TRY THIS - Cracking Krakow Vintage

I find I'm thinking of Krakow as Easter approaches. It was there that we picked up these beautiful hand-painted wooden eggs. They come out in Spring to mark seasonal renewal and ubiquitous bunnies. The vintage belt is also a product of Krakow - a fab find from one of the city's 2nd-hand shopping spots (sadly now closed). Vintage is new to Krakow, it's a growing fashion habit that's offering young women in particular a way into small business ownership. Odra - embossed on the gleaming gold belt buckle - is a river, a football club, a computer brand and a village in Poland. Secondhand that's word perfect. It cost about £8, and is a stylish souvenir of a long weekend in cracking Krakow.  

FOUND - Memento That Tells Tales

I found this souvenir bracelet at the Avenue Vintage & Antique Market in West Ealing. Old travel mementos like these are a personal favorite - the writer in me not only enjoys wearing them but also imagining their hidden history. This little piece of Spain - those are bullfighters in the metal work - came to me via a dealer selling primarily French collectibles. It's seen some life - if only it could speak. I imagine it's the type of touristy keepsake that a man like Ernest Hemingway would have bought for his first wife Hadley when they were visiting San Fermin in Pamplona. This is where Hemingway became fascinated with bull fighting and would meet Pauline Pfeiffer, the woman who would become his 2nd wife.'Papa,' the cad, would buy a silly but stylish trifle like this for Hadley in an effort to put her off the scent. But it did not disguise the acrid smell of Hemingway's marital deceit. Fiction? Maybe. But I enjoy giving voice to this souvenir's secrets. The price for such an inspiring accessory? Just £10.

            

For more on Hadely Richarson's life with Hemgingway

read The Paris Wife by Paula McLain, CLICK HERE.

TRY THIS - 2nd-Hand in Ole' Amsterdam

Today we find my friend, actor and ever-stylish Alma, serving as a Foreign Correspondent for Huntress London. Direct from Amsterdam, here's what she's uncovered -

"My other half turned 30 this year and I decided rather impulsively to book a trip to Amsterdam. Nicknamed ‘Venice of the North,’ it could not have made a better impression on us. Perfect Spring weather, lucky restaurant choices, delicious beers and endless corners to discover on foot, all contributed to the memorable 3-day city break.

And then there was the 2nd-hand shopping. I was hoping there would be a vintage side to Amsterdam, and I’d already asked Huntress for tips but I needn’t have worried. By simply walking around the city, we effortlessly stumbled into all sorts of 2nd-hand and antique establishments. But with only a hand luggage allowance, I had to choose wisely.

While desperately seeking style in the disappointing Waterlooplein Markt, my clever man spotted the Kilo Shop CLICK HERE where 2nd-hand items are assigned a colour, the colour is assigned a price per kilo, items are weighed and the price calculated. This proved a lot of fun and imagine my delight when two gorgeous paisley shirts (my new obsession) weighed up at only 10 Euros! Ker-ching. I also picked up a lovely neckerchief in a 2.50 EURO box which works a treat in a ‘We Can Do It’ poster kind of way. I can’t recommend this shop highly enough; beautiful stock, friendly staff and value for money. 

Day Two and I discovered Bis CLICK HERE, a chain of three shops. I explored the Lady’s Vintage Fashion branch at Sint Antoniesbreestraat 25d, a very classy shop with legit vintage stock and a sales assistant wearing a full 50s sailor’s outfit (probably from the shop next door, Bis Vintage Army Fashion & Basics). I thought I’d just be looking because the price point was out of my league but then I spotted a selection of classic raincoats, something I’ve always wanted. Sadly I've never managed to find the right one. I tried a couple on but again, no luck. Then my eagle-eyed man picked one out for me and while it didn’t look like much on the hanger, the boy’s definitely got the knack because it fit like a glove. With no price tag attached, I imagined the worst but Sailor Lady only wanted 50 EUROS for it, a fair price for a well-made classic that I'll wear for years. The following day, our last in Amsterdam, I swanned around town in my new/old raincoat feeling like a million bucks. 

On the the last day I found Episode, a well-organised European-wide charity shop CLICK HERE which looked a bit like Beyond Retro here in London; fashionable retro, not super cheap but not overly expensive either. Here I found dungarees, a staple I've long searching for (unsuccessfully). Seems I've the figure of a Dutch woman because for a very reasonable 29 EUROS these slipped on like they were made for me.

There were many more shops that I didn't buy anything from but which still deserve mention. Zipper, similar to Rokit in London and Carla Palermo, a mad selection of pretty frocks and kimonos, just for the fun of it, both on Huidenstraat. Harvest & Co CLICK HERE for vintage home wares and furniture, very expensive but a beautiful place to browse. And if paper and stationary are your thing don't miss Papier CLICK HERE pricey but absolutely stunning."

TRY THIS - Travel A Path To Unique Chic

On my recent visit to Whitstable, I found the some half dozen charity shops full of stylish possibilities - tidy, friendly, dare I say enticing. But none more so than the double-fronted shop run by Relate, a charity that provides counseling, support and information for people in a variety of relationships CLICK HERE. This large mother-of-pearl buckle paired with a long swirly scarf and secured around the waist of a black full-skirted dress - that's what I call unique chic. 

But if that wasn't enough, in the same shop I also found this graphically gorgeous straw hat by Laura Ashley. It'll add elegant shade to my black swimming costume or top off a summer sun dress. Picking up stylish bits and bobs while traveling is an easy way to keep your wardrobe fresh without actually taking timeout to shop. Both these stylish accessories were waiting in the shop window for me to see. Together they totaled just under a tenner.

  

FOUND - Anchored to Coastline Style

I found this skirt at Anchors Aweigh Vintage on my 48-hour whirl through Whitstable. It's from Selfridges, not as old as it looks, I'd say 1980s (after 1950s). In mint condition, it is quite simply my dream skirt. Tartan, taffeta and full of swirly twirl-ablity, I can't wait to style this stunner. To keep it from looking like a full-on 50s costume, I'll pair it with a dark, fitted denim shirt and creamy vintage heels. Add an armload of bracelets (naturally) and a tanned leather Gucci clutch, and I'll have an outfit that floats my boat.  

My delight in this skirt is buoyed by the tiny shop where I found it. Located at 65 Harbor Street in the town centre, Anchors Aweigh is a collection of perfectly curated home and fashion pieces - small but neat as a pin.

The owner is chatty, welcoming and helpful. She informed me that once a week she completely changes out the stock - I get the sense she's got stacks of stylish stuff. And according to the marketing flyer, Anchors Aweigh Vintage "buys and sells vintage clothing, accessories and homeware by the sea!" No visit to wonderful Whitstable would be complete without calling in at Anchors Aweigh.

My new favourite skirt was £35 - a vintage bargain at twice the price. The shop is open Monday to Sunday, closed on Wednesday. 

TRY THIS - Oysters Fine & Donuts Free

I found my first visit to Whitstable in Kent a 2-day delight. Traveling with my mate Susan (the 'Tramp Poet' above), we luxuriated in the winter sun and sea air. Full marks to The Apartment, where we happily hung our hats CLICK HERE. This top floor flat kitted out in cozy Art Deco flourishes overlooks lovely little Whitstable Castle as well as boasting sea views. Owners Mark and Frances are welcoming, relaxed and helpful. The continental breakfast they sent up to our quarters after our peaceful night's sleep was fresh and filling. Dinner at the Oyster & Fishery Company CLICK HERE, an institution that traces its origins back to the 1400s, offered a warm, comfortable atmosphere along with first class fish dishes. Whitstable's buzzing high street kept us busy with several vintage shops and at least 6 charming charity shops. But surely the highlight of the visit was dockside coffee and FREE donut. The stall owner told me he'd started offering free donuts as a way of thanking the local community for their support. In 16 weeks he had given away 7,000 ring and jelly-filled, doubling his already thriving business. I salute this seaside statesman, making the world a better place through the distribution of free fried, sugary dough.  

Whitstable Week at Huntress London

Fab 2nd-Hand Finds to Follow

FOUND - Military Style's Music To My Ears

I found this military belt at Full House, a clearance and antiques shop on Park Street in Deal, on the Kent coast. Due to its location as a point of embarkation for ships anchored in the Downs, Deal has been associated with The Royal Marines since it was established in 1755. Deal Barracks was constructed shortly after the French Revolution and it was the East barracks that would eventually become the home of the Royal Marines School of Music. In 1989 it was bombed by the IRA resulting in the death of 11 Marine band members as well as many more injuries. In 1996 a special musical ceremony saw The Royal Marine Band Service move from its home in Deal to new quarters in Portsmouth. Every year the Marine Band returns to a bandstand in Deal for a musical display that attracts over 10,000 people. 

I was concerned about wearing the belt, but I've been assured by servicemen and women alike that it not disrespectful for this civilian to wear the well-made and stylish accessory. I paid just £12 for this very special bit of kit. 

TRY THIS - Window Stopping & Seeing

Clerkenwell

Bristol

Deal

Brugge

Derby

Antwerp

Paddington

Penzance

I find shop windows irresistible. Having once dressed the large, telling window in my own shop, I know creating a porthole that pops is no walk in the park. I appreciate the ingenuity and vision of shop owners and dressers. Windows, like eyes of the city, reflect a story that is instantaneous and infinite.  

TRY THIS - Stylish Buys & Sparkling Skies

I found these sparkling paste bangles at a Saturday 2nd-hand market in the seaside town of Deal, Kent. This small but perfectly formed buyers' delight is located in Union Road car park in the 'Old Town' CLICK HERE. Traders are friendly but pack up promptly at 3pm. Once the market moves on, Deal's clutch of antique shops, vintage emporiums and charity shops will keep a 2nd-hand shopper happy for the balance of an afternoon. I'd plenty of spending left over from my bracelet buy, these dazzlers were just £3. 

On this visit to Deal we booked in at bright and cozy Turnstone Cottage CLICK HERE. Teaming with quirky twists and turns, the seaside 2-bedroom home, stocked full of amenities, is the perfect HQ for exploring the Kent coast. The Middle Street Fish Bar is a 'must eat' CLICK HERE and The Ship, also on Middle Street, has a relaxed but traditional pub vibe. The new fast trains whizzed us into Deal from London St Pancras in under 90 minutes - sparkling sky and sea beckoned us the moment we disembarked. This lovely little (high speed) whistle stop has become my home-from-home, a peaceful but buzzy village with lively pubs, 2nd-hand hot spots, welcoming people and an unending view of the sea. 

TRY THIS - Medley of Memories Amassed

Recently I found I'd a collection of small purses. Without trying, I'd stockpiled a stylish selection of wee bags and puny pouches. Most of them have been gifts, and of course the rest I've picked up on my weekly stops at charity shops. This anthology of items tell a story, the continuing and very personal tale of birthdays celebrated and holidays with loved ones, exotic travels abroad and friends well-remembered but far away. The latest addition is a Georgian pocket mirror found at the Avenue Vintage & Antiques Market on a day out with my husband that saw us kick off the holiday season together with mulled wine and bacon baps. Silky and in remarkable condition considering its age (the purse & husband), this old bag adds gravitas to my tiny tote assortment. Like family photos, these small style icons serve as reminders of life's lovelier moments. My mint-condition mirror was just £3. Not surprising, I'm feeling reflective on this Christmas Eve.

Happy Holidays Hunters!