The Washerwoman

Friday 10 December 2010

Turn Back Time, the 1930's and 1970's High Street in Shepton Mallet

A few months ago I had a phone call asking if I could supply some vintage clothing for a unique and very special project.
 A series of television programmes were being made in Shepton Mallet which Niki  has covered from beginning to end as she was right there in the midst of all the action and activity in the town.



 I was able to dip in and out as I was asked to supply for 2 of the decades being covered. My first job was to find some 1930's clothing and hats to supply Gill (below) with items to work on or sell in her workroom (above).


Always ready  for a challenge I managed to gather a selection dresses, coats and lingerie for the researchers to use.
However I WISH they had consulted me on the toy shop as I was appalled to see this imported pink dolls house in the window! What a shame they didn't use a doll house from the 30's. It was a time when Triang toys were making the most fantastic dolls house and many survive today so it shouldn't have been hard to find one.


 I know I am a bit of a perfectionist (blame the star sign I was born under!) but that is just the way I am!


 However, I did think the attention to detail on the shop fronts and clothing that the  families wore were fantastic... Some of these photos are from Niki's blog (with permission of course) as most of the piccies I took didn't come out clearly.


On one of the days I went over to Shepton Mallet I was able to see the families close up as they enjoyed lunch before being launched into the next decade. Their clothing  was beautifully put together and attention to detail was superb. I also loved the fact that there were vintage cars dotted around the streets.



My next involvement was for the 1970's. Once again I had to supply clothing for Gill's shop (above).


I went armed with lurex dresses, hot pants, flares and maxi dresses.....


The shop was obviously a great success as a lot of my clothing sold in the week it was open and Niki tells me that it is now open as a Vintage shop. That is great news as it shows that despite being entertaining  and informative TV it has also achieved something it set out to do.... and that is to get the High Street back and to open up shops that people want to visit...

Lastly my favourite, the 70's record shop.. fantastic! Unfortunately there are unlikely to be any takers for this one. As the programme pointed out most of us nothing to play vinyl on anymore....if want a bit of nostalgia click here, or if you want to watch any of the programmes on iplayer click here.

17 comments:

VintageVicki said...

I have loved that series - one of my favourite things on tv for a while. How great to have been involved :) Off to visit Niki and see what pictures she has :)

ted and bunny said...

It really was such a good, and very enjoyable series wasn't it.
It would be nice if the series helped to get more unique and individual shops back into the High Streets, but I think some landlords might have to re-think their rents if towns are going to thrive once again!

Cowboys and Custard Mercantile said...

How I wish I could step into any one of those eras.. and how I have enjoyed watching this series. Well I am a bit of a perfectionist too being born under the same sign and I would love to have seen one of your des res doll's houses in that window. I have very fond memories of my own Triang dolls house.. much loved and much decorated!
Michele x

Trixie@ the vintage bothy said...

I am with you on the toys - are you a Leo like me?
T X

Jill said...

How brilliant that you were involved in this series I loved the way Gill really seemed to enjoy all that she did - and especially loved the vintage clothes - I have just sold my Lee Bender dress that I bought from Bus Stop in London (now wished I hadn't)!!
Jillx

Rebecca said...

I especially love the 30s grocery window display - but I completely agree about the dolls house! Triang, Amersham, Dinky's Dolly Varden, imported German dolls houses .. . there were so many wonderful 1930s dolls houses, in traditional English and moderne styles! How could they?

Linda said...

I think I am going to ask for your autograph before you become a celebrity ! xx well done see you tomorrow I am stall 91 xx Linda

louise said...

I have so enjoyed this series. Despite the hideous pink dolls house in the toy shop this was my favourite. I loved the children's reaction to the toys and one little boy in particular who wanted to stay in the 1940s - brought a tear to my eye. Congratulations on your contribution.

Niki Fretwell said...

Hi Liz,
Thank you for the mention(s!) - Its good to know of your involvement as well in the programmes. I agree with you re the dolls house...but perhaps it was because all of the products in the shops had to be for sale and we all know how strict modern safety standards are these days, especially when it comes to toys. Think of all those children in the 30's with their lead painted toys...its a wonder we're all still here to tell the tale! Ha!

Shame about the record shop too, but then I guess the point they were trying to make was that in order for a shop to survive, it has to be selling goods that customers want or need to buy...

Hope to see you tomorrow,
Niki x

Anonymous said...

Hi Lizzie, Thank you for the link. I saw my gingham hot pants suit, how exciting!!!

THISNTHAT said...

Watched every episode. So interested to read of your involvement, Well done! I agree re the toys. I was chuntering on at the TV about what stock I could have provided:)
Lesley Xx

Josie-Mary said...

I've only watched one, I've recorded them to watch when I have more time :) Loved the one I watched, so wanted to be at the VE day street party :)

Rosie said...

I loved this series and was sad when it came to and end. It must be fascinating to be a part of it.x

BusyLizzie said...

Thank you Rosie.. are you about to start a new blog?????

Lucille said...

How fascinating to see behind the scenes here - I really enjoyed the series. I will be back to look around your lovely blog in greater depth.

kristina said...

How fabulous! G and I have been watching on the series on the iplayer. Happy Holidays!

K x

BusyLizzie said...

Thank you Kristina, glad you have enjoyed the programme! Lizzie x