Over the Counter #124

What books caught my eye this week as they pass over the library counter and under my scanner. Vintage books this week!

First up was The Little Guide to Vintage Shopping by Melody Fortier.

From the publisher Quirk Books:

"Vintage shopping offers couture quality at a fraction of the price. But how can you spot a Dior original in a rack full of LBDs? That’s where vintage dealer Melody Fortier comes in. Her Little Guide to Vintage Shopping demystifies the entire process so you’ll know what to look for, what to avoid, and what to pay. Armed with this savvy guide, readers will learn how to:

* Select and wear unique clothing from eras past
* Ensure the perfect fit and silhouette
* Distinguish time period and evaluate quality
* Clean, care for, and store vintage clothing
* Give new life to vintage items through simple alterations

Fortier also offers shopping tips from an international panel of experts and reveals the best vintage shopping destinations in the world-from trendy Manhattan flea markets and hip Los Angeles boutiques to some of Europe’s best-kept secrets. With The Little Guide to Vintage Shopping in their handbags, frugal fashionistas will be ready to take the world by storm. The hunt for treasures is on!

Next up was Vintage Tea Party by Carolyn and Chris Caldicott.

From Frances Lincoln Publishers:

"Everyone loves an old-fashioned tea party. Mix-and-match crockery, bone-handled knives, lace and linen, teapots with cosies, sweet peas and roses, home baking and Victorian cocktails in tea cups - they're all back in vogue. Indoors by the fire in winter or outside in summer sunshine, hosts and guests can relax together with none of the stress or formality of a dinner party. Afternoon tea is the quintessential British tradition that has developed from its modest beginnings to become a much-loved celebration of indulgent pleasures.

With evocative photographs and mouth-watering recipes, Vintage Tea Party shows how you can re-create a nostalgic world of classic comfort, elegance and delicious treats. Try Carolyn Caldicott's perfect cucumber sandwich, Victoria sponge cake, rose petal jelly, English muffins, crumpets, Earl Grey tea with gin and lemon, 'the best chocolate cake you will ever taste' and much, much more."

(Over the Counter is a regular feature at A Bookworm's World. I've sadly come the realization that I cannot physically read every book that catches my interest as it crosses over my counter at the library. But... I can mention them and maybe one of them will catch your eye as well. See if your local library has them on their shelves!)