Archive for May, 2011

A History Of The Birkenstock

Tuesday, May 24th, 2011

Birkenstock is a German brand of shoe that has been manufactured since 1774. The Birkenstock has always been about the wearers comfort and has a characteristic cork and rubber footbed which is moulded to the shape of the foot. It is thought that the first Birkenstock sandals were originally made by  Johann Adam Birkenstock, but it was in 1897 that his son Konrad Birkenstock developed the first contoured insole to be used for bespoke shoes.

Birkenstocks are now worn all over the worn all over the world and are particularly loved by those in professions that are on their feet all day. Birkenstocks originally became popular in the US with flower children in the sixties but in the 1990’s they again experienced a surge in popularity. These days they are seen as a classic piece of summer footwear to be worn with a variety of summer clothing without socks.

As well as traditional Birkenstocks, you can also get Birki’s for children and a more feminine version of the original design - Papillio from online shoe retailer Spartoo. There are some great colours and prints available, making them a great way to add a bit of interest to your summer outfits. Try wearing with your seventies flared jeans for true seventies style.

Win Free Tickets to The Next Vintage Fashion Fair London

Tuesday, May 24th, 2011

Just like clothes swapping, buying vintage clothing is a great way to recycle and reduce your impact on the environment. If you are a seasoned vintage enthusiast or have never worn vintage clothing before Vintage Fashion Fair London is a great place to visit for a spot of vintage shopping.

The next fair will be held on the 5th June at Cecil Sharp House and will be open between 11am and 5pm. Usually admission fee is £3 but you can apply to win a limited number of free tickets from the website www.vintagefashionfairlondon.co.uk.

The fair has an excellent selection of clothing, accessories and textiles from a varity of decades and the stallholders have an excellent knowledge of vintage fashion. For the summer the fair will have  a great selection of summer dresses and swimsuits.

Nanna Sandom who specialises in alterations and repairs specifically for vintage clothing will also bve attending the fair.  So if you find that ‘ must have ‘ item that requires a little tweaking then Nanna will be on hand to do this, no matter how small or large the alteration may be.

All this shopping can be tiring so revive yourselves at the pretty vintage cafe downstairs at our venue.  The Nice Green Cafe offers delicious snacks and lunches, everything is homemade on the premises with natural ingredients, and for summer a variety of unusual flavoured ice creams are on offer….mmm!

For further details visit

www.vintagefashionfairlondon.co.uk