From the category archives:
This jukebox replica is from Hammacher Schlemmer, which says it is “a precise Deutsche-Wurlitzer replica of the legendary model 1015 (first built in 1946).” However, while this model can still play 45s, it also has all kinds of new speakers and computerized features. At $8,995, it is not for everyone. But, hey, I have NEVER said this blog is all about cheap and cheerful — it’s about wicked expensive and awesome, too — retro is a big tent. Link here.
{ 0 comments }
THINGS I AM JUST CRAZY ABOUT THESE DAYS: Vintage Lilly Pulitzer clothing. Ever since I did the feature on Christine’s salt ‘n pepper pink bathroom – which had green walls and that Lily look. I love the Lilly Pulitzer maxi dresses in particular, but there are some other fantastic items as well. I don’t own any yet…but I am on the lookout. Lilly Pulitzer still exists – in fact 2009 is their 50th anniversary and they have a line that brings back old favorites. I’m working with their PR folks to get some images to post.
{ 3 comments }
My favorite possession in the whole wide world? The granny square afghan that my grandmother made for me when I was about 12. Honestly, the thing is my #1 decorative influence — it’s full of color and most importantly, homemade love. Of course, I collect vintage afghans a bit… I have a few wonderful ones. The afghan above: $20 from JunqueInTheTrunque, on Etsy. Heck yeah there is more…
{ 36 comments }
It’s been one of those weeks. Anne Taintor understands.
{ 2 comments }
Anne Taintor is one of my inspirations. Long before I got into the blog, I was a fan of her cheeky graphic takes on midcentury women, which combine “vintage images with Anne’s own interpretation of what these men and women might really be thinking.” Hey, I certainly can identify with this magnet — my obsession with the blog and all things mid mod certainly feels like a room full of polka dots some days. Heck yeah there is more…
{ 6 comments }
Reader Lee B. shares this find: Men’s neckties in fabric replicating our favorite Formica Boomerang laminate. $42 from the Brooklyn Museum. The site notes that the boomerang, or skylark pattern, was first designed by Brooks Stevens in 1950 and updated by Raymond Loewy in 1954. The intertwined shapes are called ‘biomorphic,’ and reflect the nation’s fixation at the time with atomic particles & aerodynamic styling. Thanks, Lee. Mr. Retro Renovation is for sure going to get one of these for Christmas.
{ 5 comments }
Now that the house is pretty much done, and the attic and basement are packed to the gills with salvage items and other way-too-big collectibles, I’m switching my packrat gene over to focus on collecting vintage beaded sweaters. I even have a reason: I can wear them at my home show presentations. My newest engagement will be at the Southern Spring Home & Garden Show on March 5-6, 2010. It’s a humongous show in Charlotte, NC, and in 2010 it’s celebrating its 50th anniversary. So, it’s a good fit. I hope this sweater, which I BINned via ebay this weekend is a good fit, too.
{ 8 comments }
I AM OF A CERTAIN AGE, so I need reading glasses. A couple of years ago, I had some money left over from a flex spending account so instead of using $10 reading glasses, I purchased “real” frames with glass lenses. What a difference. I’m now in the market for a new pair or two, so I went trowling for what I could find with retro style. In virtually no time at all I found these Shuron frames available. Heck yeah there is more…
{ 21 comments }
RETRO BAUBLES AND BLING continue today with: Wheels. I have a three-speed Raleigh cruiser pretty similar to this. I am so overwhelmed by technology today (*everything* is a computer now), that this simple, single-speed Retro Glide 1 looks like heaven to me. I spent my Wonder Bread years, 0-12 living in Southern California (Carlsbad/Vista) and my #1 memory of the period was riding a bike. I rode everywhere. Every day. Every waking moment I wasn’t in school. I was free as a bird. I had a glitter-purple Schwinn with the long glitter-vinyl banana seat. Streamers on the handle bars. Playing cards on the spokes, on occasion. Those are unbelievably good memories. Check out Raleigh’s 6 2009 retro style cruisers here.
{ 6 comments }
In the midst of trying to find additional examples of authentic reproduction baubles and bling, I realized I have some on my very own dancin’ feet: Minnetonka Moccasins. There are many models available today, but I have the classic Thunderbirds just like these, and they are super duper comfy for wearing around the house. Here’s what the Minnetonka website says, and I believe it – I am sure I brought these home from road trips. Heck yeah there is more…
{ 2 comments }
Welcome to RetroRenovation.com -- your daily dose of mid century renovation resources... design inspiration... fun finds... and a growing community of people all interested in restoring, preserving and cherishing their 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s homes.
