Tuesday, November 5, 2019

An Unexpected Surprise

Yesterday before I left for work my hubby gave me an envelope that arrived in the mail.


It contained a Downton Abbey style booklet of English Country fashions for paper dolls, Lady Gwyneth and Lady Anne.   The 30 detailed outfits are from 1910 to the 20's era and were inspired by the Downton Abbey television series.  

What fun to see designer Paul Poiret's harem pants and lampshade tunic among the collection of garments.  There are also travel outfits, a walking suit, tea gowns, dinner gowns, a garden party dress, and much more.  So fun! 


My thoughtful friend, Louise, sent the paper doll booklet thinking I'd like the outfits for my Downton presentations. Thanks, Louise!  You're such a classy lady, and I'm glad you were able to attend the Downton Abbey tea at The Whitney recently.


Another book that I ordered from Amazon arrived in the mail too.  It's an informative book written by Penelope M. Carlevato.  Her mother was born and raised in England, so she's made many trips across the pond.  In fact, she conducts tours to England.

Her book is a treasure of information about Highclere Castle, servant life, the history and tradition of tea, plus lots of English recipes.  

I love one of the quotes in her book by Tim Chester "The focus of entertaining is impressing others; the focus of true hospitality is serving others." Extending hospitality is so much more rewarding than entertaining, and a lot less stressful.

I'm anxious to try her recipe for Sticky Toffee Pudding.



7 comments:

  1. What a lovely book that Louise sent you. The outfits are gorgeous. Enjoy your "The Art Of Afternoon Tea" book.
    Marilyn

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  2. Hi Phyllis:
    I used to sell those paper doll books so I am not surprised at this new one as they always came out with new ideas. That's fun. You will continue to get ideas and ways to use those! I wish I could have attended that Afternoon Tea as I know it was amazing! I see you never changed my address in your favorites.....which it why it isn't current on your sidebar. I switched back to blogspot some time back. If you would change it is http://bernideensteatime.blogspot.com/

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  3. I've always loved paper dolls, and your new book is a very special gift! (Good job, Louise.) You'll enjoy both your new books.

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  4. How do I not know of the Downton Abbey paper dolls? Do you know where it came from?
    Val

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    1. I did a search on Amazon shortly after and its on there. So I've added it to my Xmas wish list. Thank you.
      Val

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  5. Hello, I just discovered your beautiful blog and it is amazing, I wanted to know if you could share all the images of English Country Paper Dolls: in the Downton Abbey Style, I love paper dolls, but unfortunately due to my economic situation I cannot buy it. you also have The Great Gatsby Fashion Paper Dolls

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