Kelly Doust introduces readers to her wonderful world of reviving and customising vintage pieces, while bringing a modern and unique twist to wearing vintage clothes – Dita Von Teese
Georgina’s cloth shopper bag
Here’s a snapshot of the kitchen table this morning, where I’m working away on some last-minute things for the next book and drinking copious cups of tea… we go to print in less than two weeks (eek!)
Last week my editor, the crafts genius Georgina Bitcon dropped by, and brought this lovely gift with her: it’s a cloth shopper bag based on the same pattern as the plastic ones given out at the supermarket. I’ve been using it every day now and it works a treat. It also folds up nice and small in my handbag, so I have it at the ready when proffered a plastic one.
Georgina sourced the Japanese fabric from Quiltsmith in Annandale. I think it’s gorgeous, don’t you?
Coco Repose
Victorian jacket from Coco Repose
A while back I was flicking through The (Sydney) Magazine, and Megan Gale recommended Coco Repose as a great place to find high quality vintage clothing. I waited until I had a spare day up my sleeve to visit, and can attest: this is one of the most well-edited collections of vintage I’ve ever seen.
Owner Jessica Guthrie is lovely, and I’ve gone on to buy many items from her since – including this very rare silk jacket from the Victorian era.
Back of jacket button detail
I was going to play at fixing it, as the silk is so old it’s disintegrating, but can’t bring myself to touch it in case I ruin it. I’ve chosen to hang it on the picture rail as artwork instead – this is one item that doesn’t need reinvention.
Incredibly delicate lapel
Coco Repose
82 Fitzroy Street, Surry Hills
(02) 9356 4804
‘Homemade Happiness’: craft in Vogue
Check out the current issue of Vogue (July 2010) with the beautiful Rose Byrne on the cover to see my article, ‘Homemade Happiness’. It’s a story about stumbling into the world of crafts, and a love letter to the joy crafting brings.
Enjoy!