Book of the Week: Flea Market Style
I recently heard about Emily Chalmers from Joy so I had to learn more. I found out that she's authored (and co-authored) several books, one being Flea Market Style, which comes with rave reviews on all of the book websites.
After purchasing it and falling in love, I decided to post it as book of the week because it gave me a Springy feeling, like March is just around the corner so chin up! Aside from budding trees and warmer temps, Spring brings cleaning and organizing the home, along with refreshing the decor. And there's no better way to refresh than to hit flea markets because you are supporting sellers, saving money, and more importantly, it does the planet good to recycle. Queen Flea Victoria says that out in the Bay Area, the Alameda Market kicks off this weekend. For those of us wrapped like a mummy in winter gear, attending an outdoor flea is months away. That's why I'll live through the pages of Flea Market Style and of course, Victoria's blog.Flea Market Style is a beautiful book, it's not the typical flea read, where everything leans more on yee haw Country (roosters and plaid) or the all white Shabby Chic style. While it's hard to define the style, picture fresh cut flowers in a canning jar, on a metal folding table, in a Notting Hill flat with soaring ceiling, crown moldings, and a sweetly upholstered 19th century French Louis XV sofa against a soft blue wall, and there you have it. The photos are so gorgeous.
Books like this one are really helpful for those who may not have the eye to source amazing finds. I have friends who've accompanied me to Brimfield and they just don't get it. They don't have the vision to get excited about it. To them, it's all junk. I don't fault anyone for that because we all have talents in different areas. I've been going to fleas since I was a toddler (with my mother and grandparents), so although I can't couldn't compose music or write code to save my life, I can find potential scores at flea markets.
For a flea market junkie, this title offers plenty of styling ideas, and for those a bit overwhelmed by the thought of combing a huge market, helps them develop an eye for precious finds so the shopping experience becomes exciting. The more you look at pictures, attend fleas with friends who are savvy market shoppers, and my #1, have in mind exactly what you are looking for, the more beneficial your trip will be. The days of coming home, stressed and exhausted, opening your bag wondering what you were thinking, are over!
If you need any flea market tips, just ask. So many readers are complete junkies, I'm sure one of us can offer some advice. Once Spring comes, I'll post a list of some of the best flea markets to hit, look for that in mid March.
Pick up a copy of Flea Market Style on Amazon for $18 right here.
(image from amazon)