Stephen Jones Hat exhibition.

I love this photo, it's the 'Occupational' section. The Gold policeman's hat is fantastic and I love the cheeky photo in the background.

This Union Jack top hat is by Stephen Jones and is in the 'London' section. There is film footage showing the step by step process of making this hat by hand.

The Queen Mother photo is really complimented by the citrus, bright coloured hats.

Sorry about the poor quality. This is a snap shot of the millinery studio that has been re created in the centre of the studio. It's very authentic, with pins on the floor and postcards on the walls.

Feather creation by Stephen Jones.

Check out the giant feather creation in the background.

I must be honest and say that I took these photographs without knowing that it is strictly forbidden. There were lots of other people taking photos and there weren't any signs to say not  to. It wasn't until a student was told off by a security person that we found out. 

Anyway, sorry, I hope it's ok to show them!

The exhibition was really crowded but I definitely enjoyed seeing the collection of hats that varied from a hat worn by Queen Victoria to one made out of a shoe.

All the hats are in glass cabinets and are in themed sections such as Felt, Flowers, feathers, London, Occupational, Embellishment.

There's a fun section where there's a dressing table, mirror and selection of hats to try on and play around with, great for all ages!

It's definitely worth a visit but I would advise booking in advance.

Sketch template

I needed a new figure template to practice some designing on. I've become very rusty and need to practice a lot before I'm happy with my drawing, but I guess it's a start.

I'm off to the V&A 'Hat exhibition' today, I'll be posting photos and sketches soon.

Spring inspiration at home

Some gorgeous plates that were a gift from my friend in America. Also note the hand embroidered table cloth that I found at my local charity shop.

The snowdrops are from my garden, the tiny vase that I love so much, is from a car boot sale.

Audrey.

Vintage compact with two cute Parisian girls taking a stroll.

Marc Jacobs 'Daisy'. I've been a fan of Marc's Essence perfume for about 6 years now and still wear it. I just had to buy 'Daisy' because I love the bottle but I'm afraid to say that I don't actually like the scent, it's too strong and sweet.

Paul and Joe cat eyeshadow and a vintage Chanel No5 bottle.

My faithful Robert's radio and my car boot vase with Spring snowdrops. Thank goodness that Spring might just be on it's way.

Doodle of the day

A doodle a day keeps the doctor away.

Hello and welcome to my new blog.

Hello, this is my new blog. I used to have another blog but never managed to keep it going as I had a full time job and very little spare time so I'm going to give it a go and see what happens.

Anyway, I love fashion, craft, art and travel and I hope to be able to use this blog as a place to express my creativity.

Little things can obsess me like a Marc Jacobs pair of shoes or a really cute Japanese stuffie. I hope to show these quirky loves to you and hopefully inspire you too.

Here's a few things that have tickled my fancy lately...

I was given this beautiful butterfly soap, it's almost too good to use.

I was given this rather unusual Valentine's gift, it's a quirky Japanese sketch book that will be great for scribbling down all my design ideas.