An incredible article from Vice Magazine..

http://www.vice.com/en_uk/read/a-bittersweet-love-letter-to-the-suburbs

This article by CLIVE MARTIN is not only wonderfully written, brimming with accurate depictions of Londoners, laden with visual imagery, but it also manages to simultaneously nail our love for the BIG L in all its grime and glamour, with our scornful contempt for the way of life it evokes and manifests, oh so accurately. It is also one I can relate to on a personal level as I have recently had to move from Zone 2 back to Zone 6. This article eased the pain a little. Still only a little. But a highly recommended read. 

Inspirational Icons

At PreLoved Paradise we love those who stand out from the crowd, reject the mainstream and share their creative flair. Those who remain true to themselves regardless of trends instead following the mantra 'my way or the highway'. To explain what we mean we shall share with you are favourites who's work is a manifestation of these values.

1. Iris Apfel

1. Leading lady of senior style, business woman and interior designer. Iris disallows society to put her into the mould of elderly or OAP by holding onto her character and visually representing this through her style. Always dressed as an ornate piece of art so flamboyant and exagerated it cleverly juxtaposes her minute frame ... topped off with over sized glasses which has become a staple accessory of hers. 

2. ISABELLA BLOW.

For those who arent familiar with Isabella Blow, she was an inspirational fashion icon. She had an eye for discovering talented fashion designers and providing them with the means to become established. She discovered Lee McQueen of Alexander McQeen and was the driving force behind his sucess. A pure heart, a taste for debauchery and a love of fashion which often became a burden on her financail state. Never the less, she is someone I adhere to maintain some of her essence. Here is a video by Ruth Hogben of Isabella Blow's wardrobe. If you want to see some of her beautiful pieces up close visit the Somerset House Isabella Blow exhibition. It is pure wonder.

Photoshoot Day... Preparing to launch.

In order to get the store up and running for the PreLoved Paradise beauties, photographing the stock on models was essential. Being a start up business it was imperative expenditure was kept to a minimum. Fortunately I am blessed with wonderfully talented friends. A photographer with a real skill at taking incredible shots. And beautiful girls, nearest and dearest to me who were all too happy (ish) to pose for the camera and have fun with it. I provided some treats... of the bubble variety... So so pleased with the end result. Ready to launch PreLoved Paradise.