We're all going on a summer holiday....a very short one!

So the sun has FINALLY shown its face, and my what a pretty face it is too!

As we have no plans/funds to take a summer holiday, and as me and Mr Mike have been able to share some days at home, yesterday we grabbed the opportunity and hopped into my parents car (being loaned to us whilst they holiday abroad) and took ourselves off on an adventure to Southend!

We put on our sunglasses, lathered ourselves in sun cream, and off we went.

It's not often I get to get out of London, but I relish the time I do get to escape the big city for some sand/sea/country drives. Mmmm, fresh air!

When we arrived, it was incredibly busy, with plenty of people wearing FAR too little clothing, and who were mostly a leathery, lobstery sort of colour! The sea was filled with people swimming, but alas Southend council have a no dogs on beaches rule for the summer season so we could not join them ourselves. Nor could we go on the incredibly long pier, again because there is a no dogs rule. Bah! So we looked out at the pier, and all the swimmers splashing about, and took ourselves off for some good old-fashioned seaside fish and chips...

 

Then we went on a long wander back along the seafront and to the car. We hopped in and set off for a quieter part of the beach (hoping we'd find a non dog-free part). We parked up at Leigh-on-Sea on a hill overlooking the marina with a wonderful view, and wandered down towards the water. 

 

On our excursion I wore...

Green chiffon headscarf: charity shop.

Fifties sunglasses and swimsuit: vintage fair.

Coral button-up skirt: New Look.

Hawaiian print slip on shoes: Primark.

When we reached the marina, we found it was also a dog-free zone. So we perched up on a wall by the sea and I clambered down onto the beach for a paddle! I had decided I couldn't possibly go to the seaside without going in the sea at least a tad. Bliss!

I then grabbed an ice cream from a water-side cafe (it had to be done), and off we strolled back up to the car. We proceeded to sing along to Radio One at the top of our lungs all the way home...which I suppose could explain some of the funny looks we were getting!

Me oh my, what a lovely adventure that was!

Have you been able to get out and enjoy this lovely weather dear readers?

Pip pip xx

Technicalities (and a technophobe!)

This is just a quick post from me today, mainly because I want to show off what my incredibly technophobic (computers confuse me) self managed to make....using an easy website builder, I'll give you that, but STILL!

I made a little website for my alterations and repairs business-

Please do pop over and see it at www.illbedarned.co.uk

 I'd love to hear your feedback!

I have also got myself a business twitter, which I shall be using more often than my personal one from now on I suspect. Follow me please! @Ill_Be_Darned

I now feel ever so proud of myself and my tiny technical advancement....

One small step for me, one giant step for, well, me!

Pip pip! xx

Sew What?: Doggy bandana!

Today I bring you photos of a very cute dog!

My mum/step-dad/sister have flown off abroad for a 3 week holiday, leaving their lovely pooch in our care. She arrived on Friday and I am absolutely LOVING having a dog to keep me company!

Before her walk yesterday, I popped a bandana of mine round her neck because, let's face it, who doesn't love a dog in a bandana?

 

Tired pup after a very long, soggy and muddy walk!

She got lots of compliments on her little scarf whilst we were out, so when we got back I decided to make her one of her very own!

I dug out some fabric from my stash and set to work!

20 minutes later, she was sporting her new accessory with pride....

 Kitty the lurcher is modelling her very own I'll Be Darned! reversible floral/gingham doggy bandana.

I think she looks rather beautiful, don't you?

If you have a pooch in need of a custom made doggy bandana then do get in touch!

Pip pip xx

Lovely sponsor spotlight ~ Well Rounded Retro

Hello from gloomy England- again!

I am dying to whip out my glorious 40's summer dresses, but instead it has been all brollies and sensible shoes. On Sunday I even had to hunt out my wool and pom-pom dress (a staple part of my winter wardrobe) which had been relegated to the back of my wardrobe until the cold months arrived.

But on this rather gloomy day I am here to show off my brand new sponsor- a business that will bring a bit of sunshine to the vintage-loving lady's life!

I present to you.....(drum roll please).....

 

Well Rounded Retro is the brainchild of smart, sweary and utterly stylish blogger Charly of LandGirl 1980. 

She specialises in larger-sized vintage and retro clothing for women with front!

And here is a sneak peak of some of my current favourites from the Well Rounded Retro shop for you to feast your eyes (and perhaps your purses) on...

 

Glamorous 30's style nightgown,  Homemade 50's dress in need of some TLC, 

The most glorious 40's embroidered peasant dress, Homemade 50's dress. 

So if you haven't already stumbled across this little gem of a shop, then pop over to etsy now and favourite away!

And lets keep all our fingers crossed for more than the odd hours-worth of weather that mildly resembles summer at some point soon. Here's hoping!

Pip pip xx

My new business venture- I'll Be Darned!

Of late, there have been a few changes in my life- namely, I've gone from full time employment to working freelance and setting aside some time to start my own small business!

Elegant ladies and dapper gents of blogland, may I introduce to you all......

 I'll Be Darned! is a London based business offering vintage clothing alterations and repairs. Don't worry if you live further afield though, as you are more than welcome to pop items in the post to me.

Of course, I can also alter and repair non-vintage garments too, so please don't hesitate to get in touch!

Email me at rosie-alia@hotmail.com for more information.

If you would be so kind as to head on over and 'like' my I'll Be Darned! facebook page, and help me to build my business I would be forever grateful! Please share this with anyone you think might be interested in my services and wish me luck with my new venture!

Pip pip! xx