Poppet

Fabric Markers! What I learnt this week #5

2012-02-08T20:02:00.004+11:00

I love textas! that's no lie. So when I saw these fabric markers at deans art shop I was very excited....all the fun of drawing and colouring in, with the added bonus of doing it on fabric! Wowzers.

I drew a few silly little pictures to test all the colours....cute huh!? and then, like I did so often in my younger days, I made a pencil case....fun!

I also thought it would be exciting to do a pattern using the greatest shape known to man...the triangle...ooooh! so I whipped up a little skirt and did a cute border round the hem.

Fabric markers are a winner in my book! and that's what I learnt this week :)

Fabric Origami! What I learnt this week #4

2012-01-29T14:51:00.002+11:00

Fabric and Origami....Together at last!
I have always enjoyed making flat things into 3 dimensional things....mmmm satisfying!
Today I learnt how to make an origami lotus (good video instructions here) but instead of using boring ol' paper, I went fancy style and used fabric, like a maverick!

If you wanna use fabric too, might I suggest making good use of an iron, getting those folds and creases neat and crisp! Also have a needle and thread ready, because towards the end you're going to put some stitches in to hold things in place, you will know when the time is right!

Yay, fabric origami is fun fun fun. And that's what I learnt this week :)

Spray painted bottles! what I learnt this week #3

2012-01-24T14:34:00.004+11:00

Well I don't know if spray paint is something you can "learn" but this week I sure learnt that it's a super fun, super speedy way to do a spot o' crafting.
I saw this post on the Colourful Living Project blog and found it utterly charming, so I thought I'd give it a go.

What I used...
Rekorderlig cider bottles! because a: delicious and b: they have a great shape.
Matte white spray paint! because sometimes you just don't want shiny things.
Paper! I liked the colour of the bottles so I thought it would be nice to do some stencils, juxtaposition and all that jazz!

To do the stencils I put a bit of water on the paper so it would stick in place...but be warned, time is of the essence! if you let it dry out too much all your pretty paper shapes will fall off. I would recommend doing one bottle at a time.

Yay! I think I'm gonna spray paint everything now! and this is what I learnt this week!

Pop-up Cards! What I learnt this week #2

2012-01-15T12:02:00.003+11:00

Things are always more fun when they are three dimensional, so with this in mind I set about learning how to make some pop-up cards! This site has a lot of tutorials on the basics cuts and folds necessary for different types of pop-up cards. I wanted to create a structure on which I could stick my illustrations, with 3 layers so they would look nice and dimensional! To do this I used the box variation method, which involved some cutting, some mountain & valley folds, and hey presto POP-UP!!

Such Fun! I'm gonna do a tutorial next week, with a print out so you can make your very own King Kong in New York card!! so stay tuned for that.
Pop-up cards are great! and this is what I learnt this week :)

Macrame! What I learnt this week #1

2012-01-08T15:38:00.005+11:00

I have always loved retro craft books and magazines! and was often drawn to the amazing macrame plant holders that graced so many of the pages in these 70s instructinal manuals. However, I never learnt how to do it, never crossed macrame off my crafty list of skills! Why? I don't quite know, I like tying knots in rope as much as the next person! So when I saw some nice yellow rope at Bunnings I knew it was time.

I learnt a few of the basic knots, the good ol' half knot, the classic square knot, crown knot (ohhh fancy!) and away I went. It was super fun, and I felt a bit like a fisherman! which is always a good thing. Now as for my creation, it's by no means perfect, and I think i made some knots up along the way that a seasoned macramist would scoff at....but I love it in all its tacky glory.

Side note: This is one of the few plants that I have managed to keep alive, It would appear I am not very nurturing. Basically I leave it alone and it survives, however, it might not do so now that I've ripped it from its pot and planted it in this old light fitting. But it looks pretty swell right now!

Yay. Macrame, check! and this is what I learnt this week :)

New Year!

2012-01-07T13:24:00.003+11:00

Hurrah! it's a brand new year, and I've got a feeling it's gonna be a great one. Granted, i do think that every year....but hey! there is something to be said for positive thinking!

So, it was mighty quiet on the Poppet Blog last year...I put this down to two things.
Firstly, I am terribly lazy when it comes to online updating of things.
Secondly, 2011 was a busy busy year! Here is what happened....

After nearly 5 years of running Poppet I had grown weary of selling vintage clothing. It was a gradual realization, an itching of the feet, all the things I had loved about the business had started to lose their shine. The one bright star that never dimmed, however, was my amazing customers! you guys were the best :) and I feel so grateful for getting to know you all. Had it not been for the shop I never would have met so many of my wonderful friends that make my life a complete joy. I'm a lucky lady. Starting a small business on my own straight out of university was a decision borne from an uncertainty of what to do with my life, and a fear of getting a 'proper grown up job' out in the real world. By some lucky chance I managed to survive doing what I loved for years, and it was great, but evolution is also great, and that's what needed to happen!

So a change was needed, but what to do?! The shop had become such a part of who I was, that the thought of closing it down felt a little like losing a lover or amputating a limb, terrifying! but it had to be done. I got out my textas and made a plan, a multi-colour mind map to set me on the right path. I knew I wanted to focus more on designing under the Poppet label but there were so many ways of going about this. In the end, after much thought the winning idea was a retail collective for local designers, and with that Heroes & Villains was born. I had a month to transform what was Poppet into a new space, and what a fun month it was! I have always had a longing to be a handy man/builder and this was my time to shine, I painted, sanded, ripped up lino, concreted, built things and enjoyed wearing a lot of flannel shirts. It was a great experience, and when finished, I looked upon the bright new space and felt renewed and capable, ready to launch into this exciting new venture. Onwards and upwards!

So, the plan for 2012. So much stuff!
Lots of working in Heroes & Villains and lots of working on my Poppet clothing line!

I've also decided I need to learn more things! with that in mind I aim to do a weekly post detailing what I learnt that week. Perhaps it will be a new skill or hobby, maybe it will just be fun facts about dinosaurs, who knows...but stayed tuned and we can find out stuff together.

If you wanna keep up to date with my goings on, please follow Poppets facebook and twitter and Heroes & Villains facebook and twitter too. Yay

x Jules

New Shop!!!

2011-10-25T20:46:00.003+11:00

Hello!! Well it is time to reveal the exciting new project I've been toiling away at since I closed Poppet Vintage down....
I spent the last month pretending to be a handyman doing a complete refurbish and fit out, and now present you with my very new, very exciting shop!!!
It's called Heroes & Villains and will be stocking a whole host of amazing local designers, including Poppet Designs, so be sure to like the facebook page and i'll keep you up to date will all the excitement of the new venture :)

Online Vintage Dress Sale!

2011-08-15T16:44:00.003+10:00

Hey Buddies! I've listed some amazing vintage and retro frocks in the online shop!
and they're all only $20 & $30! Wowzers!

I will post out your order the very next day, or if you live in Melbourne you are welcome to come and pick up your purchases from Poppet....123 Scotchmer Street, Fitzroy North!!
Like a few things and cant make up your mind? you're welcome to come to the shop during opening hours (thurs-sun 11-5) and try stuff on! You can also buy direct from me and have a little chitty-chat as well! Yay

Wagons!

2011-06-09T15:48:00.004+10:00

A few months ago I had the pleasure of helping out as a stylist on the photo-shoot for the new Wagons album. I took along some of Poppets finest wares and assisted in making sure everyone looked super sexy......and look how sexy they all are!!

Wagons 'rumble, shake and tumble' is out now...it's super rad...go buy it.

Online Bargains!

2011-05-20T13:25:00.004+10:00

Hey Buddies! the online shop is pretty much all sold out....but there are 3 pieces left and they are now on super sale....only one of each so don't miss out!!

Head on over to the online shop and have a look!!

BIG BIG SALE!!

2011-05-18T14:46:00.004+10:00

OH wowzers! It is freezing in good ol' Melbourne town! Brrrrrr
So Poppet is going to help you get all rugged up with a massive winter sale!

All clothing will be 20-50% off and there will also be a super rad bargain basket of $10 frocks! Youp Youp!
Come on in and have a look :)
123 Scotchmer Street, Fitzroy North

Voodoo Lady

2011-02-26T15:03:00.003+11:00

A dear buddy of mine is needing some extra good luck today, so I'm wearing my most witchy outfit and sending some powerful magics out to her...you should do the same......fingers crossed!!!

dress: topshop
shawl: twas my mamas
shoes: windsor smith
super awesome squirrel necklace: kester black

Sayonara Stox!

2011-02-14T18:56:00.004+11:00

One of my bestest buddies moved away....SAD FACE!
So I made her these bunnies so she will always have a little piece of Poppet with her.
I'll miss you stox....lots and lots!

Now that's all a bit sad....but the story of how we met is quite delightful:

Cast your mind back to 2008.... the 31st of May to be exact....
It was a day of hustle and bustle in the shop and everyone was happy and full of good cheer, but none more so than a charming lady by the name of Amy. She had come in to look for a dress for a swing dancing party...and we found her a beautiful 70's does the 40's pink frock...and she looked killer in it....but it needed a little something....so i raced upstairs and got my favourite frilly petticoat for her to borrow...now...i normally don't lend clothes from my private collection to people i don't know...but there was just something special about her and i knew it would complete the outfit perfectly.
So transaction finished, she left the shop and I couldn't help saying to my buddy..."now see!! that's the kinda person i want as my friend!!" She was fun and sweet and hilarious and also not a thief coz she bought back my petticoat the next week (with delicious thank you chocolates as well) and we've been best buds ever since.....YAY.....love you stox!

Is there someone who you love and you wanna get the message across loud and clear??
might i suggest a set of customised name bunnies! they are all the rage :)

Shop Favourites!

2011-02-02T18:31:00.002+11:00

Here are a two cute dresses that I am tempted to snatch from the shelves of Poppet.
Come in and buy them before I do :)

Double Trouble!

2011-01-15T17:38:00.004+11:00

Today the lovely Trish from Trish Hunter Finds came to Poppet for a play date!! and what fun we had :)

I created some lovely new garments that you will be privy to very soon...
and Trish listed a whole heap of amazing new things in her online shop.

With all that work out of the way we thought we should get down to some serious fun....
we played Upwords (Yay!) Trish won by a single point :(

(note: this may or may not be how our actual game looked at the end!!)

YAY.......super fun shop day......thanks trish :)

Summer Reading!

2011-01-08T16:53:00.004+11:00

OH OH... the secret is out.....I love 80's teen romance novels!
They are so innocent (ooooh vicky and scott were totally holding hands....ohhhh)
and the covers just kill me. Just look at some of these outfits :)

it's the font of popularity summer that i like the best....the girl looks like a goody goody
my first summer love is this ensemble....tres resort....and she digs the white jeans just like meeee.
oh summer breezes....naturally the best way to offset that killer hat is to accessories with a coil of rope...genius!

i love how shifty eyed and creepy the guy in love times two is.
ten-boy summer sounds like a great plan huh? as is a jaunty lavender sweater tied around the neck!! love it
summer dreams in a red and white stripe sweater...yes please!

and these ones are my favourites

hey good looking!! way to work that triple denim and hard hat combo.
this girl would have no trouble getting secret admirers...this outfit is dynamite!!
the love hunt....you are ridiculous....that is all

What fun....I have many many more in the shop....come have a look some time :)

Brand New Year!!

2011-01-02T15:34:00.002+11:00

Why hello there Poppeteers! Happy New Year to you all :)
Have you made your resolutions? I sure have....and one of them is to be a bit more consistent with my blog posting....let's see how that goes! If there is anything you wanna see more of (or less of!) let me know....but for now, here is one of my new favourite summer outfits :)

I'm totally digging on my new white jeans (umm i'm not slipping into white trash bogan territory am i?! eep)
and this top is a summer favourite.....navy, white and red...you really can't beat it.

Last Minute Christmas Goodies!

2010-12-22T12:22:00.006+11:00

Youp Youp....Christmas is so close I can taste it! (and it tastes goooooood)

If you still need to buy some presents, come into Poppet because I have you covered!

Squirrels : $30

Owls : $35

Deer: Small $35 Big $45

Bunny: $25

Whale: $25

Cushions: $25

Scarves: $10

Leather Ties: $10

Summer Gloves: $20

There is also a fantastic range of Vintage Clothing for both ladies and gents!

So many great presents! If you like the look of something but don't have time to come to the shop...please give me a call (0400690870) or email julesmusgrove@gmail.com because I can do orders over the Internet and express post your goodies so you get them before Christmas!
Having trouble deciding?! You can also buy a gift voucher from the online shoppe!
These can be used in my bricks and mortar store, on the Internets Store and also for Sewing Lessons......what a great gift!!

Music Monday

2010-12-06T23:39:00.002+11:00

Lately, Poppet has been all about the ladies.....I've been playing lots of Andrews Sisters, McGuire Sisters, Doris Day and Peggy Lee.....It has been bliss.
Here is one of my favourites!

Super Dooper Poppet Designs Sale!!

2010-11-19T13:52:00.004+11:00

Hey Buddies.....all Poppet Designs clothing is 50% off for the next week!!!

Hurrah

Come into Poppet and have a look.....or you can buy in the online shoppe!

(22nd-29th)

My Go-To Outfit

2010-11-06T12:56:00.002+11:00

When getting dressed seems like way to much effort this is the outfit that I wear.
It is easy and comfortable.... and if you come into the shop on the sleepy Sunday of a weekend filled with too much fun there is a good chance I'll be wearing this :)

Silver Skirt

2010-10-30T15:52:00.004+11:00

Out of every 'Poppet Designs' collection I allow myself to keep a few pieces.....and this skirt has been one of my favourites. It's nice and fitted at the waist then poufs out with pleats at the front and back... and I think the scalloped hem is super jaunty :)

There is only 2 of these skirts left.....so if you want one you should head into Poppet post-haste!!

Frock o' the week #8

2010-10-27T16:11:00.004+11:00

Cute red cotton 70's summer frock....
it has an elastic waist (comfortable!!) and a little collar (adorable!!)
On sale for $45 this week only at Poppet.....Yay

my idea of a good time!

2010-10-23T16:03:00.004+11:00

Today I sorted out my button collection.....It was awesome!

Now, I am certainly not a neat person (downright messy is probably more apt) but there is something about organising craft items that pleases me.

Ohhhh Chaos!

Ohhhh Pretty!

Ohhhh Organised!

Frock o' the week #7

2010-10-20T17:02:00.001+11:00

This cute 60s shift dress will be on sale at Poppet for just $45 this week only.
Come on in and have a look.....and remember first in best dressed :)

Field Work

2010-10-18T11:49:00.004+11:00

With summer fast on the approach I'm getting all inspired by the fashion choices of Jane Goodall. As an amazing primatologist starting out in the 60s, her outfits were all adorable shorts and rolled sleeved shirts. I'm gonna switch some of that khaki with some cute pastels and I'll be all ready to bring back some ol' time scout style to my summer wardrobe. Gotta love that!

ps. how cute are chimps :)

Spring!!

2010-10-03T11:36:00.002+11:00

Yay! The spring weather has finally hit Melbourne, and I for one am real excited about packing away the winter woollies and wearing some warm weather outfits.

I made this skirt last summer (you might remember there were some red ones in the Poppet Collection)
The cute sailboat print insisted I keep the rest of the outfit appropriately nautical..... red, navy and cream ahoy!!

Big Big Sale!

2010-09-15T14:57:00.003+10:00

Hey Folks! Poppet is having a big sale and you're all invited to come and partake in some crazy good bargain fun times. Yay

All vintage clothing will be between 20-75% off, Wowzers! I sure ain't a mathematician but that seems like a pretty swell deal :)

The sale starts tomorrow and ends when September is all done and dusted!
Hurrah

Shoes!

2010-08-14T16:21:00.003+10:00

Here are some of my favourite shoes that are in-store at the moment :)

amazing woven leather lace up shoes! i love love love these....but alas they're too small for me
(i briefly considered lopping off my toes in order to get into these lovelies but luckily thought better of it!)

super cute two-tone leather shoes, they have sweet lil' wooden heels on em!

beautiful brown leather ankle boots with buckles....nice

stylish black brogues....these are great on both ladies and gents
(and if you don't buy them soon they might just accidentally walk into my wardrobe...ooops!)

fun 80's white leather slingbacks!

There is heaps more lovely shoes and boots in-store.....come on in and have a look

Music Monday

2010-08-02T16:51:00.002+10:00

Here's a sweet lil' song for you! Sugar Town by Nancy Sinatra.

Her outfit in this clip is out of control amazing....what a fox!

Man crush Friday

2010-07-30T16:09:00.003+10:00

Today it's all about Beck......mmmm Beck.

He's a total dreamboat, super-dooper stylish and a musical genius....what more could you want :)

(how amazing is that keyboard dress....i thinks i'm gonna have to make me one of those!)

Yay. Beck I tip my hat to thee :)

Frock o' the week #6

2010-07-28T19:50:00.004+10:00

Hey Folks! here's another lovely frock o' the week.

It is made from a beautiful soft chiffon....and check out the draping on those sleeves....just charming!

On sale for just $45 till Sunday.....remember first in best dressed :)

New Dress!

2010-07-24T16:51:00.003+10:00

Just look at this triumph of 80's design!! Insane, I know!!

Now....me and the 80's ain't always on good terms....but there was just something about this little number that made me snatch it from the shop before anyone else could buy it.

I think maybe it's because of its complete lack of subtlety.....honestly the designer couldn't have put more into this dress if they'd tried.
It's made from a slinky stretchy lycra in a silver and black camouflaged tiger print. The body is all ruched....there is a lace panel insert down the front, a high neck that buttons at the back, and also (as if that isn't enough!) fabric panels attached at the front that go over the shoulders into a low cut draped back.....Wowzers batman.....it's out o' control :)

Now I bet you're thinking "where on earth did you wear something so insanely fabulous?!"
Well the answer to that is DANCETERIA....it was great! and you should all come along to the next one.......and if you're needing something a bit special to wear Poppet has you covered!

Gloves

2010-07-15T15:51:00.005+10:00

Hey Folks....There is heaps of lovely gloves at Poppet right now....come on in and have a peek :)

Poppet Designs New Collection!!

2010-07-01T12:25:00.003+10:00

Poppets latest collection of in-store designs is out now! and boy is there some cute pieces :)
Also there is a party tonight to celebrate...hurrah...come along and bring your buddies!

Man crush Friday

2010-06-25T16:38:00.003+10:00

Well, I should be doing work...but have instead been looking at pretty boys! ooops

maybe you would like to do the same........Today it's all about John and George

Mmmm....what dreamboats!! and so sharply dressed.

And here's a group shot in case you prefer Paul or Ringo (?!)

Poppet Party!!

2010-06-23T18:05:00.003+10:00

Get excited folks....because it is time for another Poppet Party.....YIPPIE!

Thursday 1st July, 6.30-9
at Poppet: 123 Scotchmer st, Fitzroy North

Come and celebrate Poppet Designs charming new collection!

also enjoy

20% OFF ALL VINTAGE ON THE NIGHT

so come and have fun, play dress-ups, try on some wigs, enjoy some delicious snacks and a beverage or few! Hoop-la :)

So don't be shy, come along and bring your buddies!
and if you wanna become a fan on the facebook all the event details are there too!!

Hurrah

Scarves

2010-06-18T16:49:00.002+10:00

Hey Buddies! there is a lovely range of scarves at Poppet right now.....
and they are only $10.....wowzers!!

Ties!!

2010-06-13T14:41:00.003+10:00

Hey! Heaps of leather ties in the shop at the moment....only $20 each....I've been wearing my ones non-stop and I just know you wanna do the same :)

Super Dooper Sale!!!

2010-06-10T11:10:00.006+10:00

Hey Folks...boy do I have a treat for you... I've put all the Poppet Designs clothing on super sale, from now until the end of the month!
Wowzers. Dresses only $95 (were $145) Shorts only $60 (were $90) madness I know!

So go to the ONLINE SHOP or come visit me at POPPET 123 Scotchmer St. Fitzroy Nth
and get some fabulous frocks at fantastic prices!! Hurrah

So many skirts!

2010-06-07T19:18:00.003+10:00

Just some of the lovely woolen skirts at Poppet right now!

Western Shirts!

2010-06-03T16:48:00.003+10:00

Check out some of the great new menswear now instore at Poppet.

Nice huh?! and I've got heaps more too....so come visit me fellas....you wont regret it :)

New favourite dress!

2010-05-30T15:55:00.003+10:00

I got this dress from Trish Hunter Finds.....and I absolutely love it. The fabric feels wonderful and silky, the sleeves are amazing, it has a matching belt, and a white collar and adorable red bow.....you cant get better than that!

Trish has some amazing things in her online shop at the moment.....my favourites are this beautiful red dress and this super cute swimsuit....Yay!

Frock o' the week #5

2010-05-27T16:09:00.002+10:00

What a pretty 60's mini dress....and the long sleeves make this a winter winner!
On sale for $45 till this Sunday......first in best dressed :)

Ties and Boots

2010-05-23T13:08:00.004+10:00

Lately I've been enjoying a dash of man-style dressing. I put this down to two things.
1: When I'm working I find wearing a tie makes me even more productive and executive-ish
2: I have some very handsome, sharply dressed friends who really know how to wear a good suit! and how can I not get inspired by that??!

In other news........Around this time every year my mum phones me up and says
"Julia darling! I just wanted to let you know I put some money in your account so you can buy some new boots for winter"
isn't she just the greatest!

I got these from Novo. They were only $80 and they are super comfy! They are a bit different from my usual style, but they spoke to me and I absolutely love them.....thanks new boots....and thanks Ma :)

Frock o' the week #4

2010-05-19T19:43:00.003+10:00

This is a pretty one! on sale for just $45 till Sunday :)

Frock o' the Week #3

2010-05-12T18:29:00.003+10:00

Oh Oh....look out, this is a bit exciting!

I'm putting my favourite handmade dresses up for frock o' the week.

There is only 2 of these lil' charmers left and now they are on sale....hurrah....
and they are also reduced in the online shop.....ONLY $100 (that's $45 off!!!!!!)
Remember, these are only on sale until this Sunday so get in quick :)

Lil' Jackets!

2010-05-10T18:29:00.002+10:00

Check out these adorable early 60s cropped jackets that are in the shop right now!

Cute cotton double breasted short sleeve jacket. I really like how it is cut higher at the front :)

Plaid wool fully lined jacket with 3/4 sleeves and lovely big buttons.

Frock o' the Week #2

2010-05-05T21:28:00.003+10:00

Gee Whiz! this week has just zoomed by! and it's time for another instalment of Frock o' the week....

Ohhh super cute I know!
It has puffed sleeves and gathers and a tie that does up at the back....all this and a charming 70's floral print just perfect for these autumn days....Yay
On sale till Sunday for $45.....and remember first in best dressed :)

Frock o' the Week!

2010-04-28T18:36:00.003+10:00

Poppet has a new and exciting feature...starting right now I will be showcasing a frock of the week....every week! Yippie.

The dresses (and other such fancies) will be hand picked by me and they will all be super great (in my professional opinion anyways) and for the whole week it will be on sale too! Sounding pretty fun right? So on with the show.....here is the first Frock o' the Week.

Wowzers! what a dress.....unleash your inner 80s sexy secretary in this lil' number. I can safely say that when wearing this frock you will feel like an unstoppable force of nature! (it really is that awesome)

On sale this week at Poppet for just $50....and remember first in best dressed :)

Online Shop is now Online!

2010-04-22T17:53:00.004+10:00

Hurrah....my online shop is finally ready to be released into the big wide internetty world!

Click Here to go have a look!

All of my handmade creations are there for your buying pleasure, and remember I also do custom designs so if you are after something specific send me an email.

If that isn't exciting enough, I also have some beautiful handmade purses to give away to my first 5 customers.....Yippie

Sunshine Day

2010-04-17T15:11:00.002+10:00

Well good old Melbourne has busted out a day of brilliant weather! Just as everything was looking dire and wintery.
So naturally I got to thinking about the Brady Bunch, and all their colourful, joyous, clean living goodness :)

This song was from the T.V series...but they also did it in the movie remake in the 90's (which is hilarious by the way) Enjoy!

Camberwell Market

2010-04-10T17:57:00.002+10:00

Hey Folks....I'm having a stall at Camberwell Market tomorrow....I'll be a bit bleary eyed, but if you're in the area stop by and say hello!

It is stall 383 and I'll be selling lots of vintage and retro clothes, accessories and books etc. Basically my storeroom is out of control so I need to get rid of lots of things. My loss is your gain because things will be going cheap!

Yay....I think it's going to be a really fun day....I can't wait to get a hot jam donut! Yum!!

Custom Made

2010-03-30T15:27:00.004+11:00

In addition to the handmade collections I design and make for Poppet I also create one-off pieces for my lovely customers in need of something specific.

This dress was made for Alice.....she came into the shop, fabric in hand and said "I would like a 50's inspired sleeveless dress that is both fun and elegant...and can work for both day and night" (I am paraphrasing but it did go something like that!)
So a few measurements and sketches later we came up with the perfect design and I was left to do the making.....and this is how it turned out

The fabric is a slightly stretchy cotton with small white spots. It has a fully lined bodice and gathered skirt. I think it came out perfect and I'm a little sad to see it go to its new home (I might just have to make myself a similar one!)

If you have something specific that you want made....come visit me at Poppet or send me an email and we'll see what we can do....Yay

Twitter

2010-03-29T20:25:00.003+11:00

Hey Folks.....I am now on Twitter....I still don't quite understand it....and I'm a little reluctant to tweet things....but I'll get better.
If you wanna follow me that'd be swell :)

There is a button right on the side of this blog.....also follow me on the facebook....you'll like it! yay

Poppet in Print

2010-03-23T15:48:00.003+11:00

The other day I picked up Bark Mag, which is a new magazine made in Melbourne. It is all about the art, music, fashion and good things happening in this fine city.......and I was in it!

Click to get a bigger version if you wanna read it! note...the red circling around text is a thing they do in this magazine....I didn't feel the need to highlight specific phrases about myself :) haha

Also....this is from last year....from the fantastic Peppermint magazine.

Phoebe...aka Lady Melbourne, chose Poppet as the setting for her photo shoot, and also chose to wear a Poppet signature handmade dress....and boy did she look cute in it!

That's all for now folks! I gotta get back to work

Super Sale!

2010-03-19T16:46:00.003+11:00

Poppet is having a really big sale! You should come along.
20-80% off all vintage clothing
$20 rack of dresses
$10 bargain baskets

So many amazing deals to be had....these prices suggest that perhaps I've gone crazy....don't worry, I haven't...I just want you all to come say hello and pick up some bargains.
Hurrah!

Poppet: 123 Scotchmer Street, Fitzroy North
open Thur-Sun 10.30-5
ends Sunday 11th April

High Tea!

2010-03-16T12:42:00.003+11:00

Last Sunday I had the enjoyable task of attending high tea at the Park Hyatt with some charming vintage bloggers and enthusiasts!

This stylish gathering was organised by the lovely Nicole from Circa Vintage as a welcome for her new assistant manager Carly, and a chance for us to all meet up and talk about what we love.
I had never been to a high tea before, and I was a little nervous about going somewhere so fancy (I had to consult my friends before hand to determine if it would be inappropriate to order a cola instead of tea or coffee....haha, they said it would be a-ok....I love cola!)
There was cute little sandwiches, delicious mini lemon tarts, brownies....mmmm....and scones with jam and cream! Scrumptious.

Ester from Kitty's Drawings, Marianne from Esme and the Laneway, Carly (new assistant manager new at Circa Vintage) Julie from Ballarat Vintage Style (her dress was breathtaking, and I was super jealous of her cute short hair) Claire from HarbourMaster, Maria from Vintage Suburbia, Super Kawaii Mama, Nicole from Circa Vintage, Fiona (burlesque dancer and employee at Circa) and me.

It was a wonderful afternoon, thanks so much to Nicole for organising it.
Also, we got goodie bags! yippie, mine had a beautiful scarf, strand of bead and an adorable pocket mirror all from the amazing Circa....what a treat!

For such a fancy occasion I thought I really should whip up a new frock to wear. I used a black matt satin with a cute floral net overlay.....and of course threw in a big collar and belt with a vintage buckle! yay....it is very me and I absolutely love it :)

secret: there is going to be quite a similar style dress coming up in the new winter collection!

So many short shorts!

2010-03-07T14:54:00.003+11:00

I have been a busy lady lately! busy making lots of lovely new clothes for the shop.

There is 3 more blue dresses (this is the last of the fabric so get in quick) And lots of cute shorty shorts, in different colours too :)

I redrafted my shorts pattern to have nice deep front pockets....yay for pockets.

This vintage floral fabric looks adorable :)

And last but not least....yellow shorts with button detail!
I have been also busy toiling on other projects....but that is a secret for another time :)

Pancake Day Extravaganza!

2010-02-23T22:22:00.005+11:00

Oh Boy! Last Saturday was Pancake Day in the shop.....and what fun we had!

My lovely sisters Tori and Lorna, and friend Amy came over to help out and there were pancakes galore!

We wore aprons! Yay......this photo is very posed, because I did not do any of the cooking of the pancakes....I whipped up the batter, but left the fine art of making them to my lil' sis.

She is a whiz on the crepe machine! (and she also has a fantastic food blog...go have a read!)
We had the classic lemon & sugar and maple syrup toppings, but we also got a bit creative!

Coconut, Strawberry and Chocolate! ohhhh fancy :)

Honeycomb! mmmm delicious

Ham, Cheese and Basil....ohhhh savory!

It was a super fun day, and everyone that came into the shop was excited (one guy loved his pancake so much he came back for a second) We raised some money for Uniting Care and had a great time in the process....thanks to those who helped out, and thanks to my lovely customers that gave donations.....Yippie

*Also...big thanks to Amy for the photos...yay

Pancake Day @ Poppet.......Saturday 20th.... Yippie!

2010-02-18T16:14:00.002+11:00

Well Pancake Day was technically on Tuesday....but here at Poppet, it's better late then never when it comes to pancakes! So this Saturday, we'll be flipping some pancakes (with many a delicious topping) to raise money for Uniting Care.
Not only will your donations give you a full belly and satisfied taste buds.....but it will also entitle you to 20% off all vintage in the shop on the day!!! Could this get any better? I think not!
So come to Poppet this Saturday and eat, shop and do good!

123 Scotchmer Street, Fitzroy North
open at 11 and pancakes will happen shortly after.
YUM YUM YUM!

Black & White

2010-02-18T12:22:00.004+11:00

I made this dress a while ago, because I was completely lacking a basic black dress....crazy I know.
I was happy with this new wardrobe addition, but I couldn't help but think "gee whiz....maybe it's too basic" and that's where the giant white bow brooch comes to the rescue....because everyone likes large bows pinned to their front...don't they?

I got these sheer white spotty tights from target....and I love them lots!
I also got a pair in light grey...but I worry that they make me look like I have old lady corpse legs, and I don't think that's the effect I'm after...haha, oh well

Beads!

2010-02-04T14:54:00.005+11:00

I love beads! they are bright and fun and pretty...
There are heaps in the shop right now so come in and have a look :)

Hard Rubbish

2010-01-22T12:42:00.003+11:00

Hard rubbish hunting is a Melbourne institution, and one of my favourite past-times!

Basically people put their unwanted household things out on the side of the street (in most suburbs this happens on a few dates during the year) and then the surrounding folks descend and the foraging for treasure begins.

The other day I picked up this charming croquet set! what fun this will be! it's missing 3 balls so if anyone knows where to buy replacements let me know.

I also got this busted up chair, and even though it's in a poorly state I think it's got a lot of style, so I'm gonna fix it up.

I've always wanted to get into furniture restoration....I think it would be the perfect hobby for me because I have this weird yearning in my heart to do woodwork (not quite sure where this came from!) combine this with my soft furnishings skills and love of 50's and 60's furniture and this could be a match made in hobby heaven :)

Of all my hard rubbish find this violin is my favourite!

Many years ago there was a pile of junk outside my house, and someone had carefully placed this adorable child size violin right on the top.....just waiting for me to find it and love it!

Hurrah for hard rubbish I say....have you found any treasures?? I would love to hear about them.

Look what I made!

2010-01-15T20:15:00.005+11:00

After a busy few months making beautiful things for Poppet, I thought I should treat myself to a bit of hand-made goodness. And the result was this floral 2 piece! high waisted shorts and a little collared shirt with a bow......it is a little crazy but fun :)

Outfit

2010-01-03T18:54:00.007+11:00

This is what I wore today. Melbourne provided a lovely cool day and I was so excited to bust out my star tights I got last week. I wore them with my red shorts from the new poppet collection, a black top and my favourite hat...yay!
I sometimes get a bit overexcited when putting together ensembles and my imaginings are beginning to get a little elaborate and out of control.
Today's outfit had me dreaming of being a wise-talking dame working in a smoke filled cabaret, occasionally placing myself atop the piano to perform a sultry number. But wait, it gets better... the job in the club is merely a cover, for my work as a private detective!...foiling the plots of dastardly criminals....haha
hmmmm, a bit crazy I know....but I do manage to keep myself entertained :)

Inside Poppet

2009-12-30T20:46:00.006+11:00

Hey Folks! I thought I would give you all a peek inside the Poppet shop!

For anyone who is new to the blog you might be wondering what Poppet is all about, I shall tell you :)

Poppet is a vintage clothing store in the heart of lovey Fitzroy North, Melbourne, Australia. I sell fun vintage and retro clothing for guys and gals! I source my stock locally and from around the globe, and I like to think there is something for everyone (unless you hate vintage...but that's just crazy!)

This year I also started creating a new clothing line. Designed and produced by myself, the seasonal collections are vintage inspired and super cute. Fun frocks for fun people! Currently they are stocked exclusively at Poppet, but I'm working on getting some online shopping going for all you folks not in Melbourne.

When I'm not busy chatting to my charming customers, I'm hard at work crafting toys, jewellery and accessories to sell.....my favourite has to be the crochet fruit & veg necklaces, just look how happy they are! (except the carrot, he looks vaguely evil)

So that's Poppet, if you're in Melbourne come for a visit
123 Scotchmer Street, Fitzroy North
thurs-sun 10.30-5
or if you have any questions send me an email julesmusgrove@gmail.com

Panorama fun times! i totally got inspired by seeing trish hunter finds great panoramas of her house.

Party Photos

2009-12-24T11:39:00.003+11:00

Hey Folks, has it really been a week since the fun of the Poppet party!? How time flies when it's almost Christmas.....yippie!

The party was so much fun, thanks to everyone who braved the downpour to come, I had a great time and I hope you did too!

I wore my favourite outfit from the new collection....Yay

Lot's of lovely people having a lovely time :)

There was even entertainment, in the form of super cute hissy loco playing some swell ukulele songs. She was awesome!

There is lots more photos on the facebook page.....you should become a fan, all the cool kids are doing it.
All the photos were taken by the amazing Tara, she has a blog that you should defiantly check out, it has a wonderful design and layout, and her pictures are beautiful.

So thanks again to all my lovely friends and customers that came to the party....it was great to see you all! And for those of you that missed it, never fear, there will be another next year.

ps. just one sleep till christmas....sooooooooooooo excited

My new hat

2009-12-20T14:53:00.005+11:00

Well it has finally happened, I have found the perfect black vintage hat! and it even fits my noggin, yay! I think it's safe to say that this changes everything. I feel like my life will be 110% more awesome in this hat :)
I kinda wish I was living in the 20's, a strong independent woman studying great literary works and fighting for women's rights by day, and by night driving boys wild with my outer sight charleston-ing on the dance floor....but that's just my imagination getting the better of me again, I don't even know how to Charleston....I should learn, it might come in handy one day!

This is the outfit I wore yesterday...the socks are above the knee 2 tone and I love them (they were only $8 at the clear-it Allanah Hill outlet on Brunswick street)

So that's my new hat, Huzzah!

Summer Collection

2009-12-15T17:34:00.006+11:00

Here it is! The new collection of super cute clothing designed and made in store at Poppet

Thursday night I'm hosting a party to celebrate the new creations and to give all lucky party-goes a 20% discount off vintage clothing.
So come along and pick and mix some old and new frocks and fancies and enjoy the festive ambiance.
From 6pm this Thursday the 17^th of December at 123 Scotchmer Street, North Fitzroy
Hurrah

Hatchlings!

2009-12-14T13:17:00.004+11:00

Last Saturday my two lovely sisters went to the Craft Hatch market to man the Poppet stall.
They had a lovely day and sold lots of cute toys and accessories to happy customers & look how nicely they set up the table too! Yippie

Trish hunts for you!

2009-12-10T20:54:00.011+11:00

Trish Hunter Finds is the funnest blog ever!

She always keeps me entertained with her hilarious writing and is an op-shopping demon who discovers the most amazing treasures.

Now she has started a fantastic new online shop, selling all manner of wonderful vintage and retro clothing, accessories and collectables....there really is something for everyone!

These are just some of the great things that have made me say "me wanty" whilst perusing her shop. Go check it out....you'll be glad you did, Hurrah!

hoot hoot!

2009-12-08T19:17:00.003+11:00

Well crazy ol' Melbourne is at it again! It was cold, grey and rainy...not at all summery like it should be. I however love these sort of days, because it's perfect for crafting. Hoopla

I made these guys today, adorable right? these owls have been a Poppet favourite since I opened nearly 3 years ago, and I don't think I'll ever get sick of making them. My favourite part is when you put the eyes on and they completely come to life (not literally...that would be awesome though....i would have so many animal friends)
Poppet will be at the Craft Hatch market on Saturday (I'll be workin in the shop, so I'll be sending my minions...aka my lovely sisters....to the market to sell my wares, yippie) you should go have a look!

Party Time!

2009-12-02T22:16:00.004+11:00

Oh yeah! it's time again for another Poppet Party.....Hurrah

You're invited to an evening of festive fun to celebrate Poppet's 3rd anniversary
and the launch of its new summer line (yup..that includes playsuits!)
20% off all vintage clothing on the night so bring your cash and stock up for a stylish summer!

Poppet: 123 Scotchmer St, Fitzroy North
Thursday 17 December 6-9pm

Dress fancy and bring your buddies because it will be a swell night. Yippie

Boys!

2009-11-29T11:20:00.005+11:00

A sampling of the super sexy boys stuff in the shop at the moment....nice huh!

So if you wanna look as foxy as Gregory here I suggest you get in to Poppet on the double! Yay!

Finger-Pickin' Good!

2009-11-20T14:14:00.006+11:00

I love playing the banjo. There I said it!

It's the funnest instrument ever, and i challenge anyone to hold one and not be super-dooper happy....It's just not possible :)
I've been teaching myself how to play for a bit over a year now and it brings me endless entertainment, but I'm starting to feel like my love o' the banjo is subtly affecting my aesthetic.

All I want to be wearing these days is high-ish waisted jeans teemed western shirts and cheap canvas shoes (and man do i love a good pair of white socks!)
Now I personally think this look is 100% adorable, but when even my dad starts razzing me for looking like a country hick I wonder if things have gone awry (let it be said that my pa isn't the most stylish of gents, but a surely a farmer born and bred knows how to spot a hick when he sees one)

(my hound loves it when i play to her)

These are my two favourite outfits at the moment, and they are on high rotation in my wardrobe. I am willing to concede that they are a little on the country side, but not in a bumbling bucktooth yokel kinda way, but in a cute farm girl kinda way....right?
Well that's my opinion anyway, and I'm running with it. Yippie

On a related note I've just got a new shipment of stock in from America....and there is a whole heap of great western shirts. I'll put some photos up next week, but I'd get in quick because they wont last long. Hurrah.

(my buddy Em thought of the title for this post....we thought it was hilarious, but we're a bit silly)

Go-Go Fun!

2009-11-18T21:49:00.003+11:00

Wowzers.....I just got back from my very first Go-Go dance class and it was the greatest fun the world has ever seen!.

It is run by Anna of Anna's go-go Academy, and she is one super lady. She creates such a fun and exciting atmosphere, and the dances she concocts are incredible. We did a whole heap of different dances to some amazing songs and the hour just flew by (i was however super exhausted by the end)

(image from anna's go-go academy website)

So if you want to try something new, I would defiantly go to go-go! Maybe I'll see you there next week. Yay!

Sneak Peak!

2009-11-16T18:46:00.003+11:00

Hey Folks!

Well it's been all a-go-go at Poppet HQ lately, I've been madly designing, drafting and sewing up some gorgeous pieces for the summer line. It's gonna be fun and bright and oh so nice :)
I was going to keep it all secret until the launch party next month (stay tuned because it'll be a swell night out!) but when I created this little number I got so excited I just had to show you all.

Ta Da! It's a plaid play-suit! Hurrah!

In other news I got a new laptop last week. Yay.
For the last few months I have been using a frankenstein like desktop cooked up by my buddy from discarded computer scraps found on the side of the road. Now this was all well and good (free things always tend to impress me) but when my day to day computing had to occur off a live ubuntu CD (vaguely broken mind you) and accessing my files meant going into the terminal and typing crazy commands, I felt like I was turning into a nerd o' the computer variety and that just didn't sit right with me......I like my nerdiness to be of the crafty and board gamey variety.
So anyways my new laptop is super. I can do work all day long and into the night, so that means more blog posts for you to read!

I like you

2009-11-01T16:10:00.006+11:00

A few weeks ago I was the lucky winner of this beautiful pocket watch from 'I like you' I never win anything so this was such a delightful treat :)

If you aren't familiar with the 'I like you' shop in Fitzroy you defiantly should check it out. It is such a cute store filled with lots of beautiful things. And they now have an online shop too for people not in the wonderful city of Melbourne.
They also have a fun blog and every week they do a giveaway....so if you wanna win something lovely head over to the blog.... because you gotta be in it to win!

Hurrah......I've been having so much fun wearing it, telling the time has never been more fun!
Thanks 'I like you'.....i really do like you!

Nurses

2009-10-18T12:16:00.004+11:00

I love costume parties....it is no secret!
I think every party should have some sort of theme...that way you get all the fun of the party, plus all the added fun of dressing up! What's not to love about that :)

The other week I went to a great "emergency ward" party, and Amy and I dressed up as WW2 Nurses....we had vintage wool capes, cute dresses and I made us hats and an apron. We also had vintage red cases for our 'medical kits' which Amy wisely stocked with supplies (the bandages came in handy when there was the inevitable drunken accident....eep)

It was a great party and everybody's costumes were fantastic...hurrah

If you are ever stuck for a costume, come see me at Poppet. With all the stock in the shop and all my treasures hidden in the store-room, I think we could make any costume possible! Yay

New Things

2009-10-02T16:58:00.007+10:00

Some of my favourite vintage pieces that I've just put in the shop!

Come visit me at Poppet....123 Scotchmer St, Fitzroy North to have a look at these and the many other adorable pieces I have for sale :)

I love my Dog

2009-09-30T22:37:00.006+10:00

Today I was taking some photos of the new stock I've just put in the shop, and my lovely hound Tilda thought she would get in on the fun!
She is a 10 year old Kelpie Lab cross and her favourite activities include swimming, chasing flocks of pigeons and getting lots of cuddles :)
I rescued her from the RSPCA nearly 4 years ago, and she has filled my life with such love and joy.
She is the greatest!

Photos of the new stock is coming soon....I just couldn't resist showing off my hound :)

Large Artist Studio Available!

2009-09-22T13:38:00.007+10:00

Poppet Studios has a lovely big space available for an artist or crafter!

The room is 16sqM and is bright and airy with a large window and has been freshly painted. It would suit an artist, craftsperson, dressmaker, designer or anyone else looking for a creative work-space in the heart of bustling North Fitzroy.
There is also a kitchenette, bathroom, outdoor courtyard, ping pong table and piano...what more could you need! Also, my lovely dog Tilda has full run of the property, so you must like hounds :)
Rent is $100pw including bills, and wireless Internet is available on request.
If you are interested, please email me at julesmusgrove@gmail.com and tell me a bit about yourself and what you do!

Yay...hope to hear from you soon!

Do you love our planet?

2009-09-16T13:57:00.003+10:00

You do! What a coincidence....so do I :)

If you are under 30 go and vote in the Youth Decide Campaign.
It only takes a minute and is really important! Yay.....get the word out people

image from here

Je Suis Stupide!

2009-09-11T14:43:00.007+10:00

A few weeks ago I came upon a truly amazing piece of vintage finery to put in the shop!

I couldn't believe my little peepers when I found this adorable 3 piece set, complete with a shirt, short-shorts and ....... a cape!
Wowzers Batman, thought I, this is genius!
What revolutionary mad-man invented this crazy and
oh so perfect combination of clothes?
Why did this concept not live on to be seen for the rest of fashion time?
Would people think I was slightly un-hinged if every outfit I wore from now on till I die contained short-shorts and a cape!
OK, so you get the picture....I got a bit over-excited :)
But how could I not? It's incredible!

Since I put this 3 piece in the shop for sale, I've been taking every opportunity to discuss its excellence with any customer that happens to linger too long.
I was doing just this the other day as a lovely lass was looking at the garment. I had just finished telling her how good this outfit would look on a cute girl riding a vintage bike.....the wind flapping the cape all about in a whirlwind of beguiling mystery (my imagination is sometimes slightly too vivid) when she looks at me, and very gently says "ummmm, I don't think that's a cape"
Derrr, of course its a cape! It has to be! What else could it be! What is this crazy lady doing in my shop, trying to shatter my dreams of the worlds greatest outfit!

But as it turns out, it is actually a skirt.

I think in my excitement about the prospect of a cape with short-shorts, I completely ignored the obvious meaning of this outfit....I feel quite foolish!
Yes, a shirt and shorts, with an additional skirt for more modest days makes sense. And true, it does look adorable, but I think in my heart it will always remain a cape :)

So if you want this amazing and obviously multi-purpose outfit, come into the shop and buy it......please....before I steal it for myself :)

Sweet lovers love the Spring

2009-09-01T21:27:00.003+10:00

Well, It's officially spring, and I couldn't be happier!

The sun's been shining, the birds have been singing and flowers have been popping up all over the place.
And I've been a busy bee working on my newest creations.

Handmade floral headbands!
I think they are the perfect spring time accessory...sweet, charming and fun!
Available in a variety of colours and fabrics, these lil' beauties are a bargain at $30
(and i love to custom make...so if you want something super special drop me a line)

So pop into Poppet and pick one up....it will be sure to brighten your day (and with Melbourne's bad habit of lingering winters, this might be just the colourful pick-me-up you need for when the weather undoubtedly turns sour!)

PUPPIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-08-19T18:45:00.006+10:00

Eeeeeee! Today I got to play with the sweetest puppies in the world.

They are 10 week old Labrador Cross boys, and they are free to a good home. Yes you heard right....Free!
They are so beautiful, playful, cuddly and eager to be your new best friend :)

So if you're looking to make a new addition to your family, please consider one of these little cuties. They will be your new best buddy and give you so much love and friendship.
Call Lynn on 0417112686

Oh What a Night!

2009-08-17T14:33:00.007+10:00

Hey Folks!

Well the Poppet Party has been and gone, and boy was it a fun night!
It was lovely to see so many friendly faces and favourite customers all in the one place.

There was drinks and nibbles, great tunes and plenty of people playing dress-ups, and if that isn't a recipe for success I don't know what is!

I also got the chance to catch up with some lovely blogger buddies.
Super Kawaii Mama, Nicole from Circa, and Trish Hunter Finds!

Hurrah...on with the photos!

Super Kawaii Mama, me and Trish Hunter Finds

it wouldn't be a party without fairy bread now would it???

perusal of the stock

playing with the toys

I have discovered the key to a fun party....Wigs! and lots of them.

Thanks to everyone for coming and helping me celebrate! It was so much fun.

Also big thanks go to...
Amy for helping me play hostess (i get shy and nervous at parties and Amy is great at working the room...we made a good team)
Lorna and Woodsy for running the bar...no one went thirsty that's for sure!
Katie for playing some amazing tunes...she started the night out with a super mix of 60's girl groups, and as the evening progressed got everyone dancing to some awesome 80's tracks. (but no matter how much the crowd went crazy for John Farnham, I still don't approve, haha :)
Tara...Photographer Extraordinaire! Thanks so much for taking all the photos, you did a great job!
Ben, for being a great shop monkey and helping me set up and keeping me calm :)

Also thanks to Super Kawaii Mama, Nicole from Circa and Jill for my lovely flowers.
It was so sweet of you and made me feel very special!

Yay...there is lots more photos on Poppets Facebook page.
Become a fan and take a peak!

Poppet Designs

2009-08-12T02:12:00.005+10:00

My new collection of original vintage inspired frocks!

Available from Poppet this Friday.
I'm having a little launch party to celebrate so come along and enjoy the fun.
(there will also be 10% off everything in the store)

Party

2009-08-06T17:23:00.004+10:00

Hello All.... I'm having a party and you're invited!

Stay tuned to the blog because I'll soon be posting photos of the new designs!
but in the meantime let me just say that they're looking adorable :)

Hope to see you next friday!

Tap-Tastic!

2009-07-24T18:33:00.004+10:00

Hi Folks.
I've been spending a lot of time on You Tube looking at tap routines from the 20's 30's and 40's, there is so much incredible stuff.
I was always most attracted to the tap numbers in old movies: the music, costumes, sets and style were just so magical it makes me nostalgic for an era I never new! (ah, if only I had a time machine)
I've been learning tap for a bit over a year now and it is so much fun. Anyone that knows me, knows I'm not a big fan of exercise (seriously what's the point of running....can someone explain it to me?) but when it comes to tap dance I just can't get enough!
It doesn't really feel like exercise anyway, it's more like moving (hopefully gracefully!) around to great music, dreaming of being transported back into the past in some super hot costume and dancing like crazy on stage to a sold out theater of adoring fans (that's where my vivid imagination takes me anyway)
However....I realise my dream of being a star of the stage is not a realistic one:
a- I think I would die of stage fright before I could even do a shuffle ball-change!
b- Loving something doesn't magically give you talent!
So I'm living vicariously through the amazing work of the talented ladies leading the way in the golden era of tap

Eleanor Powell. How amazing is that outfit! and yes those tap shorts appear to be covered entirely in fringing. Me wanty!

A young Ann Miller

The Holst Sisters doing a novelty routine. I love everything about this one. The costumes are awesome, they are chained together at the feet and they are sisters, what more could you ask for. My sister started learning tap with me last year, it was such a fun sister bonding activity. But then she up and left to go live in Paris, how rude I say!

Extend-a-Sale!

2009-07-21T12:33:00.002+10:00

Hey Folks, just a quick note to tell you I've extended the sale until this Sunday (26th)
Come on in and pick up a bargain :)

Glamour Shots!

2009-07-15T21:12:00.006+10:00

The other week, I went to the greatest costume party that the world has ever seen.

The theme was glamour shots!
and as the invite said: think Sunday best, think Vaseline on the lens, think sexypeople-blog.com
People really went to town with the theme and it was amazing to see so many great costumes in the one place. There was plenty of 80's style and more denim than you could poke a stick at.
It wouldn't be a glamour shots party with out having the glamour shots! So the hosts set up a photo studio with lights and garish backdrops and two amazingly talented photographers to snap away the success of the night.

That's me! I went prom style by pinching a lovely yellow chiffon dress from the shop and making a giant bow for my hair.

Greg and Amy looking rather dashing. The suit and dress are both from Poppet
(this would make a great promo shot for the shop, dont ya think?)

Amy again..........so adorable :)

Ashleigh looking studious (check out the amazing hair braid!)

Michaela looking dreamy...and yes that is sprigs of baby's breath in her hair...too perfect for words

Tara and Shannon. Wow that's a lot of denim

Pete reading about puppies......love it!

Katie being a little kid...one of her six costume changes throughout the night, each more hilarious than the last :)

It was such a fun night, and even more fun when all the photos stared showing up on the facebook. It's great going to a party that is so well documented, because you can go back and re-live all the hilarity (and show the pictures to people that weren't there and make them jealous that they missed all the fun....haha)

All images courtesy of the amazing Tara and James.
Good work folks, you did a brilliant job!

Sale!

2009-07-10T21:01:00.003+10:00

The Poppet sale is under way, and there are bargains left right and possibly centre.
Stop by and pick up some great vintage deals.

Two big racks jam packed with $10 and $20 goodness.

$5 Treasure Chest

20% off the rest of the clothes in the shop....yes all!

Bargains for Boys.
Come on into Poppet and get some excellent $10 and $20 shirts,
and there is heaps of great winter gear at 20% off.

The sale ends on Sunday the 19, so don't miss out :)

Here is a picture for your entertainment.
Its a Michael Jackson tribute mannequin....styled by amy

yay...hope to see you all in the shop soon :)

New Window Display

2009-07-02T17:34:00.005+10:00

I've been hard at work this week putting together a new window display for the shop.

Because it is so very cold here in Melbourne-town, I went for a winter wonderland theme with icy blues and whites as the main colours. I thought this would also be a nice backdrop for the brightly coloured handmade toys that love being shown-off in the window!

I stenciled some white snowflakes on the window, and hung strands of blue and white pom-poms.

I made some new display boxes out of old dresser drawers. I spray-painted them white and glued some lovely vintage wallpaper in the back.

these little guys love hiding in their new boxes :)

With all the blue and white used, I thought some yellow flowers would be just the ticket to brighten things up. I made these pom-pom flowers on wire and put them in vintage glass bottles (these are really cute and easy to make, but if anyone wants a tutorial I can put one up)

So thats the window display, I hope you like it as much as I do.
If you're in the area come by and have a look....and don't forget to pop in and say hello :)

Hello Deer

2009-06-19T22:15:00.004+10:00

Here are some new critters I've been busy working on!
I think they are too cute for words.

They are made from super soft fleece with furry bellies and ears, and they have either felt or button eyes and cute patches on their rumps :)
They are all for sale in the shop, and you can also custom order ones in you're favourite colour. Hurrah!

Beanie Pattern

2009-06-04T15:09:00.007+10:00

Well, the cold has certainly settled on Melbourne town...and boy is it freezing.

I thought now would be a perfect time to bust out my knitting needles and use up some of my large wool stash, and one of my favourite projects to work on is hats.

I find they are the perfect size project to keep you entertained, and they usually get finished before you get sick of it and want to switch to something else :)
I have a buddy whose noggin was in definite need of warming up, so with that in mind I came up with a pattern for a super quick boy suitable beanie!

I love making berets and hats in the round using double pointed and circular needles, but for this project I wanted something that didn't require much concentration, so I decided to use standard needles, knit it flat and seam up at the end.
I found a big ball of chunky grey wool in my stash that I got from the op-shop, but it didn't have a tag so I don't know what ply it is. Basically you can use any bulky weight wool that knits up to equal 11stitches per 10cm across in stockinette.

Wool: Chunky weight
Needles: 6.5 mm
Gauge: 11st equals 10cm

Cast on 52 stitches

work double rib until piece measures 20cm long
(double rib = all rows: *k2, p2* across work)

next row: *k2, p2together*
next row: *p2together* purl last stitch
next row: *k2together*
next row: *p2together*

Leaving about 30cm of yarn, cut off and weave through remaining stitches, pull tight and tie off.
Stitch the two sides together and you're all done!

If you have any questions about the pattern, or if something doesn't make sense let me know. I think the pattern is ok, but I haven't made a second beanie yet so there might be a little kink in there somewhere :)

I think I like it so much I'm going to have to make myself one.....back to the knitting needles!

Capes & Cupcakes

2009-05-22T20:47:00.003+10:00

Today I had a lovely day in the shop!

Firstly...my best friend is visiting for a few days, which is always super fun! We play games, eat delicious food and watch TV shows that we both love and talk about the good old days....it's great.
Secondly....a wonderful friend popped into the shop and gave me the most amazing cape in the world. I've been wanting a new cape for a while now and this one is perfect. It is made from lovely soft mohair woven in Scotland, and is a charming combination of browns and greens which is well suited to the pretty autumnal colours in Melbourne at the moment. Thanks so much Maria...I love it :)

Thirdly....my Granny and aunty came into the shop for afternoon tea. I made cupcakes (pink of course!) and they brought the most delicious little cakes and macaroons. What fun!

It was a really fun day. I hope the weekend ahead will be just as exciting.

Jeans

2009-05-12T21:04:00.005+10:00

Check out these new jeans I found for the shop. They are amazing and super 70's and I love them, but as you can probably tell by the photos they are a smidge to small (breathing would become an issue) so I'm putting them in the shop for someone special to snap up! get in quick.

Also, check me out on Melbourne Street Fashion!
It was taken by the lovely Fashion Hayley on the day of the blogger party.
I always go incredibly awkward when someone is taking my photo....I swear I don't slouch like that all the time! but it was fun to see my pretty new dress on the internets :)

To market I go

2009-05-08T22:11:00.003+10:00

Tomorrow from 11-4 I'll be manning my stall at the Craft Hatch market.

For those of you who haven't been before it is a monthly market organised by the wonderful Craft Victoria. There will be some amazing designers and makers selling there wares in the charming surrounds of the City Library. I've been busy making lots more softies and crochet necklaces as well as some new and exciting designs.

So come along and have a look
11-4 Saturday 9th May
City Library
253 Flinders Lane, Melbourne