FROCK AROUND THE CLOCK

WATCH THIS

2011-06-24T00:22:00.002+01:00

I love Jennifer Robinson's jewellery designs so I was delighted when my friend Kelly bought me one of her double coin necklaces for my birthday with matching bracelet. I get compliments every time I wear it. Based on the coin necklace worn by Holly Willoughby, these come in silver or gold, and you can get your hands on one for yourself (or one of each colour) this Sunday at the Seaside Frock Vintage Fair.

Next I would like to get my hands on one of Jennifer's watch part bangles. Each one is totally unique - this one will be coming along to Seaside Frock on Sunday so if you want it, come and get it!

Here you can see some of Jennifer's bangles in the recent Citra Showcase at Urban Outfitters, Belfast.

LINEN PRESS

2011-06-22T22:01:00.000+01:00

Norma Jean Vintage has been a seller at every single one of our vintage fairs since we started back in 2008 and since then the range of vintage goods has expanded from costume and silver jewellery to also include vintage clothing and fashion accessories, bridal wear, china and glassware, vanity items, furniture and homewares, and vintage linens.

Visitors to Seaside Frock this Sunday will find a treasure trove of vintage goods at prices to suit all budgets, so come on down early to catch the bargains!

BORN IN THE USA

2011-06-22T21:36:00.000+01:00

We love Vintage USA for their fab range of vintage costume jewellery which is always rapidly changing, and as it is always very reasonably priced we have a good excuse to treat ourselves regularly.

Melanie and Karla have become regulars at our events but this Sunday will be the first time that they have appeared at our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair and we can't wait to see what new stock they have in store for us.

FEELING BLUE

2011-06-22T21:18:00.000+01:00

Jemima from Little Blue Cottage will be travelling all the way from County Leitrim to Bangor this Sunday to exhibit at our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair and we can't wait to see what vintage treasures she brings with her.

Little Blue Cottage say 'we sell original vintage clothing, handmade vintage inspired items and reworked vintage pieces. We believe in ethical and sustainable fashion and have a fantastic range of vintage wear for the girl who likes be to a true individual'. They have always had a fantastic range of clothing and accessories at our past events, and are always season and trend led so we know that they will have some fab summer pieces with them this weekend.

And we have just discovered via the Little Blue Cottage Facebook page that they have just had a huge delivery of super new vintage stock in time for Seaside Frock this Sunday so we are very excited!

CHINA IN YOUR HAND

2011-06-22T20:43:00.000+01:00

I'm a bit of a vintage china addict so I'm always pleased to see Tea Party at my vintage fairs. With prices from 50 pence for a saucer there is always something to suit every budget, and Elsie usually runs a 3 for 2 offer on her teacup, saucer & plate sets.

Tea Party will be at our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair at Cairn Bay Lodge this Sunday 26th June from 1 - 6pm. Admission is free and refreshments will be available.

KITSCH BITS

2011-06-21T22:04:00.000+01:00

A first-timer for our events, Susannah of Keepin' It Kitsch will be appearing at our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair this Sunday and I'm really excited about seeing her stall as she is another vintage button and haberdashery fanatic.

Choose from funky and kitsch handmade button jewellery or if you are a crafter yourself you will love these bags of buttons, the themed Kitsch Bit packs and lace, ribbon and braid available by the metre.

SNAIL MAIL IT!

2011-06-21T21:47:00.000+01:00

Having officially launched at our inaugural Vintage Bridal Fair in June 2010, Arbee Cards celebrated their 1st birthday at our 2nd Annual Decadence Vintage Bridal Fair last week and now they will be appearing at our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair this Sunday.

Come along and see Arbee Cards creator Rachel at Cairn Bay Lodge in Bangor for bespoke wedding stationery and greetings cards for all occasions - unique and vintage inspired designs. We love the Arbee Cards range of framed collages and key rings and the fact that Rachel uses vintage ephemera, lace and buttons in her creations.

Arbee Cards have also teamed together with Aware Defeat Depression, a Northern Irish support network for depression & bipolar disorder, to create gorgeous personalised charity wedding favours. For more details visit the Arbee Cards blog.

X-WOMEN

2011-06-21T21:02:00.001+01:00

If you missed X-perience Boudoir at our Vintage Bridal Fair last week, you will be able to catch them again at our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair this Sunday.

X-Perience Boudoir Photography is run by award winning professional female photographer Trazanne Norwood, and specialises in boudoir and burlesque photography, pin-up and retro shoots, pregnancy shoots, and makeovers especially for women.

X-Perience Boudoir Photography have a dedicated studio entirely for the purpose of both vintage & modern boudoir photography and have an aim to make you feel wonderful about how you look. The photographer, digital artist, printer and framer are all professionals in their field and are all female, and all portraits are produced entirely in-house so X-perience Boudoir can guarantee exclusive privacy for every client.

Come along to Seaside Frock this Sunday at Cairn Bay Lodge, Seacliff Road, Bangor from 1 - 6pm to chat to Trazanne, and visit X-perience Boudoir on Facebook to keep up to date with regular special offers.

Trazanne Norwood - X-perience Boudoir photographer

Alicia McTeggart - X-perience Boudoir make up artist

A VINTAGE VACATION

2011-06-20T20:11:00.004+01:00

Keri Johnson of Vintage Homebird has recently opened a vintage shop at Hoops Courtyard in Greyabbey but she has found time in her busy schedule to join us this Sunday at our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair at Cairn Bay Lodge in Bangor, which is just a stone's throw from her home.

Vintage Homebird is a celebration of all things well-loved and well-worn, the quirky and the imperfect, and Keri says that 'Vintage Homebird was born out of a passionate interest in all things vintage. I have a long-standing fascination with the world of interiors, particularly in design that is less about convention and more about the individual. As a long-time collector, I decided it was time to share my collection with others and to inspire people to express themselves more fully in their homes. I believe that this creates for people a home which is truly unique to them and acts as a mirror for who they are as individuals'.

Another arm to the business is the Vintage Homebird interior design service, with Keri offering a full consultation, design and sourcing service to support clients who have the desire to go for the vintage look in their homes, and Keri even offers us the chance to escape from it all at her Vintage Homebird thatched holiday cottage, where you can snuggle up beside a roaring log fire and enjoy a cosy night's sleep in a Romany caravan! If you fancy taking a vintage vacation, pop along to our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair this Sunday afternoon to find out how.

ROLLING STONE

2011-06-20T19:41:00.002+01:00

Another new exhibitor to our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair this Sunday is Bangor artist and businesswoman Shelley Cave and her husband Colin with their interior design and decorative art business, Juniper and Stone. Regulars to our events will have met Shelley at our very first vintage fairs at the Wellington Park Hotel in 2008 and 2009, and then again at our Retro Rooms Show earlier this year.

Shelley says 'growing up in an arty, crafty home, it’s no wonder that scouring antique shops, junk shops, auctions and skips has led to a life long passion for old, unique, vintage items with a story to tell. Nothing pleases us more than being able to breathe new life into these wonderful but unwanted items making them beautiful and loved once more. At Juniper and Stone we love all things vintage, not just furniture, and if it’s not perfect just as it is, we’ll turn it into something else like our cushions, handbags and corsages, bunting, table runners and napkins. They’re all made from vintage and vintage inspired textiles. Recycling at its most creative and fun'.

Juniper and Stone will be taking over one of the outbuildings at Cairn Bay Lodge this Sunday so if you are looking for something beautiful, unique and unusual for your home, be sure to come along early to catch the bargains.

OPTIMISTIC GIFTS

2011-06-20T15:41:00.000+01:00

Visitors to our Seaside Frock Vintage Fair this Sunday will love The Optimists for their eclectic and unusual range of collectables. Owner Gillian is a Norah Wellings doll expert and her main love is collecting and selling antique and vintage dolls, toys and bears.

The Optimists also have a lovely range of vintage jewellery and evening bags, vanity items, 1950s beaded tops and cardigans, linens and lace, sewing baskets and dolls teasets, and all at really reasonable prices. This is the place to pick up a really unique gift for someone that you love, or just to treat yourself to something pretty and girly.

POSTER PALACE

2011-06-20T09:20:00.000+01:00

Our wee Seaside Frock Vintage Fair in Bangor this Sunday is not going to be so wee! Taking advantage of the summer weather (!!!) we are utilising the outbuildings at Cairn Bay Lodge as well as the main house this time. News of the success and fun of our Christmas event must have spread as this time we have a couple of exhibitors who are travelling quite far to take part in the day, the first of whom is Palace Posters who will be coming all the way from Dublin.

We first met Palace Posters at our Retro Rooms Show in March, earlier this year and we were blown away by their collection of original vintage movie posters. Johnny and Anita Bonnie are not only avid collectors and dealers but are also really great fun so we are over the moon that they are coming along not only to brighten up our day but to also brighten up the walls of homes in County Down.

Seaside Frock takes place on Sunday 26th June from 1 - 6pm at Cairn Bay Lodge, 278 Seacliff Road, Bangor, BT20 5HS and admision is FREE. Visit our website for the full exhibitor list and more details.

You can visit Palace Posters online and also on Facebook for details of their latest acquisitions, but here are a few images of their stand at The Retro Rooms Show in Belfast on 6th March.

EVERYTHING BUT THE KITSCH 'N SINK

2011-05-18T21:08:00.000+01:00

Carrying on from my last blog about Becknik's Wonder Emporium in Chester I confess that I returned and bought some gorgeous deep blue glass dessert dishes. If I had enough money I would have liked to have bought this 1950s kitchen and had it shipped home to Northern Ireland, but my budget didn't stretch far enough!

Next blog I will show the lovely pieces that I did buy.

A DOUBLE WHAMMY!

2011-05-12T12:00:00.000+01:00

I'm on 'holiday' at the moment, staying with my sister in lovely Chester. I love the vintage and charity shops here and usually return home with a case full of goodies, so within an hour of arriving Sis gave me a treat by taking me to the latest addition to Chester's vintage establishments.

The outside of Becnik's Wonder Emporium looks fab so I had a feeling that it was going to be amazing inside, and it was. I took quite a few photos but they all turned out too dark to post on the blog but I'm going back again tomorrow so hopefully I can get more. Becnik's was packed to the ceiling with vintage clothing for men, women and children, accessories galore, jewellery, china, linen and lace, old sewing baskets, fabulous teasets, china cabinets, retro kitchenware and picnic sets, mirrors, old school desks and comfy sofas.

I found some lovely crocheted doilies with pansies in this old sewing box and I bought them for the new Decadence HQ (you can tell its not going to be your typical office!)

Now, anyone that knows me well will know about my obsession with teasets, and my obsession with collecting owls, so this was a double whammy - an owl teaset!! My lovely Sis bought it for me as an advance Christmas present (I wish I was as organised as her) so I won't get to see it again until 25th December. I'm sure that by then I will have accumulated more owls and more teasets so it will be right at home.

DIAMONDS DOLLS #2

2011-04-22T13:14:00.000+01:00

Great news for fashionistas! Brenda Part of Diamond Dolls at Dream Jewels in Moira is opening a second shop.

The new Diamond Dolls will be opening at 50 Bridge Street in Banbridge (previously the Powderpuff shop in the old bank building) in time for the Easter weekend.

The Banbridge branch of Diamond Dolls promises a truly breathtaking experience - a girlie paradise with the "WOW" factor. Specialising in a fantastic range of top designer creations, with the latest celebrity party dresses, glamorous streetwear, and jewellery all guaranteed to make you feel like a star at a movie premiere, this is the place to go for a fabulous outfit for a wedding, a day at the races, or a glamorous ball.

The new Diamond Dolls store will be open by the Easter weekend and initially won't have any vintage stock but we can be guaranteed that Brenda will be offsetting the glamorous designer wear with lots of vintage and vintage-style props. Customers can still visit the Moira store for vintage dresses and stunning high-end vintage costume jewellery, hats and bags (images below).

Good luck with the new venture Brenda - we can't wait to visit the new store x

THE VINTAGE STOP

2011-04-22T12:58:00.000+01:00

Stop Press! I'm delighted to announce that John McAfee of Adjo is opening a new vintage shop this Easter weekend in Portrush!

The Vintage Stop will specialise in vintage clothing, accessories, homewares and collectables and can be found at 63-65 Main Street, Portrush BT56 8BN.

Here are a few images of John's displays at our vintage fairs over the last few years.

Good luck in your new venture John! x

HOW BAZAAR

2011-04-22T12:41:00.001+01:00

Apologies readers for the lack of posts over the last couple of weeks. Things have been hectic since our Totally Bazaar Vintage Fair on 3rd April. Firstly I was ill with tonsilitis, then I got caught up with PR for the forthcoming Decadence Vintage Bridal Fair, and I have also been sorting out a new office for the Decadence HQ. Exciting times!!

Better late than never, here are some long-awaited images of Totally Bazaar.

Arbee Cards

It's Vintage Darling

Irene Malone Soft Furnishings

Gertrude Anna

Tea Party

Flax Fox

Strange Cloth

Luvlii Handmade Bags

The Vintettes

World of Kitsch

Vintage Homebird

Ginger Rosie

It's The Little Things

VINTAGE MAGNETISM

2011-04-01T00:43:00.000+01:00

We adore the handmade cards by Nichola Clarke from Nik's Vintage, made using vintage cigarette cards featuring films stars from the silver screen, and now Nik has introduced a new range of fridge magnets in time for Totally Bazaar this Sunday.

Choose from a variety of designs including vintage film stars, cute animals and cupcakes, and kitsch nautical images.

PEARLY QUEEN

2011-04-01T00:09:00.000+01:00

Lisa Chan of Lisabella has given us a preview of some of her new pieces for Totally Bazaar this Sunday. Very pretty, girly and fresh - perfect pieces to accompany vintage cotton frocks while drinking tea from chintzy china!

We think that these gorgeous jewellery pieces would make beautiful gifts for Mum this Mother's Day, a treat for oneself, or keepsake gifts for bridesmaids.

STERLING GIFTS

2011-03-31T23:56:00.001+01:00

Norma Jean Vintage has a whole load of new vintage goodies in store for us this Sunday at the Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair. I'm in love with this 1960s Marcel Fenez dress.

Norma will also be selling her handmade sterling silver crosses, bangles incorporating vintage beads, and Love Serpent rings.

These jewellery pieces are handmade by silversmith Norma Smallwood, the woman behind Norma Jean Vintage and her contemporary designs complement her vintage collection perfectly. Something to suit all tastes, and all budgets.

WE HEART GERTIE!

2011-03-31T13:39:00.001+01:00

Since Timmy White of Gertrude Anna made his public selling debut at our Retro Rooms Show on 6th March tales of his talents have skyrocketed across Northern Ireland's style scene and he, and his creations, have been in huge demand for photoshoots, interviews and other ventures. We're sort of proud that we got him first, not least because Timmy will soon be moving to Edinburgh (oh no we hear you cry!) But before he does, we have another big dollop of his coolness at this Sunday's Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair.

If you have ever dined at Belfast's Hooligan Tea-eaterie then you will already be familiar with Timmy's work because he was the hand behind its fabulously eclectic interior design and you can expect similar from his wares this Sunday. Clothing, fashion accessories and homewares all made using recycled and funky textiles. Think Star Wars cushions, bags with funky ties as shoulder straps, laptop cosies, funked up photo frames, lampshades and teacup pincushions.

You can visit Gertrude Anna on Facebook and watch out for the new website coming soon!

LIFE LESS ORDINARY

2011-03-31T12:45:00.000+01:00

And now for something completely different! Fellow Ballyholme-ite Marianne Kennerley, founder of Second Life, will be launching her first collection of re-purposed garments at this Sunday's Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair.

In Marianne's words she 'explores how garments can be pulled and stretched beyond their first expected life and, inspired by quality and craftmanship, produces clothing that is reclaimed and influenced by the existing garment'.

Her first collections focuses on upcyling / re-purposing mens shirts into ladies tops and skirts, and using all of the shirt pieces also funky chokers and scarves. A smaller range of necklaces called 'Every Little Helps' are crocheted from plastic bag wool!

Find Second Life on Facebook and you can follow Marianne's exploits in re-purposing garments on her Second Life blog.

BEADYLICIOUS GIFTS

2011-03-29T22:37:00.001+01:00

Another cause for Mother's Day celebration at Totally Bazaar this Sunday - Beadylicious are giving free gifts to customers who spend over £10! Now you can treat Mum and yourself!

Here are some of Roisin's new designs for this Sunday. We adore the girly cameo pieces!

BUSKERS' DEN STRIKES BACK

2011-03-29T21:53:00.002+01:00

After the success of its first appearance at the Retro Rooms Show earlier this month, Buskers' Den is back at by popular demand and will be taking centre stage at the Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair this Sunday.

Host Della Storm will be in charge of the proceedings again and she has added a few more retro 60’s and 70’s songs to her repertoire which she loves singing and hopes we will all enjoy hearing!

Co-host Mike Donaghy is busy writing a film score, teaching at his music school YMS Ireland and gigging all over the place, but we've managed to pin him down for a few songs this Sunday!

We are delighted to have multi-talented musician, singer, and songwriter Katie Richardson performing for us. Katie is a rising star who has dueted on stage with Duke Special and was recently guest singer with Inishowen Gospel Choir. She's in demand and we're honoured to have her join us at Totally Bazaar.

Another new performer for Buskers' Den is singer and actress Kerri Quinn. Her most recent role was in the BBC drama Betrayal of Trust and she’s now preparing to tour with the musical Dancing Shoes - The George Best Story - in Ireland and the UK, but before she goes we’ve managed to grab her for a performance this Sunday.

Katie and Kerri will be performing in Buskers' Den from 12pm this Sunday so be sure to arrive early to catch this performance from these two very talented gals. You won't want to miss this!

Robyn Farah delighted us at the Retro Rooms show with her unique style of singing, and her version of Can't Get No Satisfaction was a real crowd pleaser! We can't wait to hear what she's going to do next!

Having sung with local bands including the Adventurers, Alison McGuinness has recently formed her own band called ‘Alison’s Hotel’ and they recently performed their debut gig at Auntie Annies in Belfast. She’s currently working on a 1920’s/30’s blues style album with slide guitar player Dermot Rooney and we’re really looking forward to hearing some samples of this music from Alison this Sunday.

Charismatic musician Paul Olphert has supported famous groups such as Snow Patrol & Razorlight, and has performed at the Queens Festival, the V festival and Glastonbury Festival, and we are looking forward to him returning to Buskers' Den to wow us with his guitar playing.

When Geoff Hatt sang in the Retro Rooms with his ukulele he created quite a stir, not to mention a lot of smiling faces! As Geoff is such a versatile musician we’re not quite sure what to expect this time but whatever it is we’re really looking forward to it as we know it will be unique and stylish.

Tracy Dempsey is a class act who brings a touch of understated glamour to the Den. She promised last time to soothe weary hearts and still fevered minds, which is exactly what she did with her eclectic mix of songs and sultry vocals. Tracy will be back this Sunday 3rd April and we can’t wait to hear her sing away all our cares again.

Singer and songwriter Amanda Agnew recently had a No.2 hit in the NI Charts with her song ‘Haven’t Met You’ and she will be singing a brand new song for us in Buskers' Den. Amanda will be accompanied this Sunday by her brother Andy on the Mandolin and we can’t wait.

Totally Bazaar takes place at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast from 11am to 4.30pm on Sunday 3rd April and admission costs £3.

SNEAKY PEAK

2011-03-29T20:49:00.001+01:00

Kellie from It's The Little Things has given us a sneaky peak at all her new creations which will be available for the first time at Totally Bazaar this Sunday and we love what we have seen. Here are a few favourites:

You can follow Kellie's adventures in handmade & refashioned jewellery, accessories, homewares & stationery on facebook, her website, folksy shop, and her blog, but to see before you buy come on down to Totally Bazaar at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast this Sunday from 11am to 4.30pm.

GIFT WRAPPED

2011-03-29T20:17:00.001+01:00

More ideas today for unique Mother's Day gifts at Totally Bazaar this Sunday come from Catriona McCambridge at Orio. Catriona's current collection 'Findings of a Magpie' is based on the use of materials recycled from previously loved clothing, buttons and brooches so each piece is totally unique.

The Orio creations also come in pretty handmade packaging which makes them the perfect gift purchase. Here are a few of my favourites.

OWL & THE PUSSYCAT

2011-03-29T15:57:00.001+01:00

Another post about Vintage USA, this time to let you know about the special offers that they have on at this Sunday's Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair.

Firstly, customers making a purchase from Vintage USA will receive a free pin brooch. And with new stock like this it won't be difficult to make a purchase! I have one of the jewelled owls already but I will be looking for another one on Sunday to keep it company. I'm also loving the jewelled cat brooch!

The second offer is for customers of Altemeyer Handmade Chocolates - Spend £5 at Altemeyer and get 10% off your purchase at Vintage USA! I'm a big fan of Altemeyer - the chocolate coated florentines and the champane pralines are to die for. But don't take my word for it, try them yourself this Sunday at Totally Bazaar.

Because you're worth it x

OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF LEONORA FERGUSON @ TOTALLY BAZAAR

2011-03-29T15:02:00.002+01:00

Vintage USA are now stocking the new range of glamorous fascinators, headwear and accessories 'Gamine by Leonora Ferguson' and the official launch takes place at our Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair this Sunday!

Gamine by Leonora Ferguson is a range of unique hand made fashion accessories, intricately decorated, for weddings, special occasions and glamorous living!

Leonora is a textile artist and accessory designer based in Northern Ireland. A graduate of the National College of Art and Design, Dublin, Leonora has taken part in a number of art exhibitions in the UK and Ireland with her sculptural and 2D textile art and has worked in costume departments for Universal Studios and HBO, and as a freelancer for Madame Tussauds.

Leonora's accessory range takes inspiration from many sources, including origami, birds, sweeties, vintage hats and jewellery. Her creations are often vibrant and rich in colour with opulent decoration. Favoured decorative materials include tiny Swarovski crystals, glass beads, sequins, knitted wire in various colours and unusual feather combination. Many of the beads and jewels used are sourced from Vintage USA.

To enter a fantastic FREE prize draw with the chance to win a glamorous handmade fascinator all you have to do is 'Like' the Gamine by Leonora Ferguson Facebook page by 20th April.

See you at Totally Bazaar on 3rd April for the official launch at the Vintage USA stand! x

SEEDS OF CHANGE

2011-03-29T12:00:00.001+01:00

We are delighted to have Jill Black of Ginger Rosie participating in our Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair this Sunday.

Jill will be selling a delightful mix of framed vintage theatre programmes, magazines, and sheet music, vintage tins and advertising, vintage crockery and kitchenalia, old clocks, tablecloths, small items of furniture and hand-painted recycled pots.

To celebrate Mother's Day Jill will be giving away a free packet of seeds with every purchase of 2 of her handpainted pots at Totally Bazaar and customers will be able to choose from various types of peas, beans and flower bulbs such as Dutch Iris. Each of these pots is hand painted so is totally unique. 'Ginger Rosie applies a fusion of colour, texture, imagination and a great big dollop of passion to create works of art that will make a statement in your living space. From striking funky abstract centrepieces to beautifully rendered landscape art, you will find a pot to suit your tastes'.

Jill is one of the collective of artists who form ReFound - they took part in our Retro Rooms Show on 6th March - and a couple of her restyled furniture piece will be going to the Irish Furniture Fair this weekend where ReFound will be taking the feature wall. We love your work Jill!

Visit the Ginger Rosie website for more information on the products available and also follow Ginger Rosie on Facebook.

COIN COLLECTOR

2011-03-29T10:39:00.001+01:00

We are always excited to see what new designs Jennifer from Jennifer Robinson Jewellery will have at each of our vintage fairs, and after a sneak preview of her new range of coin necklaces and bracelets the orders have been building up in advance of this Sunday's Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair. Jennifer's new range was inspired by this double coin necklace as worn by Holly Willoughby.

Jennifer's designs come in these silver or gold versions. If you can't decide which you like best, buy both as prices start from just £10!

Here's the gorgeous Jenn herself modelling her own creations.

You will also be able to buy from the other Jennifer Robinson jewellery ranges this Sunday at Totally Bazaar including her very popular watch part necklaces and bangles.

Contact Jennifer Robinson Jewellery on Facebook for prices and to reserve your pieces in advance of the vintage fair.

ADORA-BELLE

2011-03-29T02:10:00.002+01:00

The lovely girls at Lulla & Belle have an adorable new 'Tea Time' collection of jewellery, just in time for this Sunday's Totally Bazaar, created from a vintage (pre-1970s) dolls house tea set. These pretty necklaces will be available to purchase for £10 and the rings for only £5!

And as if these prices aren't attractive enough Lulla & Belle will also be running a special Mother's Day offer this Sunday so that customers making a purchase over £10 will receive a free 'rose ring' worth £5!

To view the other items in their jewellery and hair accessory range you can visit the Lulla & Belle website and facebook page but don't forget to stop by their stand at Totally Bazaar this weekend before the gorgeous Tea Time collection disappears!

GONE WITH THE WIND

2011-03-28T17:31:00.000+01:00

Do you remember the lovely handmade bags and pinnies from Luvlii at our February vintage fair? All made in a little cottage in the heart of the Mourne Mountains these are cute and kitsch designs and our fairgoers couldn't get enough of them.

Well, luckily for us, Luvlii will be returning to this Sunday's Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair and Paula has been busy making more gorgeous goodies for our delectation. This 'Domestic Goddess' apron will make a lovely gift for Mother's Day, if you don't decide to keep it for yourself that is!

If you are looking for something to wear outside of the kitchen then check out Paula's new range of skirts made from the funkiest retro style fabrics. I'm loving the Gone With The Wind movie star print not least because it is bound to draw a lot of attention!

You can visit and purchase from Luvlii on Facebook and also on Folksy, but do come and see before you buy at this Sunday's Totally Bazaar!

WOODSTOCK

2011-03-28T16:25:00.001+01:00

This week I will be featuring some gift ideas for Mother's Day, all of which will be available at our Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair this Sunday.

I love these jewellery, fashion accessory and giftware designs from Leanne at See The Woods Designs all of which she makes herself in Newtownards right here in Northern Ireland.

Leanne sources only high quality materials for her designs and the fabrics she uses are colourful and bright. There is something here for all tastes - from girly and pretty to quirky and funky.

You can find See The Woods Designs on Folksy and now you will also be able to see before you buy at Totally Bazaar. What's more, with each purchase from See The Woods this Sunday Leanne will enter you into a draw with a chance to win this lovely lavender hamper filled with bath and bedtime treats!

Happy Mother's Day! x

CRAFTY FOX

2011-03-27T15:22:00.000+01:00

If like me you are interested in heritage buildings and architectural places of nostalgia, then you will love the offerings of Flax Fox who produce hand pulled original screen prints of Northern Irish scenes and landmarks. Belfast-bred duo Danielle Morgan and Bridget Farmer focus on making Northern Irish gifts very different from the usual shamrock, leprechaun and shillelagh offerings, and all their images are drawn from life.

Ranging from Belfast Terraces and Bittles Bar to St Georges Market and the Samson and Goliath cranes that dominate the Belfast skyline the heritage drawings can be found on a range of products including prints, teatowels, bags and cards.

You can find Flaxfox designs at St Georges Market, on Etsy and now at the Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair on Sunday 12th June at the Holiday Inn, Belfast.

Flaxfox are running a competition with the chance to win one of their Samson and Goliath teatowels - to enter just visit their blog or facebook page and leave a comment letting them know which landmark you would like to see featured on their designs next.

MUM'S THE WORD

2011-03-26T16:10:00.001Z

I love the new range of plantable cards from our friend Rachel at Arbee Cards. Rachel has brought out the first of her eco-friendly plantable range in time for Mother's Day on 3rd April which coincidentally is the date of our next event, the Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair.

The natural white handmade cards have wildflower seeds throughout them, including daisy, poppy, sweet alyssum, black-eyed susan & snapdragon seeds. The entire card should be planted in soil or compost, then all you have to do is keep moist & wait for germination! Instructions are printed on the back of the card for the receiver to grow their wildflowers.

What a lovely idea especially if, like mine, your mum loves gardening! I'm off to order a plantable card right now!

The cards can be personalised free of charge - just contact Rachel via Facebook or Folksy. You can view the full range of Arbee cards at the Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair on Sunday 3rd April at the Holiday Inn, Belfast.

THE LADYBIRD ARCHIVES

2011-03-25T11:50:00.000Z

I received a lovely present in the post last weekend from Claire at The World of Kitsch. This framed vintage Ladybird book illustration is from Claire's own range of recycled wares that she will be selling at our Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair on 3rd April.

I haven't found a place to hang it yet because I'm holding out to buy another couple on 3rd April to keep it company. I think it should stay with these others from the same series so I have my eye on them.

In the meantime I think it looks quite at home sitting beside my 'Time For Tea' coasters from the Ladybird Archive series.

Claire will be selling her framed Ladybird illustrations on 3rd April for £4 each or at the super bargain price of 3 for £10.

The World of Kitsch was the winner of Highly Commended Blog in the Cosmopolitan Magazine Blog Awards 2010.

STRANGE FACTS

2011-03-25T00:37:00.001Z

A new addition to the unlimited creative talent at our vintage fairs is Edel Kelly of Strange Cloth who will be exhibiting with us for the first time at Totally Bazaar on 3rd April. Designing one of a kind vintage inspired headwear and jewellery, Edel's creations are gorgeous, colourful and refreshingly one-of-a-kind. I love them all but here are a few of my favourites.

You can find Strange Cloth on Facebook and now also at Totally Bazaar on 3rd April.

THE FABRIC OF LIFE

2011-03-24T13:40:00.000Z

Exhibiting for the first time at our Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair on 3rd April is local artist, quilter and soft furnishing expert Irene Malone.

Irene will be selling her exclusive new range of affordable and individually designed handcrafted patchwork quilts and cushions which are made from recovered fabrics and hand embroidered panels from the 1940s and 1950s.

Vistors to the fair will be able to buy Irene's delightful “frock” cushions at the special price of £15 and there will also be a free bunch of Mothers Day spring flowers for the first ten soft furnishings customers.

What a beautiful way to brighten up your home!

KNIT WIT

2011-03-14T19:05:00.000Z

Can you believe that these fabulous coat-cardigans from Lisa Dunne of Spiral Gypsy are made from recycled sweaters? Lisa, an impassioned fire dancer, is inspired by colour, nature, the Irish landscape, and ancient mythology and she is also pretty darn nifty with a sewing needle and crochet hook. Her Spiral Gypsy creations embody a part of everything she loves, and have to be the most unique recycled garments around.

Available to purchase on Etsy, these gorgeous and colourful designs can now also be found at our Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair on 3rd April where you can try on before you buy.

QUEST FOR QUILTS

2011-03-14T16:22:00.000Z

TOTALLY BAZAAR is the second of our new events for 2011, and the first of these vintage & handmade fairs will take place on Sunday 3rd April at Belfast's Holiday Inn. Retaining the glamour and style of our Frock Around The Clock events, but with the same relaxed vibe as the Vintage Sundays at the Empire that we ran last year, we have some fantastic new sellers lined up especially for our customers old and new at Totally Bazaar.

Visitors can expect around 50 sellers of authentic vintage and restyled / upcycled fashion, jewellery, homewares and collectables. We are loving these quilts and cushions which are handmade by Irene Malone from vintage and recycled textiles and trimmings. The blue and green quilt with the butterflies is so spring-like and fresh, yet still cosy enough for wrapping up on our cool summer evenings.

TAKING THE MIC

2011-03-12T16:50:00.000Z

The Retro Rooms Show last Sunday also saw the launch of our new entertainment area Buskers' Den including performances from Rosie Moore, Mike Donaghy, Tracey Dempsey, Ellen Turley and Geoff Hatt, Amanda Agnew and Andy Whittaker, Robyn Farah and Paul Olphert.

Buskers' Den will be appearing again at our Totally Bazaar Vintage & Handmade Fair on Sunday 3rd April.

RETRO-GO-GO

2011-03-12T16:29:00.001Z

Another first for Ireland, our Retro Rooms Show took place in Belfast last Sunday showcasing 30+ exhibitors of vintage and restyled furniture, homewares, interiors and design. Described by one visitor as 'the most excellent collaborative of iconic, collectable vintage and retro pieces I have ever seen under one roof' the fair was a success for sellers and a hit with visitors who left laden with classic design pieces for the home. The Retro Rooms Show will be returning to the Holiday Inn on 2nd October with more fabulous retro to go!

PULP

2011-03-05T12:11:00.001Z

A small selection of my Pulp Art canvases that I will be taking to the Retro Rooms Show with me tomorrow. These will be available to purchase at the special price of £45 each (normally £65). Commissions taken!

MARCH EARLY BIRD SPECIAL

2011-03-05T07:30:00.000Z

Our usual pre-fair reminder about our Early Bird Special Offer which will be running at the Retro Rooms Show tomorrow. This means that if you arrive and pay in during the first half an hour of the event (11am to 11.30am) you will get £2 off the general admission prices. So from 11am to 11.30am adults will pay £3 and students and seniors will pay only £1!!

Jenny Bond of Jenny Bond Interiors is styling a gorgeous room setting as the entrance to the event in celebration of the launch of the Retro Rooms Show and we will be cutting the ribbon at 11am to welcome our visitors. Watch out for the chalk board where you can leave your comments.

SEX KITTEN

2011-03-05T07:12:00.000Z

I included the works of the very talented and very gorgeous Sara O'Neill in a blog post the other day but I want to rave a bit more about her.

My lovely Daddy bought me this limited edition print of Sara's drawing of the beautiful Rita Hayworth as Gilda from our last Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair.

And this is a preview of Sara's latest limited editions which will be available at the Retro Rooms Show tomorrow at the introductory price of £25 for A4 and £35 for A3 size. Oh Bridget Bardot, please be mine!

CHINA TOWN

2011-03-03T22:41:00.001Z

If your taste in vintage doesn't lean towards the sleek lines of modernism we also have a lovely selection of restyled, handpainted furniture and pretty china for those who prefer chintzy vintage styles. A regular at our vintage fairs, Tea Party, will be exhibiting at the Retro Rooms Show this Sunday with a fabulous selection of china plates, cups and saucers, teasets, cakestands, glassware and linens. Anyone for a cup of tea?

BOND GIRL

2011-03-03T22:30:00.000Z

Jenny Bond of Jenny Bond Interiors has been working her socks off to get her new range of restyled furniture ready for the Retro Rooms Show this Sunday. We have a little sneak preview here of a couple of her new pieces and we love what we are seeing!

To celebrate the inaugural Retro Rooms Show, Jenny Bond Interiors will be styling the entrance into the fair with a 'vintage room setting' so look out for the blackboard where you will be abe to leave your comments. Our Early Bird Special reduction on admission will be running for the first half an hour of the event as usual, and those who arrive early will get to see the cutting of the ribbon to launch the event at 11am!

IN THE PINK

2011-03-03T22:17:00.000Z

Norma Jean Vintage has given me a preview of some of the pieces she will be bringing to the Retro Room Show on Sunday and I have a funny feeling that this pink pouffe / dressing table stool might be heading home with me. However, I'm also in love with the Portmeirion golden phoenix coffee set too. And the blue / gold carafe and glasses set. Why can't I have them all?

WILD THING

2011-03-03T21:54:00.000Z

If you were at our February Frock Around The Clock event you will have been lucky enough to meet Dublin-based Wild Child Originals who brought along a fabulous selection of vintage clothing and accessories. You will be pleased to know that they also stock vintage furniture and homewares and will be exhibiting at the Retro Rooms Show this Sunday.

I haven't been given a preview of what they will be bringing, but if their website is anything to go by, we will be in for a real treat. Here are a few of my favourite items.

I'm also loving these images from September House & Home which were styled using furniture from Wild Child Originals and give a flavour of their stock.

You visit the Wild Child Originals website here or find them on facebook, and now also at the Retro Rooms Show.

KITSCH ME QUICK

2011-03-03T12:54:00.003Z

We love the guys and gals at Oxfam Vintage Belfast. They have been part of our vintage fairs since the very first event at the Welly Park in November 2008 and they always have an amazing selection of vintage bargains for our customers. Watch out for them at the Retro Rooms Show this Sunday where they will be selling vintage homewares, bric-a-brac, books, records, toys and games, pictures, magazines and lots more.

ART ATTACK

2011-03-03T01:10:00.004Z

If you are looking for something original to hang on your walls then you have come to the right place. Our Retro Rooms Show this Sunday will have a selection of unique options for wall decor.

Check out these posters from Palace Posters - passionate collectors and dealers of original movie posters.

These gorgeous limited edition prints from Sara O'Neill designs

Paintings of Amsterdam and Paris by Norma Smallwood of Norma Jean Vintage

And my own Pulp Art canvases

The Retro Rooms Show is on Sunday 6th March at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast from 11am to 4.30pm. Visit our facebook page for more details.

THOROUGHLY MODERN

2011-03-03T00:39:00.002Z

Visitors to the Retro Rooms Show this Sunday will have met Geoff of Kirk Modern at our vintage fairs before and will be itching to get their hands on some of his quality vintage pieces for the home.

I'm a big fan of G Plan and I happen to know that this stunning 1961 G Plan serving trolley, designed by Ib Kofod Larsen, will be making its way from Dublin to Belfast this Sunday. In Geoff's own words, he 'loves it when a G Plan comes together' and so will you when you hear about the definitely-not-to-be-missed offer that is attached to this little beauty at the Retro Rooms Show.

Featured in the Irish Times today, this fab piece of retro loveliness is available to Irish Times readers at the knock down price of 185 euro (reduced from 325 euro). Bring along a copy of today's paper to the show this Sunday to avail of the offer but remember there is only one of these and it is going to be snapped up early! Here is a link to the Irish Times article.

I'm also loving these Kirk Modern recent finds featured on their blog.

1950s Worcester Ware magazine rack

1970s 'Smiths' Sunburst Clock

1950s Czech desk lamp

Refurbished 1950s Bush SRG110 radiogram

G Plan Fresco extending table.

Visit Kirk Modern at the Retro Rooms Show at the Holiday Inn, this Sunday 6th March. You can find their website at http://www.kirkmodern.com/ and follow their blog here.

OH MY DARLING

2011-03-01T20:42:00.000Z

I wish Bangor was closer to Armagh so that I could spend every day at It's Vintage Darling. My bank manager is pleased however that I have to make do with just gazing at their everchanging stock on facebook!

It's Vintage Darling took part in our November Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair and their gorgeous goodies and attractive prices made them very popular, so I know that their return to the Retro Rooms Show this Sunday is going to be met with approval by everyone.

Here is a preview of their current stock, which is not going to stick around very long so best to get down to the Holiday Inn as soon as we open at 11am on Sunday.

You can visit It's Vintage Darling on Facebook to see more of their stock or find them at Loughgilly Armagh (tel 07885295320).

INSPIRATIONAL

2011-03-01T20:28:00.001Z

Voluntary Service Lisburn was established in 1981 as a charitable organisation to help meet the needs of the elderly, disabled and disadvantaged in the local community.

The furniture recycling arm of the VSL programme was set up to improve employability for the long term unemployed, improve employability for trainees and individuals service community services orders, support families on low income, encourage the public to recycle their household items, divert unwanted furniture away from landfill, attain financial independence, and seek innovative working practises and partnerships

This enterprise operates on the generosity of the general public and businesses who donate their unwanted items of furniture which in turn helps the whole community by saving on landfill. Rebranded as Inspiration Furniture, VSL will be taking part in the Retro Rooms Show this Sunday with such gorgeous restyled pieces as these.

You can visit Inspiration Furniture on Facebook and now also at The Retro Rooms Show on Sunday 6th March.

BUSKERS' DEN LINE-UP

2011-02-28T20:59:00.007Z

Our new live entertainment area, Buskers' Den, launches this Sunday at the Retro Rooms Show and our Entertainment Manager Rosie Moore aka Della Storm has lined up some wonderful talent for our enjoyment. Here's what Rosie has to say about the musicians who will be performing.

Tracy Dempsey will be crooning an eclectic mix of songs about love, loss and hope. From Elliot Smith to Adele via Jacques Brel and Mazzy Star, she'll soothe weary hearts and still fevered minds. Stop by, chill out, and feel free to hum along.

Ellen Turley and Geoff Hatt have been musical comrades for many a year, and this Sunday they will be delighting the audience with a medley of old and new songs in two part harmony accompanied by the sweet sounds of the ukulele.

Mike Donaghy will be Della's co-host at Retro Rooms. An exceptional musician, songwriter and teacher, his guitar playing rrrrocks!

Robyn Farah is our exotic South African songbird and is involved in all sorts of sound work, from interactive music installations to editing music for film. She is now delving herself into the realms of performance and song. Robyn's greatest joys are friends, family and the wonders of music/sound and she has the richest life she could possibly hope for. Robyn is also the creative hand behind Flours Bakery.

Paul Olphert will be accompanying Robyn Farah on guitar. Paul has performed at the Queens Festival, the V festival and Glastonbury Festival and has played supporting many popular groups including Snow Patrol, Razorlight, Maximo Park and The View.

Amanda Agnew is a singer songwriter who plays many instruments including guitar, mandolin, banjo and glockenspiel! She will be accompanied by her brother on guitar and hopes her folk/acoustic music will make us feel happy and uplifted.

Steve McCann fuses folk, blues and jazz in the manner of Bert Jansch and John Renbourn whilst bringing his own twist. And don't we just love a good twist!

Andy John Bradford has been writing songs for over 30 years. His blend of music has a feel of poetry mixed with strong melody. His style has been compared with the likes of Bob Dylan to Old Cat Stevens. He has written for many around the world and has even had a spot of gold in certain countries!

And of course Della herself will be hosting the Buskers' Den where she will be performing a mix of retro songs from the 60’s and 70’s as well as a few of her own. Rosie describes Della as 'a bit of a chameleon and describes her music as rocky pop with a bite'.

You can catch all this talent at the Retro Rooms Show which takes place on Sunday 6th March at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast from 11am - 4.30pm.

A REALLY GOOD RUMMAGE

2011-02-25T15:34:00.001Z

If you came along to our first Vintage Sunday at the Empire event last March you will remember Retrorumage who had travelled from Dublin with some fabulous retro furniture and homewares. We are really pleased that one year later they are returning, this time to take part in the Retro Rooms Show on 6th March at the Holiday Inn.

Paul Byrne, the man behind Retrorumage has a passion for 1950s, 60s and 70s furniture and collectables and we just love drooling over the latest finds on his stylish blog.

You can visit the Retrorumage blog here and also follow them on Twitter.

BEAUTIFUL HOME

2011-02-23T16:49:00.005Z

I found and fell in love with Lulabelle's House when browsing the internet one evening and just had to get in touch with owner Natasha to ask if she would take part in the Retro Rooms Show. I was delighted that she said yes, and I'm sure that visitors to our vintage home and interiors fair will be delighted too. This is an example of what you can expect to find Natasha selling on 6th March.

With over ten years buying and selling experience in the antiques trade, Lulabelle's House are able to source furniture and accessories from around the globe, and with their passion for interior design offer a range of colours, finishes, handles and appliques to add vintage chic to their restyled furniture, creating unique pieces to complement the personality and home of their customers.

Lulabelle's House also hold workshops from Re:store on Main Street, Larne most Saturdays. At these fun one-day workshops which cost £55 you can learn a range of painting and decorating techniques to transform a piece of furniture from Shabby to Chic which you can then take home and treasure. The cost includes lunch, a piece of furniture and all the materials you need to transform your chosen piece! We love the idea of this bargain day out - not only can you have fun and learn some new skills but you get your very own future heirloom to add to your beautiful home! Here are some examples of before and after pieces to inspire you.

You can visit Lulabelle's House at http://www.lulabelleshouse.co.uk/ and now at The Retro Rooms Show on 6th March. Hope to see you there!

MASQUERADE

2011-02-21T23:47:00.002Z

Now we are on the countdown to the first Retro Rooms Show on 6th March it is time for me to start blogging about our exhibitors in the lead up to the event. As Retro Rooms is the first vintage fair exclusively for vintage furniture and homewares we have quite a few new exhibitors who will be coming along on the day.

One of our first-timers is the collective ReFound - a group of creative individuals, a collection of reclaimed furniture and an inspired 'agent of change', Jill O’Neill. Using unwanted and past-its-prime furniture as the canvas, the ReFound artists transform reclaimed pieces into unique and functional artworks.

The list of ReFound artists is extensive and the ReFounds that they have produced even more so, but I have picked out a couple of my favourite pieces for the blog and sheerly by coincidence the artists are friends of mine.

ReFound piece #034 is by Jude Fenton. Initially she picked the boxes because of their homemade charm and practicality. Says Jude 'I like the mix of functional and non-functional, everyone can do with extra storage so I wanted to create a piece that would be able to house a few loved treasures but also that would be able to stand as a piece of art in its own right. The sketches, text and collages were mostly inspired by textile designs from the 1950’s in particular the work of one of my favourite designers Lucienne Day. I have tried to create a scrapbook effect as if each section has a story to tell. I left the three pieces separate so that they can be arranged in a variety of poses'.

ReFound #044 the 'Masquerade Chair' is by Rachel Hutchinson. Rachel’s work is influenced by the combination of old and new and representing the perpetual motion of generations. Using layered textures with vintage fabrics, papers, paints and hand-embroidered stitching in contemporary compositions to suggest an undercurrent of contained history, narrative and identity. Fascinated by the association between people and objects, concealment and absorption; things left behind, narrative contained, resonance and transference of ownership, the'Masquerade Chair' is a small journey into how fabrics can contain narrative and evoke memory.

Incidentally one of Rachel's ReFound chairs can be seen in the window of Best Vintage on Ann Street Belfast at the moment.

You can visit the ReFound website at http://www.refoundonline.com/ or find them at The Retro Rooms Show on Sunday 6th March.

JOURNEY BEYOND EXPECTATION

2011-02-15T10:43:00.003Z

Our lovely friend Melita at Bespoke Belfast has tailored some fabulous short breaks in Belfast with a vintage theme; perfect for a getaway with the girls, birthday treats or hen parties.

Melita will plan your super-stylish and individual trip around Belfast's booming vintage scene, including the best specialist boutiques, urban designed funky eateries, alternative activities, buzzing nightlife and beautiful boutique hotel.

And if staying in a luxury hotel and travelling in chauffeur-driven limousines alone weren't enough of a treat you will also receive a personalised itinerary which will take you around some of Belfast's hidden vintage treasure troves, the option of a private showing of your favourite classic film in a 1950s cinema, vintage hair and beauty styling with our very own Frock Around The Clock beauty team Kelly and Claire, burlesque tuition with the fabulous Pixie of the Whistle Bait Babies, and a night on the town in Belfast's bijou cafe bars and retro-themed clubs.

Of course the Pièce de résistance is a Sunday outing to one of our famous Vintage Fairs. Time your trip to coincide with Frock Around The Clock, The Retro Rooms Show, Totally Bazaar or the Decadence Vintage Bridal Fair and you are promised a journey to vintage heaven. For a taster of what to expect here are some images from our last vintage fair on 6th February.

To take a journey beyond expectation you can visit Bespoke Belfast at their website for more details on their vintage weekends and all other short breaks.

FROCKING FAB FINDS #1

2011-02-10T09:47:00.002Z

Our February Frock Around The Clock vintage fair was jumpin' and jivin' with folks eager to get their hands on vintage bargains and soak up the glamorous atmosphere that goes along with our events.

It has taken me four days to recover and get all the photos uploaded to my computer and over the next couple of days I will be putting some of my favourites up on the blog, but today I had to show off some of my own personal finds from the fair.

I bought this gorgeous blue and gold china Colclough teaset from Norma Jean Vintage to add to my beloved china collection. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it, and because I don't have anything else in this colour I was over the moon to also find this beautiful turquoise blue polka dotted Grafton teaset from Sandra Crawford Antiques. I think you will agree that they go perfectly together.

In fact I thought that they were so beautiful that I had to go out and buy a 'new' china cabinet for them the very next day! I already have six vintage china cabinets but when I saw this one in the Action Cancer Shop in Bangor I just knew I couldn't live without it!

It was black with decades of dust but for only £5 it was a complete bargain and after a couple of hours of TLC and elbow grease it is gleaming and taking pride of place in my hall.

GET THE BELFAST LOOK

2011-02-04T12:43:00.000Z

Our regulars will be familiar with our Frock Around The Clock beauty team Kelly and Claire who offer vintage hair and make-up services at our fairs, but this Sunday for the first time we will be offering a full range of beauty and styling services to make that alluring vintage look attainable. Forget the London look, get the Belfast look! Here's what we have in store for you.

Vintage hairstyling by Kelly McLean of Ashby Hair Lounge - quiffs for the guys and elegant updos, glamorous curls and beehives for the gals.

Make-up application by top Northern Ireland make-up artist Claire McEvoy.

Super sexy starlet nails by Debbie Hughes of Dazzle Me With Your Tips.

Vintage styling by Lynsey Hakin of Image Confident who will be showing us how to incorporate vintage into a modern wardrobe and put together vintage outfits without looking like we have stepped off the set of a costume drama.

Yours truly (also known as) The Wardrobe Mistress will be on hand to give advice on vintage clothing repairs, alterations and restyling so if you have found a fabulous frock but it is a little too tight or a little too big or has damage bring it along to me to see if the problem can be resolved.

Vintage boudoir photography by Trazanne Norwood of X-perience Boudoir Photography. Trazanne will be selling vouchers for her boudoir x-perience packages at a discounted rate to Frock Around The Clock visitors.

POSTER GIRL

2011-02-04T09:57:00.000Z

Our newest Frockette, Emer Smith, will be making her way from Letterkenny to Frock Around The Clock this Sunday with a stash of vintage clothing and accessories that she has been collecting over the years, including vintage designer pieces.

But like our other exhibitors, not only is she a vintage collector, she also has amazing creative talents. Check out some of her creations that she will be bringing with her - I particularly love the pin-up style posters that she has made for the event!

AMERICAN EXPRESS

2011-02-03T16:58:00.001Z

A preview of some of the new stock of American vintage costume jewellery that MK Vintage USA will be bringing along to Frock Around The Clock this weekend.

With rock bottom prices you can be sure that this lot won't stick around for long!

SWEETS FOR MY SWEET

2011-02-03T16:41:00.000Z

Ani & Lulu's Cupcakery will be selling their scrumptious goodies at this Sunday's Frock Around The Clock for our delectation.

We are all about nostalgia and reminiscence at our vintage fairs and what could remind us more of childhood than homebaking and delicious cake!

BEAUTILICIOUS BEADYLICIOUS

2011-02-03T16:16:00.000Z

We love the Beadylicious creations by Roisin Robertson. Inspired by vintage styles, Roisin revamps old to make new and using recycled materials she handcrafts beadylicious pieces to jazz up any outfit. Here are just a few of the pieces we are coveting.

You can find Roisin and the Beadylicious lovelies on Facebook but come and meet her in person at the Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair on Sunday 6th February at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast.

KEEP WATCH

2011-02-02T17:00:00.001Z

Give some green loving this Valentine's Day and choose a really unique and gorgeous gift that gives a thought to the planet. I love every single jewellery collection that Jennifer at Jennifer Robinson Jewellery creates because it is so different from anything else I have seen, each piece is totally unique, and she incorporates the most interesting vintage pieces into her designs.

I was delighted to receive one of her gorgeous silver spoon rings for Christmas from my parents and now I have my eye on one of her vintage watch part bangles or necklaces, or maybe even both. The problem is that they are all so lovely and all so different that I can't decide which is my favourite. Here is a selection of some of her newest designs which will be available this Sunday when they make their debut at Frock Around The Clock.

Make sure to arrive at Frock Around The Clock early on Sunday (open from 11am to 4.30pm) as Jennifer's watch part designs sell like hotcakes!

The Name's Bond, Jenny Bond

2011-02-02T16:44:00.001Z

Jenny Bond Interiors will be celebrating one year of exhibiting at Frock Around The Clock this Sunday! Where has the last year gone?! We all love Jenny's quirky recycled furniture pieces and I have just had a preview of some of the projects she has been working on for the vintage fair this weekend. Here are a few of my favourites.

I love the soft white paintwash and the lace top on this set of drawers

And it looks even more amazing now the lace panels are echoed on the drawer fronts

I'm a sucker for vintage lace and pretty china

A lovely retro clock and check out those retro cushions in the background!

This beautiful tray has fabulous carved detailing

You can view more of Jenny's vintage and restyled pieces on her website and facebook page, but better still, come and meet her face to face at the Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair this Sunday 6th February at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast from 11am to 4.30pm.

STARLET NAILS

2011-02-01T14:29:00.000Z

I am delighted that Debbie Hughes, creator of Dazzle Me With Your Tips, will be joining the vintage beauty team at this Sunday's Frock Around The Clock.

For super sexy starlet nails, Debbie is your gal. And with a passion for vintage glamour and specialising in high quality hand and nail care including manicures, pedicures, acrylic extensions and gel overlays she is in great demand with the vintage loving ladies of Belfast and beyond.

Having let my nail beauty regime slip somewhat lately I managed to get fitted into Debbie's packed appointment schedule this morning and visited her in-house salon for some much needed nail pampering. What a treat. Not only do I now have sizzling hot vampish nails ready for this weekend's vintage fair, but I also had a fabulous cuppa and wonderful chat with the marvellously warm and friendly Ms Hughes in a lovely relaxed environment. I didn't want to leave, but had to as Debbie's next customer was due to arrive and having booked ahead for my next appointment I left with starlet nails and a smile.

You can visit Debbie at her in-house salon, or at the New York City nail bar at Victoria Square where Debbie is the manager. Call 07873711860 or email missdhughes@hotmail.co.uk for an appointment.

Or come along to Frock Around The Clock this Sunday where Debbie will be setting up a mini salon alongside the rest of our vintage beauty team. Hope to see you there!

HANDMADE WITH LUV

2011-01-28T00:22:00.001Z

Another first-timer at the next Frock Around The Clock is Luvlii who will be selling a selection of vintage handbags and also handmade bags and dresses crafted from vintage fabrics and trimmings.

Brighten up your wardrobe and your day with beautiful citrus colours of orange, lemon and lime.

Luvlii items are handmade by Paula Trainor in her little cottage in the heart of the Mourne Mountains.

Visit Luvlii on Folksy and now also at Frock Around The Clock on 6th February.

LOVING SPOONFUL

2011-01-28T00:04:00.000Z

Making a debut at the February Frock Around The Clock is Loving Spoonful, specialising in rings and bracelets handcrafted from antique silver spoons, sugar tongs and forks.

It is thought that the spoon ring first appeared in the 1600s when servants who couldn't afford silver or other precious metals for wedding rings stole silverware from their masters to craft into rings.

As with all wedding rings, a spoon ring denotes love, commitment and responsibility and therefore makes a unique and romantic gift for your Valentine.

And by choosing a gift that is recycled from something that already exists, the impact on the environment is reduced.

You can find the Loving Spoonful store on Folksy, and now also at the February Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair.

PRETTY LITTLE THINGS

2011-01-27T00:46:00.001Z

Following on with the preview of new exhibitors who will be at the Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair on 6th February, we take a look at some gorgeous craftings from Kellie Mairs of It's The Little Things.

Kellie's handmade and refashioned jewellery, accessories, stationery and homeware ranges perfectly combine the things that we love - pretty trinkets, vintage images and recycled materials.

My favourites are the recycled domino brooches decoupaged with a variety of vintage images, the recycled bottle top magnets, and the beautiful handcrafted gift tags and stationery. I will definitely be treating myself with a few of these on 6th February.

You can purchase Kellie's designs from her website, and from her shop on Folksy, and now you can make your selection in person at Frock Around The Clock.

More information on Frock Around The Clock and all the other Decadence Vintage Events can be found at http://www.northernirelandvintage.com/

HOW TO WEAR VINTAGE

2011-01-26T17:07:00.022Z

When I ran my Decadence vintage boutique, one of the things I used to tell customers is 'vintage is not a costume; you can either make or break an outfit with vintage and the trick is not to overdo it if you are aiming for a stylish look'.

Some people are born with an innate (and enviable) ability to put together an effortlessly stylish look, while others would like to be more creative with what they wear but don't know how to successfully integrate vintage into a contemporary wardrobe.

We would all love the ability to style our heirloom pieces and our vintage purchases so that we look chic and confident, not outdated and drab, so I am very excited that Image Consultant, Glamour Stylist and Personal Shopper Lynsey Hakin of 'Image Confident Vintage' will be joining us at our next Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair on 6th February.

Through Image Confident, Lynsey works with her clients to improve outer image and promote elegance, beauty, presentability, and well-being through enhanced confidence, and now visitors to Frock Around The Clock will be able to avail of her services and learn how to create a vintage look without looking as though they have just stepped off the set of a costume drama!

Wearing vintage is not about following rules, in fact for most of its devotees the appeal lies in turning your back on fashion trends to be individually stylish, but for those who are new to vintage, advice on how to integrate vintage into a modern wardrobe to achieve that individual twist is invaluable. Knowing how to make a timeless classic the focal piece of an outfit, or how to add interest to a modern outfit with vintage accessories, is a necessary tool in the vintage girl's bag of style tricks and one that is now within reach for us all.

More information on Frock Around The Clock.

FINDINGS OF A MAGPIE

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Are you looking for inspiration for a Valentine's gift? We love the handcrafted designs by Catriona McCambridge at Orio. Her 'Findings of a Magpie' collection is based on the use of 'new to me' materials including previously-loved clothing, buttons and brooches. Choose from cuffs, necklaces, brooches and hair accessories.

Catriona sells her beautiful creations on Etsy but they are also stocked by the exclusive Una Rodden boutique in Belfast and The Boudoir in Dungannon, and on February 6th they will also be available to purchase at Frock Around The Clock.

The Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair is on Sunday 6th February which takes place at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast from 11am to 4.30pm. Admission costs £5 for adults and £3 for seniors and students. See http://www.northernirelandvintage.com/ for more information.

PIMP MY PLATE

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We can't get enough of pretty vintage china at our vintage fairs so lucky for us that we have a new seller coming along to our February outing of Frock Around The Clock with a new take on an old idea.

Me Auld China will be travelling from Dublin to Belfast on 6th February with their stash of china cake-stands created from authentic vintage matching and mismatched crockery, and we can't wait to get our hands on them!

Me Auld China use plates from Edwardian times through to the Art Deco period to make single, double or triple tiered cake stands of all shapes and sizes, with patterns ranging from shabby chic to vintage elegance.

All cake stands made by Me Auld China are one-of-a-kind, ensuring that your purchase is truly unique and individual. And if you want something a little more personal you can opt for their 'Pimp My Plate' service to give your old plates a new lease of life. A lovely idea if you have sentimental or heirloom pieces of china that you want to showcase.

You can contact Me Auld China from their website or from their facebook page. Better still, come along and meet them at the Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair on Sunday 6th February which takes place at the Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast from 11am to 4.30pm.

Admission costs £5 for adults and £3 for seniors and students. For more information visit http://www.northernirelandvintage.com/.

LIMITED EDITIONS

2011-01-25T01:06:00.003Z

Not only can you find the most fabulous collection of vintage clothing, jewellery and homewares at Frock Around The Clock, but Northern Ireland's leading vintage fair is also home to a hotbed of home-grown and talented designers.

One of the latest people to bring their talents along to Frock Around The Clock is fashion stylist and illustrator Sara O'Neill who will be selling illustrative artworks that range from beautiful images of vintage icons emanating raw emotion to modernist portrayals of contemporary idols.

If this taster has left you hungry for more, you will be able to satisfy your appetite for Sara's limited edition prints at the next Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair. But hands off Rita, she's mine!

Frock Around The Clock

Sunday 6th February, 11am - 4.30pm

@ Holiday Inn, Ormeau Avenue, Belfast BT2 8HS

Admission: Adults £5, Seniors & Students £3

NEW YEAR COUNTDOWN

2011-01-25T00:01:00.000Z

After a long break from blogging over the Christmas and New Year period I'm back for the countdown to our first vintage fair of 2011. Frock Around The Clock will take place on Sunday 6th February and we can't wait! In past years the February fair has been the busiest of the year so we are gearing up for a fabulous time.

There are lots of updates coming over the next couple of weeks to let you know what's in store for vintage lovers, but first here is our Events Calendar for 2011.

Sunday 6th February - Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair

Sunday 6th March - The Retro Rooms Show - Vintage Interiors & Design

Sunday 3rd April - Totally Bazaar - Vintage & Handmade Fair

Sunday 12th June - Decadence Vintage Bridal Fair

Sunday 2nd October - The Retro Rooms Show - Vintage Interiors & Design

Sunday 6th November - Frock Around The Clock Vintage Fair

Sunday 4th December - Totally Bazaar - Vintage & Handmade Fair

We haven't booked any of our summer dates yet as we are still looking for a venue, but I will keep you updated.

THE DAY WE WENT TO BANGOR

2010-12-21T15:06:00.000Z

The first Seaside Frock Vintage Fair, held at Cairn Bay Lodge on 5th December was a great success. Despite the icy weather conditions we had a fantastic turnout of visitors who came to sample some Christmas cheer in the atmosphere of yesteryear.

On the day over £500 was raised for the Kiwoko Hospital charity! A big thank you to everyone who was involved.