We're incredibly excited to have Abigail's Vintage join us for the first time this year. Abigail has an amazing collection of beautiful vintage wedding dresses, with a constantly changing stock of around 200 at any one time.
Abigail searches the world to find the finest original and unique gowns and chooses a selection of wonderful examples of period style. Each dress is meticulously cleaned and restored to its former glory, before it joins her stunning collection.
A self-confessed frustrated historian who can sew, Abigail's love of old black and white films and her passion for the past led her to study for a degree in Costume Design Interpretation at Wimbledon School of Art. As well as learning the practical skills of pattern cutting and dress construction, her studies fostered a greater understanding and respect for the skill of dress makers of the past.
Following a number of years in film, theatre and television, Abigail honed her skills as a beading designer, for a top Ladies evening wear and Bridal designer doing miles of fine hand sewing as well as working with the pattern cutters to create some truly wonderful gowns.
As Abigail says "For someone who wants something a little different, unique in fact, a vintage wedding dress is a lovely option. I take the hard work out of finding what you need and help to make your special day as wonderful as you imagine."
Abigail offers such a personal service, shopping for your perfect dress will be an absolute pleasure. After an initial consultation to chat about your requirements, you visit Abigail to view her collection and, in the unlikely event you don't find your dream dress there and then, Abigail will attempt to source your perfect dress!
If your dream dress doesn't fit you perfectly don't despair. Abigail offers an alteration service from gently tweaking to bring a vintage dress into line with modern tastes, to complete remodelling.
Take a look at her past perfect gallery to see some of the stunning dresses her previous brides have chosen. You will be SO inspired.
If you're looking for some vintage glamour for your honeymoon, take a peek at the stunning vintage kimonos on the Abigail Vintage site. They are so glamorous you won't be able to resist!
As well as her beautiful gowns and kimonos, Abigail also offers a small selection of beautiful vintage accessories from jewellery, sashes and lace collars through to tiaras and veils to give your dress a perfect finish.
We can't wait to see what she'll bring to the fair so come along and take a peek!
At Days of Grace you’ll see exquisite beadwork, beautiful draping fabrics and laces. Alongside the wedding gowns in the back room there are medieval style hand woven silk bodices from the 1980s. There’s brand new fine lace and slipper satins from sourced designers with a vintage inspired twist, always unusual and completely unrepeatable. Owner Linda Duriez finds these discontinued gems from designer archives and brings them to life, each totally unique, such as her current Jenny Packham 30s inspired pieces. A visit to Days of Grace Vintage is a delight because you never know just what treasures might have been added to their collection and with these often hidden away in store, it’s always best to ring ahead to let them know exactly what you’re looking for.
A click onto the website lets you sample some of the vintage and retro pieces available or you can find their treasure trove of a shop at 15 Fore Street, Budleigh Salterton [although they recommend you book an appointment in advance, to avoid disappointment]. You can also find their sister shop Pirouette in Exeter and online. Based in a 16th century merchant’s house in the old West Quarter, you can explore the very different designers showcased including Maggie Sottero, Sottero & Midgley and Annasul Y. New designers arrived recently include Amanda Wakely and Yolan Cris. A wedding gown specialist, the Pirouette range is forever changing. Think delicate gowns, beautiful veils, hand made jewellery and tiaras. 
