Saturday 20 March 2010

WW2 Items in Alfies

Inspired by a visit to the Imperial War Museum in London we thought it would be interesting to have a look around Alfies to find objects that are typical of the WW2 era.

Below are some amazing medals that were awarded to soldiers who fought in WW2. They usually state the country in which the soldier fought, this makes them very interesting collector's items. If they could talk they could surely tell some heartbreaking and fascinating stories.


WW2 medals from Janes Antiques

Also from Janes Antiques, a nice selection of some really well preserved photographs, one can't get much closer to history than that!

Photographs from Janes Antiques

It is hard to imagine what the British public felt when they were informed about their country and France being at war with Germany. We can get a good idea about the way people had to make do with much less - but somehow still managed to make themselves and their homes look immaculate.


Clothing items became much more tailored which was caused by the shortage of pretty much everything including fabrics. Designers didn't have much to work with which resulted in a more fitted look and more details were added to make up for the lack of pleats, which would have required more material.


A small snippet of fabric went a long way if added as a decorative pocket flap for example. One label/stamp to look out for is 'CC41' which stands for Civilian Clothing 1941, these items are very rare but you can find some true gems at Tin Tin Collectables:


Pretty blouse with 'CC41' label from Tin Tin Collectables


Original 'CC41' labelled socks from Tin Tin Collectables



Original 'CC41' labelled children's boots from Tin Tin Collectables

Just like food, clothing required tokens and if you wanted to get something very fancy this required the use of a large amount of tokens. No wonder most women perfected the art of making clothes out of fabrics or old dresses.

Should you have found a true vintage gem not in its best condition and don't possess the expertise to bring it back to its former glory, pay a visit to Empire Vintage, where the very skilled Julie Elgar will be happy to take on your project. While you are there why not have a rummage for another vintage bargain?

Lovely dressing corner in Empire Vintage

Should you be tempted to try your hand at sewing/mending yourself you might want to look at getting a vintage tailors dummy. They are not only useful for dressmaking but if you get a lovely vintage one they are great for adding a feminine touch to any space.


Why not use it to showcase your favourite vintage finds or projects? Stephen Lazarus has this beautiful vintage Singer model for sale at the moment:

Original Singer tailor's dummy at Stephen Lazarus


It is definitely hard to find 40's items, not only because they are so rare but also because that era was dominated by the war, thus design and style was not a very important factor. Saying that, people did make a point of dressing up when going for dinner (if they could afford it), it was important to look one's best when out in public.


We feel that back then ladies seemed to be a lot better at doing their hair, for modern women like us, all the gorgeous vintage hairstyles look masterpieces which we could never manage to create ourselves. Fret not - the ladies at Nina's Hair Parlour know all the secrets to turn anyone's bad hair day to one of vintage glamour.


Lovely 40's updo at Nina's Vintage Hair Parlour


And for those that are looking for a perfect gift but can't quite decide what to get, why not purchase some beautiful gift certificates that would put a smile on any vintage lover's face?



Alfies gift certificates are available in £10, £20 and £50 denominations

Thursday 18 March 2010

Jewellery

This weeks blog is highlighting some of the stunning jewellery in the market.



Stunning horseshoe shaped brooch with a minature portrait, pearl and snake with ruby eyes from Linda Antiques





Marked Stirling Silver Mexican Bracelet from Connie Speight



Carved Art Deco pink celluloid bangle and bakelite necklace, from The Originals



Stunning Georgian cuff from Gareth Brooks



Platinum ring with a 4ct emerald baguette and diamonds from Zeeba Jewels



Tuesday 9 March 2010

Mothers Day at Alfies Antique Market Part 2

Continuing from last weeks blog we have even more fantastic items for all your lovely mothers this Sunday.




19th Century Handpainted bracelet set with cameos
Peter and Naneen Brookes.




A selection of 4 Whitefriars glass duck ornaments from Robinson Antiques.




A cut steel mother of pearl brooch from Linda Antiques





Sapphire, diamond and white gold ladies wristwatch from Connie Speight


Lastly why not take your mum on a trip to Alfies this Saturday so she can pick out her own present? There is everything here under one roof and you can finish the day having some tea and cake at the Rooftop Restaurant.



Thursday 4 March 2010

Mothers' Day and Alfies Antique Market

We couldn't let you forget about Mothers' Day, although you are probably being reminded by every supermarket and card shop you pass! Alfies will be different though, we won't let you get your Mum some wilted flowers or a battered box of choccies. No! At Alfies we only have thoughtful, meaningful gifts that your Mum will absolutely love. Without a doubt an Alfies treasure will earn you enough brownie points for the year to come (not that you need any!)

Here are some ideas to give you a headstart, but there are many more on our Flickr pages


A French Limoges egg shaped box containing a scent bottle


Silver Victorian 'Mother' Brooch
from Peter and Naneen Brooks



1940s French Croc Clutch Bag
from Tony Durante


Butterfly Print
from N & S Watches
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