Alfies Fashion Resolutions for 2012

Start the New Year fresh & organised by cleaning out your closet. Get rid of everything you haven't worn for over a year. Throw away pieces that no longer fit. Hang up your dresses, fold your shirts neatly and put your accessories back where they belong. Once the clutter is gone, you can start creating a style and look that works for you.

1. Wear More Colours.
It's scientifically proven that colours affect our emotions and our behavior. Try to wear a more colourful palette and you will feel happier.

1960s pink & lace evening dress from Persiflage. Vintage yellow evening dress 

with sequins from Velvet Atelier. 1960s red cotton velvet dress from Persiflage.

2. Invest in Classic High-Quality Pieces.

Always choose quality over quantity. Invest in classic high-quality pieces and create a vintage and timeless look. 

1920s Art-Deco kimono,1940s sailor dress and a 1920s pink & lace evening dress. 

All dresses are from Velvet Atelier.

3. Experiment with Accessories.
With the right accessories you can turn an ordinary outfit into something amazing. Create excitement and variety in your outfit by wearing a bold floral hat or a pair of multi-coloured killer heels. 

Selection of hats and accessories from The Girl Can't Help It.

4. Wear More Prints.
Don't be afraid to experiment with prints. Try something new like a psychedelic print or a floral motif.

Selection of vintage dresses with colourful prints from Persiflage. 

 5. Invest in a High-Quality Vintage Handbag.

Every stylish lady should invest in a quality vintage handbag that lasts a lifetime. With a creamy vintage handbag you simply can't go wrong.

Selection of vintage creamy handbags from June Victor & Carole Collier.

Have a look at www.alfiesantiques.com for more gorgeous dresses, colourful hats and other wonderful vintage accessories.

New Dealers

Teria Shapani and Yasmen UK Ltd are the latest dealers to join Alfies.

Faiez of Yasmen UK Ltd specialises in old and antique Persian rugs.

A view of Faiez's stand, F022

Some facts about Faiez:

His interest in antiques developed in his mid twenties when his father was an antiques dealer.

The oldest item he has is a Tabriz rug which is 97 years old.

His favourite item is the Kashmir rug because it is beautiful in design. They are intricate designs that are primarily Oriental floral style and come in a range of colors, designs, sizes and qualities.

Persian rugs

Yasmen UK Ltd  Stand F022.


Teria Shapani sells mid 19th - 20th century furniture and home furnishings such as mirrors and chandeliers. She also has a large selection of silverware and jewellery.

French 10 arm crystal chandelier, circa 1910

I asked Teria a few questions.

How did your interest in antiques develop?

I have always had an appreciation and love for the craftsmanship and skill that went into creating what I can only call works of art. They feed my creativity. I can sit in this french corner chair and marvel at the creators imagination and the talent and physical skill applied to manifest what was once just a vision in his mind. Each scroll, each leaf delicately carved, and with such precision before covering with gesso.  And then the crowning glory of gold leaf. These beauties never fail to inspire me. Or look at these wonderful mirrors with original mercury glass,  how can I not help wondering,  'did the mercury  involved in creating these literally drive someone mad?'  Or I can stare over to the chandelier and delight in the magnificence of the ballroom where it once lived.

Pair of Swedish bergeres, circa 1920's

I am fascinated and intrigued by the history of both the furniture and silver which I sell. I have silverware which are inscribed or monogrammed.  People ask me why I don't have these removed.  I tell them it's for the same reason I sell Victorian lockets with the original photos, 'It is not my place to erase history'.

What is your favourite item?

I do not have a favourite piece. Each has it's own beauty and it's own story to tell.  And all are equally valid.

What is your price range?

My price range is vast. from £3.00 silver vintage charms to the £5,500 19th century Swedish sideboard.

Teria Shapani  Stand S003/S005

Happy New Year!

 

Wishing you all lots of happiness and success for the new year! With all the wet weather we've been having here are a couple of ideas to smarten up your hallways for 2012.

Vintage Umbrella Stands:

Fun 1950s Brass Umbrella Stand. From Thirteen Interiors

Elegant Art Deco Umbrella Stand with Nutwood Veneer. From Lorna Lee Leslie.

Alfies is the perfect market to visit during the wintery weather.  All four floors and over 75 shops are all under one roof so you can avoid the blustery showers.  On the top floor visit our cosy Rooftop Cafe where you can warm up with hot drinks or a glass of wine and a hearty lunch.