A Victorian Valentine: Tips for Filling a Locket with a Classic Flair

If you're getting a Victorian-style locket for your girlfriend as a Christmas gift and are wondering what to put inside, you've come to the right place. This article is your comprehensive guide to creating a nostalgic and memorable Victorian-style locket to commemorate your special day. From taking a classic Victorian selfie to selecting meaningful keepsakes, we'll cover everything you need to know. Let's dive right in!

Step 1: Take a Victorian Selfie

One of the most fun and memorable ways to fill a Victorian-style locket is by taking an old-fashioned selfie. With the right tools and some creativity, you can transport your image into the Victorian era and make it an unmistakable keepsake.

Many photo apps feature filters that can give your photo an old-timey look. Whether you prefer a black and white or sepia tones, you can enhance your photo to mimic Victorian portraits. Here are the basic steps:

Choose a photo app with filters (such as VSCO or Snapseed). Apply a black and white or sepia filter to give your photo an old-timey appearance. Plaster your hair down with a styling product that will make it shine. Wear a banded-collar shirt or a Victorian-style shirt. Pair it with a solid-color coat or jacket.

For more inspiration, browse through photos from the Victorian era. Google Image search results are an excellent resource to see examples of classic Victorian portraits. This will help you capture the essence of the era and create a timeless memorial in your locket.

Step 2: Selecting Keepsakes

In a Victorian era locket, the personal items you choose to place inside can hold great sentimental value. Consider including meaningful items like hair, love letters, photographs, or small trinkets. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Photographs: Take a few old-fashioned selfies or even a modern photo with a vintage filter. Including a group photo of you and your loved ones can create an unforgettable keepsake. Hair: Consider including a lock of your hair or your girlfriend's hair, even if it's a small piece. Hair was extremely significant in the Victorian era, often kept as a memento of a loved one. Love Letters: Write a heartfelt letter expressing your love and intentions to one another. Victorian love letters were often filled with eloquent expressions of emotion and devotion. Trinkets: Incorporate small trinkets that have special meaning to the both of you, such as a coin, a lock of thread, or a piece of jewelry.

Ensure that your keepsakes are in good condition, as Victorian lockets are often made of gold and are delicate. If possible, have them preserved or enshrined in a way that will last the test of time.

Step 3: Preparing for Locket Filling

Once you've decided on the keepsakes you want to include, it's important to prepare them properly. Here are some tips for preparing your items for inclusion in the locket:

Cleaning: Gently clean your items using a soft cloth or brush. Remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Flattening (if applicable): If you're including items like small trinkets, make sure they are flat and safe to place inside the locket. Storage: Place your items in a small, sealed container or envelope before placing them in the locket. This will protect them from dust and damage.

With your items prepared, carefully arrange them in the locket. Make sure everything is centered and any folded letters or photos are folded neatly. Finally, place the locket in a protective case to keep it safe until it's time to give it as a gift.

Conclusion

A Victorian-style locket is the perfect way to capture the essence of the past and create a meaningful Christmas gift for your girlfriend. By taking a Victorian selfie, selecting the right keepsakes, and preparing them properly, you can create a cherished keepsake that will last a lifetime. Whether you include a lock of hair, a love letter, or a photograph, your locket will be a timeless expression of your love and sentiment.