Pride in London

The Pride Festival has been taking place in London since Saturday 14 June, with this coming weekend marking the main events and culminating in the big finale that is the Pride Parade Saturday 8 July. Starting at 1pm on Regent Street and taking a 1.4 mile route through the capital, this year is set to be the biggest yet with over 300 groups marching and more floats included than ever before. The aim of Pride In London is to spread the message of equality and challenge prejudice whilst providing a celebration of LGBT+ life.

In recent years the rainbow design which is now associated with the LGBT+ community has become one that is instantly recognisable, and fairly clear in terms of it's message of diversity and inclusivity. Taking inspiration from this design we took a look around Alfies to find some colourful items that would fit within the rainbow spectrum!

From left to right: A wedgwood shell plate, c1900s. Offered by W & L Antiques; A Doric and Pansy design in aquamarine tea trio (part of a set), c1938. Offered by Robinson Antiques; A jadeite sugar bowl in a shell design, c1960s. Offered by Robinson Antiques; An Italian bottle vase, c1965. Offered by Robinson Antiques

From left to right: An English Bristol Blue glass vase, c1950s/60s. Offered by Renato; A Victorian piano leg stand in blue glass. Offered by Renato; A Murano glass cube table lighter, c1960s. Offered by Dream Retro; A candle holder, c1930s. Offered by W & L Antiques

From left to right: A cranberry glass oil and vinegar bottle, c1930s. Offered by W & L Antiques; A Whitefrairs ruby textured glass belly vase, c1965. Offered by Robinson Antiques; A Scandinavia cased vase, c1965. Offered by Robinson Antiques; A cranberry glass bottle, c1940s. Offered by W & L Antiques; A cranberry glass miniature jug. Offered by W & L Antiques

From left to right: A Whitefriars tangerine bark vase (middle size), c1970s. Offered by Robinson Antiques; A set of four Jersey Pottery table coasters, c1970s. Offered by Robinson Antiques; A painted glass vase, c1950s. Offered by W & L Antiques; A Murano tangerine glass dish, c1970s. Offered by Robinson Antiques

From left to right: A Whitefriars style miniature glass jug, c1960s. Offered by Dream Retro; A bakelite catalin buddha, c1920s. Offered by Diplomat Treasures International; A Chinese glass snuff bottle, 19th/20th century. Offered by Diplomat Treasures International; A European glass vase, c1960s. Offered by Dream Retro

Ceramics in the City

Today marks the start of the annual event Ceramics in the City which is held at the Geffrye Museum in Shoreditch. Now in its 14th year, the event will exhibit, promote and sell works from a diverse range of artists.

This year 54 potters will be showcasing their work along with demonstrations and craft activities. Ceramics in the City is also one of the events that makes up The London Design Festival which itself runs from 17th-25th September.

Ceramics in the City runs from Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th September with an open evening taking place on Thursday 22nd September 6pm-8.30.

With this in mind, we took a look around for all the little ceramic treasures hiding away in Alfies.

Ceramic vase, offered by Andy Powell

Ceramic vase, offered by Keith Spicer

Ceramic Vase, offered by Beth 

Ceramic vase, offered by Renato

Ceramic water set, offered by The Moderns

Ceramic vase, offered by Keith Spicer

Ceramic nut dish, offered by Beth

Ceramic vase, offered by Renato

The Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

Flower shows are the ultimate quintessential British Summer events and - as the largest flower show in the World - The Hampton Court Palace Flower Show is the show to visit. There are a number of events taking place throughout the six days, including a variety of show gardens, demonstrations and talks.

Founded by The Royal Horticultural Society, along with The Chelsea Flower Show, in 1990, this is one of the society's most popular events. However, whilst having all the hallmarks of a traditional flower show, this is one with a slight twist. The Hampton Court edition puts more of a focus on environmental issues, sustainability and food growing.

Taking place until Sunday 10th July, this is definitely an event that will appeal to all of Alfies' friends with 'Green Fingers' - as will all of these floral inspired designs we have found in store.

A floral Chanel necklace. Offered by April Antiques

A floral Chanel necklace. Offered by April Antiques

A selection of brooches. Offered by April Antiques

A floral painted urn. Offered by W & L Antiques

A selection of botanical illustrations. Offered by Moe Heidarieh