Antique Hat Pins, Oh So Chic!

The hat pin was invented in the early 1800's, to hold adornments to a female's hair, mainly hats, or lace veils. They measured about 8 to 10 inches long, and were decorated with crystals, semi, and precious stones, pearls, ivory, and baubles of every type.

Photo courtesy Alice M. Windgerden

Originally these pins were handmade, and often on the expensive side due to the materials, and labor involved in producing them. They soon became very popular in Europe, and in 1832, an American machine was created to keep up with the demand for this highly popular accessory.
Every fashionable woman who wanted to secure her hat to her head with confidence, chose a hat pin to do the job.

Audrey Hepburn

Their popularity still exists today, and ladies often use them to affix scarves, decorate lapels, and add some drama to the "up do".
Serious collectors look for hat pins that are made of precious metals, and stones. Over the years, the most coveted of these, are those that have been created by famous design houses, in limited editions.

"Tiara" (hat pin) by Rene Lalique, courtesy Wikipedia

Please take time to consider these charming accessories, when you are updating your wardrobe. They are timeless, and so very versatile for the modern woman to wear.

Photo courtesy Alice M. Windgerden

Set of vintage hat pins from Sweetkate on Etsy

The best place to find these vintage and "new" handmade darlings? Check out Etsy, Ebay, and any estate sale that is featuring fine accessories. For more information, you can visit the American Hatpin Society.  Ciao! -Al

A David Austin Floral Tapestry Bouquet... Simply Sublime!

Hello friends, and a very Happy New Year to you all!
Today, we've decided to venture out into our English country garden, to cut some of our favorite roses that are in bloom right now.
Ok. We'll admit it. It is the dead of Winter here, and the garden is in a very deep slumber. But here at Skylark Manor we have been craving the scent, the beauty, and the ambience that only the finest English rose can impart upon a space.
So the only alternative was to get in touch with our very special friends at David Austin Roses Limited.
They immediately suggested the cure for us, and it was the Floral Tapestry Bouquet.

From the look of the gorgeous photo on their web page, how could we resist?
The floral stems arrived securely in a container that protected them perfectly for their trip to our home.
We immediately placed the 15 stems in a vase (our own), after carefully trimming back the stems as directed and adding the plant food.
The arrangement was stunning to say the least, and was much more magnificent than we could've ever imagined. The intoxicating perfume that this fabulous bouquet gave off, actually made everyone in our home giddy with delight. Each day, as the roses open up their petals, was an even greater delight to behold.
The rose species that were included in our bouquet were Darcey, Juliet, and Phoebe. They were accompanied with some beautiful green foliage as well.
Darcey's scent is a light fruity tea. She is a crimson to raspberry-red beauty, not to be missed. Juliet is known for her large, full head and light, peachy color. Pheobe has a large full blooms, and pink petals that have a gorgeous translucence. She is truly spectacular!
Here are our pics of the arrival, and then the subsequent "unveiling" if you will, of the tender roses as they opened...

Darcey

Juliet

Pheobe

To say we thoroughly enjoyed this floral delight, is an understatement. We can still smell their wonderful scent, lingering with our memories of Grandmother's rose garden. It is said that your memories of scent are the strongest, especially if they are linked in history, reverence, and love. 

We hope you have enjoyed this post. Please remember to visit David Austin Roses Limited so you can experience this delicious treat for yourself! Don't forget to tell them that Skylark Manor sent you. Ciao! -Al