Suffolk-based, multi-talented blogger, singer-songwriter and self-confessed ‘thrifting’ maniac, Emma Cherry, divulges the origins of her blog, Dear Thirty, her vintage inspirations and her secret or not-so-secret obsession with Twitter.

I asked Emma when and why she started her lifestyle blog
I set up Dear Thirty back in 2008, however, I didn’t really start writing regular posts until early 2012. I wanted a place of my own, so I could document my life and my style progression over the coming months, or years. I also wanted to feel part of a community – to find like-minded people interested in vintage in the way that I am.

Because my blog is primarily ‘lifestyle’, I can also waffle on about thought-provoking issues or ideas, which can be quite therapeutic, alongside showcasing my latest vintage bargains and cooking recipes. I want to be able to discuss anything on my blog – well, anything that interests me, that is!

Who are your vintage style icons?
I suppose my love of vintage came about when I was a teenager. Watching films like Grease and Dirty Dancing was magical; they enchanted and inspired me to be a little more creative with my style.

Later, it was the likes of Marilyn Monroe and her unmistakable Hollywood glamour that appealed. Marilyn’s beautiful platinum hair, her tightly fitted dresses and red lips, not to mention her sensual, yet virtuous manner, which appealed somewhat to my curiosity. Marilyn was a complicated person with vast emotional issues; on some levels I felt that I could relate to her. I also love Audrey Hepburn, Donna Reed and Grace Kelly for their beauty, outfits and their on-screen presence.

What has been your favourite vintage purchase?
Well, this is a tough one! I have a few. I would have to say it’d probably be a 1970s wool dress that I have in a beautiful emerald green colour. I bought it for £3.49 from a local charity shop last year. It’s a bit too warm to wear at this time of year but I’ll definitely be wearing it again when winter comes.

Fill us in on your favourite local stores or boutiques!
Well, I used to love visiting the vintage and craft shop that was down by the waterfront in Ipswich but it closed down a year or so back, which is a shame because I’d always find something fabulous in there. Aside from the very occasional trip to London for vintage shopping, I really just stick to local charity shops. I also like to buy a lot of my dresses and other items on eBay or Etsy.

Where can we find you when you’re not blogging?
Probably on Twitter – haha! I seem to have developed a little addiction recently. It is quite worrying when a lot of your life revolves around a computer or mobile screen.

Whilst multitasking on Twitter, I love to take long walks with my dog, Harrison; play and write on the guitar and piano; spend time with my family and I especially like drinking copious amounts of tea whilst catching up with friends.

How do you feel about the lack of a blogging community in Suffolk?
If I’m honest, I didn’t really think there was a lack of blogging in Suffolk, I just assumed I was looking in the wrong places! However, it may well explain why I’ve not found many bloggers when I’ve Google-searched on occasion.

Most of my ‘bloggy’ friends are from overseas, where so many people seem to write personal blogs.

I really do feel that blogging is something to be encouraged in the community, especially if you’re a bit of an introvert as I am – it helps no end with confidence and self-esteem.

You can follow Emma’s blog at Dearthirty.co.uk

Words: Jennifer Meredith
Photography: Emma Cherry