20.01.2011- Rokit Designers Guild

I've written before about my absolute adoration for all things Rokit, and this month they are launching a really exciting project which, as well as nurturing new talent, pays tribute to the lasting appeal of vintage and classic design techniques. Rokit Designers Guild is an initiative established for new designers and craftspeople with a passion for vintage style to have their work showcased by one of the most reputable vintage retailers out there, as well as giving avid vintage fans like myself the chance to own one-off, handmade pieces which are either inspired by vintage techniques or created using recycled materials. And, with prices starting at as little as £6, the launch of this project really is an unmissable opportunity to own a genuine designer gem without breaking the bank. The range includes everything from jewellery to dresses, and if you're a massive fan of vintage like myself, is well worth investigating further. Here are some of my favourite pieces from the range:

This hand-made Alice band instantly reminded me of some of the costumes from Black Swan, with its beautiful beaded detailing and feather-like motif.

 This printed scarf encapsulates all things London.

This Bourbon brooch combines two of the things I love most- biscuits and cute accessories!

I can't wait to see more of the collection when it launches later this month.

What do you think of this initiative? Would you buy anything from the range?

(Image credit: rokit.co.uk.)

01.03.2010- Vintage Treasures.

I love vintage clothes and shopping for vintage; there is something magical about finding a unique piece that fits perfectly and instantly transports you back to a bygone era, whether it be the glamour of the 40's and 50's, the kooky charm of the 60's, bohemian chic of the 70's, or the shimmering extravagances and punk attitude of the 80's. My favourite vintage shop to visit in London is Rokit in Covent Garden; it really is an Aladdin's cave of one-off vintage pieces, and is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the styles and stories of the past. Rokit, with four stores in London (the others being in Camden and on Brick Lane), is the longest standing retailer of vintage items in London, and, unlike other vintage boutiques, has a new delivery of stock every day, meaning there is always something new and exciting to snap up when you visit. Unlike a lot of other vintage retailers and concessions, Rokit's items are usually very reasonably priced; I recently picked up a lovely fluffy white jumper from there which has kept me warm all winter, which was a steal at £15. Each item is professionally dry cleaned and pressed before reaching stores, so no nasty smells or suspect stains to contend with!

This spring/summer, what better way to embrace the season's nostalgic trends for double denim, 70's retro romantic and underwear as outerwear, than to invest in a true vintage collectable? Rokit is also the perfect place to visit to get perfectly and practically kitted out for the festival season, with playsuits, floral dresses, vintage sunglasses and cropped jackets (perfect for the inevitable summer downpours!) Even if you can't get to a Rokit store near you, their wonderful website, rokit.co.uk has a fantastic collection of over 10,000 items to choose from. I'm currently lusting after this gorgeous 80's jumper, which I might have to cave in and buy:

Perfect for the transition from winter to spring I think and the ideal way to inject a little bit of sparkle into my wardrobe (not that it needs anymore!)

(Image credit: rokit.co.uk.)

17.08.2009-Fashion Moment: Flapper Style