Lady Luck Clothing Fair

Kate Dempsey knows all too well the pleasures a market can give you, and that’s why she decided to create the Lady Luck Clothing Fair. Heading to St Mary’s Hall in Castlemaine on November 28, the market is a great chance to pick up something special from the 30 clothing stalls, indulge in coffee, ice cream and waffles, watch the pin up fashion parade and much more.
When did you first get the idea to start the market and how long did it take you to put it all together? 
I have always loved vintage threads. I cut my teeth selling vintage clothing on Crown Street in Sydney and worked for a time in the gorgeousness that is Bell’s Belles Vintage, Castlemaine. I always wanted to put together a clothing market for Castlemaine, and had been thinking about it for some time. Then some local ladies were bemoaning the lack of clothing markets in town, and it seemed like the perfect time to launch it. It’s truly a labour of love in these early days, and takes a lot of time behind the scenes. Much more time than I care to admit to!
How has the market changed from the very first one? 
We are growing! Lady Luck Clothing Fair has expanded to include a bigger, more diverse range of stall holders. We have moved to a larger, more central location – at St Mary’s Hall in Lyttleton St, Castlemaine – which is easy walking distance from the station for anyone coming by train. We also now offer vintage hair styling by Bendigo Vintage Hairstyling and kitsch kids craft workshops by local artist Mollie Kerby (pre bookings for both at [email protected] ). We have buskers, and the kitsch factor amps up just a little more with each event.
What is it you love about markets? 
I grew up in Sydney, and the weather there lends itself well to market culture – it’s in my blood. Every weekend from the time I was 13 you could find me scouring markets all over the place. l like the atmosphere of markets. I love having interesting conversations with lovely people – I like the stories and connections that come out of those interactions. The tactility and the excitement of a great find! There is a real luxury in that, it can’t be replicated online.
What’s the best thing you’ve ever picked up from a market? 
Oh, that is a hard question. I have found so many great treasures at markets. I would say I have a soft spot for some things I found in New York flea markets a few years ago, including a pretty spectacular 1940s dress, 1940s naval top and 1950s bowling brooch. I also have an old denim jacket that is a favourite. I’ve had it since I was 16, and it’s still going strong! Having said that, lots of my everyday summer vintage frocks have come from markets all over the place. The great thing about Lady Luck Clothing Fair on November 28th, is that it is coming into prime frock weather!
Part of the fun of markets is discovering something special, what can buyers expect from the Lady Luck Markets? 
People can expect to meet some lovely vendors from Castlemaine, Melbourne, Daylesford, Bendigo and everywhere in between. There will be a fantastic mix of locals clearing out premium designer treasures and professional vintage sellers, such as Holly Daze Vintage, Ava Vintage Boutique, Brick Lane Bazaar, Smokin’ Vintage and Vintage Online bringing you the dreamiest vintage clothing and jewellery you’ve ever seen. Lady Luck Clothing Fair has you covered, whether you are looking for a $20 bargain or hoping to find a high end ’50s frock to wear to a special event. Steph of Holly Daze Vintage (Castlemaine) will be bringing along some more men’s threads this time too.
Grab a delicious coffee from Nigel of Hey Presto Espresso, as you wander around and discover vintage beauties. Get your locks coiffed in a vintage hairstyle, as your shorties block print a tote with Mollie Kerby. Then listen to the Balkan influenced brass band, The Seducaphones, and devour gluten free tacos chased by some ice cream from Ice Cream Social. Pretty much the perfect Saturday tied up in a bow.
Follow us on Instagram @ladyluckclothingfair
And Facebook /ladyluckclothingfair
When & Where: St Mary’s Hall, Castlemaine – November 28 (10am-3pm)