Daddy's girl?

I’m still wondering what to give my Dad for Fathers’ Day. He’s recently out of hospital, recovering from an operation – and meant to be resting. I suppose sitting around reading is an ideal pastime, so a book would make an excellent present.











I thought of him immediately I saw this vintage coffee table number, filled with glamorous photographs of Marilyn Monroe.








Despite being an only child and daughter, I’ve never really been the real Daddy’s girl – my father's heart has always belonged to Marilyn. I guess it’s pretty hard to compete with a long deceased movie icon who’s a legend in her own lingerie. Anyway, this book would certainly be the perfect gift...













Except, I think his brain needs a little more stimulation..









Sorry Dad, I know retro swimwear is all the rage, but it’s time for something ‘from you to me’: ShopCurious has this curiously clever journal, requiring some careful thought and practical application, which sounds like an even more fabulous Fathers’ Day gift.

To complete the journal, Dad will have to answer some questions about his past, his family memories and wishes for the future. I can almost guarantee that Marilyn will feature somewhere on the pages he fills out, but writing the responses should keep any father nicely occupied and out of mischief (or at least Mum's way) for a while.







And I can’t wait until the book’s completed and returned to the genuine Daddy’s girl, as I’m really curious to read the uniquely individual story of my father’s life.


Are you?

Curiously English cravats

I’ve noticed something of a revival in cravat wearing recently and wondered why it is that the really smooth, suave, debonair English gentleman always wears a cravat rather than a plain old tie? I wanted to ask that iconic figure of traditional Home Counties charm, Nicholas Parsons, but he was unavailable for comment.


I have to admit that I’m very fond of Mr Parsons, though even back in his Sale of the Century and Benny Hill days, he never really struck me as being much of a sex symbol. Funny then that I should find myself reading about his ‘love affair with leather’ in a 1967 issue of Penthouse Magazine (see below and click on images to view).


























If you like the 'old smoothie' look, we’ve got some fabulous vintage cravats at ShopCurious that would make perfect Fathers’ Day gifts – especially if your father happens to be a suave, sophisticated or aspiring traditionalist, (though cravats can make younger guys look really quirky and cool too).

A more curious and original gift, if your Dad's into the unique and unusual, would be a vintage copy of Penthouse Magazine. Something that's a very sensible investment, as it's not only collectable, but you can also borrow it later to study the groovy fashion shoots and awesome retro trends.

Now just a minute, how about a Fathers’ Day gift for that stylish old stud, Nicholas Parsons? I have a feeling he might appreciate a nice leather cravat …

Do you?