more curvy and countless other things. Nine times out of ten, ladies come to my workshops with the aim of

changing, improving or unleashing something about themselves and of course I am a complete advocate of self improvement but most of the time, I can see that what they really need is already there but with a little encouragement and boosting of self esteem, then the physical changes that are so desired, really aren’t the key to happiness.

The key is the mindset to

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Photo: Ash Black Photography

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Vintage singer, event and cabaret producer, burlesque instructor & award winning businesswoman Dawn has been inspiring women to discover their inner pin-up since 2012. Catch Dawn’s live chat sessions on Vintage Life Magazine Facebook pages every other week.

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believe in yourself and the courage to say ‘I am good enough’. So what does all of this have to do with vintage you ask? Well, during my live sessions on Facebook, I am joined by ladies from all over the world who then also contact me privately away from the public chat feed, to say how they enjoyed the pep talk! I never set out with this in mind but I think enthusiasm and confidence is infectious and through our shared interest of a vintage life, be it clothing, lifestyle or even just musical tastes, we all share a passion for a similar thing, like a universal connection that doesn’t care about language barriers and I have always loved this about the vintage I choose.

One particular aspect of vintage that has always inspired me is the pin-up style and the posing and feminine charm that comes with it. I have encouraged many a student to book themselves a boudoir photo shoot and of course being able to put into practice all that they have learned during my workshops, makes it so much easier! A boudoir photo shoot doesn’t have to ‘reveal’ too much, and like burlesque, it’s what can’t be seen, that makes it work. You don’t need naughty underwear or lavish gowns in order to achieve the perfect pin-up boudoir shot - a section of lace, satin or feather can be made to look incredible in the right lighting. If you are planning on booking yourself a photo shoot like this, then I would encourage you to seek out a burlesque class near to you because the fundamental basis of this is to help you im-

prove your self confidence, understand your body and know how to position yourself in an assertive and flattering way. A good boudoir photographer may also include the hair and make-up into the package which also adds to the experience and will ultimately allow you to positively shine in front of the camera. I love to see the result of photo shoots, especially when I know the preparation and hard work that’s gone into someone’s mind set - it really shows and the eyes never lie.

During my Vintage Weekender event in 2016, I hatched a plan to offer a cheeky pin-up boudoir experience to my female guests and together with photographer Ash Black, we created a secret venue within the holiday park setting called Cheeky Chalet. Once guests had arrived, we quickly spread the word that there was a secret chalet and only the bold could have access to visit. During the three day event, ladies could visit the Cheeky Chalet and enjoy some time in front of the camera away from prying eyes and indulge in some ‘me time’ expertly guided by Ash who has a real knack of getting the best out of her subjects and of course if the ladies also happened to be students of mine, then they had the added bonus of knowing their best angles. I will be repeating the Cheeky Chalet experience at my next Vintage Weekender in October. See my website for details.

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Dig for victory Words Dean Turner

It is a new year and time now for me to start planning for the crops in the ‘grow for victory garden.’ If you are wanting a new hobby this year, that is rewarding and gives you exercise and plenty of fresh air, then I suggest growing your own food; you can start planning here and now, ready for the spring. Here are some top tips so you can hit the ground running...

S

tick to vegetables you and your family like - there’s nothing worse than a glut that no one will eat. I follow the guide lines issued by the government as part of their ‘Dig for Victory’ campaign, which is a very straight forward and easy guide to follow. The average size allotment was designed to feed a family of four with fruit and veg, all year round during war time. It is hard work to look after on your own, but if you have a co-worker then it does make a big difference. Of course, it also depends on how much you grow and the space you have.

I have a helper who not only is a great help at the allotment, but also can turn the produce into the most fantastic meals and preserves using a good old, trusty WI cooking book. The problem is different gluts of produce at different times of the year. Trading or swapping crops can help with gluts but it is not always possible. That’s when the jars of jam, chutneys and relishes are made. Start collecting your jars now as you will need plenty! Most crops can also be turned into wine! We have nine demijohns on the go at the moment: beet root, runner bean and blackberry are just a few brewing away quite nicely. We do get a glut of rhubarb, and there is only so many crumbles that can be eaten before the novelty quickly wears off. I then discovered an old rhubarb wine recipe! My goodness, it is quite a potent wine both in taste and its impact on the ability to walk in a straight line...

Unfortunately, I do have to admit that I hate seeing waste, so I have to use some elements of modern technology and actually freeze some veg. With climate change and increased rainfall being an issue, I do grow a lot of veg in a polytunnel. Yes, I hear you say, “Why not a greenhouse?” Well the reason being is the dangers of broken glass and the cost of replacing and the fact I was offered the polytunnel at a ridiculously cheap price and couldn’t refuse. Growing under cover can massively increase your growing season. We now have carrots all year round and fresh tomatoes seven months of the year.

If you do decide to start something along the lines of a dig for victory garden, then it is said onions, cabbages, broccoli and a host of other veg can be started indoors in January to get an early start in spring, and if you get sowing through the year then you can have veg all year round .

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time on your hands

The beginning of October saw me travelling down to London to interview the enigmatic Axel Jansson, a rock singer and also a collector of vintage watches.

Words Tanya Brannan

You are what many would call a Renaissance man: one foot firmly in the present with your rock band, yet rooted in the past with your hobby of collecting vintage watches. When did you become interested in old timepieces?

Around six years ago I was moving properties and was looking for some vintage style furniture. I decided to go to Spitalfields Market on a Thursday which is when they have the ‘antique’ type stalls.

The first stall I saw was a seller of vintage watches. In his case I saw a Rolex watch and wanted it badly. He was asking for around £700 and I just didn’t have the money. I decided to return the following week and if it was still there I would make him an offer.

I offered £500 and he accepted it. I then took the watch to the Rolex HQ. I thought I had either

got a great deal on a real Rolex, or I had wasted £500 on a fake.

Thankfully I was informed it was a real Rolex and worth anywhere up to £2, 000!

I eventually sold the watch for £1200 and used the money to start buying more. Through this I built up a network of contacts in the business, especially Samir, who took me under his wing and taught me so much about the buying and selling of vintage timepieces.

How many watches do you currently have in your collection?

I currently have around 20 but this fluctuates as I do buy and sell from my collection. Also, although I collect them, I do also wear them. I love the look and style of vintage watches, and even though they don’t look flashy and are not studded in diamonds, they can be quite valuable. vintagelifemagazine.com | 55

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The best thing is that unless you have some knowledge of the vintage watch market, you would not look at my wrist and think my watch was worth any money.

They look utilitarian for most part, especially the military ones but they can be some of the rarer ones.

I love the fact that the watches are durable, hard wearing and were built to last. Most of mine are from the 1940s and 50s and although some are close to 80 years old, they will still be working in another 80 years.

Where do you source most of your watches from?

Working in Hatton Gardens with ‘The Watch Guys’ has taught me a lot of what to look for, including the unusual makers.

Everyone assumes it is all about the Rolex or Patek Phillipe, but for me it can be the small independent makers, many of whom are no longer around. I tend to find that I get quite a few in Europe, especially when I am on tour with the band.

There are antique shops all over the place and on days off, or before gigs I love to wander the backstreets where you can find some little hidden gems. I love talking to people too and they can be really friendly. Of course, I want to pay a fair price for an item. Although I like to make a profit, I don’t want to rip anyone off.

We all have heard the stories of someone buying a vase for 50p in a junk shop and finding out it is worth £50,000 but it never really happens like that. Also, the vintage watch community is quite small and we all get to know each other, and help each other out.

Germany has some amazing trade fairs too and you can find some great watches there.

Which watch is your favourite, and why?

I love to collect watches but my collection does change a lot. I may have a watch that I love, but am always on the lookout for a better or earlier version of the same watch. This means I will often sell

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something to finance new purchases.

Saying that, I do love them all and would rather see them go to a good home where I know they will be appreciated and enjoyed, so it is not always about the money.

As for my favourite, I actually have two.

The first is a Swedish Lemania watch.

This for me is quite special as it was made for the Swedish Military, specifically for the Bomb Disposal Squad. It has the Swedish logo of three crowns engraved on the back, as well as the military number of the soldier it was issued to. These are quite rare.

Even rarer is my second choice, also made by Lemania.

This was made for the Italian Military, and most Lemania watches have a clean classic style dial with little wording on it. This Italian model however has a radium dial and has a lot of writing across the dial. This makes it really quite different.

Has the demand for vintage watches increased in recent years due to the rising popularity in the lifestyle?

Totally. I have seen a huge rise in demand especially over the past three years. This is for a few reasons. One is that people who dress in a certain style like to have a watch that matches that. However, even more people are attracted to watches that are vintage mainly due to them being made so well.

With today’s fast fashion and technology, you can get watches of every type, in every kind of material possible. However, the vintage watches are mainly handmade, not done on an assembly line. I have no doubts in saying that in 40 years, the technological versions will be dead, and the vintage watch will still be ticking.

It was a real pleasure talking to Axel. I found him both fascinating and informative and it has made me want to start looking for my own vintage watch!

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in the home

Overlooking the beach in North East Lincolnshire’s area of conservation, a 1920s chalet has been transformed into a vintage paradise, thanks to its owners - who have spent months and over £20,000 restoring it after ‘falling in love’ with the Humberston Fitties. This amazing chalet is one of only five chalets included on a list of important historic assets.

O

wners, Samantha and John O’Boyle were unable to resist the quaint charm of the chalet and used some inheritance money to buy it, so they could enjoy it and rent it out to others. The charming and cosy chalet, is full of original furniture dating from the 1930s to 1950s.

When the couple first bought the chalet it was in a terrible state of dilapidation, but they have worked hard and scoured antique and vintage furniture shops in East Yorkshire and beyond.

It now has a fabulous, kitsch, mid-century look.

The chalet has an eclectic look and kitsch feel, with the kitchen having an original 1950s enamel sink and 1960s kitchen unit. Some of its other features include original 1920s panels, an open fire and original windows. The dining room decor is of the 1940s era, whilst the lounge is more of the 1960s style. Samantha said, “I think it looks charming. We have had a very positive response and a lot of interest in what we have vintagelifemagazine.com | 59

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done. It has got everything it needs and looks very traditional.”

The Humberston Fitties are a colony of about 300 chalets, huts, and cabins on former salt marshes (fitties) on the Lincolnshire coast near Cleethorpes.

The site began after the First World War and was acquired by the local council in 1938. Much of the character of the chalets has remained from this era, due to strict planning rules imposed by the council, so walking around it is like being transported to another era. It is one of the last conservation areas of its kind in the country.

“We fell in love with the Fitties in 2001 but never imagined we would be able to afford to own one ourselves. We have worked hard and now I can see the results. I’ve never done anything like this before but I’m happy it makes me and other people smile.”

The chalet, known as ‘Era’ after an antique shop Samantha used to own, is also available for people to rent out and stay in as the couple want other people to be able to enjoy the fun of it.

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Vintage

Good Clean Fun: Clean the January Blues away Words: Seren Hollins

M

ost people I speak to dislike January and February, and want to disappear under the duvet until spring.

After December’s festivities and fun and then the excitement of welcoming in the new year, it can all fall a bit flat. Indeed, many people struggle with the return to work, cold weather and dark mornings.

Spring cleaning can be the very last thing you feel like doing, but now we are into 2018, we can no longer use the phrases -‘It’s Christmas’, ‘it’s the school holidays’, ‘it’s the party season’ as excuses to have a messy and mucky home.

The time has come to get organised with a proper cleaning and de-cluttering schedule for 2018 underway. Here we list a few suggestions to help you get going: • Go through all of your wardrobes and divide clothes and shoes into keepers and giveaways. If you’re a seasoned hoarder and if you haven’t worn it for two years – then give it away!

• Go through your sock drawer, pair-up and stack socks, gloves and tights etc where they can be easily accessed. Throw out the singletons or create an odd sock bag…but if you do this make sure you try to pair up your odd sock stash once a month.

• Clean your muddy boots and shoes. Give everything a good spit and polish and gather up shoes that need to be re-heeled, soled etc. Take all that need repairing to the cobblers and get them fixed, shoes you can’t wear just amounts to clutter.

• Tidy out your cupboards of all of those out-of-date spices and those that only have a little bit left in the bottom. After six months – most spices lose their flavour.

• Lots of us now work solely at home or some of the time. If you do, then the paperwork will inevitably pile up! Now is a good time to file away bits from the previous year and recycle what you will no longer need. Do the same with your computer – delete old files, store files you want in an orderly fashion.

• Create a mood board of things you want to achieve in 2018 and add inspiring quotes and pictures to it throughout the year.

Display it in a prominent place, where you will see it daily. It will help you keep positive and inspired • Finally, start the year as you mean to go on for a cleaner and tidier home! vintagelifemagazine.com | 61

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Mid-Century

modern

One of the most significant developments in architecture and interior design in the mid-20th century, under the aegis of the Modern and then the Mid-Century Modern movements, was a renewed emphasis on the home as an integrated whole.

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he building’s exterior, and often what was around it, had a major impact on the interior, not only on the way it was structurally divided, but critically, also on what it looked and felt like. Probably the last time such attention was paid to exploiting what was outside to enhance what was inside was in the 18th century, when the great landscape architect Capability Brown “judiciously manipulated the components of nature” to provide wonderful vistas for the privileged occupants of some of the grandest country houses in Britain.

One interesting consequence of this mid-century integration of nature in architectural design was the breakdown of the almost monopolistic influence that urban living had come to exert on innovative décor. Architects and designers such as Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886–1969), Jean Prouvé (1901– 84), Richard Neutra (1892–1970), Pierre Koenig (1925–2004), Charles Eames (1907–78), Arne Jacobsen (1902–71), and Eero Saarinen (1910–61) now conceived residential architecture and interiors that could just as easily integrate into a cityscape as sit comfortably against a rural backdrop.

The primary means of bringing the outside in was the use of glass in the form of picture windows, with improved manufacturing techniques making ever larger examples possible. This is not to say, however, that greater size equated to uniform-

ity: most of the long windows in Wright’s iconic Fallingwater, the house he designed in 1935 for the Kaufmann family in Mill Run, Pennsylvania, are significantly narrower than the much taller picture windows in, for example, Prouvé’s almost equally iconic pre-fabricated home near Nancy, in the Lorraine region of France. Both allow the occupants spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, making it a significant component of the interior décor, but Wright’s windows generally created a darker interior than Prouvé’s.

In many respects this issue of natural light is indicative of a major trend: in contrast to their dark 1930s predecessors, such as those in Wright’s buildings, Mid-Century Modern interiors become lighter and lighter after World War II, as can be seen in the large-windowed homes of influential architects and designers such as Koenig, Saarinen, and the Eameses. As a psychological reaction to the dark days of the war, the appeal to the public at large of Mid-Century Modernism’s “let there be light” approach is readily understandable, and of course a greater ingress of natural light was augmented by increasingly sophisticated electric lighting inside – at ceiling, floor, tabletop, and work-surface levels.

In addition to using large expanses of glass, there were other ways of breaking the barrier between what was inside and what was outside. For example, the

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A set of six Danish teak and leather chairs, designed in 1961 by Ejvind Johansson in for Gern Mobelfabrik. (picture credit: Lyon & Turnbull)

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A carved maple and brass 'Millepiedi' table, designed in 1953 by Franco Campo and Carlo Graffi, manufactured in the 1980s. (picture credit: Rago Arts)

A Danish teak oval articulated dining table, designed in 1959 by Peter Hvidt and Orla Molgaard-Nielsen for France and Son. (picture credit: Lyon & Turnbull)

Mid-Century Modernists made increasing use of tall, sliding glass doors, while in locations with suitably temperate climates, most notably California, outdoor ‘rooms’ open to the elements on one, two, or three sides became fashionable.

The more conventional way of linking the exterior to the interior was to make overt use of wood and stone. Whether in the form of slabs of limestone, granite, or marble, or a composite material such as terrazzo (a poured-on aggregate of stone and glass chips), stone floors proved equally suitable for indoor living areas as for exterior terraces, and were particularly popular in Mid-Century Modern houses in North America. Contrasting-textured stone finishes or ceramic tiles were also usually employed on, in, and around hearths, and often on walls as well. By way of pleasing contrast, tongue-and-groove wooden panelling was frequently the favoured material for ceilings in such interiors, especially on the west coast of the United States and in Scandinavia.

In both those locations wood was easily available, and so it is not surprising that when they were

not using stone or tile on the floor, architects and interior designers often chose wood instead, particularly in Scandinavia. The wide variety of woods on offer – from softwoods such as pine and cedar to hardwoods such as oak, beech, and mahogany – meant a huge palette of colour options, from blonde through yellows and browns to red, especially if the wood was treated with stains or varnishes.

Moreover, whether it is used on floors or ceilings, laid in broad panels or narrower tongue-and-groove planks, wood invariably conveys a sense of warmth – especially when contrasted with stone or tile.

The Mid-Century Modern architects and designers may have revived the forms of nature and brought them inside, but in many respects Le Corbusier’s early Modernist vision of the home as ‘a machine for living in’ still held good. Indeed, it could be argued that one of the chief successes of the Mid-Century Modernists was to have softened that machine, to have made it appear more natural, more organic, and ultimately more human.

Mid-Century Modern: Living with mid-century modern design

by Judith Miller

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Dusty y t s u R &

fashion

Emporium 6, Dagfields Crafts & Antiques Walgherton, Nantwich, CW5 7LG Tel: Mark 07841 939251 facebook.com/dustyandrusty

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Pour me a glass...

Down a short, cobbled side street, off Stevenson Square, in the city centre of Manchester is a rather inauspicious black door with a painted surround of ghost like whispers of 1920s flapper girls... ethereal in their sensuality, with welcoming poses.

Words Paul Marland Griffiths

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two tread step and a one turn flight of stairs takes you to a low lit, mirror back bar with low back leather couches and dark walls. The kind of place you go...not to be seen. In the style of a 20s speakeasy, where gangsters and molls would go to do the wrong thing with the wrong people. ‘The Fitzgerald’ sits above the brasher, street level bars in the square, with its finger pressed against its lips.

I visited ‘The Fitzgerald’ for a bourbon whiskey tasting session, with my pal Chris, hosted by ‘Hudson Bourbon Distillery’ of Gardiner, upstate New York. Now I do enjoy a nice Scottish single malt, no water, no ice. Irish whisky likes to find the bottom of my shopping trolley occasionally also. But, when it has come to bourbon, in the past, I find it to be rather fiery and without nuance.

An ingredient in some or other American named cocktail, at best.

So I was hoping to be pleasantly surprised by Bourbons - made by a small independent - that would change my mind.

Dave Andrews, of William Grant and sons of Scotland (the British distributor) was the teller of the tale of how Hudson Distillery came to be. He was also, far more importantly, the fellow who would be pouring bourbon into my glass.

So now let’s get back to the tasting part of the evening...ah yes where’s Dave Andrews with that first bourbon?

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Images c/o The Fitzgerald, Manchester

Hudson Baby Bourbon – This was Hudson’s first bourbon, 47% vol, as all Hudson’s bourbon are, made from 100% corn, which is evident on the ‘nose’ as warm popcorn and vanilla. A rounded bourbon this one with vanilla and caramel on the palate and honey on the finish, with a dry smokey oak from the charred barrel.

Dave then tells us how the coopers’ (barrel makers) unions in America managed to get a rather quirky law through congress, that oak barrels they make can only be used once, then destroyed. This is why all bourbons have a fresh oak flavour.

Erenzo then sticks the union in the eye by then selling his used barrels to a maple syrup making company, as opposed to burning them, giving the syrup a soft breeze of oak bourbon.

Manhattan Rye – This one really opens up your gills with heavy cinnamon on the ‘nose’ yet is smooth cinnamon and pepper on the palate, that comes from the high rye content.

This is a real sipper of a bourbon and not a session bourbon like the Hudson Baby. One for a special occasion perhaps. Chris, added a splash of water...not me.

Hudson 4 grain – Made with, yep, four grains (corn, wheat, rye and barley) that help this bourbon to be woody on the ‘nose’, Tom (a pharmacist who was sharing my table) suggested it had the aroma of a freshly sharpened pencil, he was right, with the addition of nutmeg and vanilla.

Oaky smooth caramel on the tongue and a real fireworks display of a finish with burnt treacle behind your teeth.

Dave Andrews came and sat with myself and Chris for a while. We spoke of bourbon, whiskeys and other types of liquid fancy; however, he went on to tell us a jovial anecdote he himself was told whilst visiting Hudson’s Distillery. In certain parts of America, you can actually leave a $20 bill in the nook of a tree and when you return the next day there will be a jar of artisan moonshine. You didn’t hear it from me. vintagelifemagazine.com | 67

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Indulge:

Coffee & Walnut Cake Words Seren hollins

As a food historian and food writer, I often get asked what is your favourite dish and this is always a difficult one to answer, but it is certain that up there in the top ten list, is a traditional Coffee and Walnut cake.

M

y favourite Coffee and Walnut cake is the type I remember from my childhood; it was moist, the crumbs fell from the cake fork (or small fingers) with such ease and frailty, it was all held together with traditional coffee flavoured buttercream and then there was the ‘adult’ bitterness of coffee and walnuts.

When it comes to making a coffee cake you’ve got to aim for strong, deep and punchy. You have to think Espresso not Latte.

You can brew up a strong fresh coffee or use some instant coffee, but for me there is only one option, Camp Coffee Essence.

I always associate Camp Coffee Essence with Saturday mornings as a child, when my father would make a coffee using this thick, black syrup and heated milk. It was a treat and in a modern world of frothy cappuccinos, where it increasingly seems like there is more foam than coffee, it might be something I return to.

Dating back to 1876, the ‘secret blend’ of sugar, water, coffee beans and chicory essence, was originally made in Glasgow by R. Paterson and Sons Ltd. It was the world’s

first instant coffee and it came in a square, eight and a half fluid-ounce glass bottle and the original showed a Gordon Highlander sitting drinking a cup of Camp coffee, whilst a turbaned Sikh servant stood patiently next to him, holding a tray with a bottle of Camp and a jug.

Camp Coffee is believed to have been invented following a request from The Gordon Highlanders to Campbell Patterson for a coffee drink that could be prepared with ease in a military field kitchen.

In the background of the original label design, is a fluttering pennant with the slogan ‘Ready Aye Ready’.

Several decades later, the tray disappeared, and the Sikh servant was left standing with his left arm by his side. It is believed that this was changed out of a desire to avoid imperialistic connotations of the Sikh being a servant. Eventually the label was redesigned completely to show a Gordon Highlander and Sikh solder sitting together outside a campaign tent.

Anyway, I must get back to the subject of coffee cake, my recipe for coffee and walnut cake is deep and moist and has a definite coffee flavour to it.

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Seren’s Coffee & Walnut Cake INGREDIENTS • 225g (8oz) softened butter, plus more for the tins • 225g (8oz) golden caster sugar • 225g (8oz) self-raising flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 4 large eggs • 4 level tsp Camp Coffee • 85g walnuts, roughly chopped • ½ tsp vanilla essence For the coffee icing • 175g (6oz) soft butter • 350g (12oz) icing sugar • 3 level tsp Camp Coffee • Walnut halves to decorate METHOD Preheat the oven to 180C/160C fan/350F/315F fan/Gas 4. Butter and line the base of three shallow 20cm (8in) sandwich cake tins.

Measure all the cake ingredients, except the coffee essence and chopped walnuts, into a large mixing bowl and beat together until smooth and well combined. Stir in the coffee essence until completely blended. Now fold in the walnut pieces. Divide the mixture evenly between the three prepared tins and level the tops.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes until golden brown, shrinking away from the sides of the tin and the sponge springs back when lightly pressed.

To make the icing, mix the butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl and beat together until smooth.

Beat in the coffee essence and adjust to taste.

When the cakes are cold, layer up with cake and icing so you finish with icing on top and decorate with walnut halves.

For more traditional recipes visit www.serenitykitchen.co.uk vintagelifemagazine.com | 69

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tea at

the rise

Built in 1906, as the headquarters for North Eastern Railways, The Grand Hotel is York’s first 5-star hotel. Stepping into The Grand, evokes the splendour of the golden age of travel, as this historic building has been carefully restored to retain all of its original features; its sweeping staircases, mosaic-tiled corridors and tasteful décor is really something to behold!

Words Haili Hughes

A

fternoon Tea at The Grand is served in the more contemporary setting of ‘The Rise.’ So we headed there to try out their unique Hendrick’s Tipsy G & Tea. It will come as no surprise to regular readers of Vintage Life that I like gin, so the opportunity to try out this tipple-tastic tea was one I could not pass up.

The staff were very attentive from the minute we walked in. In fact, we arrived early, so while we were waiting for our table, we were escorted to the sumptuous and comfortable bar area, where we were offered a hot drink. The hotel didn’t have Chai Lattes on the menu, but the highly skilled barista offered to make me one from scratch and it was definitely the best one I had ever had!

When we entered ‘The Rise,’ our waitress Harriet came to explain what the afternoon tea was and how it worked. She then brought over our ‘Hendricks’ teapot, filled with a delicious, fruity gin cocktail and dainty teacups filled with crushed ice. Any afternoon tea which starts with booze is a winner for me! After we had chosen our more conventional teas from the extensive choice available, we sat back and waited for our afternoon tea to arrive. I was starving, but I soon realised that I wouldn’t be able to finish everything… there was a good selection of sandwiches, with ham

and honey mustard on malted loaf, cucumber and chive cream cheese on white loaf and a fennel and cranberry sausage roll finishing off the savoury selection. These were all delicious and the sandwiches tasted so fresh and soft. However, the cakes were truly mouth-watering.

There was a huge selection! Carrot cake with nutmeg cream cheese and walnuts, chocolate and hazelnut cream choux pastry and a raspberry cupcake. However, my absolute favourite was the passion fruit meringue pie – a tangy twist on the usual lemon meringue classic.

Of course, an afternoon tea would not be complete without the scones and this one did not disappoint; there was not one but two scones included, both a fruit and plain one…both warm and ready to spread with jam and clotted cream.

While my husband and I enjoyed the Hendrick’s Tipsy G & Tea, my son devoured the children’s afternoon tea which included a choice of sandwich, juice or hot drink and more sweet treats than you could imagine: Scone with jam and cream, chocolate brownie, gingerbreads, toffee apple cupcake and jelly. The whole spread was magnificent and we had so many leftovers that we were offered a goody bag to take home!

For more details check out: www.thegrandyork.co.uk

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I GIN is in Do you remember the very first time you tasted gin?

I do. I was sneaking something out of my parents’ liquor cabinet at a house party and I happened to pick up a bottle of gin. It almost made me vomit! But fast forward to twenty years later and it is now a firm favourite.

Images c/o Gin Festival

Words Haili Hughes

t seems like I am not the only one; gin is rapidly becoming the tipple of choice in the vintage community. So I headed to the ‘Gin Festival’ at Liverpool’s Cathedral Crypt to see what it is all about.

I arrived at the cathedral and was blown away by the venue; it was stunning. With its beautiful arches and ornate stonework, it was more like something out of medieval times than a gin den!

The structure of the festival means that you pay for your entry ticket in advance, then purchase drinks vouchers from the tills. £5 will get you a 25ml measure of gin, any choice of Fentiman’s mixer and garnish, with the Prosecco cocktails costing £10 each.

The bars had been split into several colour coded sections: Fruit Gins, World Gins and British Gins.

There were also light snacks on offer. You receive a booklet as part of the entrance fee, with your glass and this explains a little bit about the gins and what types of mixer works well with them.

Over the course of the afternoon, I tried to sample as many gins as I could, but with over 80 different ones on offer, I was never going to get through them all! My absolute favourites were the Edinburgh Gin Rhubarb and Ginger and Zymurgorium Sweet Violet gin.

The exciting thing about the Gin Festival, is that not only do you get to try delicious gins, but there are also brand representatives there where you can learn more about how the gin is made and what elements give them their distinctive flavours, as well as what the distillery processes were. This coupled with the various master classes and talks on offer helped me to learn so much more about the gins.

Throughout the day, there was also fabulous entertainment on offer and a variety of hot foods and snacks – it really is a whole day out. For more information, please visit: www.ginfestival.com/events vintagelifemagazine.com | 71

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Fondant Fancies

Words Becky Cummings.

When I was a child - like many children - I loved throwing tea parties for my huge variety of toys. Even though all the cups were plastic and the tea pot was empty, I imagined I was laying out the finest bone china, the tea was some exotic blend I hadn’t even heard of, and the toys were served delicious cakes and delectable sandwiches while wearing their Sunday best.

N

ow I’m grown up, I still yearn for those days of having tea parties so have to force them on friends and family. There is still something so magical for me about that tea party spread: tiny morsels of cake and finger sandwiches as if made for pixies, the heavenly scent of sugar and tea or coffee hanging in the air and beautiful crockery adorning the table. It always feels to me that there is fairy dust enveloping everything and I am swept back to being a child playing make believe with my toys.

One of my favourite things to eat as a child was a fondant fancy, which is also known as a French fancy. They fascinated me with their colours, their soft interior and sweet and slightly crunchy exterior.

They were definitely one of the more magical treats we had as children. Most of us know them as one of Mr Kipling’s “exceedingly good” cakes, and the eponymous cake maker is credited with introducing this little coquettish confection to Britain in 1967.

I realise there are a lot of steps in making these fancies, including an abundance of putting in and taking out of the fridge, but these steps are so crucial. Chilling the cake ensures a smooth coating of buttercream. Gluten free cakes are typically more crumbly than regular wheat flour cakes, so in order to coat the sides of your fancies and not destroy half the cake in the process; chill, chill, chill. Whilst these are notoriously tricky to get right – does anyone recall the technical challenge on the Bake Off – when you do, they truly are some of the most delicious and magical treats you could want on your tea party table. Try not to touch the sides too much when you ice them to ensure there are no fingerprints; you want a neat and smooth finish.

Like Roald Dahl said, “Those who do not believe in magic will never find it”, and with this vintage inspired tea party I definitely believe in magic and I hope you will too.

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INGREDIENTS: Makes 25 Sponge: 200g of self raising flour 25g cornflour 225g soft unsalted butter 225g caster sugar 1 large lemon, zest only 4 eggs 1-2 tsp lemon extract Buttercream: 250g soft unsalted butter 200g icing sugar, sieved (Optional) Marzipan: 3 tbsp apricot jam 200g ready made marzipan Icing & decoration: 1kg white fondant icing 150ml water Food colouring of your choice 1-2 tsp lemon extract 100g dark chocolate METHOD: • Pre-heat the oven to 160/140 fan/ gas 3. Grease and line a 20cm square tin with 2 strips of baking paper.

• For the sponge, mix together the flour and cornflour in a small bowl and set aside. In another bowl or in the bowl of a freestanding mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, mix in the lemon extract, then add in the eggs one at a time with a spoonful of the flour mixture in between each. Once fully combined, fold through the lemon zest then pour and scrape into your prepared tin and bake for 25 – 40 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.

• Allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before turning it out to cool completely. Once cool pop it in the

fridge and make the buttercream.

• To make the buttercream, add the butter to a bowl or a bowl of a freestanding mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter until light and fluffy, then beat in the sieved icing sugar (being careful to avoid the icing sugar cloud) until fully combined.

Add the optional lemon extract at the end then blend in.

• Place 100g of the buttercream in a piping bag and allow it to firm up in the fridge. Keep the rest in a bowl for the sides of the cake.

• Next you will need to create the marzipan layer. This is optional, but it will add flavour and ensure you have a neatly topped fancy. Roll out your marzipan very thinly to slightly larger than the cake and set aside.

• Heat the jam in a small saucepan until loose, then brush it over the top of your fridge cold sponge.

• Lay the rolled out marzipan on top of the jam topped sponge and trim the edges (if necessary). Pop it back into the fridge to chill.

• Once chilled (this will probably take about 30 minutes), cut the cake into 25 equal squares (4cm each). Trim the edges of each cake as necessary – you want each one to have neat and straight edges.

• Cover each of the four ‘naked’ sides with the buttercream you saved in a bowl earlier ensuring not to touch the marzipan covered top or the bottoms.

• Now using the chilled buttercream in the piping bag, pipe a blob on top of each cake and then chill for 20 minutes.

• While the cakes are chilling, make the icing. Cut the fondant icing into small pieces and place in a bowl or the bowl of a freestanding mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Churn the icing until it starts to break down, adding a splash of water if it is a little

too hard at first. Slowly and gradually add the water to make a smooth and liquid icing.

• Add your flavouring and colouring slowly and in small drops until you have the taste and colour you desire.

You can always add but you can’t take away so take your time with this!

• Melt the chocolate either in the microwave or in a Bain Marie (a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water – making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water).

Once melted, pour it into a piping bag and set aside.

• Remove the chilled cakes from the fridge and with each one in turn, dip it into the icing and carefully place it onto a wire rack with baking paper or parchment underneath to catch any drips. The easiest way to do this is by carefully placing the cake onto a fork and dipping in. Leave the fondant to set, re-coating where necessary.

It may help to take a small spoonful of the icing and gently pour over the top where the blob of buttercream is to ensure full coverage.

• Once the fondant icing has set, use the piping bag to drizzle the melted chocolate across the top of each of the cakes in a zig-zag pattern. Leave to set then serve on your favourite plate or cake stand.

The Pin Up Pantry is owned and run by Becky Cummings. Based in London, Becky creates gluten free bespoke cakes for birthdays, weddings and any other celebration.

Becky works closely with her boyfriend, Tony Rodd, with whom she is opening a restaurant later in the year.

For more information or to order your own bespoke cake, please visit www.pinuppantry.com

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culture

We talk with Jay Osborne, professional musician and actor and currently the lead guitarist in the Rock N’ Roll musical Dreamboats and Petticoats.

A real dreamboat

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culture What is your musical background?

I started teaching myself the guitar from the age of seven and from then on I taught myself other instruments including drums, bass, harmonica and the didgeridoo to name just a few. I studied Performing Arts at college and then went on to study a BA Hons music degree and focused mainly on composition and songwriting. I have always been torn between performing as an actor and a musician, so to be able to do a job including both roles is amazing.

How long have you been performing?

I performed in rock and indie bands from the age of 14 and have been touring professionally for over 9 years now in various bands and stage productions. Over the years, I have had the great opportunity to perform in some amazing shows and bands and have supported some great musicians and performers, including The Hives, The Artful Dodger, The Wide Boys, Nizlopi and even Bob Dylan. A couple of years ago I started focusing mainly on the vintage styles of music performance and really love playing styles such as Motown, soul and of course rock ‘n’ roll.

You also act – how different is this to your musical performances?

I think this comes down to what sort of production or performance I’m involved in. I not only work in musicals but in other type of acting and music jobs, from straight plays to adverts and session musician work, or Shakespeare and TV. I love being able to take on different types of acting and music performance. With Dreamboats and Petticoats I get to play lead guitar onstage as well as act and be heavily involved in most scenes, it’s such a great combination.

How would you describe your style?

I primarily play and perform in vintage styles of music such as 1950s rock ‘n’ roll, 60s rock and pop as well as old school soul, funk and Motown. I am very particular about my tone and the way my guitar and equipment sounds so I always take a lot of time in making sure I have the right sound. When I play the songs, it’s as close to the originals as possible. People like to hear the songs just as they were written and how they sound on the records from back in the day, so I think it’s really important to get the right sound and to do the songs and artists justice.

Who influences you?

I suppose it’s not just who, but also what. The obvious answer would be the sort of music I grew up with and spend my time listening to, which could be anything 76 | vintagelifemagazine.com

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‘n’ roll numbers and at the very end of the show, the entire cast performs a medley including songs like Eddie Cochran’s C’mon Everybody and Chubby Checker’s Let’s Twist Again. This is always a great way to end a show and always reminds me that I have such a brilliant job!

from The Red Hot Chili Peppers to Little Richard, James Taylor and even Chopin, but I get heavily influenced by the people I work with.

Other musicians and actors always bring stuff to the table that opens my eyes to new and unknown techniques, ideas and styles, and this is a great way of building experience and further expanding my knowledge of what I love to do, whether that is playing an instrument on stage or acting on set, I hope I do the same for them too.

I have such a brilliant job...

What were your highlights of 2017?

Well, we started rehearsals at the beginning of the year and hit the road towards the end of January, so we’ve been pretty much touring the show solid throughout this time. I love moving from city to city every week and although I have performed in a lot of the places and theatres before, there’s always new and unseen stuff to go and do. To see and to experience it with people you’ve never toured with before is always fresh and exciting.

I don’t think people realise that we don’t just perform on stage together as a cast, we basically live in each other’s pockets for the duration of the tour (in this case 10 months). We share digs together, eat together, share dressing rooms as well as travel and relax together, so we all become one big family, whether we like it or not. Luckily, everyone gets on well in our cast and we always have a great time.

Where can readers find out more?

I have a website as well as all the other usual social media sites and always like to hear from people if they have questions, so give me a shout or a follow.

Web: www.jayosborne.co.uk Twitter & Instagram: @jayosborneactor

What is your favourite song to perform and why?

The show has such a mixed bag of tunes; I think the answer to this probably changes every week or so but I do enjoy playing the ballads of the show, like Roy Orbison’s In Dreams and our version of The Everly Brothers Let It Be Me. They’re such great classic songs and so well written; I get to sort of do my own thing in a lot of the songs and find I get easy attached to them. I also love playing the classic rock vintagelifemagazine.com | 77

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TV shows for vintage lovers: Goodnight Sweetheart

Words Carrie-Ann Dring

F

inding himself in the Royal Oak pub in the middle of a war, Gary strikes up a friendship with barmaid Phoebe (played by Dervla Kirwan in the first three series, then by Elizabeth Carling) and local policeman Reg. I don’t think I’ll be giving away too much if I tell you that with Gary’s marriage in trouble in the present day, he ends up building a second life for himself in the 1940s and ends up in a relationship with Phoebe. Using his knowledge from the present day, he sets himself up as a secret agent/singer-songwriter, able to tell his friends what’s going to happen in the war before it happens while also writing a string of future hits.

Ok, having written that down, it does make Gary sound like a bit of a cad, but watching the show, you get the impression that he doesn’t mean to do deceitful, cruel things, they just…sort of happen to him, and he is genuinely sorry when he lets people down.

As for the other characters, there aren’t many surprises when it comes to their development. Most are typical sitcom types: the friendly, likeable wife (Phoebe), the strident, tricky wife (Yvonne), the slightly sad

best friend (Ron) and the friendly policeman (Reg). But I find that strangely comforting!

I remember the show fondly, and have a more emotional connection with it than any of the others I’ve written about so far. I remember watching the show as I was learning about World War II at school and having a very surprising conversation with my gran, where she assured me that no, the Goodnight Sweetheart theme tune wasn’t just a theme tune, it was actually a very famous song during the war. As a result, the song always makes me smile.

Last year, the show came back for a special, set in the swinging ‘60s. I know a lot of people who enjoyed it, but I’m afraid it wasn’t for me; it may well be nostalgia on my part, but I just didn’t think it had the same sparkle.

In conclusion, Goodnight Sweetheart is a warm, fuzzy and nostalgic sort of a show. If you’re looking for something light and entertaining that doesn’t involve you having to remember the names of a cast of thousands, it might just be the one for you.

And you’ll probably be humming the songs for days.

Image: BBC

One of the first historically-themed TV shows I remember watching is Goodnight Sweetheart, a sitcom that sees its protagonist (Gary Sparrow, played by Nicholas Lyndhurst, frustrated TV repairman and accidental time traveller), flit between London in the present day and the 1940s, through a time portal he stumbles across during a TV repair call out.

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I

was a teenager when I first saw the 1945 Margaret Lockwood film The Wicked Lady.

I knew right away that I wanted to live in a vast Jacobean manor house, be a highwaywoman and preferably for the world to exist only in monochrome.

The plot is a fairly standard Mills-and-Boon type fantasy based on the 1944 novel The Life and Death of the Wicked Lady Skelton by Magdalen King-Hall, which in turn was said to have been based on the real-life story of Lady Katherine Ferrers.

When Barbara’s saintly cousin Caroline offers her her wedding dress to get married in, Barbara quips back “Get married in that?

I wouldn’t be buried in it!”

The two good guys of the piece, Caroline and Ralph are noble and decent and forgettable. Even Barbara’s true love, Kit (played by Michael Rennie) fades into the background next to the dynamic duo of Lockwood and a smouldering James Mason as highwayman Captain Jerry Jackson.

The Wicked Lady was one of the dark period melodramas produced by the Gainsborough studio and known as “Gainsborough Gothic”. It was the role that Lockwood became known for, reuniting her with Mason for more wickedness, passion and gothic melodrama after the success of The Man in Grey in 1943.

Despite playing against type in films like Love Story (1944), Lockwood was forever typecast as the beautiful, black-hearted temptress.

Born in Karachi in 1916, Margaret Mary Lockwood was technically illigitimate.

Although her parents were married, her father’s previous wife was still alive and undivorced, so his mar-

riage to Margaret’s mother was bigamous. Henry Lockwood sent Margaret, her brother Lyn and their mother Margaret Evelyn to England when Margaret was just three years old.

He went to visit them in England a few times over the next fifteen years, but was almost entirely absent from Margaret’s life.

After a few unsuccessful attempts to fit in at school, where she was teased for her family’s “bohemian” ways - such as eating Indian food and going to the cinema - Margaret left school for good at the age of 14. She had had a few stage roles which she performed under the stage name Margie Day, the first being that of a fairy in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and her mother decided to focus her daughter on her acting career. She won a place at the prestigious drama school RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art) and in a telling move she refused a scholarship there as the girl who she had tied with for the scholarship would not have been able to have afforded the fees, whereas Margaret’s parents could. Not such a wicked lady after all.

She met Rupert Leon when she was only sixteen.

Her mother disapproved of Rupert in theory before she met him, a feeling exacerbated when she finally met him and he caused a scene about Margaret having a cigarette. Margaret Evelyn refused to have him in her home. When he proposed marriage after four years of dating, Margaret Evelyn refused her permission. Rupert then suggested an elopement to Gretna Green, but Margaret was afraid of what such a scandal would do to her burgeoning film career and suggested that they wait a

Margaret Lockwood

Silver screen stars further three months until her twenty-first birthday when she would come of age and no longer need her mother’s permission to marry. The couple eventually married just two days after Margaret’s twenty-first birthday, but Margaret was too scared to break the news to her mother.

There was a London fog that evening which gave Margaret an excuse not to return home and she phoned her mother and said that she would be staying with a friend, allowing her and her husband to spend their wedding night in a hotel together. However, for the next six months Margaret continued to live at her mother’s home, only seeing her husband on Sundays and occasional evenings, whilst waiting for the right moment to tell her mother that she was married. The right moment never came as a journalist broke the news to Margaret’s mother over the phone and despite her denials he published the story, having found proof of the marriage from registry office records. Margaret Evelyn was devastated and told Margaret to either have the marriage anulled or to leave home. Margaret finally left home and moved in with her husband.

Meanwhile, her film career was blossoming. After her first film role as Annie Ridd in a forgettable 1934 version of Lorna Doone,

Margaret appeared in a number of ‘quota quickies’ before her breakthrough role in Bank Holiday won plaudits from the critics.

But it was her next role as Iris Henderson in Alfred Hitchcock’s The Lady Vanishes that won her her place in movie history.

Based on Ethel Lina While’s novel The Wheel Spins the film centred around the disappearance of an elderly lady on a train.

The initial reluctance of the British to become involved in European political affairs was a clear reference to the current political situation in 1938, whilst the sparks between the leading man Michael Redgrave and Margaret added to the film’s popularity with cinema audiences. The film was released to huge popular acclaim in the UK and the US. On the back of this success Gainsborough decided to send Margaret to Hollywood.

Katrina Simpson Katrina Simpson is a writer, teacher and bibliophile.

She has loved vintage films since the age of five when she saw her first Doris Day musical.

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the Precious time. Spending time. The time is now. Expressions highlighting the immense value of our most precious commodity. We may be living in a material world, but one thing will never change. The ultimate luxury will always be TIME. If only there were more hours in the day.

timeis now

I

know we, The Tootsies, feel it so often, juggling performing, with admin and creative development, as well as the rest of our lives. But how do we spend those 24hours/ 1,440 minutes/ 86,400 seconds each day? Very often a day whirls by, evaporating in a blink! Days run together becoming weeks and then months.

Suddenly a new year is upon us.

We’ve eased into 2018. February is here and resolutions are under way or already by the wayside.

Do you ever take a moment to think - what makes you happy?

What relaxes you? What inspires you? What brings you close to the people who boost you and bring out your best? What have I done today and how much of my time spent benefitted me, serving those needs, goals and my happiness and wellbeing?

Between us, we’ve experienced different ways life can change in an instance. Equally we’re aware a choice made in an instance, on an ordinary day, can influence how impending time will be spent.

Here are ways we spend time to ourselves. See if there’s something you’ve not yet discovered that takes your fancy...

Khiley: The best way to start a relaxing day is to have a lazy lie in and then a long slow breakfast, preferably pancakes with good coffee. I find few things more relaxing than long baths with Jo Malone oils.

My guilty pleasure is online shopping, so I might have a cheeky hour scrolling through my favourite shops. Fashion and interiors are my escapism!

Then I love to cook a big meal for my favourite people, open a couple of great bottles of red wine, then spend the night chatting and laughing.

Lisa: I love to occasionally take time to go to a spa to really clear my mind and refocus.

Cowley Manor is a favourite of mine. If less time is available, a simple coffee is always time well spent for me. I love the thrill of a Starbucks red cup, knowing Christmas is just around the corner! I also relish buying myself a new item of clothing; it’s quite a rarity so I always feel a boost when I do it! I like shopping at Topshop, Warehouse and on ASOS.

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Anna: I love to watch Stranger Things on Netflix. Brilliant acting, compelling (and slightly scary) storyline and set in the 1980s - the perfect box set for retro lovers out there! The only drawback to this show is that you can’t multitask while watching it. Work and household chores go out of the window as you get gripped by the drama.

I love to try cooking a new recipe with some relaxing Ella Fitzgerald playing in the background. A recent hit of mine was chicken, pancetta and leek pie with banana bread and custard for pudding. It doesn’t always work out so well... like when I thought I’d try to make gnocchi and ended up serving my housemate mashed potato and cheese.

One of my Christmas presents was a ukulele and it’s such a brilliant way to really switch my mind off to outside stresses and really focus.

There are lots of guides on YouTube so you can learn your favourite songs very quickly which gives you a warm glow of achievement.

Meg: Some of my favourite ways to spend my time are to burn a Winter Warmer scented Skye Candle made from natural soy wax and make a Pukka cuppa tea. Try spiced apple, fennel or camomile flavours and the packaging is as beautiful as the tea is tasty! Go to a V&A exhibition. Balenciaga: Shaping Fashion was breath taking, and Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty was one of the best I’ve ever experienced. Their exhibitions are always so beautifully curated in the magnificent South Kensington gallery setting. The V&A is a beautiful space to enjoy something specific or to simply wander through their collections.

Surf Spotify and assemble my ideal playlist of new and old tunes. When time allows I savour taking a break from London.

Maybe doing a long beach walk and riffling through antique shops looking for gems to add to our home. There’s nothing like stepping back from everything to refresh, recharge and refocus.

Katy: I am the box set queen!

Combined with my love of hygge (or whatever cosiness term is currently in vogue) The Oxford Living Dictionary defines hygge as “A quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.” I am the ultimate chill out and cosy up at home advocate.

Baking is a very soothing way to relax, and you can reap the rewards later when you turn the fire on, light a couple of candles, pop a classic series on the telly box and put your feet up, ideally with a couple of friends or loved ones. This is without a doubt, my favourite way to spend those precious spare moments. Bliss. vintagelifemagazine.com | 81

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Stick your nose in a

good book

Obsession: Marlene Dietrich: Pierre Passebon Collection

by Henry-Jean Servat Nobody embodies glamour like Marlene Dietrich and this book, featuring rare images from Pierre Passebon’s personal collection, celebrates this Hollywood icons femme fatale style.

Featuring master photographers like Edward Steichen, Irving Penn, Richard Avedon and Cecil Beaton, her rule breaking style is presented beautifully. Her beauty, style, and elegance is unforgettable and this volume reveals how she inspired the greatest photographers and fashion designers of her time and continues to inspire style today.

A Parisian Cabinet of Curiosities: Deyrolle by Prince Louis de Broglie Photography

by Francis Hammond

This amazing book celebrates a world-famous temple to taxidermy and the natural world, where extraordinary curiosities straddle the realms of both science and art.

Featuring stunning images of preserved flora and fauna, taxidermy, and other worldly creations, the Deyrolle boutique is dedicated to showcasing the beauty of nature.

This book tells the story of a family venture founded in the spirit of discovery, Deyrolle has a 185year history that flourished under the nineteenth-century passion for natural history, garnering celebrity devotees from DalĂ­ to Nabokov, and quickly established itself as a centre for education and research. An interesting book.

Letters to Vera

by Vladimir Nabokov I love nothing more than curling up and reading about the lives of famous people from years gone by and no marriage of a major twentieth-century writer is quite as beguiling as that of Vladimir Nabokov’s to Vera Slonim.

The letters of the great writer to his wife (gathered here for the first time) chronicle a decades-long love story. Not only do the letters tell us about the marriage, thy also give an insight into the man and the writer. This delicious volume contains twenty-one photographs, as well as facsimiles of the letters themselves and the puzzles and doodles Vladimir often sent to Vera.

Escapism at its finest.

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Art Deco

escapes

Photos by Jeeves

After all the fun and frolics of last year, my suitcase is packed as I head off with Mr Art Deco Traveller in tow, for a restorative break! With many places to choose from, here are a few suggestions to delight.

If it’s the south coast you want to be heading to then the Cumberland Hotel in Bournemouth which was built in 1937, is a real treat.

It has many of its original features, along with the Italian marble fireplaces and art deco patterned carpets which all tastefully make this a memorable occasion. vintagelifemagazine.com | 83

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The 1930s built Queens Hotel in Leeds, is conveniently situated a stones throw away from the railway station. With its glorious Portland stone exterior and original art deco lifts and interior design, it has lots to offer for a getaway. Look out for their art deco themed parties. A little tip is that its always worth upgrading to a suite, as these offer that extra special indulgence at often little extra expense.

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For this year you will find me taking in the sea air, with long strolls on the beach to walk off all the recent feasting, at the well known Midland Hotel in Morecambe. This delightful deco hotel was designed by my all time favourite architect Oliver Hill, in 1933.

I particularly like the interior Eric Gill murals and Marion Dorn’s emblematic seahorses which adorn the floors and fittings. The overall style of this friendly and welcoming hotel is one of original and contempory modern art deco style which never ceases to amuse and delight me.

Nothing is nicer than waking up in a cosy bed on a winter’s day listening to the rough sea breaking on the near shores.

My annual escape here whatever season, is never complete without a visit to the numerous art deco buildings dotted around the town. The Morecambe Visitor Centre, located in the old station buildings on Marine Road Central, are extremely helpful and have a comprehensive guide pinpointing the locations.

So whether you are heading north, south, east or west for your art deco treat, check out for some great deals to recharge those batteries!

TTFN until next month when we discover the hidden treasures of Paris!

Genista Davidson Genista is the art deco traveller, an art historian, freelance writer and author, who specialises in the art deco period. www.artdeco-traveller.co.uk

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Bobby Fitzpatrick

Words goldy loxx

perfect for London first dates with a vintage twist!

I’m new to the dating scene, having recently endured the drawn-out decline of a ten-year relationship and, so far, my romantic attempts have been fleeting. However, I have to admit there was one guy whose online profile made me feel goose pimply all over – a stand-up comic with a mod haircut and a wicked grin. But how could I make a good first impression?

I

n London, there is no shortage of cocktail bars but some of them can feel a bit generic.

This certainly cannot be said of Bobby Fitzpatrick – an unapologetically loud and joyfully outré 1970s bar in swanky West Hampstead. I have no idea who the namesake Bobby is or was, but he seemed to have the right idea about cocktails.

I arrived first, anxiously appreciating the retro interiors, including original wallpaper, furniture, lighting, and autographed photos of celebrities of the period such as Leo Sayer and Olivia Newton John displayed proudly around the venue. However, my eye was drawn to a vintage ice bucket shaped like a pineapple – something I have wanted for many years, but never quite enough to fork out the cash.

While I was busily admiring the fruit-shaped drinking equipment, my date Richard sauntered in

with the charismatic swagger of someone internally brimming with nerves. After an awkward introduction, we set ourselves the challenge of sampling every cocktail on the menu and were guided to a small boat-shaped table to start our journey into inebriation.

We started with an Alison Mahoney, a spiced rum concoction allegedly named after Bobby’s senior prom date, followed by a delicious chilli spiced rum and vanilla sugar-based drink called Blake Swizzle (which we voted the best on the menu) and the vodka and cherry cola reduction Sanford University cocktail.

As we worked our way down the drinks list – featuring kitschy nude lady stirrers – the conversation became more natural and around us, the ambiance in the bar changed dramatically. Initially quite quiet and empty, this all vintagelifemagazine.com | 87

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transformed with the arrival of a party of ripped Australians, semi-clad in jungle attire (one gent appeared to be a sexy Zebra, another was inexpertly wielding a whip). Shortly after, a man threw his hat at us and then seemed to get distressed when it was no longer sitting on the floor twenty minutes later (we had handed it to the bar staff). Finally, we got deep into a conversation with a man-child I am 98% sure was in fact Macaulay Culkin before deciding to call it a night.

I am writing this review the day before my fourth date with Richard, with the promise of many more on the horizon, and for that I will always think fondly of Bobby Fitzpatrick. Oh, and I finally bought myself the pineapple!

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AU VIN CT TAG IO E N At Peter Francis auctions we are holding our first specialist vintage fashion and accessories auction. It will start on the 12th February and finish on the 19th February, with a viewing on the 15th February between 10am-4pm at our salerooms in Carmarthen. We have a wonderful range of lots to include: Victorian capes, a 1950’s Christian Dior cocktail dress and a Hermes bag.

Online auction bidding only through: www.the-saleroom.com See the catalogue at: www.peterfrancis.co.uk For enquiries contact Emma: 01267233456 / emma@peterfrancis.co.uk

Dusty & Rusty Emporium 6, Dagfields Crafts & Antiques Walgherton, Nantwich, CW5 7LG Tel: Mark 07841 939251 facebook.com/dustyandrusty

CREWS HILL VINTAGE EMPORIUM, LONDON

BY KOOKI DE LOU

TIKI-LOU HAWAII

FACEBOOK.COM/TIKILOUHAWAII

Back issues are available from our store! www.dragoonpublishing.com

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Most Marvellous

Sarah Cant

F

Meet Ups Winter is always a time when the Most Marvellous vintage community seems to hibernate a little. However, they did creep out of their cosy homes and pulled on their vintage glad rags for a couple of events: only two events this month.

The Christmas get together and a trip to a Winter Wonderland.

irstly, the Christmas get together was so good that we have two wonderful perspectives on the night.

The first one is from lovely Melanie Jane Louise Stevens.

“Myself and Michelle arrived in Sheffield around mid-day, met at the train station by Lynda and Dean. We were then whisked around the Vintage Quarter by our hosts – my poor eyes and brain were overloaded by so many shops, filled to the brim with collectables, vintage clothing and furniture. After a three cake platter and pots of tea, we all made our way to Lynda and Dean’s house.

As we walked through the door, I felt as if I was transported back into the 1940s. All the rooms within the house are period correct, down to the Christmas tree, and newspaper chains hanging from the ceiling light to all four corners of the room. There is even an airraid siren, which sounded at meal times. I would give a 5-star rating if this house were advertised on trip advisor. Simply stunning.

It was time to put our glad rags on, make-up on point, hair pinned up and ready to party!

Riley’s and Co, based in Sheffield’s Vintage Quarter, is a stunning collectibles, antique store and restaurant. Entering

through the courtyard, through an outside seating area with picnic tables and benches, we walked into the main building to be greeted by Maria Salmon who dished out hugs, mulled wine and mince pies. Maria gave us both a guided tour around the emporium and introduced us to the proprietors Kay and Matt.

The restaurant was already set up with a DJ and sound system, music from the 40s to 80s filled the air and everyone was dressed in their finery. It was fantastic to see so many members in the flesh, far too many names to be mentioned! Drinks flowed, there was lots of laughter - not forgetting the epic dance moves all night long. Here’s to new and old friendships!”

Now here is the second Christmas get together report from the very dapper chap Dean Turner…

“Hello there. Hope you all had a jolly good Christmas. The marvellous Christmas party at Riley’s & Co went down a storm.

We had Michelle and Mell from the Northampton area stay with us for the party and it was only polite to introduce them both to the Sheffield Antique Quarter. I do believe they were both spoilt for choice with what Sheffield has to offer when it comes to vintage and antique shops. As luck would have it, on Sunday morning the Abbeydale Picture House here in the heart of the antique quarter was having a

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Christmas vintage fair. Well, in these circumstances there is only one thing to do: a meet up.

It was great for John and Marie to meet up with myself, Lynda, Mell and Michelle. Luckily there was no hangover to nurse, so from the Picture House it was off to Riley’s & Co once again, but this time for lunch.”

Then later in the month, we had more marvellous Christmas cheer from Michelle on Sunday 17th December.

“Melanie and I arrived in London a little later than originally planned, so we jumped straight on the tube and headed to Hyde Park. A short walk from the tube station, we arrived at the Winter Wonderland. The typical British weather did not dampen our spirits, as we’d wrapped up warm and donned our umbrellas.

We walked around, taking in the sights and smells amongst the hustle and bustle of crowds.

We found the meeting point after keeping our eyes peeled for other members of the group and soon found a handful of beautifully dressed lovelies donning fabulous vintage coats, hats, and accessories.

We headed to one of the eateries to get out of the rain; we had cherry mulled wine and bratwurst. Delicious! We chatted with the group and exchanged hair and make-up tips while enjoying the random entertainment and spying various fancy dress outfits.

Melanie, Sarah and I left the group and headed for Camden

Town to visit the Collectif store and take advantage of their fantastic sale prices. We all made some great purchases, including skirts, dresses, jeans, and jumpers.

So now with winter upon us, we are spending our time browsing books and magazines for inspiration and of course the internet for new vintage loveliness to add to our collections and complete our looks. Personally, I am looking forward to the musical Shout in March, which my daughter is performing in.

It is set in the 1960s and I’m busy creating her costumes.

www.facebook.com/groups/634809676647737/

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Let’s GO RIDe A BIKe Words GOLDy LOXX

Love vintage?

Love cycling? Well, World Cycling Revival 2018 is coming to bring together your duel passions for travelling on two wheels and old stuff.

And even if you only like one or the other, there’s sure to be something to keep you occupied.

T

he festival, celebrating 200 years of travelling on two wheels, was launched at an event at Soho’s secret speakeasy Cahoots with a panel discussion featuring Ned Boulting, Condor’s Grant young, David Millar and Graham Obree, talking about their partnership and experiences at Hearne Hill velodrome, where World Cycling Revival will be held, over the years; however, this was only a taster of what the inaugural festival in June 2018 is set to include.

More of the racing, music and exhibitions will be announced online over the coming months.

However, the event, which is being billed as the greatest celebration of the bicycle the world has ever seen, aims to be a high-end annual heritage sporting, music and lifestyle festival celebrating the bike’s 200 years.

Event patrons will be invited to wear vintage themed clothing throughout the whole festival, to combine the important cultural and societal impact of the bicycle with a celebration of the nation’s love for two wheels.

The Herne Hill velodrome will host a full programme of racing includ-

ing a Japanese Keirin Trophy where guests can place bets. London bicycle brand Condor Cycles, founded in 1948, will provide steel framed Keirin bikes built with Japanese Keirin-style components.

The programme will also feature The Brompton 48 Invitational race, a brand new event, where winner takes all; riders, including former professional cyclist David Millar, will race to claim a £10,048 prize pot.

Penny Farthing racing, derny and stayer racing will also take place.

Event guests will be able to explore a huge array of exhibition space, featuring extensive interactive and engaging displays, which will transport them through the history of this wonderful invention.

Exhibitions will include the history of the bicycle, run in partnership with The National Cycle Museum.

“The Herne Hill velodrome is a magical place esteemed in history, which has a special place in my heart,” said cycling commentator and author Ned Boulting. “I can’t think of a better venue to host a huge celebration of all things cycling; one that’ll appeal to cycling purists, vintage enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a great and different day out.”

John Postlethwaite, Founder of

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the P&P World Cycling Revival, said: “We’re very excited to launch the P&P World Cycling Revival. This is an event like no other for cycling and we’re delighted to be working with Herne Hill in creating the greatest celebration of the bicycle the world has ever seen.”

“There are tracks like Herne Hill, the same size, but they’re not the same to me,” added Graeme Obree. “What I remember from 25 years ago at Herne Hill is the intensity and the atmosphere from thousands of people in the crowd.

To me this track is London, it’s the heart of the action, it’s London’s velodrome. I want to be there to feel the vibrancy and the energy again”.

A personal highlight of the launch event was catching up with singer and vintage face about town Natty Bo, whose retro band, Natty Congeroo and the Flames of Rhythm, will be performing at the festival.

He was able to provide some vintage styling tips on how to look dapper on a bicycle that will prove invaluable when the festival finally wheels around.

What’s more, World Cycling Revival are giving away four adult tickets to Vintage Life readers. Email haili@dragoonpublishing.com to be entered into the prize draw.

Early-bird tickets for the P&P World Cycling Revival are on sale now and available from www. cyclingrevival.com. Prices start from £65 per day or £150 for a 3-day season ticket. vintagelifemagazine.com | 93

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tHe pRINCe eXpeRIeNCe Words hAIlI hugheS

For some people, their love of the vintage lifestyle stops at the clothing.

For me, part of the lure has always been in the music too and there is no vintage music icon quite like the late, great Prince.

A

n artist who has spanned four decades, the funky one has left a legacy of music that is so catchy – I defy you not to dance!

So it’s no wonder that a plethora of tribute bands has sprung up to give vintage music fans their fix. undoubtedly, one of the best around is The Prince Experience.

Formerly known as Endorphinmachine, the band was initially named after the second track on Prince’s 17th album, The Gold Experience. But after his death in 2016, the band renamed themselves to pay tribute to his extraordinary live music experience.

Arriving at the intimate venue, the place was packed with a real mixture of older, original Prince fans and young students. I had read that the band covered a wide range of Prince’s hits: from his work with the Revolution to his tracks with the New Power Generation and even his later hits.

As the band entered the stage, their lead singer really looked the part, with his shades and Cuban heels. The rest of the band came on to rapturous applause, and started off Purple Rain style with Let’s Go Crazy. The crowd really did go crazy…this was followed by fan favourites Raspberry Beret and Cream.

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Words Michelle Hollamby

The nine piece Prince Experience comprises of some amazing musicians – including a lead guitarist playing the iconic symbol shaped instrument, made so famous by Prince. The female backing singer was equally fantastic – doing an amazing job as Apollonia in Take Me With You and Sheena Easton in U Got the Look. She also absolutely stole the show during the rap in Alphabet Street, which was word perfect.

From the drums to the brass section, they all have one thing in common: it’s clear they are huge fans of the music and exude passion in what they do. One of the saxophonists was incredible

and his love for the music was just infectious. You could really tell he felt every note.

The crowd shouted for Darling Nikki and the lead singer laughed, telling us it was ‘too rude.’ But after Computer Blue the opening bars were sounded, just like the running order on the Purple Rain soundtrack and it would have been rude not to play it! What followed included jaw breaking high notes, screams and wailing guitar solos…this band is tight!

But the night wasn’t all dedicated to Prince’s more upbeat hits. The beautiful ballad Nothing Compares 2 U made famous by

Sinead O’Connor brought the house down. Hauntingly beautiful.

A fabulous night was finished off by 1999 which raised the roof.

There is no doubt that The Prince Experience more than did justice to Prince’s amazing back catalogue. If you get a chance to see them, go for it. But make sure you pack comfortable shoes as you will be boogying all night.

For more information see: www.facebook.com/EndorphinmachinePrinceTributeBand/

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tHe RHYtHM RIOt

W

hile a seaside setting makes a lot of sense for a weekend in the summer, some might say that making the trek to deepest, darkest Pontins Camber Sands in November is an odd choice of vacation.

And yet, somehow, the Rhythm Riot is almost always my favourite event of the vintage weekender calendar year. The chalets may be freezing cold, the resident gulls may be ruffled up and bitter, but do we let it dampen our spirits? No sir.

Although the festival’s summer partner, Rockabilly Rave, may hold the appeal of sun, sea and sand, it can also prove uncomfortably balmy in the un-air conditioned dance halls. I hold a sentimental flame for the winter event – the first time I attended, I stayed in a chalet with four complete strangers. Two years later, I am staying again with two of their now very familiar faces.

It is an event where friendships

are made because, during the cold winter days, many choose to stay in their PJs with their buddies having a sort-of day time slumber party and preparing for the long nights ahead.

However, if you are feeling like stretching your muscles, you can spend many hours of the day perusing the market stalls. For the first time in memory, I had been paid the day before the event, meaning I was able to properly treat myself to a wonderfully eclectic selection of genuine vintage and authentic repro from all the top sellers on the scene, including Freddies of Pinewood, SWS Jewellery, Splendette and Bow and Crossbones.

However, if the prices are a bit steep for your current budget, you can save your coins and pick up some real bargains at the Sunday car boot sale. At a previous event, I managed to snag an original leather saddle bag for only £30 – beat that!

So, if the daytime is for duvet

snuggles and impulse spending, the evening is for getting dolled up, drinking and dancing. I have been strolling for several years (and will happily teach anyone floundering on the dance floor to the best of my clumsy abilities) but it is only since I have learned the fundamentals of jiving that events like this have really come into their own for me. It may seem a bit antiquated to wait for a male to select you as his partner – which is why many girls have learned to lead.

Practice makes perfect – and I have a lot of practising to do, but believe me, it’s worth it.

There’s also three stages of music as well as chalet parties and gigs popping up throughout the weekend. A little birdie has tipped me off that mark Kermode’s skiffle band, The Dodge Brothers will be performing at this year’s event – definitely not one to miss!

If you haven’t tried the Riot, I strongly advise you to pack your winter best and book your tickets – you won’t regret it.

IMAGES By FATS GEORDIEMO

Words GOLDy LOXX

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Events in February 3rd February Midland Vintage and Antique Fair Fentham Hall, Marsh Lane, Hampton-in-Arden, West Midlands.

Features stalls with a wide range of vintage, retro, antiques, collectables, militaria and more. Free parking.

9:00 - 16:00. Entry £1. midland-fairs.co.uk 3rd February Sugar and Spice Flea Market St Matthew’s Church, North Common Road, Ealing, London, W5 2QA West London flea market. Handpicked stalls to include vintage, handmade and upcycled, complete with a vintage tearoom. Free entry and free parking.11- 4. sugarandspicefleamarket.blogspot.co.uk 3rd February Vintage Saturdays at The Shipping Forecast, 15 Slater St, Liverpool.

Small and charming vintage fair offering vintage clothing for men and women, accessories & jewellery.

12.00 - 17.00. Free entry. pillboxvintage.com 4th February Vintage Sale, St. Giles Hospice Distribution Centre, Birchbrook Industrial Park, Lynn Lane, Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS14 0DJ Our ever Popular Vintage Sale is back. Everything is an amazing £5 and under! Vintage and retro clothing,10.00 - 2.00. Free entry.

11th February Newcastle Does Vintage, Biscuit Factory, Stoddart Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 1AN

Come and join us at the lovely Biscuit Factory - this vintage fair will be full of fab authentic vintage stalls, one of the best vintage tearooms we work with, live music and more!

11:00 - 4:00. Entry £2 britaindoesvintage.co.uk 11th February So Last Century Vintage & Retro Fair Catford, St Dunstan’s College, Stanstead Road, London, SE6 4TY So Last Century returns to Catford with 50-60 traders in two large halls.

Expect to find mid-century decor, furniture, lighting, ceramics, homeware, brocante, vinyl, vintage maps, illustrations, books, clothing, accessories and much more. Tea Room, street food, craft beer & great coffee too!

11:00 - 16:00. Entry £4 (£2 for Twttr/ FB/Insta followers) Kids free. solastcenturyfair.co.uk 17th February Love & Bullets Cabaret & Dance The Canberra Club, Salmesbury Aerodrome, Balderstone, Lancs BB2 7LF A night of Cabaret & Dance in 1930s Harlem. Presented by The Gangster Squad Live Audio Broadcast 7.30 pm. Entry Fee: £10.00 thegangster-squad.co.uk 17th February Norwich Does Vintage The Forum, Millenium, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1TF. Customers can expect a fabulous array of authentic vintage stalls and of course, free entry. 10.00 - 5.00. britaindoesvintage.co.uk

18th February Pop Up Vintage Fairs London at Alexandra Palace, Alexandra Palace Way, Wood Green, London, N22 7AY. Pop Up Vintage Fairs London are part of the IACF Antiques & Collectors Fair at Alexandra Palace, with our own dedicated vintage section within the Great Hall which includes over 400 antique and collectors stalls.

Vintage stalls include fashion, accessories, jewellery, mid-century furniture, salvage, industrial, collectables & more. 09:30 to 16:30. Entry £3 with 2-4-1 entry voucher on our website popupvintagefairs.co.uk 24th February Worthing Vintage and Retro Market St Symphorians Church, New Road, Worthing, Sussex, BN13 3HU. You will find a treasure trove of over 40 traders selling all things vintage and retro: from early 19th century big wooden furniture pieces to 50s formica pieces; vinyl and vintage clothing!

9.30 - 3.00. Free Entry.

25th February The Vintage Home Show – Midlands Sports Connexion, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV8 3FL. The Vintage Home Show is perfect for finding plenty of Mid-century furniture, retro lighting, ceramics, vintage textiles and artwork for your home. Bringing together the UK’s best vintage & mid-century specialists to showcase quality vintage pieces.

There are lots of iconic items from the 1930s-1970s. 11-4pm. Entry Fee: £2.50. vintagehomeshow.co.uk

To have your event listed here email Haili@dragoonpublishing.com

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