Preppy at Heart

 I'm a preppy girl at heart. My formative high school years were the early eighties and watching movies like Pretty in Pink and The Breakfast Club. I always aspired to be that East Coast, upper-class preparatory kid and embrace my inner snob.

Well I wasn't, but I could look like it!

That's why I love when dresses come in to the store that remind me of my high school formal dances - like this cornflower gown by Richilene. Perfect floral blue cornflowers over rayon with sartouche ribbon treatment chiffon bodice. Sold in Miss Baker's store, Providence, Rhode Island no less! It's provenance is even East Coast prep!

TV LOVES THE PAST

It seems that the we are in love with the past.  The powers that be in the world of television have seen and felt this movement.  On the heels of a new season of the series that seems to have started it all (Mad Men), the following are renewed and new shows which are blasts from the pasts in more ways than one!

"MAD MEN"

1960'S America - advertising firm with scintillating situations.  It's good to have the new season soon.  This incredible show has spawned so many retro inspired copies.  Most have failed in their attempts.  I still have hope for Pan Am!

The ladies of "PAN AM"

"BOARDWALK EMPIRE"

1920'S - Atlantic City.  The story is about corrupt politicians who rose to prominence during prohibition time.  It's a boys' club full of intrigue.  Let's hope that they don't get into a 'flap' about anything!

"DOWNTON ABBEY"

Set in the 1910'S, this drama is about an aristocratic family and their servants living in Yorkshire County during the reign of King George V.  This show is currently airing in the U.K. but we can catch episodes on some specialty stations.  I wonder if Smith will transfigure into a cat?  By her expression above, I'd say, she is not amused!

"THE FRONTIER"

Late 1800'S - Ok, so this time period doesn't exactly fall under Vintage or retro time periods, but hey, it's Shawn Cassidy!   This former teen idol stars in a Western series about a motley gang travelling from Missouri to the west coast.  He will hopefully be Da Do Ron Ronning around strutting his stuff!

"MURDOCH MYSTERIES"

1890'S - Based on a series of novels, a detective solves mysterious cases in late Victorian Toronto.  This vintage hunk uses the latest late Victorian forensic techniques to investigate murders. 

"THE CARRIE DIARIES"

1980'S Carrie Bradshaw during her senior year of high school.  Have you ever wondered about this breezy girl in her teen years?  Well this prequel will give us a lot of insight into who she becomes.

Carol 

1980s Kitchens from the Past

1980s. Scarface. Madonna. Michael Jackson.

The 1980s. The decor of the movie Scarface comes to mind. High black shine, chrome, glitter and lots of curves. A style that is making it's way back into our homes. Can you handle it?

"Inventive seating makes for fun, informal entertaining. Built-in banquettes provide ample room for guests. Slipcovered foam cushions lift off; underneath are plywood lids that provide access to storage space. Featured in the February 1987 issue."

 Window treatments were very clever in all rooms of the home. Swag curtains, wallpaper floral borders and even chintz were the opposite of the high chrome style. "In this room by New York designer Eileen Boyd, a canvas hanging exuberantly painted by artist Francis Greenwood Dearden cleverly doubles as window treatment. Featured in the September 1989 issue."

This could be a modern day kitchen if not for the red and blue colors. A popular combination in homes as well as fashion. Remember the green and pink days too? Ick."A brick floor and glazed tiles on walls give a special shine to the kitchen. To make mealtimes easy, the work island contains drawers, storage bins, open shelves and a sink. Featured in the September 1980 issue."

 Classic black and white. Lots of shine. You can see your reflection in the counter tops - I imagine a Windex nightmare! "This kitchen was part of the House Beautiful Best Small House in 1984. "The room is crisply contemporary," summed up the magazine."

I hope you have enjoyed this stroll through vintage kitchens. Perhaps it has inspired you to cook something retro? I have an old casserole book I just might dig up. Bon apetit!

Ebay Weekender

Let's head back to the 1980s. Chintz prints, mini skirts, Pretty in Pink....I wore them all and here they are again. All now available on ebay and all from Pin Up Dresses. Enjoy your weekend!

1980s Floral and Black Glam Bubble Dress

1980s Gold Gunne Sax Dress

1980s Black Strapless & Red Bow Dress

1980s Pink Metallic Strapless Dress

1980s Black Halter Swing Dress

Guest Pick: Gorgeous Vintage From Every Decade

Queens of Vintage Part 2

1960s - Averarado Bessi Silk Jersey Dress

Averarado Bessi was a former designer for Emilio Pucci, hence the familiar pattern on this dress. The later 60s also had the influence of the hippie style and this couture dress incorporates boho flavors while keeping the dress very elegant. Probably worn by a well-heeled lady, I was immediately taken with the soft, buttery fabric and silk lining. This must feel incredible on the skin!

1970s - Bohemian Crystal Pendant Necklace

This necklace is made from Bohemian crystals and it was the size of the pendant that struck me. 7 cm in diameter, this large style pendant was becoming very popular in the 70s. Simple but striking, the shades of the crystals are very typical of the 70s. I can see this on a fabulous gown.

1980s - Retro Charles Glueck Of New York Sequined Top

The early 80s was defined by shiny workout wear and gym enthusiasts. I love this top as it seems to bring in the 80s covered in sequins, but maintains the simpler lines that are required for ease of movement. This top has yet to be disturbed by the latter part of the 80s and the big power suits with door crashing shoulder pads.