the cherry blog

Pearls and more pearls

2012-01-26T23:25:00.003+01:00

Dang, and I was gonna wear MY oversized pearl platforms today

But she beat me to it.

Sigh.

xxx

(Insane shoes that I need)

Draw what you wore!

2012-01-24T23:01:00.002+01:00

LOVE this idea!

If, like me, you're not that comfortable with self style portraits - look at this awesome blog 'What I wore today' and sketch your style instead!

xxx

Theme tune

2012-01-10T01:04:00.003+01:00

Ever wish you had your own theme tune that starts playing when you're strutting down the street?

Taking a drive through the countryside?

Getting dressed in the morning?

Ever wonder how it might sound? No no...me neither

(image)

I Love this picture.

2012-01-05T23:24:00.004+01:00

Vivienne Westwood with her wire-haired fox terrier Alexandra in the bicycle basket. Westwood and model are wearing the designer's Red Label spring/summer 1997 collection.

She's just a badass....

(Image: The Go-Betweens, by Marc Hom, May 1997 via 'Oh My Dog!')

All the single ladies

2012-01-04T23:36:00.004+01:00

Ever wondered what dating was like for ladies in the late 1930's?

Read this amazing guide for single women in 1938 - my favourite tips for a successful love life include;

* "Don't look bored , even if you are..." (classic)
* "Men deserve and desire your entire attention " (Er....right)
* "Drinking may make some girls seem clever, but most get silly" (ha!)

how times have changed dear girls

xxx

A new year, for new adventure!

2012-01-03T10:31:00.003+01:00

Happy New Year readers and bloggers!

I hope you all had a wonderful festive season and that 2012 brings you the wishes and dreams you deserve.

2011 has been one of the hardest working years of my entire life. And I have loved it.

I have been pushed harder and tested more than ever before, both personally and professionally. Reading lots of blogs and articles the past few days, you realise just how much everyone everywhere has faced when they look back over the year.

Thank you to those who have been reading our blog still, our posts have appeared far less than I'd like, and that's about to change in 2012. Now our shop is firmly up and running, this blog will bring you much more this year as we have more time to focus on it and connect with other like minded bloggers and readers.

Expect vintage inspiration, photography, fashion, art and unusual findings, and please introduce us to your blog or website along the way. We wanna discover amazing people!

Have a great 2012 folks, make it count.

(Images via stunning blog Hey Look - check it out these ladies are talented!)

Blonde ambition

2011-12-08T23:22:00.005+01:00

I've watched three films in the past week which have given me the blonde vintage crop bug - big time! My week with Marilyn, Burlesque and Water for elephants just happen to have made it onto my radar, and left me with that yearning to be a blondie again - this time with a vintage twist.

Are the vintage hair gods giving me a sign?

Do you ever get hair cravings then talk yourself out of it?!

xxx

Decoration time

2011-12-05T21:43:00.003+01:00

This week I have put up four Christmas trees! One in the shop window, one on the shop floor, one at my sisters home and one at the boyfriends house. All very different. It seems everyone has their own tastes when it comes to festive tree styling!

What's your Christmas tree style? Colour co-ordinated?

Girly?

Stylish?

Wacky?

Traditional?

Minimalist?

xxx

images weheart

The devil you know

2011-11-29T23:54:00.003+01:00

Next week it looks like I will be taking on our first ever fashion intern in the vintage company and high street boutique. Whilst this excites me greatly, I take a moment to recall when I was desperate to be in the fashion world after graduating with a fashion journalism degree.

My magazine internships lasted a grand total of two and a half months, luckily because I landed a magazine job, (and had nearly run outta money) but not so lucky because I was made redundant from that job only 3 months later. Boo hiss (evil editor)

During my devil wears Prada days - short lived as they were, I worked for a handful of big fashion mags. I was convinced I could 'make it'....

I had an A-Z of London thrown at me. I returned fetish shoes to sex shops last thing at night. I was yelled at for asking how to fix the photocopier. I re wrote journalists badly spelt interviews whilst they shopped on their lunch break. I took the blame for the Gucci belt being put back in the Dior returns pile, when it was actually the dumb ass to my left... the list goes on.

I'm someone who likes to work hard to get where I want to be. I dont even mind a little humiliation if it makes me stronger. But I went on to create my own little fashion world of vintage and upcycling and photo shoots because I simply wasnt very good at being told what to do, or not being paid to do it just as good as the people ordering me to get coffee.

Did you ever do an internship? Or have crazy time in the fashion world?

I will certainly remember my very brief experiences when our intern arrives bright eyed on her first day....

xxx

Glammin' it up , yeah?

2011-10-27T14:50:00.002+02:00

I wouldn't mind being this lady, for just a day.

'Cos well, she looks rather fabulous, doesn't she?!

:)

xxxx

(image: Lookbook Nu)

Hello Hubble

2011-09-29T16:58:00.004+02:00

I currently live with my sister and her husband, and last week they got a kitten.

They called it Hubble (yes, as in the telescope).

And I haven't told them this yet, but she is the cutest thing I have ever seen...and I'm therefore not moving out.

Ever.

Ssshhhh.

Styling a Streetcar

2011-09-21T17:13:00.005+02:00

In my vintage clothing company 'The Cherry Closet' we have been busy sorting out the costumes for a theatre production of Tennessee Williams' 'A Streetcar named Desire' by Dramatic Productions.

I watched the 1951 film starring Marlon brando and Vivien Leigh - and was glued to the screen! The performances are intense and the old cinematic lighting is so effective. Have any of you ever seen this play before?

We can't wait to help put all the styling together - and we get to dress the lovely actress Nicole Faraday in her leading role portraying Blanche DuBois.

"I know I fib a good deal. After all, a woman's charm is 50% illusion. "

~ Blanche DuBois

(images from IMDB)

A small space to call my own

2011-09-09T15:26:00.002+02:00

Currently looking for a little flat to reside in, once again, after my 22nd move last month!

Why is it so hard getting settled? maybe it's just me.

In between rent, bills, location and time scales, I haven't stayed put in one home for more than six months at a time for years. So disruptive!

Have decided a vintage gypsy caravan is the way forward.....

(or this lovely attic space via here - is just , so .... cosy.)

xxx

Bad blogger. Must blame hot men.

2011-09-08T14:17:00.006+02:00

I haven't blogged in so long. I have a very good, valid reason for this.

I realise I'm years behind the rest of the TV world, but two months ago I discovered Grey's Anatomy.

Was a dedicated ER fan for years, so when my friend handed me the box set to get stuck into I was cold and resisted for the first three episodes or so.

Then it got better. Then it got got brilliant.

Then I got addicted!

Back to back episodes, late nights, early mornings.... I'm now in the seventh season and have wracked up an insane amount of GA viewing hours.

Oh how I have laughed, and cried, and high fived Dr Bailey on the screen.

The addiction has been spurred on by six very key factors....

1.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Seriously? How many hot doctors can one TV show have?

And in the McSteamy v. McDreamy debate?

I'm Team McSteamy all....the....way.

* bad blogger blame fest on addictive television moment over *

(images from fanpop.com)

All that glitters....

2011-08-17T13:49:00.003+02:00

Sometimes I just wanna cover myself head to toe in glitter, breathe, and tell myself everything is going to be just fine.

Anybody else ever feel the same?

Just me?

Okay then.....

(image eyelid, gold, lips, blonde)

Transport me here please....

2011-08-15T02:03:00.003+02:00

When I get stressed out,

When I get overwhelmed,

I will close my eyes and take myself here.

Breathe deep and trust the flamingos.

:)

(awesome image)

F-F-F-Friday!

2011-07-15T15:55:00.003+02:00

Despite working on Saturdays, I still get that 'Friday feeling'....:)

“We are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams”
~ Willy Wonka

Have a wonderful and magical weekend folks!!

(xx image xx)

Viva la vintage

2011-07-12T14:11:00.002+02:00

We have been busy re-shooting all our vintage clothing for our website on people, as opposed to mannequins, after a survey we did revealed more shoppers prefer to see the garments actually being worn.

Rather than go to a modelling agency, we advertised locally to see if any ladies might want to model our items. We were lucky to have an amazing mix of women get in touch who wanted to give modelling a go - and who loved vintage.

We had different shapes, sizes, nationalities, ages and thought our items looked so gorgeous on them! (and on one lovely gent, of course)

The group included teachers, students, aspiring models, mums and we loved working with each and every one of them ....don't you think they look awesome?

This post is to say a big THANK YOU to everyone involved.

xxx (You can see more pics on The Cherry Closet vintage boutique) xxx

SWOON

2011-07-08T17:25:00.003+02:00

Too.... lush ....

Can't...... speak.....

May you have a weekend as swoon-worthy as this wall of shoes.

A WALL OF SHOES people!!

xx much love xx

(need this in my life credit)

Feed me grapes

2011-07-05T18:49:00.005+02:00

After returning from two festivals, two weeks apart, a combined total of 8 days in a field, porta loos, Bacardi, burgers, wine, fudge, cider, rain, sun and late nights by body is actually craving healthy food!

hurrah!

Now have a new found love and appreciation for berries, avocados, rye bread, hummus, lentils, bananas and eggs.

What's your fave healthy grub? Any tips?

:)

xx

(lovely pic credit)

The burning question....

2011-06-28T14:56:00.003+02:00

Someone pointed me towards a great concept blog today, The burning house poses that difficult question...

"If your house was burning, what would you take with you?"

The blog recognises this question is 'a conflict between what's practical, valuable and sentimental. What you would take reflects your interests, background and priorities', and features contributors photographs of their most treasured possessions.

Have you ever thought about it?

I think mine would include:

* Photos (From the pre-Facebook/ digital days where we printed pictures!) *
* Sentimental pieces of Jewellery *
* Letters. Lots and lots of very personal letters *
* Laptop and IPhone *
* My Grandfathers old first aid war tin *
* Vintage white knitted shawl I seem to take everywhere with me *
* My trusty old camera from University *
* Oh, and of course, any loved ones (cheeky smile) *

xxx

(Featured image was Karla Hendy's)

A little bit Urban

2011-06-27T03:24:00.003+02:00

I'm having an Urban Outfitters lust moment with this ruffled duvet cover ....

...and Monsieur pint glass.....

....and Fashion tea bags ......

... and Lomography Diana F+ Dreamer Camera.....

...oh, and a popcorn bowl.

Lovely, just lovely :)

All from Urban Outfitters, all keen to be with me.

xxx

I would like to extend to you an invitation to the pearl pants party.

2011-06-24T01:51:00.003+02:00

Um....I love these.

And that is all.

;)

Have a fab weekend!

xxx

(via fashion plus tumblr)

Films for the flu

2011-06-22T22:40:00.005+02:00

Am feeling very sorry for myself as I'm suffering with post-festival flu.

The razor blades in my throat, axe in my head, watering eyes, face aches kinda of thing.

There's only one thing for it....

Make-me-feel-good movies.

They must be of a certain criteria - they can only make me cry in a good way, and must have a fluffy and giggletastic girly storyline.

I have a few lined up..... but any suggestions folks?

xx (cough, splutter, sneeze) xx

Sneak a peek...

2011-06-14T00:17:00.008+02:00

...at some candid behind the scene photos from our Vintage Circus photo shoot yesterday for the boutique.

There's something so alluring about the old circus, the big top, the music, the eccentric magician and the glamorous showgirls.

It's one of my favourite themes so we extended it into our latest vintage styling.

The official pics will be posted soon!

xx (images all copyright to The Cherry Closet) xx

The weakness in me....

2011-06-09T18:55:00.000+02:00

I think I need a cake intervention.

There's the most divine patisserie opposite our vintage boutique and it sells THE best coffee cake - my biggest weakness. You can keep your biscuits, sweets and chocolate - coffee cake gets me every time.

And it's OK to have cake on a Friday, right?

But I'm running out of excuses for a Wednesday and Saturday too...eek.

I need coffee cake rehab.

What's your sweetness weakness?

xx nik xx

(images and fab coffee cake recipe by Chez Luce)

This is so true.

2011-06-06T15:56:00.003+02:00

This pic made me smile, so I dedicate this post to my lovely mum, who knows how to do those magical things that only mums do.

:)

Happy Monday everyone!

xx Nicki xx

(photo via)

The Art of the Tweet

2011-06-02T15:29:00.006+02:00

I stumbled across this art project the other day, and I love the idea.

Twitter is a strange ultra modern phenomena used by millions across the globe. I use it almost daily , both personally and professionally.

Don't think its strange? Have you ever tried actually explaining what twitter 'is' to someone who has never heard of it?!

So when I read that three artists—Man Bartlett, David Horvitz and Jill Magid, were asking the question ...

"How much art fits into 140 characters?"

I was immediately interested.

"Creative Time Tweets," is a project organized by curator Shane Brennan running until July to create artworks using the social networking tool.

One artist (Bartlett) will spend 24 hours at New York's Port Authority bus station, asking passengers and passersby, "Where are you going?" and "Where have you been?" and collect their stories.

Another artist (Horvitz) will produce a hard copy of every tweet containing the hashtag #5992 between June 17 - June 23. On June 24, he will carry the materialized tweets by train from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., following the route of the first ever transcontinental telegram sent in 1861!

Upon arrival in Washington, D.C., the entire collection will be submitted to the Library of Congress and donated to a public archive, where it will remain accessible.

I love that people are interpreting digital mediums in a way that still connects them to real people and to recognise the way things were.

Awesome.

( P.S - You on twitter? Leave me your link so I can follow your twitter train! You can find me on @thecherrycloset )

(image via here)

Age and style

2011-05-24T12:36:00.004+02:00

I don't know how I have never seen this incredible blog - but its captivating!

Advanced style was created by Ari Seth Cohen - he roams the streets of New York looking for the most stylish and creative older folks.

His intro reads "Respect your elders and let these ladies and gents teach you a thing or two about living life to the fullest. Advanced Style offers proof from the wise and silver-haired set that personal style advances with age."

His photos are stunning and these stylish older people are so inspirational.

My own grandmother is the best dressed 82 year old I have ever met and I hope to be as creative in my clothing as these photos if I reach that age!

Check out Ari Seth Cohen's blog immediately!

(All images credited to and owned by Advanced Style blog)

Most important meal of the day.

2011-05-23T13:07:00.003+02:00

My sister dropped in a spare, lingering Easter egg to me at the shop this morning.

Hmmmm. Hadn't had time for breakfast yet.....

Is it just plain wrong to eat chocolate for breakfast?

Bizarrely the thought of 'real' breakfast turns my stomach in the mornings (cereal, toast, porridge, fruit - blah) but come lunchtime I can cope.

What's the most inappropriate thing you have had for breakfast?

Cold pizza? Chinese take away? Cake....? (just off the top of my head, of course)

(yummy image via entrails mary)

Some photo love on a Friday.

2011-05-20T16:49:00.005+02:00

Hope you have a weekend filled with the things you love.

xxx

(images from my weheartit faves)

A kind of apothecary

2011-05-19T01:17:00.003+02:00

Wouldn't it be lovely to have a lotion, potion or elixir to banish the bad things we do to ourselves?

Hangover,
Heartbreak,
Self doubt?

A drop of this, a dose of that, and a bottle to make things better.

(image)

Every fire is a lesson learned

2011-05-15T20:44:00.004+02:00

Thank you for all your supportive (and humorous) comments on my Speed dating post - and thank you to blogger's meltdown last week that then deleted half of them (!?)

I wont go into all the details, but will instead share a few lessons I learnt from the experience...

1. Don't drink a glass of wine before you go
2. Don't drink too much wine during, and after, the dating takes place
3. Write clearly on your scorecard. Simply writing the words 'dull' and 'Holland' (?!) doesn't help you when you come to review your potential matches
4. DO protest when the dating number on your name tag is '13'
5. Don't take it personally when the guy equivalent who is assigned '13' doesn't show up to the event and you therefore spend the first four minutes talking to only your wine glass when the event begins and everyone is chatting away
6. Don't do a humorous blog post from your vintage boutique about silly outfits to wear to such an evening as its likely one of the men might actually end up seeing it (error)
7. Write down the correct names. Its hard to rate 'Greg' if there wasn't actually a Greg there
8. Just don't drink wine.
9. When a man comments its bad luck that you are wearing a ring on your wedding ring finger don't laugh and retort ' Oh I wouldn't worry - I don't think I ever want to get married anyway..'
10. Go with an open mind. WIDE open.

xxx

(image credit)

The time has come

2011-05-12T01:44:00.000+02:00

Guess who is going speed dating for the first time tonight?

xx (image) xx

I dont know where this is...

2011-05-10T23:16:00.005+02:00

But if I was wearing Dorothy's red slippers I would click my heels together three times and wish to be here!

Pink cherry blossom trees are a big weakness of mine - how about yours?

xx

Heaven knows Valentinos....

2011-05-09T15:57:00.003+02:00

I practically live in pre loved vintage shoes - but these Valentino heels shot an arrow straight through my heart and I needed a good few minutes to recover.

Shoe porn my friends, shoe porn indeed....

xx (image via) xx

It's official....

2011-05-06T15:37:00.002+02:00

Good things happen to me on days I wear red lipstick.

Fact.

Happy Friday everyone!

xx

{Image via lush new blog I just found Adela and Tessie}

Images with imagination..

2011-05-04T14:00:00.007+02:00

My new iPhone app crush is the highly addictive Insta.gram.

You can take pictures, or select from your existing ones, and create very quick retro images, easily shared with a creative community.

Choose from filters, styles, colours and create your very own album of styled imagery.... these are some of my collection, a quick snapshot of recent moments I have captured!

Enjoy!

xx

A Very Royal Friday

2011-05-01T00:51:00.002+02:00

Friday was a truly traditional British bank holiday for the Royal Wedding....

William & Kate
Strawberries & cream
Cups & saucers
Tea & cake

With lots of champagne and a Royal engagement ring replica thrown in for good measure.

Congratulations to the newly weds!

xxx

Fill your boots - part deux

2011-04-28T08:17:00.005+02:00

Last week I posted a lovely little idea seen via Tenacious Dee - using old boots as plant pots in your home....

So you can imagine my delight when we got these awesome wellington boot paperweights in at the boutique the very next day!

They are vintage silver, deceptively heavy and I knew as soon as I clapped eyes on them they needed some petal styling.

Happy Thursday folks! xx

Delicious styling

2011-04-26T15:35:00.005+02:00

It's no secret I love food (ahem) and despite being a god-awful cook, I truly appreciate food when it is made for me, and particularly, when it looks amazing.

(Thus I eat out way too much for my bank account.)

Food styling photography is the perfect combination of two of my fave things!!

That's why the latest post from the awesome Betty magazine caught my hungry eye with 'play with your food' images from Sweet Paul magazine.

These are some more inspirational pics....

'Up with little people' by Matthew Carden

Macaroon delights by Aran Goyoaga

Gorgeous photography by Lara Ferroni

This is one styling habit I will definitely be spending time on me thinks!

Have a yummy day

xx

Happy Easter!

2011-04-25T18:18:00.003+02:00

We were blessed with bright sunshine, blue roses and a family feast...

Happy Easter & Love to all

xxxx

Fill your boots

2011-04-19T23:22:00.004+02:00

I just lOVE what Dennise from Tenacious Dee did with a pair of her old boots.

What a fab idea!

Old worn shoes used to display new fresh flowers.

The simple things are sometimes the most inspiring. x

{image via here}

The art of fashion "15"

2011-04-18T00:33:00.009+02:00

I love discovering new expressive and creative ways to look at fashion and how we perceive a growing awareness of the somewhat 'throwaway' society we live in.

As my career is in vintage clothing, I'm a firm believer in recycling garments and giving fashion multiple lives and meaning

I was therefore delighted to view a pop up exhibit called "15" down the road from our boutique today, led by graduating fashion studies student Katy Bray.

The concept behind "15" is this is the average number of garments thrown away per person each year - and developing the notion of waste as a form of inspiration instead.

The exhibit displays 15 possessions most treasured by 15 different people, and reminds us that each item is worthy of its own frame like a piece of individual art, often lost amongst 'over-stuffed and under-used closets.'

Also displayed was a striking dress made of parachutes and a side counter constructed of up cycled items presented in a chic all white panel to further highlight how unwanted 'things' can serve a purpose - and a beautiful one at that!

The project hopes to progress this philosophy by developing "15" into an ethical and original brand sold in a fashion conscious and individual shop.

I look forward to seeing more from "15" in the future!

xx Nicki xx

Welcome to Wonderland....

2011-04-04T22:26:00.003+02:00

Apologies for lack of posting of late - we opened our vintage boutique last week in the bohemian land of Boscombe in the south coast of England!

The Cherry Closet now sells in 'What Alice Found' a collaboration shop selling fashion, retro homeware and art work.

In just one week we have met some amazing customers - from local musicians to brides-to-be all looking for vintage treasures!

Situated on a long road overflowing with other vintage stores, antique shops, cafes and retro tattoo parlours we finally feel like we have come home at very long last.

Do you feel like you're where you should be? hope so!

xx (images from a shop review on BH beat) xx

Please hurry up!!!

2011-03-21T18:33:00.002+01:00

Like, right now, please?

(images I agree and so pretty)

I couldn't agree more!

2011-03-15T23:24:00.000+01:00

(my new screensaver too!)

It's nearly time.....

2011-03-14T19:50:00.002+01:00

This week is a very exciting week in the land of cherry vintage folks...

why?

Because on Friday we we pick up the keys for our first, ever high street boutique!

* running round in circles screaming*

Having spent many hours as a child setting up my own bedroom as a shop, selling to numerous imaginary customers and writing out imaginary receipts, I am bursting with pride to say this is no longer a dream, but a new start.

A big move, a bold move, but a very exciting one.

xxxx

(perfect image for this post!)

It's all in the eyes

2011-03-10T22:47:00.002+01:00

It's time for an eye test once more.

I think it's time to get me some retro specs!

xx (image credit) xx

Happy Pancake Day!

2011-03-08T20:12:00.002+01:00

(image we heart it)

It's raining cats and dogs

2011-03-07T23:10:00.003+01:00

I have seen so many cuter than cute dogs in the past week I have been trying to curb my canine cravings.

Then I visit my mum and her cat is too sweet it kills me.

What are you? a dog person? or a cat person?

It's a tough one......

(puppy love / kitten cutie)

Sometimes in life...

2011-03-02T21:02:00.003+01:00

....you need just need to wear some crazy ass shoes and walk whichever way the wind blows.

(image credit)

Today I love....

2011-02-28T20:23:00.003+01:00

.... being inspired by imagery for the interior of our new high street vintage boutique opening in a months time!!!

Aren't these pictures dreamy?

This is the last of Februarys 'I love' posts here on The Cherry Blog, but I certainly haven't run out of things to adore just yet....

xxx

(Fit for a queen, the world on the wall, the fairest of them all, in the frame)

Today I love....

2011-02-25T22:39:00.001+01:00

.....picture perfect Macaroons.

Divine!

Have a great weekend

xxx (image credit) xxx

Today I love....

2011-02-24T22:06:00.002+01:00

.... this work of art.

stunning!

xxx

(found via here.
If you know who to credit this to - please mail me!)

Today I love....

2011-02-23T20:03:00.003+01:00

.....all the girly sugar coated pastel colours of Spring.

Now Spring just needs to get here so we can start wearing them!

(Candy coloured selection from The Cherry Closet Vintage Boutique)

Today I love....

2011-02-21T19:12:00.004+01:00

Awkward family photos.

From the aptly named....www.awkwardfamilyphotos.com

Awesome :)

Today I love....

2011-02-18T21:40:00.003+01:00

....words of wisdom, by wonderful people.

Have a great weekend !

xx (image we heart it) xx

Today I love....

2011-02-18T00:44:00.003+01:00

.... this photo.Entirely.

And that's that.

xx (image credit) xx

Today I love....

2011-02-17T01:07:00.002+01:00

...messy up do's.

And missing being blonde (just a wee little bit...)

xx (blonde bun) xx

Today I love....

2011-02-14T19:16:00.006+01:00

..... how a day like Valentines Day means different things to different people.

But at the end of this day, it's all about love.

Happy V day folks

xxx

(love this / yum yum / so cute it hurts / the man and his music / cute kiss / Chanel please / for the love of tea)

Today I love....

2011-02-11T17:55:00.002+01:00

....Girls with pink hair.

Have a great weekend!

xxx

(Ann Wissner / super cool pink lady / pink curls)

Today I love....

2011-02-10T21:43:00.004+01:00

....Pretending in my head that I went to Hogwarts, not Chesham High School.

;)

xx ( Coolest pop up book ever / the gang / the lucky ticket ) xx

Today I love....

2011-02-09T22:04:00.003+01:00

Bows.

Purely and simply.... bows.

(pink number / waist wonder / hair envy / vintage bow)

Today I love....

2011-02-07T20:16:00.003+01:00

Bookcases arranged in colour order.

Amazing

xx (image credit) xx

Today I love....

2011-02-04T18:40:00.003+01:00

Crazy nails.

The crazier - the better.

Happy Friday y'all.

(lace edge nails / clouds nails / glitter nails)

It's time to love

2011-02-02T21:14:00.004+01:00

Hello February!

Where'd you sneak up from?!

February often represents the month of love (Okay, mostly as it hosts Valentines Day) but also it has passed the statistically 'most depressing' month of January too.

So, in honour of all things love - I 'm going to dedicate every post in February to Things I love, be it music, fashion, photos, films, people, food or places ......you get the idea!

Hope you share your love with me too?!

so it begins.....

Today I love....

Four poster beds.

always have ...always will

xx (valentine image / bed) xx

Images to inspire

2011-01-26T22:36:00.003+01:00

I love stumbling across inspiring artists and photographers

My latest discover is the incredible imagery by fine art photographer Brooke Shaden

Quoting her website 'her vision extends beyond the realm of the camera, creating images that resemble paintings and speak of an era that is not our own. Each image is a story.'

I find her work surreal, fantastical, charming - and at times, haunting.

But the conclusion is - I LOVE it!

Might have to purchase her book for a proper fix....

( Images courtesy of her dreamy website )

Today I would like to be....

2011-01-25T22:25:00.002+01:00

...this lady please.

Ta very much.

xxx

(lovely pic)

Major musical magic

2011-01-24T23:30:00.001+01:00

I find this song utterly seductive and hypnotic.

The lyrics.

The video.

The man.

Can't. Stop. Listening.

xx you like? xx

Make it up as you go along....

2011-01-20T22:30:00.004+01:00

How did you learn to put on make up?

Did your mother / sister / friend teach you?

Did you sit infront of the mirror one day and just start trying it out ?

I can't really remember.

My mumma was an old skool 'AVON lady' back in the day, going door to door with brochures and teaching women about what season their colour palette should be...

This perhaps explains my love for bright coloured lipsticks and retro packaging!

xxx

(eye shadows / b&w / Pink lipstick / AVON calling)

Vintage weddings are just so darling....

2011-01-19T23:43:00.004+01:00

After recently listing this gorgeous handmade vintage wedding dress in our ASOS collection - have become slightly obsessed with vintage wedding themes and photography.

Don't you just love these vintage-esque shots from fabulous wedding blogs 'Style me pretty' and '100 Layer cake' ??

Would you have, or have you had, a vintage inspired wedding?

I would love to hear all about it...!!

xxx

On screen magic

2011-01-17T20:25:00.006+01:00

Who's your favourite modern on-screen couple?

I know tales of love aren't told the way they used to in the golden oldies...but some of my most recent fave duo's to watch on screen are......

Brad and Ange (just figure out who is more beautiful!?)

Ryan and Rachel (no explanation necessary)

Kate and Matthew (hilarious)

Reese and Joaquin (I think maybe the fact it's a true story made their roles in that film even more compelling!?)

A recent discovery of duo delight for me this week was the unexpected pairing of Adam and Drew in '50 First dates.'

With all the tell tale signs of a standard Adam Sandler classic comedy - I actually found myself completely drawn in past the comedy and into the cuteness.

It's impossible not to fall in love with Drew's character in the movie, but the most surprising element was they make a great couple on screen.

Plus I'm a sucker for story lines. A man who loves a woman with amnesia enough to make her fall in love with him every day? I'm sold.

You had me at amnesia.

Fabulous food....

2011-01-14T19:40:00.002+01:00

...Just 'cos It's friday :)

Have a great weekend

(smily doughnuts / darling sarnies / rose cupcakes / er...yum)

It's been far too long......

2011-01-12T20:17:00.005+01:00

...Since I went to a costume party.

Seriously, its been over a year!!!

I love me a good dress up.

If someone doesn't throw one soon I'm just gonna have to do the honours.

Global bloggers party anyone!?

xx nicki xx

( images cute ears / wolf suit / catwoman )

If you liked it then you should of put a ring on it.....

2011-01-11T22:06:00.004+01:00

(via)

This week I am mostly loving....

2011-01-10T20:28:00.003+01:00

* Boiled egg & soldiers *

* Cute egg cups for those boiled eggs *

* The xx *

* Chunky bird rings *

* Fairy lights (who said Christmas was over?) *

* Parsnip Soup *

* Watching animated films a'la Shrek, Nemo...*

* Ovaltine. This drink needs a comeback! *

* Endless image hunting using the Flickr Colour tool *

You?

(Image Lady Gaga / lips)

Them gigglin' girls

2011-01-06T22:59:00.002+01:00

Does anyone else ever get the giggles at totally inappropriate moments?

I'm hoping it's not just me.....

xx (image) xx

The whole world in her hands...

2011-01-04T22:26:00.005+01:00

Don't you just love these 'whimsical worlds' from ImagineNations ?!

Handmade artwork is decoupaged on with recycled materials on one-off vintage globes.

Utterly unique.

Utterly awesome if you ask me?!

(Visit ImagineNations for more information)

Splashes of Pink

2011-01-03T16:58:00.003+01:00

(images from my hearted collection and portrait by Kath Davis)

A new kind of resolution....

2011-01-02T22:42:00.005+01:00

What's your New Years resolution?

Do you make them?

When asked this question after clinking champagne glasses at midnight, my firm answer for 2011 was 'to be more selfish'.

Honest (yes) blunt (very) and all a result of years worth of putting others first and making excuses for other people.

Not this year folks!

I'm officially embracing my 16 year old 'don't-give-a-damn' self and making decisions for me and me alone.

You can only blame other people for so long before you admit that you have a choice, a voice and the power to do as you want.

It's time to have the life you want.

Happy New Year to all...

xx Nicki xx

(image credit)

Bye bye 2010.....

2010-12-31T17:14:00.007+01:00

As most people do on the last day of the year - I look back over the past 12 months, usually with wide eyes at the unexpected twists and turns that have occurred in life.

The end of a decade also feels like the end of a chapter too, with 2011 marking the next stage of the story.

Today I raise my glass and say that this year has seen happiness and heartache alike, but why not congratulate yourself on the successes? People never do that enough!

Celebrate the good stuff, and put the bad stuff down to lessons you have learnt.

So here goes....

In 2010 I watched my beautiful sister get married....

In two very different ceremonies!

.....I have been selling Cherry Vintage worldwide, and on ASOS.com....

....to an appearance in GLAMOUR magazine.....

....then Photo shoots with IDOL magazine....

.....Leaving behind my blondness and joining the dark side, and with two new tattoos this year...

I have made precious new friends, worked my ass off, laughed, cried and laughed some more.

Bye bye 2010....It's been emotional!

(Images by Glamour, IDOL, Emma Campbell and me!)

The Christmas comedown

2010-12-28T12:17:00.005+01:00

I hope you all had a very merry Christmas - wherever you were, who ever you were with!

Our household was packed out with family, laughter and LOTS of food.

My kinda baubles

2010-12-21T23:41:00.002+01:00

Seriously, the coolest christmas tree decorations EVER

{via Layers of meaning}

Christmas means one thing.....

2010-12-20T17:59:00.001+01:00

Elf.

What's your favourite festive film?

That old devil called love

2010-12-16T19:47:00.005+01:00

Breaking up is never easy.

Saying goodbye is always tough.

Ouch its been a hard few days.

But people help you with the rough.

Love finds you for a reason
Love leaves you just the same
You live alot, you learn alot
And then happiness will remain.

xxx

(image that helps me feel better!)

iPhone FAIL

2010-12-09T20:19:00.003+01:00

You just gotta love modern technology!

Have a great weekend!

xx

(hilarious image: weheart)

Splashes of blue

2010-12-06T10:01:00.005+01:00

Happy Monday everyone.

xx

(images: we heart)

Brrrrr

2010-12-01T21:19:00.002+01:00

Mostly this week I have been:

Hugging my new best friend - the hot water bottle. In bed. In the car. In the office.

Wearing ski socks. every day.

Rocking a hat, gloves and snood. love the word snood.

Drinking silly amounts of tea.

Writing things in the snow. see image.

brrrrrrrrrrr.

xx nicki xx

Some Street Style, the cherry way

2010-11-24T20:19:00.003+01:00

My vintage boutique The Cherry Closet is now featuring some of our vintage treasures on the brand spanking new ASOS.com marketplace !!

Check out some of the first few street style shoots we have done with gorgeous new model Gee.

Lots more to come in the future. Plus we now don't have to make up an excuse to look at ASOS all day!

xx Nicki xx

Mondays treasure...

2010-11-22T22:32:00.002+01:00

....should you need to wish on a shooting star anytime soon.

Super cute.

xx

(etsy ring)

What's in a name?

2010-11-17T19:47:00.005+01:00

Do you ever name possessions that you become very familiar with?

Your car? Your trusty pair of slippers?

I let slip to the boyfriend the other day that I had named my absolute favourite aviator jacket and he stared at me in utter bewilderment.

Especially, perhaps, because I named it D'Artagnan (from the Three Musketeers. Cos that's just cool).

I wear it almost every day and it's become part of my fashion family.

Is this odd? Is it just me?

Oh dear....

(image: this is not me but I wished I looked this bad ass)

movin' on up, movin' on out

2010-11-15T18:52:00.002+01:00

Over the weekend I moved house for the 19th time in 26 years.

In January I shall move again, making it a nice, neat 20.

When this conversation arises, some shriek in horror on my behalf at my nomadic, no-roots lifestyle.

Others shrug like it's a pretty normal part of life, at my age.

I still haven't made up my mind which one I agree with.

Maybe after move 21.....

(image Alain Delorme)

The power of music

2010-11-09T22:19:00.006+01:00

Do you ever feel, like a plastic bag
Drifting through the wind, wanting to start again?

Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards, one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel, already buried deep
Six feet under - screams but no one seems to hear a thing?

Do you know that there’s still a chance for you
‘Cause there’s a spark in you.....

You just gotta.... Ignite - the light- and let it shine....
Just own - the night - like the 4th of July

‘Cause baby you’re a Firework, Come on show ‘em what you’re worth Make ‘em go Ah! Ah! Ah! - As you shoot across the Sky
Baby you’re a Firework, Come on let your colors burst
Make ‘em go Ah! Ah! Ah! , You’re gonna leave them all in awe

You don’t have to feel like a wasted space
You’re original - Cannot be replaced

If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane, comes a rainbow

Maybe a reason why all the doors are closed
So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road

Like a lightning bolt your heart will glow, and when it’s time - you’ll know

Boom. Boom. Boom
Even brighter than the Moon. Moon .Moon
It’s always been inside of You. You. You
And now it’s time to let it through.....

Katy Perry's latest single 'Firework' has become my new power anthem to listen to - on the way to work, or when I'm feeling low. The lyrics, the tune, just somehow has the power to transform both my mood and my way of thinking!! It's addictive.

What's your power anthem?

(KP images from here and here)

Flying high in the celebrity skies

2010-11-05T14:23:00.003+01:00

LA was, in the best American accent I can muster, awesome.

Disappointed at the lack of celebrity sightings until the flight back home, when I boarded next to the stunning Helena Bonham-Carter.

This woman is seriously beautiful up close in person.

Helena - the girl with the grey hood and polka dot bag bursting with vintage apparel and staring at you in awe was me. Sorry.

xx Nicki xx

(image via here)

Countdown to LA

2010-10-06T20:23:00.003+02:00

This time in a fortnight I will be leaving on a jet plane for LA (cue loud shriek) visiting some of my darling-but-sadly-too-flippin'-far-away family!

Bring on the cuddles, cocktails and cupcakes!

I love buying vintage for the closet boutique in Hollywood - its insane!

Any places or attractions you can recommend? I crave your knowledge dear readers!!

xx Nik xx

I wish I was in this picture....

2010-10-05T21:44:00.001+02:00

....right now.

(image credit)

Splashes of red

2010-10-04T22:19:00.005+02:00

images: we heart

Some cheese please.

2010-09-29T18:38:00.003+02:00

Lots of food celebration at the moment, what with National Cupcake Week a few weeks ago, we are half way through British Cheese week!

I do love me some cheese.

I like to think it loves me too.

You a fan? Fave kind?

" Cheese is milk's leap towards immortality"

~ Clifton Fadiman

(cheesey images)

There's always time for tea.

2010-09-28T21:37:00.003+02:00

“If you are cold, tea will warm you;
if you are too heated, it will cool you;
if you are depressed, it will cheer you;
if you are excited, it will calm you.”

William E. Gladstone

(image credit)