A Tale of Two Brooches

So these are the culprits that set me off:

I nearly died when I saw them lying there in that dodgy shop that has since become my mothership, and resolved to rescue them from obscurity - I know, how noble of me!

I'd tagged along with a strong, willing Japanese guy with the intention of buying a fridge and having him carry it up to my 3rd floor apartment in exchange for pizza. An hour later, (and after an appropriate amount of squeeling, OMG-ing, deliberating, and rhetorical opinion-asking) I left with armfuls of random Hello Kitty appliances, vintage bags and sunglasses, a rather special Disney denim jacket, all birthday presents for the foreseeable future and the two brooches upon which I intended to base some kind of online shop. Strong, willing Japanese guy was less than impressed.

I can't decide which brooch I prefer, but the bow was the biggest bargain and I don't know why - bows are such a cornerstone of Japanese fashion! But I have to admit to having a soft spot for the bow, because I was wearing it the day I became an art project, and I just love the way she painted it:

I'm so excited because the jewellery I've found is easily as good as the high street, but cheaper. You also lose the "oh my mum has that necklace - Zara, right?" factor. And for me the best part - this is recycling at its best - nothing added and nothing wasted! These treasures are simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

So I shall start my little experiment and try to spread the love and give people an ethical but affordable alternative to the norm. And if it doesn't work... well then golly I guess I'll just have to keep it all, won't I!