Suno Resort 2012

Hope your enjoying the weekend! Out of all the 2010 Resort collections Suno is probably one of my favourites. I admire the bold daring prints, the quirky styling and accessories and the fact that the collection has a bright cheerful Hawaiian theme. Any resort collections that stand out for you?

Posted by: Marisa

Orla Kiely AW11

I'm a massive fan of Orla Kiely. Being a print designer myself I have always been inspired by Orla's collections. I am currently reading this book which is beautiful to look at, and gives you a great insight into how the brand started and flourished into what it is today.

Im in love with the new AW11 video. The clothes and models are beautiful, It's  quirky, fun and a little eerie at the same time. Do you like?

Posted by: Marisa

Rosa Mosa

Hello. Been a little slow on updating our blog this week as we've been ultra busy. We have been finalizing our site and finally almost done! We will be holding a give away and discounts for the launch so be sure to check back soon. 

As for now I wanted to share Rosa Mosa with you... they make the most adorable shoes and I'm in love with the the Frida Kahlo inspired styling. Above are my four favorite picks from their new collection. What do you think?

Posted by: Marisa

Dreaming of a summer holiday...

With Christmas a long forgotten memory, and now into the 2nd month of the new year; man are we missing summer! Don't know about you guys but we are pining for a holiday. These are some snaps from ours in Bali last year we wanted to share with you.

We felt we needed to go somewhere far away from England, somewhere tropical - a different culture. It was our first time to Asia, and Indonesia is certainly different from the UK!

The Balinese people are a peaceful Hindu culture who carry out rituals and offerings to their gods and ancestors. For example; we had just been to bathe in a luxurious natural volcanic spa high up in the mountains of the island... It was a real eye-opener when we we stumbled upon a mass village migration. Our guide told us when someone died in the village every member of the community would come for support and to pay respect. The sense of society and change of perspective we saw throughout our trip was wonderful & refreshing.

Bali is a magical, colourful and exotic place. Full of culture, their own art & crafts, balmy hot tropical weather and fantastic wildlife. Lizards, birds, monkeys, turtles & dolphins are some of the animals naturally indiginous to the island.

We loved our time there and would recommend it if you wanted this type of holiday. Hope everyone's having a good weekend!

Posted by: Ross

1950's Vintage Horrockses Fashions

Wow! I was really pleased to stumble across this beautiful collection of 50's style fashion pieces in the V&A online shop. These designs have been adapted from 1950's fabrics, designed for Horrockses fashions; one of the most respected ready-to-wear labels of the late 40's and 50's. The prices are pretty reasonable and the prints are so, so pretty... I'm particularly in love with the hankie and tote bag design. I have also just purchased this book from Amazon, I couldn't resist seeing more gorgeous prints, and learning some more about their history! Don't you just think these items would make a perfect gift?

Above: 

Dress, hankie and purse, adapted from 50's fabric designed for Horrockses in the late 40's and 50's

Below: Scarf, daisy print zip bag and floral stripe tote bag

  Below are some 40's Horrockses designs. Thought it would be nice to show you some originals. Sourced from sheepandchic blog.

Spring 1948 fashion advert

    1947 Patricia Roc ( British movie star) promoting Horrockses

Picture post 1947

Be great to know your thoughts on V&A collection!? I know you can't beat originals but I think they have done a pretty good job. The weekend is nearly here yay!

Posted by: Marisa

Love for tapestry

Selection of vintage tapestry bags available in our store !

My first vintage tapestry bag was purchased back in 2003 whilst on design placement in New York City. Once me and my friends discovered Chelsea flea market and beacon's closet in Williamsburg (Brooklyn) we were hooked! Since then I have built up a collection of various styles which I like to hang on our bedroom wall...poor Ross!, as well as use them. They are just so beautiful, they just hold so much authenticity and charm.

 I'm very excited to let you know we have a selection of these beauties up for sale in our store. There is a variety of tapestry bags from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Anyone else got a lot of love for them? Be interested to know what your favourite style is?

Posted by: Marisa

Marimekko Spring/Summer 2011

January is one of those months when we all need a little pick me up. I have always adored Marimekko and watching this video today definitely put a big smile on my face. I'm not ready to stop winter layering, or wearing my variety of warm vintage coats yet, but seeing this collection made me feel pretty excited for spring/summer dressing.

  Bright and colourful prints, pretty floral summer dresses, breton stripes and simple easy wear shapes; these are all reasons why I love this collection! To top it off the floral garden runway is just beautiful. Any particular spring/Summer collections that inspire you? Hope you all have a great weekend :)

Posted by: Marisa

Japanese works of art...

Recently I discovered http://www.yorkeantiquetextiles.com the most amazing online archive, showcasing and selling vintage and antique textiles from around the world. As a print designer myself I am always seeking new inspiration for my own work. 

 I have always been drawn to Japanese culture and art from the past and present, so I was pretty excited to look through the large and wonderful Japanese section. Here are a few beautiful pieces that caught my eye. They are original water colour paper designs created 1920-40 which were used for silk kimonos.

There are so many stunning pieces that will be sure to brighten up your day or inspire your own work. If your a textile lover I would recommend you have a look :)

Posted by: Marisa