This is FRONT ROW

PAPER LINGERIE

2012-02-10T06:27:00.001-08:00

This is my little VALENTINE's contribution: exquisite tissue paper lingerie adorned with vintage buttons, lace and ribbons ready to be worn for a special occasion ... available in white & black. For orders please contact

Freya von Strapp at www.whiskillustration@yahoo.co.uk.

Orders take 5 working days to deliver. Each piece of lingerie is handmade and unique.
Price £16.00

FREYA VON STRAPP in the SUNDAY TIMES STYLE MAGAZINE 1st January 2012

2012-01-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

(Photo taken by Rick Morris Pushinsky at www.pushinsky.com)

This is the best start to my 2012 I could've possibly wished for: a little thing on the last page of the Sunday Times Style Magazine issue 1st January 2012 "What Do You Wear?". Rick the photographer was great and the picture was taken in front of a wall near Charing Cross Station.

The article reads as follows:

"This skirt is made of photocopies and tissue paper, held together with masking tape and double-sided sticky tape. Tissue paper is so beautiful - before it crumples, it floats and moves like fabric. It took me about four hours to make. After this photo was taken, I went to the National Gallery (Trafalgar Square), and it felt as if I'd stepped out of one of the old portraits.

The first paper garment I made was a pair of knickers. Pretty draughty, and they didn't stay up very well. People often ask what I'd do if it rained in my paper clothes. Well, it wouldn't look great, but nor would an organza dress by Alexander McQueen in a thunderstorm. I've started making tissue wedding dresses for brides. At the end of the evening, they're like a memento of the day - all the little marks tell a story. It's, like, "there's a splash of champagne where we toasted".

At home I hang out in men's jumpers. They need to be vintage - you can't get proper woollen jumpers anywhere now - and they need to be men's, so that the sleeves are nice and long and cosy."

Cool, hey?!!

FRONT ROW GOES TO HOLLYWOOD FASHION SHOW 2011 feat. PAPER COUTURE

2011-11-22T03:58:00.000-08:00

PAPER COUTURE
by Freya von Strapp
"Dangerous Liaisons"

(designer Freya von Strapp with model Audra Fraser)

FRONT ROW GOES TO HOLLYWOOD is celebrating the glamour of movie stardom.
"My mother was a big film fan and I was brought up watching all those fabulous movies of the 40s and 50s, and being able to make PAPER COUTURE inspired by all those great Hollywood wardrobe designers is a beautiful opportunity. The idea for outfits made from paper really developed during my Illustration Degree at Brighton University and has grown into an obsession. Being able to create flamboyant dresses out of a inexpensive and disposable material is the perfect mixture of my two great loves: FASHION & PAPER."

For commissions contact
Freya von Strapp
www.whiskillustration@yahoo.co.uk
or visit
www.whiskillustration.co.uk

(photos: Tom McShane)
FRONT ROW FASHION SHOW 2011

FRONT ROW GOES TO HOLLYWOOD FASHION SHOW 2011 feat. Last Minute Dress by Maria Mahlmann

2011-11-22T03:45:00.001-08:00

MARIA MAHLMANN

"The Last Minute Dress"

Maria's idea to create the ‚Last Minute Dress“ was born in Berlin in 2003. The atmosphere of the perfect and imperfect inspired the German designer to work around mixing new and recycled materials. Berlin is an environment of contrasts: rubbish & riches, poverty & redemption. As a designer, she is always interested in the aspect of recycling and re-using. The ‚Last Minute Dress’ can easily be carried in a handbag and thrown on for any occasion.

The inspiration for this catwalk collection was 1960s spy movies – an exciting world of mystery and changing identities – always being prepared to surprise.

www.mariamahlmann.de
contact: 0049-175.951.1873

(photo by Tom McShane)
FRONT ROW FASHION SHOW 2011

FRONT ROW FASHION SHOW 2011 feat. La La Rookh Vintage Swimwear

2011-11-22T02:04:00.000-08:00

The FRONT ROW GOES TO HOLLYWOOD FASHION SHOW 2011 was very successful with over 200 esteemed guests delighting in inspired collections made of recycled, vintage and secondhand customised garments with a Hollywood theme.

LA LA ROOKH

Vintage inspired swimwear

The label La La Rookh by Anna Winston is inspired by vintage clothing and the nostalgic seaside days of childhood and this is the basis of most of her design, reproducing the vintage swimsuit... that flattering yet elusive item not often found in flea markets, dress agencies, and vintage clothing fairs. Due to the nature of their use they are often in unwearable condition, and yet the swimsuits of the 40's & 50's are so flattering to the female figure so these rare garments are coveted and often sought after. Anna wants to inspire women to feel comfortable and glamorous on the beach.
For bespoke swimsuits and lingerie made from a selection of vintage fabric and modern reproductions, and a Ready to Wear collection is available for women and children, contact

Anna Winston at www.lalarookh.com

(photo by Tom McShane)
FRONT ROW FASHION SHOW 2011

FRONT ROW GOES TO HOLLYWOOD

2011-11-21T02:41:00.000-08:00

STYLE INSPIRATION 12

Pink & Green

This window at the St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop, Queens Rd, was created in anticipation of the

FRONT ROW GOES TO HOLLYWOOD 2011
Fashion Show

which was held on Saturday, 12th November at The Masonic Hall, St. Leonards-on-Sea, the fashion spectacle that is all about vintage, secondhand, recycled, customised and handmade clothes and accessories.

The long dark pink velvet skirt teamed with a green & white rushed 70s blouse worked a treat - and the long pink mohair shawl sold straight away. Gold shoes, a sequins belt and short dress added a bit of sparkle and glamour. The retro pink organza hat and sleeveless top were a rare find too.

Concerning green and pink to wear on a day to day basis? Why not, orchids do it....

GOLD & BLACK & V-NECK BACKWARDS

2011-10-21T02:31:00.000-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 12

Now, there is a combination that blows away ... Black & Gold it is, and it heralds the party season in vintage style! As I was running around the shop trying to find various bits to put together, this paper bag came in with a set of 3 amazing 50s vintage hats which fitted into my display perfectly! Apparently these hats came into the St. Michael's Hospice Donation Center at the bottom of a black bag full of stuff. My appreciation goes out to all those hardworking Hospice volunteers who go through bin bags after bin bags, sorting and distributing, and very very occasionally stumble upon a treasure like this ... for all you lovely charity shop customers to enjoy!!

This week's window includes various black velvet skirts (the black is just so perfect), combined with a golden blouse and a lurex v-neck jumper worn backwards ... AND I TOTALLY REMEMBERED WEARING V-NECK JUMPERS BACKWARDS IN THE 80s - WOW, I HAD COMPLETELY FORGOTTEN ABOUT IT! And then there are various bijou evening bags and golden shoes and these 4 gorgeous 50s hats - one in rose feathers (so beautiful), a cap in black feathers, one with silk bows & a veil and one velvet & veil band.

The FRONT ROW GOES TO HOLLYWOOD Fashion Show 2011 is only in a few weeks away, so pop into the shop and get your outfit and hat sorted soon.

Gold & Black is classic - as you can see worn by Jane Russell & Marilyn Monroe in the 20th Century Vox movie "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (1953) and Beyonce on the Red Carpet recently.

Style Inspiration Brideshead Revisited

2011-09-23T03:03:00.000-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 11

Brideshead Revisited

Today I believe is officially autumn and therefore time to fully embrace this time of the year:

Long walks through woodlands in wellies & wooly socks, tweed jackets, (for most of us fake) Hermes scarves, leather gloves, long scarves, Lambswool jumpers, some pearls ...
and afterwards a good book by a roaring fire whilst sipping on a hot toddy with a roast simmering in the oven ...

I don't care what anybody says, I HEART AUTUMN, as it is never a disappointment like summer and the colours are glorious. Autumnal food is the best - although usually on the meaty side - with casseroles and bakes and any excuse to add alcohol to your stew. TOTAL COMFORT.

Top Styling Tip:
Get yourself a men's tweed jacket from a charity shop, they are made of such beautiful woolen cloths and are nice and long. Although admittedly too big most times, they wear very well with a chunky belt, and combined with gloves, pearls and a silk scarf look quite feminine. Or wear something delicate underneath like silk and lace .... for unwrapping later.

(images: Brideshead Revisited, Miramax Films 2008 and Jeremy Irons the 1981 TV Mini-Series)

PAPER COUTURE @ Coastal Currents Art Festival 2011

2011-09-21T06:58:00.001-07:00

(Paper Couture created by Freya von Strapp at www.whiskillustration.co.uk)

PAPER COUTURE DISPLAY and PAPER HAT MAKING WORKSHOP as part of the Coastal Currents Art Festival September 2011, Hastings & St. Leonards-on-Sea

There is something immensely satisfying about creating fashion in paper ... it is instant, fragile but strangely sturdy at the same time ... your only enemy is the rain.
I once made myself a skirt with photocopies of a young smouldering Mick Jagger for a party ... it lasted the whole evening and even the long walk home ... only bother was to use the loo during the evening as I had to double-sided-stickytape myself in again each time ... well, darlings, no suffering is too small for STATEMENT FASHION!!!

I wonder how Mick Jagger paperknickers would feel .... xxx

FRONT ROW FASHION SHOW 2011

2011-09-20T14:55:00.000-07:00

I have the absolute pleasure to introduce the next FRONT ROW 2011 event dedicated to everything glitzy, from movie stardom & red carpet glamour to the golden era of Hollywood in fashion - and all over two days!

FRONT ROW
GOES TO HOLLYWOOD

Fashion Show

Saturday, 12th November 2011

The Masonic Hall, St. Leonards-on-Sea

Doors Open 7pm

An illustrious group of designers, stylists and creatives will blow you away with their movie inpired catwalk collections on the night, using vintage, customised second hand, as well as charity shop clothes by St. Michael's Hospice and PAPER COUTURE.

There will be glamour and entertainment and a rather theatrical show for your pleasure, and a DJ playing music to dance away til late. On the same evening we'll also be holding a

*** FROCK EXCHANGE/CLOTHES SWAP

All guests are encouraged to bring a maximum of 4 quality garments they don't want or need anymore in exchange for something "new" - you might just find the perfect outfit to take home on the night!

*** CHARITY SHOP CHALLENGE

Get your own creativity flowing and take the challenge – find charity shop clothes to a budget of max. £10.00 and re-work and customize them into an outfit to the theme „FILM STAR“.

The winners will then model/or have their creations modeled on the FRONT ROW catwalk.

Send your details and a 'before' and 'after' photo to frontrowsouthcoast@hotmail.co.uk,

DEADLINE: Friday, 28th October 2011

*** PHOTOBOOTH

Come in your most beautiful outfits and have your picture taken by a professional photographer - the perfect present to yourself and others.

*** SECONDHAND/VINTAGE/HANDMADE FASHION FAIR

will be taking place the following day on

Sunday, 13th November 2011 @ The Masonic Hall

Doors Open 11am til 4.30pm, Free Entry

An indulgent day of glorious fashion to peruse and buy, a chance to find THAT beautiful outfit for the festive season and lots of presents, with 30 stalls to choose from selling fashion, hats, bags, jewellery and other accessories at affordable prizes. There will be music & delicious refreshments.

For stall enquiries email tara.deighton@o2.co.uk, fee is £25.00

*** HOT TICKETS

Tickets will go on sale from Saturday, 1st October, through the following outlets:

The Bullet Cafe, Robertson St, Hastings

Butlers, George St, Old Town

Hastings Information Centre

Plenty Store, Grand Parade, St. Leonards-on-Sea

THE FIRST 100 WHITE TICKETS SOLD WILL RECEIVE A GOODIE BAG ON THE NIGHT!

Due to a smaller venue this year, the amount of tickets issued are limited, sorry!

"We are all of us stars, and we deserve to twinkle!" (Marilyn Monroe)

Style Inspiration I HEART 80s FASHION

2011-09-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 10

Despite the reflective window (the sun was glorious on that day), I hope this photo still shows off my equally glorious 80s inspired display ... pinks, emeralds, purple & royal blue ... all the colours my mum was desperate for me to wear during my black and grey phase ... so Muddel, this is dedicated to you!

There is the double breasted pink linen dress with the shoulder pads (whoohoo!), the shimmering green shantung silk top and trousers, the pink & blue felt hats, pink sequined and satin clutch and some chunky necklaces ..

Does anyone remember the film "Mannequin", where supersweet Andrew McCarthy (he was so hot in Pretty In Pink) falls in love with his mannequin while on a window dressing job ... the doll strangely coming to life, being KIM CATTRALL of all people! Extraordinary!

Maybe I should let myself be locked in one afternoon at the St. Michael's shop ... I wonder who my two headless dummies could turn into ... hmmm, ok, let's not go there!

Style Inspiration NOTHING TO DO ABOUT LOVE

2011-08-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 9

This has nothing to do with L.O.V.E or Hearts or Strawberries or anything ... I just thought of a full splash of the most auspicious colour I could think of before we descend into autumn (yes sorry, the word is out, now!)

I've been very fortunate to be able to pick some of my fave pieces out of the Designer Sale happening upstairs at the St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop, Queens Rd, Hastings at the moment, and they were, starting with the piece de la resistance being a sumptious pair of red wool Claude Montana high waisted Marlene Dietrich trousers with a frilly silky ivory blouse with covered button cuffs (which I saw were recently sold), red braces and a red wool school blazer: Delicious. Also I found a red beaded tie-back top, some (fake) snakeskin shoes, a red suede belt, a vintage red Christian Dior perfume box, a red leather clutch bag and a red wollen 60s hat.

RED is an amazing colour, it spells danger and safety at the same time, and you have to be up for it to wear it ... Are you? Then come out to play with fire ... like Scarlet O'Hara ...

Style Inspiration OUT OF AFRICA

2011-07-21T14:12:00.001-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 8

Since the next FRONT ROW FASHION SHOW in November will be all about HOLLYWOOD, I've styled the latest window inspired by the movie

"OUT OF AFRICA"

It's about the Earth and Heat and the Wild, Passion and Romance, of course (Meryl Streep & Robert Redford), and I had completely forgotten about this film until I came across this absolutely spot on fab Safari style cream cotton dress, all buttoned down at the front ... it is SO stylish combined with a short fake leather aviator jacket and a chunky plaited belt ... and a silk scarf.
I also found a fake Ostrich leather bag, various straw hats, some 80s zebra striped mules, chocolate sequins flats, a leopard print chiffon skirt, a cream lace blouse, more tan leather bags and a straw hat with a caramel chiffon scarf ... so it doesn't fly off while riding on an elephant, obvs .... the giant shopper has some Egyptian images on it I seem to remember which is not exactly THAT Africa but hey, it's Africa, so it counts!

Style Inspiration COTE D'AZUR

2011-07-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 7

Ok, despite having never before encountered a shop window that reflects so much - and yes, I am grateful the sun was shining - this display was inspired by 50s holidays ... the first time after the end of WWII depression when going on holiday to Southern European countries was all the rage ... so the colours I chose were yellow (sun), azur (sea) and white ...ahem ... white stone houses, maybe?

I found light blue cropped linen trousers combined with a striped cardigan and golden and white sandals - and on the other side a white cotton gathered skirt with pockets and buttons down the front (which I completely fell in love with) combined with a white pussy bow blouse and a short navy jacket with gold buttons and a yellow straw hat. And the piece de la resistance: the original azur 60s bathing suit!

Very "To Catch A Thief" ... I wouldn't mind being caught in that!

'I WANT THAT' FROCK EXCHANGE PARTY

2011-06-19T05:10:00.000-07:00

As part of a series of events organised by FRONT ROW we are proudly presenting the

'I WANT THAT' FROCK EXCHANGE

It is simple… you offer up your loved but no longer wanted fashion items and swap them for something else that takes your fancy.

... HOW DOES A FROCK EXCHANGE PARTY WORK?
Each guest brings at least one item of clothing, pair of shoes or accessory to swap.
The clothes are displayed for everyone to choose from and try on. You and your friends go home with a great new look. It’s that easy.

... FEEL GOOD FACTOR:
It’s a brilliant reason to throw a party and you get the buzz of a trip to the shops without it costing the earth.

... UNCLUTTER YOUR WARDROBE:
It’s a perfect way to pass on clothes that are cluttering up your wardrobe. Recycling clothes gives them a new lease of life. You can re-style or alter items that you find at the swap to suit your style and you can see others get creative with your old clothes too.

... VENUE:
Downstairs@ The Bullet Cafe, Robertson Street, Hastings
£1.00 entry fee

Doors open at 10.30am for clean and ironed donations, you'll receive a voucher with the number of items you donated which is the amount of frocks you can take home!

FROCK EXCHANGE starts at 11am til 2pm

All left over and unclaimed clothes will be going to St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop at the end of the day.

See you there! x

ST. MICHAEL'S HOSPICE YELLOW DAY

2011-06-19T04:45:00.000-07:00

INSPIRATION NO. 6

Mellow Yellow Daisy Day:
Think dandelions, daffodils and buttercups, think yellow ribbon & old oak tree, think what you like .... but for the past six years local schools, colleges, nurseries and companies have been taking part in the St. Michael's Hospice' special Yellow Day, an opportunity for everyone to wear something yellow for the day in exchange for a donation of £1.
In 2010 the Hospice raised over £6,400 with this appeal ...
And this is my little styling contribution!

There is a yellow feather boa and a teapot involved, golden peeptoe heels, yellow gloves, a silk scarf and vintage glass. The Grecian style dress is a size 14 and refreshing for a Summer Party!

Think buttermilk ....

Style Inspiration CHANEL & CLOTTED CREAM

2011-06-04T14:28:00.001-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 5

Vanilla Ice Cream ... mmm

Since the weather has been so absolutely glorious since FOREVER it seems, I've been thinking frozen yogurt and vanilla ice and clotted cream!

This cool and smooth window display therefore features an 80s Chanel-esque box jacket and skirt ensemple with a white blouse and also a 70s polyester skirt with black flowers combined with a silk camisole and a lavender velvet fitted blazer ... not to forget the white broidery anglaise wedge espandrilles (SO NOW), a straw hat to keep the sun in check, bronze ballet pumps, a cream beaded bag, silk scarf and organza flower brooches, strings of pearls .... and the biography of Bette Davis for a bit of "All About Eve"!

Ice Ice Lady...

I'm getting peckish now so pleeeeease let there be some Greek yogurt left in the fridge ...

Style Inspiration VINTAGE WEDDING GUEST

2011-05-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 4
Vintage Wedding Guests

This is the window display at the St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop, Queens Rd, featuring all the outfits that were showcased at the recent Cake & Earl Wedding Fair and Catwalk Show in Tunbridge Wells.

The beautiful 70s salmon coloured lycra dress with diamante detail is to die for - it would be mine if I could just fit into it (size 10) - and the beaded organza top combined with a pleated skirt ( I somehow have a thing for pleated skirts) and a pashmina (always perfect for weddings: demurely wrapped around the shoulders during the wedding service and then flung off at the party when dancing on the table - ahem!!!).

And those cute accessories: straw hat, beaded vintage bag, those very chic gloves, pink fake snake clutch and those seriously beautiful Best-Man-Beware vintage Woolford stockings ...!!! Looking THAT gorgeous your only job is to catch the bride's bouquet!!! So start working out, girls!

(sorry, wedding stuff makes me sooo go into stereotypes...)

Style Inspiration ROYAL BLUE

2011-05-19T02:42:00.000-07:00

TRUE (ROYAL) BLUE, BABY,
I LOVE YOU!

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 3

This was my humble styling tribute to Kate & Will's Right Royal Wedding. What a beautiful event it was and even I was swept away by the excitement and jolly party atmosphere around.

The royal blue halterneck long evening gown with diamante detail fit in perfectly. Very Kate.
Together with the 70s blue and silver sequins top (Wills?) paired with a pleated skirt, a gold metal snake scales stretch belt and beaded evening bag. The navy velvet beret reminded me of Henry VIII and the blue satin clutch bag and matching shoes ... well, very much

HRH The Queen.

GOD SAVE EVERYONE!

All garments will be available for purchase from today, 18th May, at the St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop, Queens Rd, Hastings or to make a donation visit www.stmichaelshospice.com.

CAKE & EARL WEDDING FAIR

2011-05-19T00:27:00.000-07:00

MORE PAPER COUTURE ...by Freya von Strapp

Watch out for a different kind of wedding fair experience ... Cake & Earl, a beautiful eclectic showcase and fashion show with a mix of stunning modern and vintage wedding dresses and everything you need for that special day in your life .... with a twist! For more information contact www.sugargroup.com.

Last Sunday, I was very fortunate to style a section of the catwalk on 'wedding guests' with vintage charity shop clothes, kindly provided by the St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop, Queens Rd, Hastings, as well as show my latest

PAPER COUTURE WEDDING DRESS.

The event took place at the Brew House Hotel and the Old School House in the picturesque old town of Tunbridge Wells. Brides-to-be sporting goodie bags provided by Hoopers were spoilt for choice of jewellery, wedding accessories, gorgeous gowns, silk underwear, make up and hair tutorials, massages, flower arrangements and a catwalk show. Entry was free and the event was in aid of the Tree of Hope Childrens Charity.

My two beautiful models Kate - wearing Freya von Strapp PAPER COUTURE designs, a flurry of white tissue paper - and James wearing black shorts, original Austrian knitted knee-high white socks, white shirt with cufflinks, a white vest and a black tailcoat.

For PAPER COUTURE COMMISSIONS contact Freya von Strapp at www.whiskillustration@yahoo.co.uk

THE DAWN OF THE LEDERHOSEN

2011-03-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

OH MY GOODNESS

While I was in my favourite St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop today I came across these little adorable Austrian Lederhosen!!! Wow, that brought back beautiful memories of long summer holidays spent in the Alps hiking with my family ... the only coloured kid for miles (until my little brother was born of course)!

And I spent those easy days in these kind of shorts and of course 'Dirndls', too (little traditional embroidered dresses with aprons).

... and I actually found this photo to prove it!

So parents: in the name of childhood, please bring back the little leather shorts, as they are hard wearing, extremely cute and they will last for many many years as they magically grow with your child!!!

YODELODIHO! to that!

Style Inspiration SPRING AT THE SEASIDE

2011-02-20T07:12:00.000-08:00

STYLE INSPIRATION NO. 2

It was a beautiful day at the St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop, it almost felt like S.P.R.I.N.G, and while sorting and pricing clothes I found this beautiful woolen yellow and navy check pleated skirt and the colour reminded me of Walls vanilla ice cream - it was just too perfect! So the window display ended up with a cream all-weather fitted mac (in tribute to the usual rain), lemon cardigan and jeans skirt, the pleated skirt teamed with a white jacket, lots of navy & white scarves, a raffia bag, cream straw hat and sunglasses: So coastal, so summery - and the navy clogs are just fun! xx Can't wait til the beach is back open for business (which by the way should be in 4 to 5 months...)!

WHISK STUDIO

2011-02-07T02:17:00.000-08:00

AT LAST!

Ha, I moved into my new studio last Tuesday, and it is H.E.A.V.E.N!
Finally, I am able to have all my paper projects in a proper space - my home just wasn't big enough anymore ... and this is what I made in my first hour of blissful studio time:

The Little Paper Bride!

Style Inspiration VALENTINE CHIC

2011-02-07T01:47:00.000-08:00

STYLE INSPIRATION
NO. 1

My favourite day of the week is Thursday when I volunteer at my local St. Michael's Hospice Charity Shop and I'm encouraged to do the window display! I try to make it a different colour or style theme each week which truly is a challenge since it always depends on what's in the shop at the time. So, I usually find a piece that inspires me and work the display around it.

From now on I will be documenting this and hope you will find some inspiration!

STYLE INSPIRATION NO 1

The week before Valentine's positively HAD to have a red theme and the best combination turned out to be the vintage red fitted blazer, red chiffon blouse, straight legged hipster jeans, the leopard print chiffon scarf tied into a pussy bow, chunky brown leather woven belt and the red head scarf (oh, how I wish the dummy had her own head).
A big injection of colour and easy elegance on a wet and windy February day ... eat your heart out - ahem, not literally, since it's Valentine's and you might want to give it to someone special.

Style Inspiration MY JEANS JACKET

2011-01-31T02:44:00.000-08:00

A Selections Of Brooches On My Jeans Jacket

This fitted jeans jacket is my most favoured single piece of clothing - everyone should own one! The brooches are partly presents and mostly picked up in car boot sales or charity shops ... unique!

PAPER COUTURE WINDOW DISPLAY

2011-01-31T02:29:00.000-08:00

Paper Couture In A Shop Window by Freya von Strapp

Prior to the FRONT ROW GLAMOUR I created this Paper Couture display in the gorgeous Butler's Shop in the Old Town of Hastings featuring a black & white 40s style paper lace dress on a dummy and a black tissue paper poodle with a pink bow and lead ...

Very Parisian! Also featuring white paper stars made by Lauren.

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 CHARITY SHOP CHALLENGE

2011-01-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

Charity Shop Challenge Winners
Be inspired by some of the extraordinary entries for the CSC Charity Shop Challenge: £10 budget for second hand garments transformed and customised into an outfit to the theme of "Hastings Rocks!"
And rock they did!

(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 WHARP & WHEFT

2011-01-10T02:08:00.000-08:00

Warp & Wheft
Ecclectic Vintage & Second Hand Shop
Owner and talented stylist Leida Nassir-Pour has created an immaculate collection of beautifully handpicked outfits with an air of country gentry sophistication. Vintage eye dandy.

(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 catwalk Aj Ay

2011-01-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

Aj Ay
Designer & make-up artist with a quirky take on recycling, including pages of Vogue magazine, pistacchio shells and plastic water bottles.
(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 catwalk Zoe Lloyd

2011-01-06T07:20:00.000-08:00

Zoe Lloyd
Designer and costumier specialising in vintage and antique inspired costume, fashion and accessories. Period style graphic design, art direction and styling ...
www.zoelloyd.co.uk

(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 catwalk Freya von Strapp

2011-01-06T07:01:00.000-08:00

Freya von Strapp
Sexy Secretary Chic - inspired design & styling -
LOVE YOUR SECRETARY
contact: whiskillustration@yahoo.co.uk

(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 catwalk Lady K Loves

2011-01-06T06:41:00.000-08:00

Sexy designs by Lady-K-Loves

high quality clothes for rockabilly gals, pin up chicks, kool katz and those who are scene but not herd. www.lady-k-loves.com

(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 PAPER COUTURE

2011-01-05T10:20:00.001-08:00

PAPER COUTURE by Freya von Strapp at www.whiskillustration.co.uk

The much anticipated Paper Couture section of the catwalk with statement pieces made from handprinted brown paper, white paper folded into fans, printed dolls faces and a flurry of tissue paper - truly breathtaking!

(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 Winnie Carlson (London)

2011-01-05T09:38:00.000-08:00

Designer Winnie Carlson, London,
with her delicately stitched and appliqued outfits mixing English Rose with Hip Hop. As a big fan of thrift shops FRONT ROW was the perfect opportunity to display great talent and an eye for detail.

(photos by Tom McShane)

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010

2010-12-06T02:19:00.000-08:00

FRONT ROW WOWED!

According to a very complementary article in the Observer (Hastings' that is), FRONT ROW ..."wows the crowds as hundreds head to annual clothes extravaganza. More than 300 fashionistas braved the cold for an evening of dazzling designs and stunning shopping a the weekend."

(Paper Couture 2010)

The evening was amazing with all the guests in their glam & glitzy outfits with a lush arm candy goodie bag and a glass of sparkling wine, browsing the many vintage clothing and accessories stalls and enjoying a fantastic catwalk show including up and coming designers House of Lalka and Winnie Carlson as well as stylish charity shop clothes, men's wear and evening garments by local vintage shops and Paper Couture that wowed and inspired.

CHARITY SHOP CHALLENGE AWARDS

At the end of the evening 5 charity shop challenge winners were awarded in the following categories:

Peter Quinnell - Best Cut, Best Overall Outfit, Best Use of Materials

Sarah Stephenson - Best Accessories

Emma Hicks - Best Contemporary

Daisy West - Best Use of Embellishment

Joanna Ratcliffe - Best Environmentally Friendly

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WINNERS!

FRONT ROW adores House of Lalka (London)

2010-11-25T03:53:00.000-08:00

FRONT ROW
adores

HOUSE OF LALKA

‘House of Lalka’ is a growing brand inspired by artefacts sourced from the house of Regina Chmurska, a Polish dress maker who survived World War II. She spent a lifetime collecting and making clothes to replace the contents of her crocodile suitcase stolen during the German Invasion.

Revived by Regina’s Granddaughters Katie Rose and Alice Whiting the pieces are either original or re-designed inspired by Regina’s signature style.

FRONT ROW is a celebration of vintage, re-cycled, and customization and Lalka embodies these qualities. We have combined original and re-worked pieces from Regina’s house, Katie’s 1^st collection and new pieces designed for FRONT ROW in cooperating themes of deconstructed glamour, satire and the spirit of Hastings.

www.houseoflalka.blogspot.com

www.houseoflalka.com

We very proud to be featuring 'House of Lalka' on the FRONT ROW Glamour 2010 Catwalk.

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010 feat. Zoe Lloyd

2010-11-25T03:46:00.000-08:00

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR
is proudly featuring

ZOE LLOYD

Costumier specialising in antique and vintage inspired costume, clothing and accessories, includes off the peg, bespoke clothing, bridal and costume art/exhibits/display. Zoe is also a vintage expert/collector and sells vintage alongside her own designs at her studio which is open to the public Thu-Sat, 10am-6pm and also by appointment:

Zoe Lloyd Studios, Park Cottage, Church Lane,
Iden, Rye, East Sussex TN31 7XD
www.zoelloyd.co.uk

2010-11-23T15:12:00.000-08:00

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR 2010

is GO GO GO!

(backstage FRONT ROW 2009)

WOW, this is usually the most exciting last few days before the show. For months the whole event is solely based on email, facebook messages, phone calls and msm .... all theory, all words and nothing tangible...

And then is the point - my favourite - when the first garments start arriving!
And the fittings are done - a big playground of shoes, handbags, hats, jewellery and clothes - and everything comes together.

I'm making lists on every piece of scrap paper available, and if there is no paper? ... thank God for my phone where I can write memos when I wake up at night and don't want to get up to make a note of something important I must remember!!! The other day this memo consisted of 50 items.

Since we seem to be on track with everything, I'd better start making some PAPER COUTURE!

x

2010-11-11T03:00:00.000-08:00

FRONT ROW is proud to support on
FRONT ROW GLAMOUR

THE TERRENCE HIGGINS TRUST
with a section on the catwalk.

We salute their persistent work and efforts to raise awareness and increase public and political support for HIV and sexual health.

The Terrence Higgins Trust was one of the first charities to be set up in response to the HIV epidemic and has been at the forefront of the fight against HIV, and improving the nation's sexual health, ever since.

Their vision

A world where people with HIV live healthy lives free from prejudice and discrimination, and good sexual health is a right and reality for all.

Their mission

Maximise sexual health in the UK, and minimise the spread of HIV and STIs, by encouraging people to value their sexual health and by
leading innovation to increase access to local sexual health services
Empower everyone living with HIV in the UK to maximise their health and wellbeing by working to ensure the best possible HIV
treatment and support services
Lead public and political support for HIV & sexual health issues, and campaign to eradicate stigma & discrimination

Their patrons

Sir Richard Branson, Simon Callow CBE, Julian Clary, Martin Clunes, Dame Judi Dench, Tracey Emin, Stephen Fry, amongst others.

If you have any questions about HIV or sexual health visit their website on
www.tht.org.uk

2010-11-10T08:47:00.000-08:00

FRONT ROW LOVES ... BETTY FLOWERS

Betty Flowers is a makeup artist with a passion for vintage glamour, and glowing skin.

Born in Michigan, USA and now based in Hastings, Betty does makeup work all over the South East. Betty has done styling and makeup for events and shows such as: Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, Cirque Du Soleil, Smashbox and Lorac Commercials,The Hotrod Hayride, Jameson's Chills in the Chapel, and our very own Front Row.

In addition to this Betty has worked with many brides, bringing her skills and knowledge to give them the perfect look for their big day. Makeup is Betty's full time job and she prides herself on her ability to create a look for each individual and campaign. With 5 years of experience in makeup artistry and a life long love of beauty, Betty is the girl to see for a flawless and radiant face.

FRONT ROW GLAMOUR proudly presents:

Betty's BEAUTY Parlour
Look and feel like a 40s goddess and have your make up boosted by Betty for a small donation on the night of the FRONT ROW GLAMOUR Fashion Show!

Find her parlour to the left of the entrance to St. Mary's auditorium!

A real treat! See you there,

FRONT ROW

2010-11-05T00:44:00.000-07:00

WELCOME TO THE DEADLINE
OF THE CHARITY SHOP CHALLENGE!

We at FRONT ROW know that you all have been busy shopping, sewing, glueing, stitching, adding, ripping and customising away at your garments, and many fantastically creative designs have already been submitted. TODAY is the moment of truth ...the DEADLINE!

We noticed that some entrants had difficulties with our hotmail, so here again is the email address where to send your images, a few lines about your inspiration, your age and contact details:

frontrowsouthcoast@hotmail.co.uk
alternatively use
maika.crampton@yahoo.co.uk

If you are unable to send your images, call 01424 444 851 and we might be able to help.

As we said before, the best design and runner up of each of the 5 categories will participate
in the FRONT ROW GLAMOUR Fashion Show on 27th November 2010 at St. Mary in the Castle, seafront, Hastings, and the winners will be announced on the night.

Good luck & we're looking forward to seeing you on the catwalk!

FRONT ROW x

2010-10-22T06:36:00.000-07:00

TICKETS
Tickets will be released Wednesday, 27th October 2010 and are available from the following outlets:

*St. Mary-in-the-Castle, Pelham Crescent, Hastings Seafront
*Hastings Information Center, Priory Meadows, Town Center
*The Bullet Cafe, 38 Robertson Street, Hastings

The first 100 "White" tickets sold (see above image) will receive a gorgeous goodie bag on the night.

WHITE TICKETS ONLY AVAILABLE from
**Butlers, 70 George Street, Old Town, Hastings

Good luck with catching one!

FRONT ROW x

2010-10-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

(Image: Charity Shop Challenge entry 2009 with dresses made from men's
shirts)

THE CHARITY SHOP CHALLENGE
REMINDER!

In case you haven't seen the article in this week's Hastings Observer about our Charity Shop Challenge, here again is the lowdown:

The challenge is
1* to find garments to a budget of maximum £10.00 in a charity shop

2* to recycle, re-work & customize them into an outfit or garment on the theme of HASTINGS ROCKS!

3* send in a photo of the garment, your age, a little line about your inspiration and your contact details via email to www.frontrowrecycled@hotmail.co.uk

DEADLINE: 5th November 2010

Award Categories to aspire to are
Best Outfit
Best Use of Material
Best Under 18
Best Cut
Best Environmentally Friendly

The 5 winners & 5 runner-ups will be able to model their creations on the catwalk on the night of the show in St. Mary in the Castle, Saturday 27th November 2010 with the winners being announced and awarded at the end of the show!

So, ... start being inspired & good luck!
FRONT ROW

2010-10-18T15:07:00.000-07:00

Voila, our official poster and we encourage all our guests to dress GLAM!!

2010-10-15T05:06:00.000-07:00

PAPER COUTURE @ FRONT ROW 2010

by Freya von Strapp
www.whiskillustration.co.uk

I guess being one of the organisers of FRONT ROW is not enough ... and doing flamboyant
PAPER COUTURE at the fashion catwalk show every year is one of my creative highlights.
The idea for outfits made from paper really developed during my Illustration Degree at Brighton University and has grown into a passion, BIG TIME!
Going from 2D to 3D paper collages is exciting:
FRONT ROW is the perfect showcase for outrageous creations and indulging in it has opened up a whole new world of prop making for me.
Freya

Image: FRONT ROW 2008

2010-10-13T03:03:00.000-07:00

A big THANK YOU for HEN Hastings Environment Network for
supporting us this year!

Hastings Environment Network (HEN) is a volunteer-run organisation that aims to create a network of environmental organisations and individuals in Hastings and St Leonards in order to:

enable and facilitate environmentally aware projects,
encourage the implementation of environmental policy at local and regional level,
ensure that there is representation of environmental issues at LSP level,
promote environmental education in all sectors of the community,
promote green growth and sustainable development, and
promote and support local environmental events.

Membership of Hastings Environment Network is free and is open to anyone who supports our aims.

For more information visit www.hastingsenvironmentnetwork.net

2010-10-13T02:59:00.000-07:00

St. Mary-in-the-Castle, venue of the FRONT ROW Glamour Fashion Show & Vintage Boutique Shopping 2010 (Hastings)

2010-10-13T02:31:00.000-07:00

FRONT ROW 2010
CHARITY SHOP CHALLENGE
Are YOU up for it?

This is one of our favourite parts of FRONT ROW
Anyone who is interested in fashion can enter The Charity Shop Challenge!

The mission is to buy second hand clothes from charity shops or vintage fabric or use any other recycled material for a budget of up to £10.00 (receipt necessary to enter) and through customising and re-working create a new and inspired garment.

Theme: HASTINGS ROCKS!
Deadline: Friday, 5th November 2010

All entries with details, a few words of what inspired you, phone number & an image of the finished outfit has to be sent to www.frontrowsouthcoast@hotmail.co.uk.

There are 5 AWARD categories:
Best Overall Outfit
Best Use of Materials
Best Cut
Best Under 18
Hastings Environment Network Prize For The Most Environmentally Friendly

Judges are
Maggie Alderson, international fashion columnist and former editor of ELLE Magazine
Rose Ratcliffe, inspired stylist and owner of Butler's, Old Town

All entries will be pre-selected and the 5 Winners & 5 Runner-ups will have the chance to model their creations on the FRONT ROW Glamour Catwalk on Saturday, 27th November at St. Mary in the Castle. Professional Make-up and hair will be provided.

So what are you waiting for...?

2010-09-15T00:19:00.000-07:00

FRONT ROW Glamour 2010

2010-08-13T03:16:00.000-07:00

Hello from FRONT ROW!

We know it's early days, but we thought you should

This is going to be the best ever FRONT ROW Fashion Show, and since we decided to make this year's theme GLAMOUR, it will be visually most stunning and very, very, very exciting.

FRONT ROW Glamour will be featuring a new breed of young inspired designers to transform everyday garments into fantastical and outrageous creations for the fashion show with emphasis on recycling, re-working and re-using fabrics as well as vintage.

WE NEED YOUR TALENT
If you would like to be involved in the Fashion Show as a model, super helper, prop maker, uber-creative fashion designer, hospitality talent, goodie bag handler, chocolate cigarette girl/boy or in any other way, please contact maika.crampton@yahoo.co.uk

VINTAGE SHOPPING
To make this evening even more pleasurable, FRONT ROW will play host again for an array of beautiful vintage clothing and accessories stalls for you to browse for that perfect glamorous outfit. If you are passionate about vintage fashion and would like to run a stall, please contact anna_winston@hotmail.co.uk

This is it for now but keep on checking in for constant fabulous updates!
See you soon,
FRONT ROW xx

2009-11-07T15:16:00.000-08:00

Welcome to FRONT ROW Recycled!

We are proud to present the

FRONT ROW Recycled
Fashion Catwalk Show & Vintage Boutique Shopping 2009

We can't believe how more than a year has gone past since the last hugely successful
FRONT ROW Ethical Fashion Show in September 2008.

This year we're showcasing the best in vintage, recycled, re-worked & customized fashion and accessories.

On Saturday, 21st November 2009
we will open the doors at 6:30 pm to the beautiful St. Mary-in-the-Castle, Hastings
Come early, reserve your FRONT ROW seat, grab a glass of sparkly at the bar and treat yourself to some beautiful one-off garments from our eight selected vintage clothing stalls.

At 8:00 pm we will start the Catwalk Fashion Show including stunning vintage fashion, unique dramatic show pieces, local and Brighton designers, the Charity Shop Challenge (more info to come) and Paper Couture.

After the show guests are invited to stay for drinks and some more boutique shopping til 10.00pm.

Advance tickets are £6.00 (£8.00 at the door) and available from

Hastings Information Centre
Hastings Town Centre
Tel. 01424 451 111

The Bullet Cafe
38 Robertson Street
Hastings

Pomegranate
50 George Street
Old Town, Hastings

St. Mary in the Castle
Pelham Crescent, Hastings
Tel. 01424 717592

Bar Bla
8 Marine Court
St. Leonards on Sea

The first 100 limited edition PINK tickets sold receive a fabulous goodie bag full of gorgeous gifts & surprises on the night. PINK tickets are only available at ODD, 68 George Street, Hastings

This will be an exciting night, so make sure you'll be there!

FRONT ROW x

Front Row Recycled 2009!!!

2009-10-21T14:04:00.000-07:00