On Sale – Shops and Shopping Exhibition Launch

Photo -Louise Whelan

 

On Sale – Shops and Shopping , Is a fabulous new exhibition at the State Library of NSW which was officially launched last night. For the event Vintage Allsorts was asked to bring to life shoppers through time. Using reference from the exhibition and a little bit of creative license we created roving installations to interact with the crowd.

It was a fabulous evening and such a pleasure to spend time in the wonderfully curated exhibition.I highly recommend that you take a trip to our beautiful library to enjoy it’s offereings.Read below to find out more about the Exhibition- Excerpts Taken from the Library Website

All of these event photos were taken by the incredible Louise Whelan.

Roving Models help to launch 'On Sale' at the State Library - photo Louise Whelan

c1940's Wartime shoppers Georgio and Rosalie ,c1950's Shopper Pia and Doorman Nathan at the State Library

Shoppers through time At The State Library - On Sale Exhibition Opening

c1950's Shopper -Pia at the State Library photo Louise Whelan

c1940's Wartime Shoppers - Outfits supplied courtesy of Vintage Clothing

c1920's Shopper Meelah - outfit Courtesy Vintage Clothing Shop

Shoppers Through Time - Roving Through 'On Sale'

Shopping Through time - at the State Library Photo Louise Whelan

State Library NSW - 'On Sale' Exhibition Opening - Photo Louise Whelan

Visit the Official State Library Website for more information

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/events/exhibitions/2011/on_sale/index.html

 

About On Sale

One of Sydney’s best loved cultural icons is transforming its galleries into a giant ‘shopping mall’ that will have shoppers clambering to see some 250 vintage and contemporary goodies from the Library’s billion dollar collections!

The State Library’s major new exhibition offers a unique shopping experience where ‘customers’ will be immersed in the sights, sounds and extravagant visual pleasures associated with shops and shopping!

“We look at shopping from its humble beginnings to the emergence of ‘fashionable emporiums’ and retail dynasties, upmarket arcades, chain stores, malls and e-Shopping,” says Margot Riley, who spent six months curating the exhibition On Sale! Shops & Shopping.

Margot Riley is great talent and can share fascinating stories on what people purchased through time and where they shopped, as well as read out some of the amusing advertisements of the time eg. Every woman deserves a washing machine!

Everybody shops!

Most of us don’t need to buy, we want to buy. Originally we shopped from necessity; now its a leisure activity and a form of entertainment. It is the job of retailers to create an irresistible world designed to make us spend.

Settlement of Australia coincided with the emergence of ‘shopping’ as a pastime. Sydney was the scene of Australia’s earliest shops and maintained its dominance of the Australian retail market throughout the 19th century.

The retail industry is Australia’s largest employer, with retail figures an important economic indicator.

In 2010-2011, Sydney shoppers are witnessing the largest retail devolvement of the CBD since the 1970s, and the city is set to reclaim it position as Australia’s retail capital.

EXHIBITION DETAILS

8 Aug 2011 – 30 Oct 2011

Exhibition Galleries

State Library opening hours

Admission: Free

 

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Aug 10, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Louise Whelan, Performances, State Library NSW, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: , , , | Leave A Comment »

Mid-Winter Warmer Wrap Up

On the 2nd of July Balmain’s Carbon footprint got a swing in it’s step, as guests at the Mid Winter Warmer danced those winter chills away. Vintage Allsorts joined forces with Function Entertainment to transform Balmain Town Hall into a deco dance palace for a whole lot of sophisticated fun.We wanted to create a night that celebrated the culture of cocktail cool. Using the existing colour theme and decadent deco detailings of the majestic hall we planned a night that brimmed with atmosphere and activity.

 

Photo Courtesy Kris Ezergailis

 

'The Cocktail Cabinet' - Photos Courtesy Kris Ezergailis

The Opening Set by The Cocktail Cabinet paid tribute to the Legendary Louis Prima who would have celebrated his 100th b’day this year. Led by Simon ‘The Senator’ Bartlett the combo’s vibrant energy and infectious good humour set the party in full swing and the dance floor was jumping from the first note. Pia Andersen ,the cabinet’s pink champagne cocktail shared the microphone with Special guest vocalist boho-swing chanteuse Sarah J Hyland. on some of the classic Keely Smith tunes.

There was much activity during the band breaks . Sharon and Nathan from Swingtime judged a knock out dance contest. There was some pretty tough competition on the floor but the audiences Applause-a-meter raised the roof for the winners 7 year old Lale and her ‘Dapper Dad’ dance partner David Mclachlan. They cleaned up first prize kindly donated by Retrospec’d , and the smile on Lale’s face that stayed for the rest of the night was prize enough for all of the other contestants.

Dance Contest Hosted by Swingtime. Photos by Louise Whelan

Winners of the Dance Contest Lale and dad David, Photos Louise Whelan and Romualdo Nubla

 

The best dressed awards were Judged by Sydney’s Queen Dame of Vintage Value and History the Lovely Lorraine from The Vintage Clothing Shop. From the moment doors opened she secretly swept through the crowd assessing the fine collection of Mid-Century Cocktail Ensembles and tapped the two winners on the shoulder just before the announcement was set to take place. Lorraine awarded a prize for best dressed male and female but as they were standing apart at the time she had chosen them what she didn’t realise was that she had chosen a couple.The always immaculate Robyn and Georgio. Two of the best dressed people in all of Sydney Town and beyond. Always groomed in well chosen sophisticated authentic outfits they were well deserving of the fabulous prizes, two delicious bottles courtesy of Cointreau and a voucher for Lorraine’s fabulous Vintage Clothing Shop.

 

Best Dressed Portraits Taken by Louise Whelan in the Shooting Starlets Parlour

The Mid Century Soundtrack for the second set was provided courtesy of The Mad Men of ‘ The Black and White Big Band ‘ They played and eclectic collection of classics and rare tunes especially chosen to compliment the evening. The Senators arrangements were such a delight for the dancers with intoxicating rhythms and brilliant beats.The vocal stylings of the ever vivacious ‘Hollywood Honeys’ delighted an already excited crowd.

'The Hollywood Honeys' Backstage - Photos Louise Whelan

The combined voices of Kitty Van Horne, Sara Jeanne O’Connor and Pia Andersen provide a strong sensual tone and the genuine love they have for each other and the songs they share make them a true delight to watch. Always beautifully styled they Dressed for the occasion in Bright Satins and taffeta , frosted with opulent jewels they looked like a Ravishing Rainbow of Cocktail Couture. Special Guest Vocalists Sarah J Hyland and Edoardo Santone also joined the Big Band Bounty and added an extra dimension to the already decadent vocal palette.

 

The Senator, The Hollywood Honeys,Sarah J Hyland and Edoardo Santone-Photos Courtesy Louise Whelan

 

'The Hollywood Honeys' centre Stage with guest Sarah J Hyland- photos courtesy Romualdo Nubla

Through out the night Coco- Reposes pop up shop provided a welcome break from the dancing, drinking and desserts . Jess always has such exquisite frocks in beautiful condition, I noticed a few ladies adorning them selves with a little extra treasure throughout the night and others making plans to visit her store in the Antique Centre to view her full assortment of amazing vintage masterpieces.

 

Coco Repose Pop-Up Shop ,Photos Courtesy Kris Ezergailis

The Vintage Allsorts Beauty Bar kept guests perfectly pinned, lined and lashed and the Shooting Starlets Photo Parlour captured some enchanting portraits as well as sneaking some incredible event images in between clients. Lou Lou , as always your photos perfectly capture the colour and clarity of a moment. Thank you for sharing your shots.

 

Vintage Allsorts Beauty Bar- Photos Louise Whelan and Kris Ezergailis

Sophisticated Yum’s decadent dessert booth kept every one sweetly satisfied. The Chocolate Mouse and cupcakes in a jar being favourite items amoungst the cultured crowd. Always beautifully presented, it is the quality of the food items that always impresses. When Sophisticated Yum is in attendance it is definitely a case of tasting as good as it looks.

 

Sophisticated Yum's Decadent Dessert Booth , Photos Courtesy Pauline Sophisticated Yum

'Love Grub' Pop Up Bar , Photos Kris Ezergailis

 

Love Grub’s Pop Up Bar offered a selection of fine organic and boutique beverages. The beers quirky branding and hep names of Hop Rocker and Sassy Red were a hit with the crowd, however being the first Weekend of Dry July it’s no surprise that their tasty softer drinks were in high demand.

 

Meagan Fitton from Armchair Traveller Radio program and her team joined in the celebration and I have to thank them for not only providing me with some great images post event ( Thank you Kris Ezergailis ) but for truly getting into the spirit of the night and offering assistance and help where ever they saw it was needed. It was a pleasure to have you at our Warmer.

Elegant Guests at the Warmer - photos Courtesy Kris Ezergailis

 

Dancers at the Mid Winter Warmer - photos Courtesy Louise Whelan

With a packed dance floor and sizzling hot musicians , chills were chased and all in attendance were well and truly toasted and with The Middle of Winter passing by in the right direction it seems that the teams from Vintage Allsorts and Function Entertainment have caught a touch or spring fever and plans for a ‘Spring Fling’ are already in full bloom.

Watch this space, details blossoming very soon….

 

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Jul 06, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Music, Performances, The Cocktail Cabinet, The Hollywood Honeys, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: , , , , , , , | 2 Comments »

Pret-A-Porter Fashion Parade Retrospective

Whilst editing photos for this website I was amazed at how many fabulous event images I have that I haven’t yet shared with the world. So I have decided to write a few retrospective blog posts so I can showcase them in full colour glory. In July, 2009 Vintage Allsorts worked with the State Library on a glamorous salon style fashion parade in the grand ballroom of the Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.

The Pret-A -Porter parade featured stunning examples of French Model Gowns from the Darnell Collection , and featured Vintage Allsorts Models who brought to life a visual extravaganza, recreating the glamorous fashion parades of the worlds great 20th Century Couturiers. Compered by Curator Margot Riley , these fabulous garments were set against a nostalgic backdrop of Sydney images from the Library’s collections.

Vintage Allsorts Models - Photos Louise Whelan

 

It was a wonderful sell out event and a true pleasure to work with not only the wonderful Margot Riley but also Lorraine and Grayson from Sydney’s Vintage Clothing Shop who assisted with the styling and dressing backstage.I have a few projects in the pipeline with these knowledgeable souls and look forward to sharing details soon. In the meantime I hope you enjoy these images courtesy of Louise Whelan and the State Library.

 

 

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Jun 27, 2011 | Categories: Events, Fashion Parade, Latest News, Vintage Allsorts | Tags: , , , , , | 1 Comment »

‘Get Smart’ Event June 2011

All 'Get Smart' Photos in this Post by the Amazing Louise Whelan

Vintage Allsorts hosts a Get Smart Event for The Young Presidents Organisation End of year dinner.The event was held at the Sergeants Mess in Chowder bay. A picturesque venue overlooking the water with a modern mid-century influenced design. The perfect environment for a classic 1960′s themed event.  The evening began with guests being greeted with vintage hollow stem champagne coupes from Vintage Allsorts private collection and podium Go-Go dancing courtesy of Sydney’s Go-gettes who also featured later in the evening with a specifically choreographed Get Smart Go-Go routine.

The Go-gettes 'Get Smart'

Using the Get Smart theme our client wanted us to create a sophisticated interactive theming display and provide additional entertainment on arrival and at the end of the presentations. As the night had a formal dinner , speeches and awards component the themed area had to still be effective when people were not using the interactive element and become a visual backdrop that added atmosphere to the main dining room.

The Chief's Office at Control

Using the chiefs office as Inspiration , we set up a version of his office, complete with interactive props and our very own Umbrella of Silence. We designed spy documents that had the organisations logo and featured specific guests names and personal details. In the flower arrangements for the table centres we hid vintage cameras and microphones so as to give the illusion of the displays being bugged.

The most fabulous thing about the concept was the revolving bookcase in the Chief’s office area that revealed a hidden chamber where guests could go to pick up their very own spy gadgets and disguise items. Fez Hats, fedoras, fake moustaches, glasses, guns , handcuffs, wigs all the things a budding control agent needs to tackle even the most outrageous assignment.

Hidden Chamber with Disguise Items

 

Guests loved the Interactive Display and the novelty of the novelties.

The night was a great success with guests enjoying the concepts inspired by an iconic 60′s television comedy. The staff from the Sergeants Mess were an absolute pleasure to work with and treated my crew brilliantly, offering much assistance and nourishment during an ambitious project. I have been so inspired by the idea of a secret disguise chamber ,I am currently thinking that perhaps we should install the set up in the Vintage Allsorts office……

Now where did I put my shoe phone????

 

 

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Jun 26, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Uncategorized | Tags: , , | Leave A Comment »

Love Me Tender, Marie Claire Fashion Story

Marie Claire July Issue, 16 page Fashion Story ' Love Me Tender' Produced by Pia Andersen

Marie Claire July Issue, 16 page Fashion Story ' Love Me Tender' Produced by Pia Andersen

Johnny Wishbone from The Snowdroppers , chilling out at the Vanguard

Johnny Wishbone from The Snowdroppers , chilling out at the Vanguard

I recently produced a 16 page photo story that has just been published in the July issue of Marie Claire magazine. My role was to bring the reality of the Sydney vintage scene to life , by showcasing real people in their environments. Creating a stunning visual backdrop for a modern fashion spread. The Marie Claire Team were really passionate about this story and as I had worked with photographer Hugh Stewart before I knew from the very beginning that I was in for a fun experience.

I was responsible for the casting , locations and scheduling of the shoots. The Biggest Challenge with this shoot was the scheduling , juggling location availabilities with the work commitments of all the people involved. There were a few significant faces missing from the story due to the simple fact that the timing just didn’t allow for their involvement. Limpin Jimmy and The Swingin’ Kitten, I’m looking at you. I wish you could have both been captured in full colour magazine print glory.

Two of my favourite places, Porteno restaurant and Sterling Hairdresser and Barber Shop.

Two of my favourite places, Porteno restaurant and Sterling Hairdresser and Barber Shop.

The Hollywood Hombres at stage at the Roxbury and Sterling Barber Shop.

The Hollywood Hombres at stage at the Roxbury and Sterling Barber Shop.

I loved Singing with the Hollywood Hombres on stage at the Roxbury, the energy in the room was electric. The vibrancy of the colours and the sheer sense of fun really embodied what appeals to me about 50′s fashion. Much of this was filmed for Marie Claire’s upcoming behind the scenes television show , Marie Claire Under the Cover . Episode 2 which airs on Sunday the 19th June will feature this story and I’m hoping that some of the energy I felt has translated into the edit of the show.

Pat and Damien take a seat at Newtown Old Wares, Sue and Marc host a Cocktail Soiree

Pat and Damien take a seat at Newtown Old Wares, Sue and Marc host a Cocktail Soiree

'Cadillac Cool' This is one of my favourite shots from the story

'Cadillac Cool' This is one of my favourite shots from the story

The Cocktail Scene At Sue And Marc’s house was a perfect representation of our social gatherings. Like minded passionate souls who enjoy the decadence of vintage fashion and appreciate each others unique sense of style. This was such a relaxing part of the story for me, Good Friends and Stunning Frocks. My favourite things. Having such well dressed friends meant that co-ordinating their outfits was an absolute pleasure , as each came with brilliant examples of mid century fashion, perfectly matched outfits and extra options. If only all of my shoots came with such an extensive wardrobe department.

It’s always interesting to see someone else’s interpretation of your world expressed in a single frame. I think Hugh did a brilliant Job of capturing the personalities of the subjects and I loved seeing how Jane Roarty’s modern styling complimented the vintage clothing in print. The bold , vibrant colours and styles worked well with the authentic garments.

Sweet Sisters Sharon and Teena at Retrospec'd and Glamorous Sarah Doyle Maitre d' of Porteno Restaurant.

Sweet Sisters Sharon and Teena at Retrospec'd and Glamorous Sarah Doyle Maitre d' of Porteno Restaurant.

Singing and dancing with Pat and The Fellas in the lane way behind Newtown Old Wares

Singing and dancing with Pat and The Fellas in the lane way behind Newtown Old Wares

Model: Fabienne at Porteno, Lanie Lane and Lillian Starr at the Vanguard.

Model: Fabienne at Porteno, Lanie Lane and Lillian Starr at the Vanguard.

It was great for me to be able to share my professional world with my personal ,involving many of my friends in this project was incredibly rewarding. We had two fast paced, fun filled days and those memories shared will last just as long as what was captured in print. I have posted some behind the scenes photos to my Pia Andersen, Facebook Page. Thank you to Marie Claire and everyone involved, Love me Tender indeed!

Marie Claire Behind the Scenes Sue And Marc's Cocktail Soiree

Marie Claire Behind the Scenes Sue And Marc's Cocktail Soiree

Behind the Scenes with The Hollywood Hombres at The Roxbury Hotel

Behind the Scenes with The Hollywood Hombres at The Roxbury Hotel

Behind The Scenes at Sterling HQ.

Behind The Scenes at Sterling HQ.

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Jun 03, 2011 | Categories: Latest News, Magazines | Tags: , , , , , , | Leave A Comment »

Black Cherry 21st May, 2011

On Saturday the 21st of May Black Cherry Club took over the Factory Theatre for Sydney’s favourite Rock ‘n’ Roll Party.Advertised as 7 hours of pure dynamite, offering three rooms of non stop action including bands, burlesque and dj’s, the diverse line up of top shelf talent means there is something for everyone. The ever charming Mikelangelo ( of the Black Sea Gentlemen ) MC’d the night’s activities with panache and flair , gifting the audience with a few shared tunes with his beloved patron Saint of Go-Go Boho the captivating Saint Clare.

Mikelangelo and Clare Saint Clare , photos Andrew Pittman

Mikelangelo and Clare Saint Clare , photos Andrew Pittman

Mark Winmill and Lillian Starr in the Boiler Room. Photos Kellie Lafranchi

Mark Winmill and Lillian Starr in the Boiler Room. Photos Kellie Lafranchi

In the boiler room a knockout Burlesque contest keep the crowds suitably teased and The Burlesque Royalty of Lillian Starr, Samantha Diamond and Boylesque sensation Mark Winmill were icing on the cake for a thrilled and excited crowd. They each did multiple routines making their way onto the main stage later in the night.

Lillian Starr is without a doubt one of my very favourite Australian performers, she never fails to take me on a journey with her clever costumes, brilliant narrative and intoxicating smile. Sometimes I get so carried away in the theatre of the show that I don’t even realise she has removed her clothes. The audience was shocked and amazed with her signature routines that are perfectly choreographed , peppered with innuendo and more than a hint of tease and Lillian Certainly was the evenings Cherry Pie.

Lillian Starr Photos by Grace Johns, Andrew Pittman and Schatzi Sunshine

Lillian Starr Photos by Grace Johns, Andrew Pittman and Schatzi Sunshine

Mark Winmill never fails to satisfy his adoring fans. I heard much anticipated chatter through out the night, the crowd who had seen him perform before enthusiastically singing his praises. When he took to the main stage for the first time I thought the roof was going to fly , His energetic athletic routines had the crowd hooting and hollering as he showcased his inspired brand of ‘Oh My God!’

Mark Winmill , Photos Andrew Pittman and Grace Johns

Mark Winmill , Photos Andrew Pittman and Grace Johns

The Satellites , photos Andrew Pittman

The Satellites , photos Andrew Pittman

The music offerings kept the dance floor well covered. The Satellites from Adelaide delighted long time fans and collected new ones with their lush harmonies and unique roots and rhythm sound. Lucky ole’ me got to share the stage for two charged sets with Rockin Guitar God Pat Capocci who is not only a very talented fellow but one of the loveliest people you will ever meet ( Sorry Pat, I hope that doesn’t ruin your Rockstar reputation ) though i’m sure everyone who knows you would declare the same truth.

Sharing the Stage with Pat Capocci, Photos by Andrew Pittman and Grace Johns

Sharing the Stage with Pat Capocci, Photos by Andrew Pittman and Grace Johns

t was another Sold Out Night and the club was filled to the brim with a diverse crowd of creative souls ready to enjoy the eclectic music and mayhem of the hippest subculture nights in town. The next one is on Saturday the 23rd July so make sure you get your tickets early and your cherry pickin’ glad rags ready because you don’t want the party to start without you. http://www.facebook.com/blackcherryclub

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Jun 03, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Music, Performances | Tags: , | 1 Comment »

Mid-Winter Warmer

' The Hollywood Honeys ' Photo by the amazing Louise Whelan

' The Hollywood Honeys ' Photo by the amazing Louise Whelan

Flyer Design By Red Pepper Retro

Flyer Design By Red Pepper Retro

Mid- Winter Warmer

Replace your Carbon footprint with Some Dancing shoes….. Come get Warm with us!

Vintage Allsorts and Function Entertainment Present a glamorous Mid Winter Warmer to chase those chills away, For One Night Only Deco Dance Palace Balmain Town Hall will host a celebration of the music that defined cocktail cool.

The Mid Century Soundtrack will be provided courtesy of The Mad Men of ‘ The Black and White Big Band ‘ This hot 13 piece ensemble features Sydney’s finest jazz players and the vocal stylings of the ever vivacious ‘Hollywood Honeys’. Dressed head to toe in vintage, Sydney’s most stylish 3 part vocal harmony group include; Miss Pia Andersen, Sara Jeanne O’Connor and Kitty Van Horne. They share the spotlight taking turns for solos and also combine their honey tones to bring you a unique blend of voices that will make your soul shiver with delight.

A special opening set by the ‘Cocktail Cabinet’ will bring back the days of legendary lounge, in their high energy Louis Prima Tribute Show.
The show features the talents of the entire band, fronted by Simon “The Senator” Bartlett, Chanteuse Pia Andersen, and special guest Jazz bird Sarah J Hyland.

With finger snappin’ vocals and a straight ahead rhythm section, Audiences should be ready to Jump, Jive and Wail because the classic combination of Louis Prima and the Cocktail Cabinet means there is sure to be a Swingin’ Partini.

And if the musical offerings weren’t enough to keep you toasted ….

*Join in the knock out Dance Contest hosted by SWINGTIME with Great Prizes from RETROSPEC’D

*Take home your own piece of history when you purchase a vintage treasure from COCO REPOSE’S Pop Up Shop.

*Decorate yourselves at the VINTAGE ALLSORTS Accessory Boutique

*Add a touch of Vintage glamour at the Beauty Bar where you can get lined, lashed and perfectly pinned.

*Then visit the SHOOTING STARLETS Pin Up Parlour to capture the moment in Full technicolour.

*SOPHISTICATED YUM will tempt your sweeter side with a lavish Dessert Booth

*A Boutique Bar will be provided by the culinary creativity of LOVE GRUB

*Décor by our friends at the LAVA ROOMS and Prizes for best dressed Mid Century Cocktail Ensemble.

When: Saturday 2nd July

Where : Balmain Town Hall

Darling St Balmain

Time : 7pm – 11pm

Tickets : $25 at the door , $22 pre-sale

With so much on offer you better get your tickets early, cause you won’t want to be left standing in the cold.

Pre Sale Tickets Available from

Retrospec’d

www.retrospecd.com

486 KingSt, Newtown, 9517 1387 ( Cash Only )

The Sydney Antique Centre

www.sydantcent.com.au

531 South Dowling St, Surry Hills 9361 3244

So don’t be tempted to hibernate.

Come Dance to a different beat with the dynamite sounds of the Black & White Big Band .

See You there …..XXxx

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Jun 03, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News, Performances | Tags: | Leave A Comment »

The Art Of The Cocktail Hour

Mikey Enright and Pia Andersen at Art of the Cocktail Hour

Mikey Enright and Pia Andersen at Art of the Cocktail Hour

Vintage Allsorts Models Join me to Celebrate Cocktail Culture.

Vintage Allsorts Models Join me to Celebrate Cocktail Culture.

The Art of the Cocktail Hour, One Sip at a time. Photos Louise Whelan

The Art of the Cocktail Hour, One Sip at a time. Photos Louise Whelan

Last Friday Night an intimate selection of Sydney’s Cocktail Enthusiasts were treated to a wonderful night of drinking and decadence. The Ivy’s Den hosted the event as part of the World Cocktail Week Celebrations and with Head mixologist Mikey Enright and Tim Phillips (2009 UK Bartender of the Year ) creating unique twists on early evening cocktails there was plenty to celebrate.

During the Art of the Cocktail Hour guests were taken on a short stroll through the history of the fashion and etiquette inspired by a social phenomenon that has sparked new forms of expression and to this day continues to evolve.

Model: Meelah, Showcasing an Original 1920's Ensemble Photo Louise Whelan

Model: Meelah, Showcasing an Original 1920's Ensemble Photo Louise Whelan

Model : Amelia wears a 1930's inspired silk gown by local French Designer Luke Diaz.

Model : Amelia wears a 1930's inspired silk gown by local French Designer Luke Diaz.

I had such an amazing time sharing the social history and lavish style of the cocktail hour. Throughout the decades Cocktail Clothing and Culture has provided rich and varied ways for individuals to present themselves and the models looked truly sensational as they displayed the special attire that provides a charming insight into a daily ritual, a passage of time between work and leisure that is filled with glamour and elegance when having a drink wasn’t just about the beverage but the environment , atmosphere and the sophisticated conversation that followed.

The official event photos showcased in this blog are Courtesy of the amazing and very talented Louise Whelan. They are sure to make you want to adorn a fur and head to your nearest cocktail den for a Cointreau Blush, and for those of you wanting to know more about Cocktail Culture be sure to keep your eyes peeled for Cointreau’s new ‘ Art Of The Cocktail Hour Blog’ which will be a modern and useful guide to cocktails, early evening etiquette, fanciful food, sophisticated styling and all things necessary when gathering with friends for a cocktail party at home. http://artofthecocktailhour.com.au/ It’s due to launch Mid July!

Model: Anastasia wears a stunning original 1950's Sequinned Tulle Frock.

Model: Anastasia wears a stunning original 1950's Sequinned Tulle Frock.

Model : Kitty wears an Australian Designed 'Hot Couture' 60's style lame wiggle dress.

Model : Kitty wears an Australian Designed 'Hot Couture' 60's style lame wiggle dress.

Vintage Allsorts Models Display The Elegant Art of Cocktail Fashion

Vintage Allsorts Models Display The Elegant Art of Cocktail Fashion

Models : Amelia and Anastacia, embracing the glamour of cocktail culture.

Models : Amelia and Anastacia, embracing the glamour of cocktail culture.

 

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Jun 03, 2011 | Categories: Events, Latest News | Tags: , | Leave A Comment »

A little known treasure….

It’s been about 4 months since I opened my Vintage Fashion Boutique at the Sydney Antique Centre and I am constantly surprised as to how many locals don’t know about the centre or it’s unique history. So I wanted to share with you a little background into the Home of my retail collection
and it is resting in an important location in Sydney’s cultural heritage and history.

The following has been edited from the Sydney Antique Centre’s History Page…….

The concept of the Sydney Antique Centre was the result of an optimistic idea in the fertile mind of its founder, Charles E Hirsch, who collaborated with Lorraine Foster to bring it to fruition. Charles was the survivor of a career which, even in 1974 was, to say the least, as colourfully checkered as a draughts board.

Charles and Lorraine had seen London’s Kings Road Antique Market and they thought that the time was right to establish the same sort of thing in Sydney. It was a valiant, if slightly fantastic, plan because London, at that time, had a population of close to ten million people; including some who were very wealthy indeed and, apart from its dealers having easy access to an infinity of treasures, the city was still cruising on the ebullience of the Swinging Sixties. Sydney, on the other hand, had a population of barely three million people and those who were not already hard-up were soon

to feel the pain as the teeth of the gathering recession began to bite.

Scouting about Sydney for premises of suitable size, and affordable rent, Charles and Lorraine came across the old Kande Kitchenware building in South Dowling Street which was, in 1974, empty and derelict and home to a colony of pigeons, many of which remained, to the consternation of the dealers, in residence long after the Centre was well on its way.

The owners of the building were considering renovating and redeveloping it as a furnishing and fabric businesses but, dazzled by Charles Hirsch’s virtuoso salesmanship, they changed their minds and consented to its use for the purpose he and Lorraine Foster proposed. The two of them then hit the city streets in a clapped-out Valiant and poured honeyed words into sceptical but fascinated ears all over Sydney, with the result that within weeks they had a core of tenants ready to move in and the invitations were sent out for the opening party.

In these early days it would have been an affectionate exaggeration to claim that the Centre was anything like the sophisticated assembly of the stalls and boutiques which it subsequently became. Indeed its appearance in the beginning was more like a rumble sale, or a weekend Trash and Treasure Market. The spirit was there however and, in spite of the occasional electrically charged disturbance caused by the clash of vulnerable personalities, the Centre began to thrive. The commercial advantages of a specialised shopping centre in which a central office could, if necessary,

act as selling agents for stall holders, leaving them free to attend auctions or engage in private negotiations, appealed to the imagination of the public, and it prospered.

Many dealers have been at the premises for a long time and in this, the twenty first anniversary year of the Sydney Antique Centre, twenty two have been in occupation for ten years

or more. For those interested in arcane statistics their total time in occupation now exceeds three hundred years!

Today there are serendipitous treasures for the obsessive collector as well as essential items for furnishing, or re-decorating, everything from a four star hotel to a caravan.
It has become, as the city itself has grown in size and sophistication, both a smoothly operated specialist market and a popular Sydney tradition.

Are you intrigued….?

The Sydney Antique Centre is Australia’s oldest and one
of the largest antique centres with 
over 60 antiques and art dealers.
Our warehouse, plus cafe, is located
just 2.5 km from Sydney’s CBD.
We have Australia’s best range of antique furniture, porcelain, glass, jewellery, clocks, watches, kitchenware, lights, Orientalia, rugs, sports memorabilia, bottles, books, dolls, collectables and vintage fashion.

The Sydney Antique Centre is open 7 days a week from 10-6pm.
I’m sure you will want to visit soon and if you do make sure to say hello,

Please sign my guest book at Shop 16.

Sydney Antique Centre

http://www.facebook.com/VintageAllsortsFashionBoutique

http://www.sydantcent.com.au/framesethome.html?home.html

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Jun 03, 2011 | Categories: Latest News, Vintage Allsorts Boutique | Tags: , | Leave A Comment »