On books, business, and a broken heart

An unplugged weekend was good, although I subsequently had a lot of catching up to do; all your blog posts, plus Strictly, X Factor and Downton, phew! 

But I'm up to date now, and it was great to spend lots of time with my nose in a book instead of being in front of a screen (although truthfully I find pleasure in both activities.)

Books are wonderful things, I am steadfastly a paper-based reader, and our house is overflowing with them. I understand the appeal (and space-saving virtues) of a Kindle, but nothing beats the tactile experience of a book. 

You can't write an inscription on a Kindle, can you? 

 I rarely buy my books new or full price; this little selection were either bought from charity shops (St Vincent's sell paperbacks for 50p each, Barnardo's have an offer of four for £1.49), and a couple were picked up for free from a box left outside a house on the way to school. 

In the light of my ongoing wardrobe review, this dress has presented me with a dilemma.

Angela Holmes' designs for her Droopy and Browns label, launched in 1971, are increasingly sought after and command high prices on Ebay. I found this dress in a charity shop (of course); although it represents something of a departure from Holmes' typically flamboyant and feminine styles in colourful printed cotton or velvet, I don't doubt it would sell well if I put it on Ebay.

I don't wear it often, yet whenever I do, I fall in love with it all over again; with its sheer, floaty, angel sleeve-y disco-tastic goodness. With its pockets. With its matching tie belt, still in place.

So just this once, I'll let my heart rule my business head. 

I'm keeping it!

 

1970s Droopy and Browns dress, velvet jacket, bangles and ankle boots - charity shopped

Necklace - vintage market

Brooch - car boot

Tights - retail (sale)

This 1970s lurex knit dress didn't make the cut; it's nice enough on me, but not fantastic, so off to Ebay she goes. 

The tan leather bucket bag, however, is staying. For now, at least.

We're in a bit of a state of anxiety here at the moment; our Minnie is missing, we haven't seen her for over 48 hours. The neighbours haven't spotted her either.

We're all hoping like mad that she reappears safe and sound, and I'll do a leaflet drop along the road tomorrow asking everyone to check their outbuildings, but I have a very bad feeling... She's never, ever strayed far before. 

We miss her very much.

xxxx

Le Freak, c'est chic

This wonderful 1970s Droopy and Browns dress might not be entirely weather-appropriate, but I was warm enough with the addition of a trusty faux fur coat and gloves.

I thought about wearing it to the 70s party last weekend, but decided more colour was required for that occasion.

I also thought I might sell it on Ebay, but now I've worn it, I've decided it's definitely a keeper.

 

It has pockets. And the original tie belt.

 

It's completely see-through, so a vintage slip underneath is necessary.

 

 

 

 

But its floaty, blowing-in-the-wind drapey angel-sleeved gorgeousness just makes me feel...

 

 

 

...like dancing.

Yes Sir, I can boogie.

Excuse the cat's tail sneaking into shot, Jess wanted to dance too. 

 

 

 

 

Ok, so not quite such a glamorous animal companion as Bianca's, but you can't have everything.

 

And l have some really cool friends, look.

 

1970s Droopy and Browns dress, sequin beret, shoes and bangles - charity shopped

1970s beaded peacock bag - Ebay

Flower and necklace - retail (sale)

Speaking of cool friends, have I told you lately that I love you?

'Cause I do.

From time to time, I have an acute sense of myself as Odd One Out in my real life.

It's obvious that I dress differently from a lot of people I know, but it's more than that. 

I do wonder if the differences in my outward appearance are a manifestation of the other ways in which I don't fit in with the prevailing views, the consensus. I find myself amazed that people question so little and accept so much.

Which is why I appreciate my blogging friends, especially those who aren't afraid to have an opinion, to take a risk, to stand out and be visible and original. Those who don't feel the need to hide their intelligence, their confidence and self-esteem for fear of being seen as big-headed.

 

There have been a few incidents lately which have had me asking myself, where do I belong?

And the answer is right here.

 

Thanks, darlings. 

Now freak out!

  xxxx