This week we focus on the founder of Arabella Bianco, and lover of vintage, Lesley Sargeant.
 |
| Arabella Bianco at Vintage Modes |
Tell us a bit about yourself and your business
I began selling fairtrade in 2007 one day a week at my local market, and later expanded into jewellery. Now I deal in vintage costume jewellery, specialising in the 1950s – 1980s.
What drew you to selling vintage?
As a teenager I enjoyed shopping in charity shops for 50s original clothes, and listening to 50s music. When I had the opportunity to set up my own business, vintage jewellery was a natural progression, as I have always loved adornments!
When did you join the Vintage Modes collective?
I joined in April 2014. Since then it has been through many changes.
What do you love most about being part of Vintage Modes?
I love the character of Vintage Modes, and being part of Grays Antiques. Every day is different, and I never know who I may meet. I have learnt a great deal from the other vintage dealers, who have been in the business much longer than me, and I've still got lots to learn!
Do you have any tips for buying vintage?
Do your research before shopping, and find trustworthy dealers who know their product.
You have a strong online presence, how important is that for you?
It is vital. These days it is no longer a sellers market. I believe traders need to have more than one income stream. I have the shop, my own website, a presence on the Grays website, and I do vintage fairs.
Why do you love vintage jewellery?
It is so well made and beautiful, and I never know what I may find next! I enjoy discovering obscure designers, and restoring pieces to their former glory.
What's your favourite item in your stand?
At the moment my favourite item is a pair of gold leaf clip-on earrings from the 1950s, I like them because of the design, I think they're quite unusual with the different textures. There is also a matching bracelet and necklace in this design.
I began selling fairtrade in 2007 one day a week at my local market, and later expanded into jewellery. Now I deal in vintage costume jewellery, specialising in the 1950s – 1980s.
What drew you to selling vintage?
As a teenager I enjoyed shopping in charity shops for 50s original clothes, and listening to 50s music. When I had the opportunity to set up my own business, vintage jewellery was a natural progression, as I have always loved adornments!
 |
| A colourful array of vintage beaded necklaces, available from Arabella Bianco |
When did you join the Vintage Modes collective?
I joined in April 2014. Since then it has been through many changes.
What do you love most about being part of Vintage Modes?
I love the character of Vintage Modes, and being part of Grays Antiques. Every day is different, and I never know who I may meet. I have learnt a great deal from the other vintage dealers, who have been in the business much longer than me, and I've still got lots to learn!
 |
| Lesley also sells a small selection of vintage clothing and scarves |
Do you have any tips for buying vintage?
Do your research before shopping, and find trustworthy dealers who know their product.
You have a strong online presence, how important is that for you?
It is vital. These days it is no longer a sellers market. I believe traders need to have more than one income stream. I have the shop, my own website, a presence on the Grays website, and I do vintage fairs.
 |
| A stunning display of vintage costume jewellery available at Arabella Bianco |
Why do you love vintage jewellery?
It is so well made and beautiful, and I never know what I may find next! I enjoy discovering obscure designers, and restoring pieces to their former glory.
What's your favourite item in your stand?
At the moment my favourite item is a pair of gold leaf clip-on earrings from the 1950s, I like them because of the design, I think they're quite unusual with the different textures. There is also a matching bracelet and necklace in this design.
 |
| c1950s smooth stem and brushed texture leaf earrings, from Arabella Bianco |
Arabella Bianco at Vintage Modes
Tel: 0207 409 0400
Email: mail@arabellabianco.co.uk
Website: www.arabellabianco.co.uk
 |
| Necklaces offered by Gillian Horsup and Unicorn |
 |
| Items offered by Unicorn |
 |
| Beaded bag, offered by Unicorn |
 |
| Vintage Shoes and designer bags, offered by June Victor |
 |
| A view of Vintage Modes |
 |
| Vintage clothing offered by June Victor |
 |
| Designer dresses from June Victor |
All items posted are for sale. If you have any queries please leave a comment or visit us at Grays in Mayfair, London Alternatively you can call us on 020 7409 0400 or email info@vintagemodes.co.uk
No comments:
Post a Comment