Moda Flamenca, Ecclesiastical Vestments and Victorian Dresses

Melinda Colthurst is one of the new dealers that recently joined us at Alfies. Her unique collection of vintage Spanish costumes, ecclesiastical vestments and Victorian and Edwardian clothing are a perfect addition to our eclectic mix of shops here at Alfies.

An avid flamenco dancer herself, Melinda has an incredible wealth of knowledge about Spanish vintage costumes. Which means, that buying from her shop not only entails the item but a little history lesson free of charge.


With a wide range of Spanish dresses, matador jackets and mantilla combs, her stand offers much to inspire designers, costume makers and collectors.


Melinda also has an extraordinary collection fo ecclesiastical vestments and devotional items including crucifixes and Latin liturgical books.



Come and visit Melinda Colthurst on the first floor in Alfies Antique Market. Stand F015.

For opening times and more information visit our website: www.alfiesantiques.com

Velvet Atelier

Anna and Mike of Velvet Atelier have recently joined Alfies. They stock the finest pre-1950's collection of clothing, limited designer pieces and they also have a vintage bridal section.



I asked Anna a few questions...

How did your interest in vintage fashion develop?
When I was about 15 I loved unusual clothes and hated mass-produced items. I spent all my teenage years browsing in charity shops and developed my own style from there... Vintage comes with history!



Who is your style icon and why?
I do not have a style icon, I love 1940's glamour, so if I had to choose it would have to be Elizabeth Taylor. She looked so much like my Mum.



What is your favourite piece?
It has to be the 1940's bright green crepe dress. It is so amazing - I do not want to part with it!

The aforementioned dress was not available to photograph, so above is another favourite dress of Anna's.

What is the oldest item you have for sale?
Probably the 1860's reception gown. We have about a hundred 1920's dresses!

Above: A bridal dress dating back to the late 1800's

What is your price range?
Prices start from £40, with the 1950's dresses starting at the lower end of the price range. The majority of 1920's dresses are about £150 - £250.




And finally, tell us about the fabulous decor of your stand
I'm a big fan of opera. I always wanted to have a shop with a similar feel. And here we go!


Velvet Atelier, stand S007/S009.

It's time to start thinking about Halloween!

October and the beginning of autumn always get us very excited about cosy evenings at home curled up on the reading chair with a gripping book and a lovely cuppa... But the tenth month of the year also means we can finally get dressed up and celebrate the most fun holiday of Halloween! Woohoooooooooo! We had a look around Alfies to find some pieces that would inspire this year's costume choice and party decorations, enjoy!

French Art Nouveau paste and base metal bat buckle/brooch offered by Kieron Reilly

Victorian Whitby jet snake necklace offered by Gareth Brooks

Victorian Whitby jet necklaces and earrings offered by Gareth Brooks

A selection of cocktail shakers (1930's - 1950's) and 1920's chemists bottles (from the Royal Free dispensery) offered by Robinson Antiques

The delightful window display at The Girl Can't Help It

The delightful window display at The Girl Can't Help It

Inspiring shop decorations at The Girl Can't Help It

Inspiring shop decorations at The Girl Can't Help It

Inspiring shop decorations at The Girl Can't Help It

And don't forget to visit our lovely Rooftop Cafe for a warming cup of tea and a little treat! (No tricks here!)