I am madly in love with anything vintage and have been for over 20 years or so now. The appeal for me with the 1940s and 1950s started when I was a teenager because I just didn't find the modern lifestyle appealing or romantic. So from about the age of seventeen I was hooked on the clothing, the furniture and the music. I can't get enough and enjoy being around others who love it as much as me.
What a way to live! I wouldn't ask for it any other way. Now I can write a blog about my lifestyle and the things I enjoy and feel passionate about.
I have decided to develop an inspirational space for myself to create and relax and need your help with ideas. I have a small area that consists of a desk, bench and wall which will be fine for what I want. The desk currently has my sewing machine and overlocker on it and the bench has some of my husbands magazines there (sshhh don't tell him but they are going to be moved). The wall has a cork board that has plenty of photos and flyers on it but I want to remove those and start fresh.
This is where you all come in. I need help deciding how to decorate and get started. First off I am not a shabby sheik or old antique type of girl so that style is out. I am more of a 40s/50s vintage type of gal so my theme would be around those eras and 20s/30s.
Here are some photos I have found which I will take bits and pieces of inspiration from to come up with a space I love. What do you think ladies??? If you have any ideas or photos please let me know. I am keen to get started asap.
1. Sunday Best Jumble Sale
Had a small stall with some pals at this wonderful little 'Jumble Sale'. Started by like-minded ladies who were interested in providing a market for those who love 20s to 60s items. I sold quite a number of things and made myself a nice profit. It was a fabulous day as I got to share it with my friends and met many interesting and lovely people. Now must book into the next one!!
My Stall
2. Burlesque Symposium
This event was organised by La Trobe University which was a conference of sorts discussing past and current history of burlesque. I got to be on one of the discussion panels talking about 'The Business of Burlesque'. Fascinating day indeed.
I also got to meet some of the delightful 'Tivoli Dancers' from the 1950s and the amazing Frank Van Straten who wrote the book on the Tivoli Circuit. For those who don't know the Tivoli was a grand theatre that provided Australian audiences with fabulous vaudeville entertainment. It was born in 1893 and closed in 1966 and was truly a spectacular part of our history. Unfortunately the start of television saw its demise. What a shame.
The Tivoli Ladies and Frank
3. Loel Thomson's Costume Collection
Now this was a fabulous and intriguing evening. Loel Thomson is a private collector who collects, preserves and displays textiles from two hundred years of Australian fashion. This would have to be one of the best collections of Australian vintage clothing in the country. It was a fabulous museum and well worth the visit.
Here are some sites I really like that you might want to check out.
1. This photographer takes the most amazing vintage Hollywood portrait shots I have ever seem! Big call I know but some of the girls look like movie stars of a by-gone era. Oh I wish he was in Australia. http://www.rogerganiajames.com/intropage.html
2. Would die to have photos taken by this amazingly creative individual.
http://kateobriencreative.com/
3. Great site for anyone into mid-century modern
http://www.ultraswank.net/
4. Cute site on surface pattern design.
http://printpattern.blogspot.com/
5. Fabulous blog on vogue models of the 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s. Stunning photos and fashion. http://myvintagevogue.com/
Hi all,
I haven't posted for over a week as been busy with renovations. Those photos to come.
So I thought I would do a tribute to the wonderful 1950s dancer Sheree North! Boy could she get around on that stage. A true talent whom I believe was under-appreciated! She danced with the best and was amazing to watch. If I only had an inch of her talent!!!
