Vintage Finds and Where to Find Them\ Guest Post by 'A Lauren to Herself'\Lady of Vintage

As I mentioned in my last post, I had the lovely opportunity to do a spot of guest posting over on Lauren's blog 'A Lauren to Herself'. I wrote about all about the pros and cons of buying vintage so if it tickles your fancy you can read it here. 

Lauren is a copywriter, journalist and freelance writer amongst other things (she has been published in NME, Grazia and Boots.com don't you know). Her blog is just wonderful so if I were you I would read this guest post and head over there pronto! ..

Lauren's Features

Over to you Lauren...

Yesterday, the lovely Jess of this very blog shared her thoughts about vintage clothing over on my blog, and I’m thrilled to be returning the favour on Lady of Vintage today.

As a fellow vintage fanatic, I’ve been a fan of Jess’s blog for some time and I’m in absolute awe of her cake making skills.  In fact, I’m hoping to pick her brain and wangle some tips for piping buttercream – I always manage to make a hash of it.

A big thank you to Jess for letting me raid her blog!

I’ll be bringing you my favourite vintage finds and my UK hotspots for picking up a fantastic retro bargain. Thanks for having me, Jess!

The Genuine Mod Dress 

Never underestimate eBay! While a lot of what’s listed is last year’s Topshop or New Look catwalk-inspired fodder, there are some genuine retro bargains to be snapped up, too. Want to bag a bargain? Just search ‘dress’ or ‘top’ in your size and you may land something on the off chance. Anyone new to eBay may not know to label something ‘vintage’, which means you can swoop in and find a one-off without even trying.

This genuine mod pale blue dress was an absolute steal. I managed to snag it for about £3 including postage. It needs taking in a bit, but I blimming love it! Its cute pearl buttons really make it and the shape is beautiful. What do you think?

The 1940s ‘Boxy’ Tan Bag 

I was over the moon when I picked up this original 1940s bag from nearby Antiques venue, Elsecar Heritage Centre. It’s originally from Boots (odd, as I snapped it up just weeks after starting a job at Boots.com) and features a cute clasp and a sturdy strap – I love it! It cost less than £20 and, rather than use it, I proudly display it amongst my other vintage finds in my spare room. Yes, I’m a saddo!

Vintage Brooches 

Call me an old woman, but I love a brooch. They may be a bit dated, but they really jazz up an outfit. I’ve worn them with posh frocks for friends’ weddings and with my suit jacket for interviews to add a little edge. The great thing about vintage brooches is you can pick them up really cheaply from charity shops. Try looking for them at antiques centres or on eBay, however, and you’ll usually pay over the odds.

I’ve picked up most of these spangly beauties from charity shops for little more than 99p each. Plus, my dear old Nana raided her jewellery box not too long ago and gave me a stash of them to keep.

The Little Black ‘Audrey Hepburn’ Dress

 I call this my ‘Audrey Hepburn’ dress as it’s understated and classic. Everyone should own a little black dress. It’s an absolute wardrobe staple and can be dressed up (or down) in so many ways.

I spotted this off the shoulder lace body con-style dress in a local charity shop for £3. I didn’t have time to try it on and nearly didn’t pick it up, but in the end I figured if I didn’t like it I’d donate it again. I loved it! Such a flattering cut and a very pretty cocktail dress – it’s now one of my favourites. I’ve worn it everywhere from the opera in Milan to a night out round the pubs with family; it’s so versatile – and what a bargain!

Where to Shop

Live in the UK? There’s a wealth of great vintage hotspots to choose from, whether you’re based up north or down south. I’ve yet to road test the vintage shops of Brighton (although I’ve heard it’s a fantastic place for all things retro), but I can let you in on a few firm favourites up north.

Lancaster’s Assembly Rooms 

Image via Google Images

Situated in my home town, this northern vintage venue and tea rooms is a fantastic place for a snoop. It features everything from home wares to retro comics and vintage clothes, and while it’s a small centre it’s certainly a good place to pick up some retro treasure.

Manchester’s Affleck’s Palace 

Image via Google Images

Located in Manchester’s trendy Northern Quarter, Affleck’s Palace (not quite as grand as it sounds) features a few floors of vintage loveliness. I can spend hours traipsing around here and I’ve picked up some great buys over the years. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area!

London’s Portobello Market 

Image via Google Images

Based down south? Head straight to London’s Portobello Market. The market itself is an absolute treasure trove of local handicrafts and antiques; have a good root around and you’re bound to find a gem. Don’t forget to take a look at the retro shops in and around the market too. If I remember correctly, there’s one shop where everything is £5 – you’ll be in there for hours!

Also worth a look: Beyond Retro, Leeds’ Blue Rinse and Yorkshire’s Elsecar Heritage Centre

A big thank you to Jess for letting me post on her blog today, hope you’ve enjoyed my vintage-related ramblings!

Lauren x

You can follow the lovely Lauren on Twitter, Facebook and find her on www.alaurentoherself.com and www.laurenholden.co.uk