Hide and Seek boutique

I've been up north on the Wirral this week and popped by Emma Embery's new boutique and workshop, Hide and Seek, in Irby Village. If you've been an avid reader of this blog you may remember Emma's pretty studio space and the beautiful vintage-inspired hairpin she made for my wedding, as well as her gorgeous knits for Milo (see below post for the cardigan that seems to grow with him!)

Emma's shop is a magpie's dream inside - with every nook and cranny filled with things to treasure: her own lace and jewel embroidered shawls and dresses, jewellery made with antique pearls and gems, lampshades up-cycled with vintage fabric appliques, hand-knitted and vintage children's clothes, and a few bits and pieces from other local makers. She also hosts creative workshops such as vintage-inspired jewellery making and embroidery where you can wile away a couple of hours drinking tea, eating cake and brushing up on your crafting skills.

Vintage at the Museum of Childhood

The Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood has just opened its Magic Worlds exhibition looking at magic throughout the ages. I was hoping for a bit more of an 'enchanted forest' feel to it, but loved the retro magic sets and puzzles, plus an original Sooty hand-puppet.

Even more interesting was the museum's permanent collection of antique children's paraphernalia - everything from 17th century high chairs and Victorian rattles to the coolest doll's houses i've ever seen and some gorgeous clothing.

 30s handknit jumper

80s Mr Men skirt

40s Jaeger dress

30s dress

20s boys' buster suit

40s smock

art deco dollshouse

50s mini picnic set and laundry roller

Vintage romper

I couldn't resist this little vintage-style number from Buggies and Bikes on Broadway Market - love the gorgeous floral print which would be perfect as a little summer wedding outfit. Don't worry, I won't be dressing Milo up in it but I'm sure it will find a suitably stylish owner sometime soon!

Let it snow

I’m just back from a blissful two weeks in Thailand only to return to blizzards and the mad Christmas rush in London. I’m trying not to let the memories of sunshine and relaxation fade by avoiding any form of high street and opting for the much less stressful experience of Christmas shopping on Broadway Market in East London. The sight of a brass band playing carols, and all the wonderful fresh produce of the market dusted with a coating of snow was the perfect festive mood lifter.

I think its really about time I announce that there’s a Vintage Baby on the way! So you may find the blog takes a new tack as I go into nesting mode. Not surprisingly, I found myself zoning in on the gorgeously retro knitted childrenswear at the Sweetheart Knits stall - where the mini tank tops, hats, booties, cardis and socks are all hand-knitted by a crack team of 35 grannies (each tag tells you which granny knitted what). 

I also love the fabulous vintage kidswear stall next door that sells a colourful array of second hand clothes, denim, stripy jumpers and crochet blankets for the nursery. 

For vintagey christmas presents, Alice Gabb’s stall caught my eye for its kitschy vintage royal-themed mugs filled with lavender-scented candles, all lovingly displayed on old wooden shelves and drawers.