I don’t know what is about bunting but it sure does tickle my pickle.

Ditto retro fabrics of any kind so I’m always pleased to investigate a look book full of clothes and accessories that have been made with a nod to a nostalgic past when days were surely longer and sunnier, and the hole in the ozone non existent.

Actually this weekend I’m off to the country where I shall be indulging my bunting penchant and rummaging through the contents of at least two second hand shops.

And this is how Claire Read started her business. A former textile designer she began sewing together her collection of 40’s and 50’s fabric off cuts to make interesting bags.

I wrote about her over a year ago and I’m delighted to say Poppy Valentine is growing and Claire’s prices are still marvellously reasonable despite the fact that she now supplies to some well-known high street names.

So buy one while you can for a unique handbag that won’t date. And that is really what it’s all about in this climate.

As you know I’m a big fan of individuality and creating your own look based on understanding your style and body shape, is the best way to keep your costs down. That and avoiding paying hundreds of pounds for those ‘it’ bags when you can have Clare’s for a lot less. This is the Betsy to your left, and its yours for approx £55.

Related posts:

1. A good start!
2. Do Special Occasion in Style
3. Bright Colour
4. Our forty plus models shine
5. This week I am mostly wearing….part 4