Recently I was lucky enough to be given a couple of tickets for the Country Living Magazine Spring fair and as it is just one hour away from where I live I had no excuse not to go. It seemed bigger than I remember (last went in 2009) and there was much to see and do. What was new to me was the Newcomers Market - cash only stalls that are just starting out on their journey's in business. It was a shame but by the time I had reached them I had already blown my budget on another stall!
Also new to me were the workshops where you could could take a class in needle felting, stamp making and printing or make a Chocolate Easter Bunny among other things. I decided to do the needle felting workshop but a 40 minute lesson under pressure to produce a needle felted bird that also resembled a needle felted bird would take me a whole afternoon at least!
Although I liked many of the stalls I didn't really see anything that was original to me. The jewellery was predominately silver or gemstones, the clothing - high end linen or folksy- natural- fibre - earth -mother (I like that look!) Other stalls included pretty liberty print type fabrics, vintage wares, natural and organic cosmetics, pottery, artisan food and chocolates and beautiful handbags and footwear. Unfortunately a lot of the goods were way above my budget but there were more affordable offerings too.
One thing struck me as I walked around the floors and that was how many women fair goers were dressed the same. All smartly dressed - Boden, Saltwater, Joules etc. and carrying Cath Kidston or Orly Kiely bags and virtually everyone had a fine scarf knotted at the neck. I so wanted to fit this template but with my stretchy trousers and padded purple jacket I was far off the mark. I did however, have the ubiquitous fine scarf strategically knotted at the decollete which does much to mask my half a century old neck!
I have another day left to spend at the fair and will probably spend some time exploring the streets around the borough of Islington too.
Oh how I wish I could go to this fair with you, Simone! I wouldn't recognize any of the clothing or purse lines you mentioned and it wouldn't bother me one wit. Just to be at such an amazing event arm in arm with a friend like you would be a marvelous treat. Happy to know you've been taking care of yourself and recharging at the same time.
ReplyDeletehappy spring.
Lucky you being able to pop along to the Fair. I haven't been to this for the longest time. I love the Christmas one.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your next trip and looking like an individual rather than ticking all the lifestyle boxes!
Lisa x
I see women dressed exactly like that when sometimes we pop up to the Emma Bridgewater factory shop for coffee. It is almost like a uniform, isn't it? I like the sound of your purple padded jacket. It sounds as if you enjoyed your visit and I look forward to hearing more about it when you go again especially your exploration of the streets around:)
ReplyDeleteOh lucky you - I've fancied the Country Living Show for years, but I've always imagined it would be pricey (as you confirm) as well as being rather a long way for a day out. Maybe though one of the years!!
ReplyDeleteJulia x
I love would to go to the Country Living Mag fair, you are do lucky to live only an hour away.
ReplyDeleteSo glad the health and fitness regime is going well!
V x
I love a scarf to hide my wrinkled age
ReplyDeletebut why is overpriced style all the rage?
xx
Sounds like you had a great day out though
ReplyDeleteJulie xxxxxx
Such a lovely opportunity, Simone! I recently went to an upscale mall (which I seldom do) and felt like a complete mess compared to some other shoppers! But I laughed it off and did not stay long!! :) xx
ReplyDeleteSounds like such fun, Simone. I went to the American Country Living Fair one year and although I enjoyed it it was a pricy way to spend the day. My girlfriend and I bought lots of yummy food (see where my priorities are!) but after that I didn't have much in my budget left to spend on the bits and bobs that caught my eye. Totally know what you mean about the sameness of the fair-goers. Be happy to dance to your own drummer!
ReplyDelete