How I evolved into a midcentury modern gal
I’ve been mid-century modern obsessed since high school. I think it began during my at-first, embarrassing trips to Goodwill and the Salvation Army with my mom. Then, during the 90’s, when My So Called Life felt like the parallel universe to my early high school experience, it became cool to shop vintage at thrift stores. In fact, my love of vintage expanded beyond bric-a-brac and thrifting and into vintage boutiques that were only open three days a week. For instance, my first favorite vintage store was in the South Side of Pittsburgh, near the BeeHive, a coffee shop that was our first stop after the public bus ride to get there. My prom dress was a vintage Mamie pink lace, empire waist dress from the 50’s and it only cost me $34 at that very store.
What do I mean by Midcentury Modern?
Midcentury modern, a.k.a. MCM, midmod, mid-century, vintage, is an aesthetic attributed to the style and designs of the 1930’s-1960’s. It relates to every part of life during that era. The pop culture of the times, if you will. While the aesthetic of the Art Deco 30’s is markedly different from the peace-loving, free spirited 60’s, midcentury modern style is inclusive of this era. I’ve found other MCM committed and obsessed pals often narrow into a particular aesthetic, or set of principles that guide their interests.
My particular aesthetic has evolved and narrowed since high school. I have always been partial to the Donna Reed style of the 1950’s American housewife. I adore A-line, tea length dresses with a bit of crinoline underneath to add that extra fluff. Oh, and cat eye makeup! Don’t forget the matching aurora borealis rhinestone necklace, pin, earrings and bracelet! (This whole jewelry set is known as a parure.) I prefer atomic, boomerang shapes and turquoise and avocado colors. I’m 50’s kitsch and a little punk rock. I live for the irony of the future past – where women supposedly ‘kept the home’ and her workplace was in the kitchen. This ideal former future state is so opposite from my everyday life, that it is fun to try on in its imaginary novel-ness.
Fast forward to today, where I live with my guy (whose aesthetic is more 40’s big band mixed with early surf rock) and our kiddos and dogs in a mid-century enclave in the middle of Denver. Folks describe my home as a throw-back in time; a mix of Pleasantville and the Jetsons.
Who is this blog for?
This blog is focused on four midcentury topics for three audiences.
First, for the midcentury curious. You’re just starting to learn about the lifestyles of midmod gals. I’ll share beginner guides and overviews of the aesthetic.
Next, for the midcentury committed, you’ll get juicy details of your favorite style elements, collectibles, and colors. You’ll garner more info about the MCM style you love.
Finally, I’d be remiss to leave out our pals, the midcentury obsessed, who, like me, have taken things next-level. For those who see atomic stars at every turn of life, I’ll share advanced info and secrets to bring your MCM obsession from black and white, into technicolor!
Midcentury topics I may gab about:
- Beauty – in this section, you’ll find tips, guides, and highlights of clothes, jewelry, makeup, hairstyles, and personal grooming related to midcentury style. Bring midcentury elements into your closet and your vanity makeup table while still maintaining your modern style.
- Decor – surround yourself with furniture, room renovations, colors, displays, collections, products, and design elements for the home. Locate inspiration for your next (or first!) must-have MCM item to add to your composition.
- Entertaining – midcentury hospitality was a form of pride in home and life in the era. From cocktails to canapes, to hostess rules and party themes, this section helps you celebrate with MCM panache!
- The Hunt Awaits! – nostalgia is personal. You find it in the oddest and most delightful places. In this section, I’ll share suggestions on where and how to find your midmod, nostalgic bliss. When traveling across America, I’ll also share my favorite finds along the way! You’ll be inspired to embark on a safari of your own.
When I’m not curating the MCM lifestyle of my dreams, I work as a technologist, a virtual collaboration expert. For example, I help organizations learn together when they can’t be in the same room. Therefore, content in this blog represents my personal opinion only, and does not reflect opinions of my employer, Intuit.