A Classy Cup of Tea

Great Britain has a long history when it comes to drinking tea. In fact, we have been drinking tea for 350 years. And even if China was both the birthplace of tea and porcelain making, Britain is now well known for being inhabited by quite a few tea enthusiasts and fine porcelain makers. 

During the 17^th century the British East India Company had a monopoly on importing goods from outside Europe and during their glory days tea became one of their highly valued goods. At first tea was something very luxurious and therefore only the upper class could afford it. Luckily, time has made tea much more accessible and whether you can enjoy a cup of tea or not is no longer a question of class.

With that said, it is difficult to deny what beautifully made porcelain can do for your tea. Here at Alfies we have a few dealers who know a thing or two about how your afternoon tea could be coloured and shaped.

Worcester cup and saucer c1765, offered by Janes Antiques

Royal Crown Derby 1900 Japan pattern, offered by Janes Antiques

Royal Crown Derby 1932, offered by Horner Antiques

Royal Doulton 1904, offered by Beth

Carlton Ware spiderweb pattern 1920s, offered by Beth

Molly Hancock 1930s hand painted, offered by Beth

Breakfast set for one - by Hammersley for Thomas Goode & Co, offered by W & L Antiques

Vintage tea service by Roslyn China, offered by W & L Antiques 

And speaking of afternoon tea, why not have it here at Alfies? Our Roof Top Kitchen offer a range of home made cakes to enjoy with your tea.

Vintage Summer Fashion

The sun has been making a very welcome appearance recently, it's about that time to gradually pack away your warm clothing and start curating your spring/summer outfits.

Why not go vintage this summer - clothing of a bygone era are of superior quality and have stood the test of time, it is a unique source of inspiration and will never go out of style.

On each floor, you will find a haven of sublime vintage clothing and accessories, run by well established dealers who are extremely scrupulous with the clothing they stock, each piece is hand selected for condition, style and history.

Below is a selection of spring/summer clothing and accessories at Alfies...

1940s high-waisted shorts and top, offered by Carole Collier

1930s Childrens fabric parasol, offered by Carole Collier

1930s Floral dress, offered by Velvet Atelier

Yellow textured 1950s dress, offered by Velvet Atleier

1950s Pink pom pom dress, offered by Velvet Atelier 

1930s taffeta dress with bolero, offered by June Victor

French 'Victory' espadrilles c1945, offered by Tin Tin Collectables

Vintage Wedding Dresses & Antique Lace

With the highly anticipated Wedding Dresses exhibition at the V&A open this week we thought we'd take the chance to remind you of the collection of original period wedding gowns and accessories here at Alfies. With a collective of luxury vintage fashion dealers under one roof, brides-to-be are sure to find the perfect dress. The stunning collection includes Great Gatsby-esque silk gowns, sequinned flapper dresses, glamorous 1940s bias cut styles, delicate Irish lace and embellished accessories.  Alfies also has an in-house dressmaker available to make alterations or even create something bespoke.

Antique lace gown and veil from Sheelin Lace London.

19th century applique lace shawl, from Sheelin Lace London. 

19th century Carrickmacross lace veil, from Sheelin Lace London

Rosemary Cathcart of Sheelin Lace London has several wedding pieces in her fairytale shop on the first floor.  Lace veils, stoles, wedding gowns, jackets and also beautiful lace head pieces and vintage diamante tiaras are just some of the items available.  Rosemary believes “the advantage of buying an antique wedding gown is the fact it will be hand made and original. You are also buying a work of art, especially if you choose an antique handmade lace dress, which will only increase in value.”   

1950s beaded bags from Sheelin Lace London

It takes a little more time to find the perfect vintage dress as each one is different and sizing is unique.  The experienced dealers at Alfies can advise on style and sizing.  Rosemary says “the main thing to look for when buying an antique dress is the condition. It needs to be in good condition and strong enough to wear.” 

As well as bridal wear, Alfies is also a top spot to find one of a kind bridesmaid dresses or something to wear as a guest.  Velvet Atelier on the first floor have some great party pieces on offer, from formal evening gowns to fun, colourful numbers like this pink pom pom covered 1950s dress (below).

Vintage dresses from Velvet Atelier

Alfies Antique Market is open from Tuesday-Saturday from 10am-6pm and is just a few minutes walk from Marylebone and Edgware Road tube stations.  On the very top floor find the Roof Top Kitchen, perfect for afternoon tea or a glass of wine after shopping. 

New Dealer: Ray's Eclectic Antiques & Contemporary

A view of Eclectic Antiques & Contemporary

We welcome new dealer, Ray, of Eclectic Antiques & Contemporary to Alfies.

Ray's stock is full of exceptional mid-century treasures, he admires the style and design that emerged from this period, it's not difficult to see why! He also has interesting items dating back to the Victorian era.

Collectable Toys

He started collecting from an early age, with a keen eye for good quality and design. He is a collector as well as a dealer, so he understands the trade from both sides.

Ray stocks an eclectic mix which includes items such as glass, advertising memorabilia, jewellery, lighting, furniture and enamel signage.

James Bond Poster

His favourite item in his shop is the James Bond poster because it has "iconic images mixed to great effect".

Lumica Lamp by Willy Rizzo

The most highly sought-after item in his shop is the Lumica Lamp by Willy Rizzo.

Ray's price range starts from £5 to £5000, so there is no doubt that there is something for everyone! 

Eclectic Antiques & Contemporary
Stand S048 - S049
Tel: 07774 191 999
Email: eclecticray@hotmail.com