One of the things I love about vintage fashion is that there is always a story associated with it. Vintage items from Melbourne’s Circa Vintage are no exception. Last week I had the privilege to spend some time with Nicole Jenkins, founder and owner of Circa Vintage, at her pop-up store at Westfield Southland. Not only is Nicole an absolute delight to talk to, she is a wealth of knowledge on all things fashion and vintage.

Nicole started Circa Vintage eight years ago in Gertrude St, Fitzroy. Since then she has written an award-winning book called Love Vintage, opened an online store and is currently in the process of moving Circa Vintage to new premises in the city.

What makes Nicole different to many other vintage specialists, and even regular fashion store owners, is her passion to share not only the history of the garment, but also tips on how to make sounds decisions when buying vintage (for regular tips, make sure you check out Circa Vintage’s blog).

In my time with Nicole, she shared the history of the actual garments and when unknown, the style of the period and how it would have been worn, as well as suggestions for how to mix and match today’s pieces with vintage items. I was fascinated and had I not had another engagement, I would have probably stayed for many more hours.

Each garment at Circa Vintage is carefully selected, checked over and over again, and any flaws carefully repaired to almost original condition. Nicole will not sell items that are damaged, or stained, because as she says, it is rare that they will come out, particularly in more delicate fabrics.

‘Pucci’-esque gown, previously owned by an ex-model, Melbourne socialite

Circa Vintage pop-up store at Westfield Southland is live for another week and I strongly encourage you to ‘pop’ in, say hello to Nicole and the girls to discover how you can incorporate vintage into your modern-day wardrobe. Be sure to check out the free Vintage Eveningwear Workshops on Saturday 26 May (tomorrow) at 12pm, 1pm and 2pm.

Nicole & Hannah at Circa Vintage pop-up shop at Westfield Southland

And, to ignite, or reignite, your passion for vintage, Westfield have kindly donated two $50 vouchers for you my dear readers. All you have to do to win one of the two vouchers is tell us (in the comments section of this post) how you came to own your favourite item of vintage clothing, accessory or jewellery, and its history.

Entries must be submitted by 8pm on Tuesday 29 May 2012. I will then announce the winner that night and share with you the winning entry and my own favourite vintage item. Good luck! (Sorry, this competition is for Australian readers only.)

I love this lace twin-set! Perfect for the Spring Carnival… Want!

Turtle xox

Images by House of Turtle

See more pictures from my time with Circa Vintage

I’m not a big fan of foundation. I think it’s because I grew up in the age of cakey foundations that looked like they should be scraped off with a knife… I’ve also been one of those lucky people who usually doesn’t have to wear much. During the week I tend to only wear a tinted moisturiser with some cover up for my nose and eyes.

But, I do like to wear foundation when I go out and for special occasions. And, when I do, I want it to be light and silky, giving a fairly smooth coverage that looks very natural. I also don’t want it to feel like I’m wearing foundation.

My latest discovery is Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow from Benefit (one of my favourite make up brands). This brightening liquid foundation delivers everything I look for in a foundation. Light to medium coverage, SPF and a natural look. It also feels silky smooth, is easy to apply (I just use my fingers) and gives a nice light glow.

It comes in nine shades, ranging from Ivory to Nutmeg, and the Ivory is a perfect match for my fair skin. So close, that I may even give this foundation a whirl during the week.

What can I say but… WOW!

Turtle xox

Photo by House of Turtle

Love Turtle xox

Image and words by House of Turtle

Turtle xox

Images sourced online. Bottom left image by House of Turtle

Turtle xox

Images sourced online

Turtle xox

Images sourced online

The WILLOW Brisbane Warehouse Sale is on now until this Saurday 21 April 2012.

Times:
Friday 20 April 9am – 6pm
Saturday 21 April 9am – 4pm
Address:
Tenancy 10, 19 James St, Fortitude Valley

Don’t miss out! Wish I could jet to Brisbane to get to this one.

Have fun!

Turtle xox

Image courtesy of Willow

Have fun!

Turtle xox

Image sourced from Gorman website

Enjoy!

Turtle xox

That said, soft food is still a winner. But, as someone who is not a massive fan of ice cream (don’t look so shocked) I decided to try natural yoghurt. Problem is it can be a bit tart.

So to make it interesting I decided to mix in some Bonne Maman jam to sweeten it. The result… a delicious yoghurt too good not to share with you all. I used the Raspberry flavour, but I imagine any of the other flavours are just as good. Give it a try. You’ll love it!

Turtle xox

Images by House of Turtle