I’ve fallen in love with these beautiful dolls and figurines by Janet Cooper. They remind me of the old Metz advert. Do you remember the Judderman? Or maybe a Tim Burton film? But Janet Cooper’s dolls and figurines have such an endearing quality about them that I just want to buy them all.

As well as the dolls, Janet also makes memory quilts and pendants. Take a look at www.janetcooperdesigns.com.

And if you can’t remember the Judderman, here’s a reminder.

Today’s theme is ‘the unusual’. Because I’m in that kind of a mood. As you probably know by now I’m a big fan of collage and mixed media art. I came across Wynter Whiteside’s work a little while ago and I’ve been dying to share it with you. In Wynter’s words she ’splice[s] open a secret world of fuzzy bunnies, succulent blueberries and faux fur sewed directly on raw canvas.’ Through her art she aims to tap into all of the senses, describing the process as spontaneous and experimental. Through ‘editing, decorating, and delicate mark making ‘ she eventually reaches a ‘gigantic sensory overload or even a soft, violet-scented whisper’.

Wynter will be curating the Sugarcraft exhibition which takes place in November at The Contemporary Art Institute of Detroit and will be travelling to Kasia Kay Art Projects in Chicago next summer. The exhibition includes the work of over 30 artists working with cake, candy and sugar. Fine artists, culinary chefs, and craft oriented designers from all over the world will be exhibiting and Wynter herself will be displaying her edible artwork.

To enter into Wynter’s fascinating world go to www.okya.co.uk/wynterwhiteside.

Tiffany Lee’s KidViskous jewellery line marries edgy streetwear with high-end couture. Lucite pendants are mixed with charms, chains, pearls and beads in unexpected combinations. Take a look at the silver toned rosary necklace. Look a little closer and you’ll notice that the beads are tiny skulls.

Current influences incorporate Soviet military, Victorian, Medieval and rocker styles.

Find the collection at www.kidviskous.com.

We bought some beautiful black and white bed linen recently and since then everywhere I look I see black and white in clothes, accessories and homewares. I’ve picked out a few indie examples to share.

Top Left - Black Ribbon Tie Bolero by Enamore at Vintage Style
Top Right - Reminisce Necklace by Evod
Middle Left - Teatime Tea Cup by youcanmakeithappen
Bottom Left - Black and White Mini Houndstooth Wallet by Blissful
Bottom Right - Halloween Trick or Treat Plate by Wood Tattoos

Remember Miki from Marmalade Ho? Last year she wrote a candid account of her experience at The Clothes Show Live. Well, she’s back. And not only does she have some kickin’ new designs to show off buts she’s kindly written an account of the 2nd Dirty Fashion Sale which took place in Brighton a couple of months ago.

Hi! Hope this latest blog finds you all funky monkeys! It’s been busy busy here at Marmalade Ho HQ.

Marmalade Ho had great fun at the 2nd Dirty Fashion Sale held at the Fabrica Gallery in Duke St. Brighton (June 16th ’ June 17th). We got to meet lots of other independent and handcrafted labels, I think there were 40 different labels at the event in total. Everyone was really friendly. There was an amazing eclectic mix of styles.

Junkie Lovers were there with fantastic plastic accessories, Ophelia Fancy with saucy cute underwear perfect for any wannabe 1940s screen siren. Emma Ferguson who makes these amazing retro appliqu?d cushions and accessories. Dolly Dagger, Get Cutie and Yamama were there too. As well as lots of cool French retro finds from Shock and Soul. Not forgetting the organisers of the event, Red Mutha and of course Marmalade Ho! A few designers were local to Brighton but many were out of towners as were the shoppers!

The little Fabrica gallery was heaving at times. There was live DJ-ing constantly throughout the event, but those with hangovers were lulled in with some more chilled tunes on the Sunday morning. Despite the little gallery heaving with goodies there was still a curtain to hide behind and whip your top off for the less impulsive shopper.

Looks like there will be another Dirty Fashion Sale follow up next year, rumour has it there might be more than one a year soon, so watch this space!

As if you need another excuse to go to Brighton? Thanks for reading.

Thank you Miki! If you’re interested in taking a stall at or visiting Dirty Fashion Sale then contact the organiser at www.myspace.com/redmutha.