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I love a change of seasons. Yes, it’s now officially fall and I’ve started decorating for Halloween. In fact, I’m writing this post on my patio as the very first cold front of fall blows in. With that said, there’s something about ’80s design that evokes an “endless summer” state of mind. I have some fun fall blog content on the way in the coming weeks, but before jumping head first into a new season, I wanted to highlight some of my ’80s design favorites.

What does “living in the ’80s” mean to you? If we’re being honest, there are many reasons why I wouldn’t want to live in the 1980s, as each decade that passes seems to lead to more progress and awareness in areas that truly matter. But in terms of the design, it just doesn’t get better than the bold variety of the ’80s, does it?! Take the earrings above, which were created by Colleen White. Crafted from 1980s-style erasers, these showstoppers are easy to make (scroll to the bottom of the post for more details).

Inspiration from ’80s Sellers

Anyone else love looking for ’80s design inspiration by checking out the Instagram accounts of retro decor sellers/dealers? With their eye for curation (and mixing and matching old with new), they always find interesting ways to refresh and display pieces. Above we see a vignette by LYC Vintage, featured at The Spruce (in an article about ’80s design trends)! Other seller favorites include Freska Living and The MOD Weekend. Who are some of your favorite ’80s merch dealers?

’80s Television

I’m way late to the party on this one, but I recently found out about My 80’s TV, which simulates the experience of channel surfing in the 1980s. It’s absolutely addictive. You can specify the type of television you’re interested in watching (cartoons, soaps, movies, trailers, talk shows and more). I watched a LOT of TV as a kid in the ’80s, so there’s a huge comfort factor for me here. Nostalgia aside, this ’80s TV experience is a great way to completely immerse yourself in the decade. Who’s up for the escape?!

’80s Design at Home

The photo above is from the home of Meg Gustafson, whose abodes have been featured multiple times at Apartment Therapy. Here’s a Mirror80 feature spotlighting one of her previous Chicago residences. In addition, Meg curates one of my favorite tumblrs, 80s Deco (Instagram account: 80s_deco). Her style is the epitome of ’80s maximalism, which is no doubt why Apartment Therapy’s recent article on the return of ’80s design notes some distinct elements of her look. The piece is definitely worth a read, especially since it talks about ways to bring the 1980s design home, as well as how people are combining different elements from the decade with a fresh set of eyes. How do you incorporate ’80s furnishings and decor into your home? Hint: feel free to mix and match different style (like Memphis and ’80s Deco), and don’t be afraid of color!

’80s-Style Decor

I’m always on the lookout for new decor that reminds me of my childhood. Remember those shell cushions that were featured on many a bathroom vanity stool?! Garden Glory is currently offering this Rose Shell Cushion, which can be placed on the chair or bench of your choice. Above we see two of them displayed together. Retro glam at its finest! I also find a surprisingly large number of ’80s-style pieces at retailers such as CB2, from tableware to vases. Where do you shop for new items with an ’80s look?

Deco Vase Vignettes

Right before I first started blogging (back in 2010!!), I began collecting ’80s Deco vases, picking them up for a few bucks apiece at thrift stores like Goodwill. (Here’s a fun 2011 post featuring me with all of my vases, shot by my talented friend Ben Aqua.) It’s been fun seeing ’80s Deco vases gain popularity again, and it’s also weird seeing pieces I picked up for mere dollars a decade ago now selling for $50-$120 on sites like Etsy! Thankfully you can still find good deals on ’80s vases, and I always wonder how people style them once they get them home. I’ve seen some stellar arrangements featuring dried flowers but I haven’t yet tried incorporating them into my own vases. Here’s a post I created with some tropical design ideas featuring fresh and faux flowers.

’80s DIY Projects

I love a good ’80s DIY project. Check out Mirror80’s collection of DIY ideas and projects here. Now back to the earrings featured at the top of today’s post…

Colleen White is someone I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know through the ’80s Design group on Facebook (come join us if you’re interested)!! When she posted this project in the group and revealed that she’d crafted the earrings from ’80s-style erasers, I had to have a pair! Here’s what she has to say about the project:

I got the idea for the earrings after buying a pair from Etsy made of Lisa Frank mini erasers. I saw the palm tree ones at Target. They looked so cute and 80s that I knew I had to do something with them. I found everything needed either through Joann’s or Etsy. Luckily I already knew how to wrap the wire to create the beaded link between the eraser charm and earring hook. After gathering supplies and finding an excellent tutorial on YouTube on how to make eraser charms, the process was pretty easy. I made them while watching TV, lol.

I’m always inspired by Colleen’s projects and finds, and I thank her for sending these ’80s-style eraser earrings my way, especially since I can now share them here on the blog.

What are some ways you’re “living in the ’80s” these days? Any projects in the works? Media that keeps you connected to the decade? Products you search for on a regular basis?

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for a big batch of fall content heading your way soon…

Original post at Living in the ’80s Copyright Mirror80

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Welcome to the 2019 Mirror80 Gift Guide! Let me start by saying that I truly believe the Holiday Season is about much, much more than shopping. This post is not an attempt to get you to jump into a pool of consumerism. For me, the annual gift guide is a chance to take a look at some of the amazing ways that 1980s style is alive and well in both authentically retro and entirely new items. The brands, makers and shops that follow are worth checking out, for holiday shopping or anytime shopping!!

Organized by aesthetic, the finds below reflect a range of price points. If you can’t spend $300 on a vase, rest assured there’s something in your budget if you keep scrolling. I wish you and yours a meaningful holiday and a glorious New Year. Thanks for reading!

Bold, Bright and Geo

Bold geometry has made a HUGE comeback in recent years. New Memphis design is an homage to the Memphis-Milano movement of the 1980s, and the return of bright color combos and interesting forms has gone mainstream. Plus, a whole new range of makers and discerning designers have put their stamp on this timeless look, so this section of today’s post is by far the longest. Let’s get started!!

Amy Rosalyn’s handmade resin earrings are wonderfully light, yet they’re striking and substantial. They will transform any outfit into a work of art, especially if you’re into color blocking. Above we see a pair in red and white. Check out the entire selection here. Featured below: a radiant pair of Red on Red Earrings. I’ve got my eye on a few more pair…

Gold-plated stainless steel and enamel beautifully blend in Matter Matters’ Phase Necklace. Choose from 2 sizes. The minis are shown below, including the Mini Eclipse Necklace in black:

While the photo at the top of this section already gave you a peek at the Half Moon Clutch in Black (also from Matter Matters), below we see the Half Moon Clutch in Purple Blue, as well as the mini size. Guaranteed to be the focal point of any outfit:

I’m a big fan of Etsy shop Sophistique Studio, as they take the time to beautifully curate authentic ’80s items. If you’re shopping for a collector, pieces like this Memphis-style fixture/sconce are hard to pass up:

Cool Machine’s Two Parts Plant Pot can be used as a planter or a totem. Color and form are celebrated in this unique, functional item that makes the perfect gift for design lovers. Catalan sandstone is the material of choice:

Areaware’s Eraser Pencil Stands make great stocking stuffers. Use them to display pencils, or use them to build a totem!

Poketo’s Monthly Planners bring the grid to your workspace, along with a hefty dose of color. For as low as $8, you can get the version in red, but I’m pretty smitten with the blue.

Speaking of blue, anyone need a water bottle? For the record, I don’t need one. But I really want this water bottle, a collaboration between Corkcicle and Poketo:

’80s Style

If you enjoy hunting down a good retro find, this section is for you!! Between actual vintage items and reissues (like the Caboodle from Urban Outfitters pictured above–now find it here), there is a LOT you can uncover. Let’s start with a good pair of ’80s ankle boots. I snagged the pair above from Etsy shop Digger O’dell Vintage. They’d never been worn, there was one pair left (and in my size), and they looked super flattering and comfortable. And that they are! It was meant to be.

A lot of ankle boots from the 1980s are not the high-heeled variety, making them easy to wear. So if you know someone who loves ’80s fashion and you know their shoe size, it may be worth surprising them with a pair! Below we see NOS (new old stock) white leather ’80s ankle boots from Etsy shop Of Corsets. Love the geometric cutouts:

This Bang & Olufsen phone from Etsy shop Sophistique Studio is nothing short of fabulous. It’s the Beocom 2000, designed in 1986 by Danish designers Lone and Gideon Lindinger-Loewy. I’m totally smitten with this teal-ish, turquoise blue phone, but if you’re interested in other colors, browse the shop’s entire collection of Bang & Olufsen phones here. And stay tuned for a collaborative post from Sophistique Studio and Mirror80 early in the new year. Because Bang & Olufsen phones deserve the spotlight, don’t you think?

Lit Home Collection‘s Neon “Girl” Light is a throwback to Pop Art greatness. We all need a bright spot in our lives this winter!! And at $35, this beauty is affordable too:

Neon cactus, anyone? Patrick Dempsey had something similar in his Can’t Buy Me Love bedroom. This one‘s only $24. Thank you, Urban Outfitters.

If you collected plastic ’80s charms, this next find will mean something to you. These Vintage Sporty Spice Earrings from Lazer Kitten are made by Marisa Ravel from an ’80s authentic vintage dead-stock charm necklace:

Something Sparkly

Let’s wrap up the gift guide with a little sparkle, shall we?! The only thing that gives me consolation once Christmas has come and gone (and I’m faced with the depressing task of taking down holiday decorations) is the shimmering promise of the new year! The dreariness of winter is no match for the sparkle that can live well beyond the holiday season. The iridescent and metallic fringe garland in the photo above is from Meri Meri. It makes me so happy! And I’ll be sipping champagne out of  CB2’s Eve Coupe Glasses (shown above and below) well beyond January.

Did someone say “sparkle”? Nothing sparkles like an ’80s rhinestone necklace. This one comes from Etsy shop Oh Cheree Cheree.

If you’re looking for a mirrored cube, your search is over. While Urban Outfitters’ Mirrored Cube Side Table may be a large purchase for someone who’s not your nearest and dearest, it never hurts to treat yourself to a big dash of ’80s style this holiday:

These Mini Disco Canape Plates from Bash Party Goods make the perfect stocking stuffer for those who love a little bit of sparkle…and who love to entertain!

Scrunchies are back…haven’t you heard?! Cotton:On offers a huge variety of colors. I’m partial to the silver sparkle variety!

That’s a wrap, folks! Happy Holidays to you and yours. I have one more fun post planned for 2019, and then we’re off to a new decade. Not sure how I feel about that yet, but there’s plenty of time to talk about it in 2020! Cheers and thanks for reading!!

Original post at The 2019 Mirror80 Gift Guide Copyright Mirror80

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Hi Everyone! Just a quick note to let you know Mirror80’s fall newsletter is up and running. To celebrate the opening of Mirror80’s Society6 store, I’m giving away a tropical palm pouch to one lucky newsletter subscriber. Not already a subscriber? Subscribe here. When the newsletter arrives in your inbox, check it out for instructions on how to enter the giveaway.

This pouch is perfect for holding a range of items, from grooming products and pens to small electronics and accessories. The winner will be notified via email on October 1st.

Thanks for being a Mirror80 reader and supporting the blog! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

Cheers, Kate

Original post at A Mirror80 Giveaway! Copyright Mirror80

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I’m excited to announce that Mirror80 is now on Society6!! You can find wall art, stickers, pillows, laptop sleeves and much more. The store is in its beginning stages but will be expanding in the coming weeks. Today I’m highlighting a few items that will encourage you to keep a summer state of mind all year long…

Above we see art prints Palm on Yellow and Palm on Lavender. I’ve been wanting to start a shop/store for my photography for a long while, but I finally took the plunge when I needed artwork for my house. I had a very specific idea about the images I wanted, and I decided to create them myself.

In fact, I would recommend opening a Society6 shop to any creative who wants to test the waters a bit and see his/her work in a variety of forms. Plus, Society6 offers sales and promotions (such as free shipping) on a regular basis, making it an affordable option for wall art and other goodies.

I was really excited about the carry-all pouches. I use these for so many purposes. They act as purses, they can hold pencils and pens, and they’re perfect for creating “fun packs” for my daughter when we travel. Above and below we see the Palm on Lavender pouch in medium.

Side note: if you’re into dreamy images, check out this fun cotton candy and confetti piece as well. As mentioned, I’ll be adding new artwork/designs to the store this fall and winter, so I’ll keep you posted on new developments. Cheers to tropical style all year long!!!

Original post at The Mirror80 Shop Copyright Mirror80

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Ready to get organized?! This little beauty is actually a new Caboodles find, in mini form! Available for a mere $10 via Urban Outfitters, it’s the perfect size to keep on display at all times. After filling it with your favorite products, of course! Speaking of, today we take a look inside of my Caboodles, and I’ll even list some fabulous ’80s products that are still on the market. In case you want to fill your Caboodles with little reminders of the “recent retro”…

In my Caboodles: Revlon Nail Enamel, a plastic cuff by Tarina Tarantino (not ’80s, not brand-new either), banana clips and flexible rollers (reminiscent of Benders). Although not photographed, I also keep a Bonne Bell Lip Smacker in one of the trays. Dr. Pepper flavor, of course!!

What’s in your Caboodles?! When I shared a sneak peek photo from this blog post on Facebook, you guys said you enjoyed a few of the ’80s items below (I’ve added a few more ideas for fun):

Love’s Baby Soft

Exclamation perfume by Coty

Lip Licking Lip Balm

Salon Selectives

Sea Breeze

L’Oreal Studio hair care products

Scrunchies

You’ve heard the famous Caboodles origin story, right? In the ’80s, Wheel of Fortune hostess Vanna White was photographed with her makeup case–a plastic tackle box! It was only a matter of time before a more stylish version of this amazing idea emerged, and thankfully Caboodles were born.

There’s something so breezy and summery about the colors and forms of Caboodles, don’t you think?! Whether you collect original ’80s models or enjoy browsing the current retro-style offerings from Caboodles, there are plenty of options for hunting down these treasures.

What will you keep stocked in your Caboodles?! Don’t hesitate to leave a comment so we can all get some retro-fabulous ideas for ours…

Thanks for reading. XOXO, Kate

Original post at What’s Inside Your Caboodles? Copyright Mirror80

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Happy Thursday, Everyone! Are some of you on spring break this week? There’s a LOT going on, from vacations to SXSW. If you’re scrambling to accessorize, I wanted to share this quick reminder that it’s as easy as mixing a few retro pieces with a handful of new items. Plus, I’ll never turn down the chance to celebrate one of my favorite color combinations: pink and teal! (See the front page of the Mirror80 site if you don’t believe me.)

All of today’s photos feature items that I own. They’re a mix of old and new, and while some are retro/no longer for sale and others are from a few seasons back, I’ll still share sources at the end of the post when possible.

And by the way, almost every item featured is tres affordable. Which is good news if you’re wanting to start a collection of retro-modern treasures:

scarves: Sam Moon (not currently for sale),  fuchsia purse: Forever 21 (not currently for sale),  teal purse: an ’80s Etsy find,  flat-beaded necklace: an ’80s Etsy find,  silver and light pink bracelets: H&M,  triangle necklace: fLuxe Jewelry (similar design)

Happy shopping and treasure hunting! XOXO, Kate

Original post at The Power of Pink and Teal Copyright Mirror80

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Today I’m THRILLED to be collaborating with BambleVintage! In 2014, this Etsy shop’s creative owner, Sophie, got in touch, and she’s been a big supporter of Mirror80 over the years. It’s been awhile since I’ve featured her carefully curated finds, so I wanted to check back in and see what BambleVintage has in store…and enjoy Sophie’s unique perspective on ’80s fashion!

Below we see an ’80s peach top sourced from BambleVintage. Don’t you love the preppy vibe?! Read on for more photos, fabulous fashion quotes from Sophie, and a discount code for Mirror80 readers!…

Sophie on misconceptions about ’80s fashion…

…for most people just mentioning the world “eighties” conjures up upsetting imagery of garish and highly flammable shell suits and a mullet cut by someone’s mum… If you are one of those people then everything eighties is too big, too brash, too gaudy. It’s all awkward to wear, and even more awkward to look at, right? The basis of this misunderstanding, I think, probably stems from the idea of associating one or two styles, or even fashion items, with one particular decade. When we do this, all the wonderful nuances and innovation of an entire era just sort of get clumped together. The intricacies of everything from the style of a particular garment, to a whole fashion movement, get blurred. We forget that fashion is, and always has been, a journey.

Below: a vintage sleeveless summer dress and an ’80s polka dot summer dress from BambleVintage

On shoulder pads…

Now, the dreaded shoulder pads, I love them. I am sorry, but I just love them. Honestly, as soon as you remove all the negative connotations and imagery of shoulder pads from your psyche (It’s hard, I know, I’m here for you), a new world will open up. Believe me, they are flattering, they create the illusion of beautiful posture, and they are very versatile. I think they look especially good on a slight frame to create a sense of shape. Wear thin ones to add the finishing touch to your silhouette, wear big ones for sheer opulence and statement. Wear them correctly and no, you will not look like an American football player. If you still think shoulder pads are hideous artifacts of the past, last seen withering and dying out in the Eighties, ask Gaga and Ri Ri, they’ve got my back on the whole shoulder pads deal.

Sophie on her love of ’80s fashion…

I love the fashion of the eighties. It’s as simple as that. Seeing an eighties garment, the more flamboyant the better, fills me with joy. The beading, the colour, abstract prints and bold patterns, the just plain fun. I don’t want something straight off the shelf of a big brand, or something that is on trend for this second. I love eighties fashion because I want character. In the summer, I throw on a bright eighties printed blouse and (of course!) the essential neon plastic wayfarers, and I feel (shock alert) cool. I even used to have (as in a few years ago) Duran Duran and Stray Cats earrings, until, to my eternal regret, they literally fell from my ears with wear.

Below: ’80s leather peep toe shoes from Bamble Vintage

On why ’80s fashion will always be in style…

If you still disagree with my love of eighties style, trust me, I get it. But looking through popular clothing brand websites today, I can honestly say that I see a huge amount of eighties influence. In fact, I see straight-up reproductions made to cater to the current retro trend. It seems strange to me that people would buy something that maybe has a “modern take” on something or has a “cool retro feel” rather than just diving in to eighties vintage itself, which will always have character. It is easy to buy (for some unknown and undoubtedly absurd reason people also give eighties clothes to charity), and fun to wear. Create a look, mix it up, it’s what eighties style was meant for. Or even better, you can see what BambleVintage has in stock…

A BIG thank you to Sophie for sharing her ’80s fashion expertise with us. For more fabulous finds, like the vintage beaded cardigan, ’80s velvet evening bag and vintage white leather pumps below, head on over to BambleVintage! In fact, Sophie has generously set up a discount code for Mirror80 readers. Type in MIRROR80 at checkout and receive 10% off all purchases from BambleVintage over £10 ($12.51), Expires FEB 26.

Happy Shopping!!!

Original post at ’80s Fashion Talk with BambleVintage Copyright Mirror80

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Happy Holidays! Today I’m happy to present the 2016 Mirror80 Gift Guide! Get ready for a big dose of retro-modern goodness. Whether you’re on a tight budget or you’re looking to splurge, check out the amazing finds below. There’s geometry. There’s iridescence. There’s the gleam of brass. And whether you’re shopping now or you’re just having fun browsing, maybe you’ll find a new online shop to enjoy in the coming year! Keep reading for a slew of gift ideas, organized by price point…

1. Tiki socks from Zulu Zion, 2. Beta Pastry Server from CB2, 3. Tut Pyramid Objects from CB2, 4. Pastel Dreams Mug from Lazer Kitten, 5. Chocolate Confetti from Sugarfina, 6. Hay Terrazzo Pencil from Goodhood 

1. La earrings from Apres Ski, 2. Walala London Fields Plate by WALALA from Aria, 3. Altair Necklace from Hello Polly, 4. Pastel Geo Pin Set from Lazer Kitten, 5. Rubber Dipped Raw Mark Mug from Recreation Center, 6. Triangle Pom Pom Cushion in Aqua from Arro Home

1. Palermo necklace from Apres Ski, 2. Splatter Oval Plate Set from Arro Home, 3. Triangle Slice Chopping Board from Darkroom, 4. Limited Edition Stone Candleholders from Fort Standard, 5. Drip Vase from Jonathan Adler

I hope you have as much fun browsing these treasures as I did putting this gift guide together!  XOXO, Kate

Original post at The 2016 Mirror80 Gift Guide Copyright Mirror80

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Since fall is in full force, I thought I’d reflect back on the last few Novembers at Mirror80. Each year, I’m inspired to create a fall tablescape, and I’m heavily influenced by ’80s motifs, as well as new design trends. I’m cooking up something special for this year. Read on for details and mood boards filled with LOTS of retro-modern images…

Berry Tones

For me, the fall of 2013 was all about berry tones. Because I really wanted to work my ’80s Deco vase collection into the mix, along with my ’80s landscape serigraph by Paul Nellis. I even managed to find some blue glassware that resembled the vases, and the rest is history. Here’s some berry and orange fall inspiration:

IMAGE SOURCES (Clockwise from the top left): graphics from The Best of Store Designs (1986), a Mirror80 Deco glass thrift store find, tulip and vase centerpieces from Mirror80’s ’80s-Style Thanksgiving (2013), Infinity glass panels from Studio Thier&VanDaalen

Still Life Style

When I began tuning into the current still life photography revival, my mind was blown! For me, fall 2014 was all about designing an artfully arranged table, inspired by the beautiful, modern, clean-lined vignettes of my favorite still life photos. Here’s a sampling:

IMAGE SOURCES:

Top Row (L to R): a Thanksgiving Still Life Photo Shoot from Mirror80 (2014), photo from the Instagram account of Eating Patterns

Middle Mini-Row (L to R): photo from Mirror80’s Thanksgiving Still Life Photo Shoot, still life photography from the You Melon series by David Abrahams

Bottom Row (L to R): still life by Wyne Veen, photo from Mirror80’s Thanksgiving Still Life Photo Shoot, Imbalance (modern glasswork) by Peter Botos

Neo Geo

Geometric forms heavily influenced last year’s fall table, with shades of mint, deep green and copper taking center stage. I also threw in a touch of marble and metallics. Yes, it was Neo Geo for 2015!

IMAGE SOURCES (Clockwise from the top left): Mirror80’s Modern Fall Table (2015), Binary meditative object by Epiforma, the beauty of Copper Orange via Elle Decoration, Intermix Dinnerware from CB2, a snapshot from Mirror80’s Modern Fall Table

Dark and Reflective

This year I’m trying something new…welcoming the dark skies of fall and winter. Sure, the landscape outside may be getting more barren by the day (goodbye, leaves). But as far as I’m concerned, colder weather brings an excuse to revel in rich tones and the coziness of candlelight. Taking my cues from modern photography, food styling and a hint of ’80s decadence, my fall 2016 palette will include a lot of teal, grey and burgundy. Plus a hint of gold:

IMAGE SOURCES (Clockwise from the top left): image from the Stroke series by Ryan Hopkinson, modern decor from Apparatus, photo from the Giorgio Cravero Colors Series (via Trendland), set design from the 1987 film Wall Street, image from the Stroke series by Ryan Hopkinson, Neu stoneware from ferm LIVING

Stay tuned for Mirror80’s fall 2016 tablescape, which will make its debut next week! Thanks for reading.  XOXO, Kate

Original post at Retro-Modern Mood Boards for Fall Copyright Mirror80

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Every year around Halloween, I buy a colorful wig for some costume-y fun and prepare to revel in vivid hues. And every year as I pack away the wig, I tell myself I’m going to find ways to celebrate color on a daily basis well past Halloween. That can be challenging, especially as fall and winter hues become more subdued, mirroring the cold, grey weather outside.

Speaking of challenges, here’s one for all of us: more color. In our lives. In our wardrobes. In our homes. Just for fun. Just because it makes us happy. Just because it makes us take a second look.

Start at home. Whether the color comes from a vivid vase, a bright accent wall, or both, sometimes the simplest of additions can make the biggest of differences. You can always break up the tone-on-tone radiance with a houseplant or two.

Be ready! Without a doubt, the color will infiltrate a variety of areas in your life. Happy Halloween!!!  XOXO, Kate

Original post at Embracing Color Copyright Mirror80

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Tomorrow is October 31st! What has everyone been up to this weekend? I’ve put together a YouTube Halloween playlist filled with spooky ’80s songs, and you can check it out below. Yes, I’m aware that certain chart-topping Halloween hits are missing from the list. I tried to focus on songs that aren’t overplayed but have a slight creepy feel. Some are dark, and some are over-the-top fun! When possible, I included music videos, so enjoy the retro visuals, or let these tracks play in the background while you work or visit with friends. Wishing you and yours a righteous Halloween!

Original post at An ’80s Halloween Playlist Copyright Mirror80

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It’s the Great Retro Halloween Roundup! Today’s post is packed with Mirror80 photos, DIY ideas, and collected images from the past 6 years of blogging. Halloween is my favorite holiday, so each year has involved a LOT of festive October fun. Below you will find three different aesthetics for the spookiest day of the year. I’ve also included links so you can check out the original blog posts where the photos appeared. Happy October, and Happy Halloween!…

A Retro-Modern Halloween

Retro meets new, with a hefty dose of vibrancy and a dash of still life style. Bring on the neon:

IMAGE SOURCES (Clockwise from the top left):

Stephanie Gonot for Nylon via Mirror80’s Halloween Pinterest board, a Reese’s Peanut Butter Milkshake recipe, a Halloween milkshake with a candy bar garnish, fun with neon frosting, an NPR still life by Ariel Zambelich via Mirror80’s Halloween Pinterest board

A Decadent Halloween

Excess meets an understated palette. Rich, deep tones reign, along with a dash of spooky style and plenty of produce:

IMAGE SOURCES (clockwise from the top left):

A DIY terrazzo pumpkin project, a New Romantic fall feast inspired by an INXS video, a summer-to-fall photo shoot, a recipe for pomegranate brew, a cheese plate from our ’80s Halloween movie party,

A Very ’80s Halloween

It’s going to be a rad Halloween, fer sure! Revel in ’80s treats, from Reese’s Pieces and coil bracelets to glo sticks and take-out pizza. Add some 1980s movie viewing and you’re set:

IMAGE SOURCES (clockwise from the top left):

Coil bracelets from Mirror80’s Reese’s Peanut Butter Milkshake shoot, various retro images from the Mirror80 Halloween Pinterest board, the opening credits from the 1986 horror-comedy Night of the Creeps

Wishing you and yours a spook-tacular Halloween! XOXO, Kate

Original post at The Great Retro Halloween Roundup Copyright Mirror80

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Ready for a little bit of decadence? If you’re a fan of New Romantic groups like Spandau Ballet and Human League, you know that INXS is not typically associated with the movement. Yet their early-’80s video for “The One Thing” channels a New Romantic vibe, complete with a banquet table covered in produce, flowers and candelabras. Using the video as inspiration, I’ve created a tablescape that’s fit for a fall feast!

The screen shots above illustrate the video’s decadent vibe, from the candlelight and heaps of food to the big hair and big jewelry. And in true early-’80s form, there’s a whitewashed background. Just promise me if you try this at home, you won’t put cats on your table. For their safety and yours. OK?!

Bring on the figs, loaves of bread and grapes! The photo above definitely epitomizes the vibe of my photo shoot, and for additional inspiration, watch the video below:

To get this look, you’ll need a candelabra. I found mine at Goodwill. For 99 cents! Yes, 99 cents:

A vase of flowers is also a must. The ’80s vase below is another Goodwill find. The flowers are a lovely shade of wine, and the whole bouquet of mums cost me a few dollars at the local market. I love how the look of this tablescape is super opulent…yet ultimately super affordable!

Finish off the table by letting the food double as decor. Not sure what to include? Just watch the INXS video. I used figs, grapes and a loaf of bread. Add some greenery to break up all of the warm tones, and you’re set. You can also sprinkle some pumpkins into the mix.

What do you wear to a New Romantic feast? The biggest and best in ’80s jewelry, of course! Etsy is a great resource for 1980s jewelry finds, and I also love shopping at estate sales for jewelry. Even if the decor is not ’80s, chances are there are a few pieces of jewelry from the era. And they’re sometimes overlooked by the estate sale company doing the pricing, so you just might score a great deal. For more estate sale shopping tips, check out this post.

And don’t forget the value of new finds with an ’80s look! I bought these earrings last year at Sears. I believe they were $12 or less:

This tablescape is perfect for a fall feast such as Thanksgiving dinner, but it also works for an elegant Halloween centerpiece, especially if you add in a few spooky elements. Thanks for reading! XOXO, Kate

Original post at A New Romantic Fall Feast Copyright Mirror80

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Hi Everyone! This week I’m taking a fall break to spend quality time with family and do some behind-the-scenes work on the blog. It’s good to step back every now and then and reflect, don’t you think?! Especially when “reflecting on recent retro style” is the tagline of your blog–ha! I’ll be back next week with two Halloween-related posts that pile on the retro style. Until then, I’m sharing a few links for you to check out and enjoy. Keep reading for project ideas, news and more…

Make the DIY pumpkin hanger above with the help of this easy tutorial.

This Mirror80 fall roundup is filled with even more retro-modern project ideas.

Are you listening to SynthWaves each Sunday night on KFAI? So much retro-modern goodness (including lots of Halloween fun this month)!

If you’re a fan of ’80s-inspired synth music and you don’t know about Synthetix.FM, you are in. for. a. treat!

Create a summer vibe all year long with this neon palm tree light from Urban Outfitters.

And the UO neon Arc Lamp I’ve had my eye on is now only $59!

Have you checked out the Memphis-style ceramics of Leah Jackson?

Black flamingos and sprinkle-motif pumpkins dot this fabulous Palm Springs-style Halloween shoot from Sugar & Cloth.

Have you made a Reese’s Peanut Butter Milkshake yet? Make sure to drink it while watching Night of the Creeps!

Wishing everyone a fabulous fall and a wonderful week ahead… XOXO, Kate

Original post at Fall Break Copyright Mirror80

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Today I’m sharing a roundup of some of my favorite ’80s Halloween costume ideas! They’re clever, beautifully photographed and fabulous. Some of them are listed as kids’ costumes, but they’re easily adaptable for grown-ups. Scroll through, and then leave me a comment at the end of the post with your own ’80s costume idea. ‘Tis the season to go retro!

Above is one of my very favorites…it’s Eleven from Stranger Things! (Note that Eggo recently recalled their whole grain waffles in many states–but whole grain was never our favorite anyway, right?!) [featured at Say Yes]

Movie Magic

There’s a lot of inspiration to be drawn from movies of the 1980s. If one of the ideas below doesn’t catch your eye, start going through your favorite ’80s flicks. You’ll soon have more costume ideas than you know what to do with! Here are a few of my favorites…

Heathers group costume from Camille Styles: 

Dirty Dancing couples costume from Say Yes:

Dirty Dancing Halloween costume

Troop Beverly Hills costumes from Studio DIY:

Bring on the Nostalgia

This second group of costumes packs on the nostalgia. So relive your favorite childhood moments or live out your dream of growing up in the ’80s and ’90s…

DIY Lisa Frank costumes from Studio DIY (check out even more Lisa Frank costumes here):

Laser background grade school photo costume (details via Moth):

Just take a chill pill! DIY chill pill costume from Studio DIY:

Rober Palmer video girls costumes from Katherine Power:

Cassette tape costume from Oh Happy Day:

Retro television costume from Oh Happy Day:

Honorable Mentions:

I couldn’t end today’s post without tacking on a few more costume ideas that weren’t featured in the top ten above. Here goes…

DIY ’90s toy costumes from Studio DIY:

Camp counselor couples costume from Say Yes:

And finally, anyone else seeing some amazing costume opportunities here? Bring on the Labyrinth style!

Wishing you and yours a Happy Halloween! Share your ’80s costume ideas by leaving a comment below…

Original post at Ten ’80s Halloween Costume Ideas Copyright Mirror80

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Columns are always in style–after all, they provide a key architectural function. But in the ’80s, they were extra fabulous! So fabulous they took on some decorative properites. From plaster column side tables to the four-columned bed below, the proof is in the pillar! Read on as we take a look at the design magic of ’80s columns, from the minimalist to the totally decked out… [photo above from The International Book of Lofts, 1986]

Pure and Simple

Sometimes keeping it simple lets the architectural features of a space truly stand out. In the ’80s, loft living was a way of life, especially in cities like New York. Support structures such as columns were abundant. The space below is filled with interesting elements (hello, indoor reflecting pool!), so white columns add stately style without detracting from the room’s other highlights. [photo from The International Book of Lofts, 1986]

This loft entry area features angular walls. A white column draws the eye upward an emphasizes the unique lines of the space. [photo below from The International Book of Lofts, 1986]

Big and Bold

White columns are bold in their own right, but sometimes you just have to go bold! It’s hard to know for sure what covers the marbleized columns below (wallpaper maybe?)… Regardless, the columns take this formal interior to the next level. [photo from Showcase of Interior Design: Pacific Edition (1992), via Palm & Laser]

In office spaces, there’s always room to be adventurous. A range of soft shades can be found in this next photo. The support columns range from glossy and round to dual-toned. [photo from Commercial Interiors International (1986), via Palm & Laser]

Department Store Columns

Column design was extra adventurous in the palace-like atmosphere of the ’80s department store! Lacquered, marbled, reflective, glossy…you name it! Each and every photo in this section is featured in The Best of Store Designs (1986). Buy this book for the graphic design/layout, as well as the photos! First up: the Deco-style columns surrounding “Paradise Cafe” inside of Burdines department store in Coconut Grove, Florida. Bring on the brass…

Speaking of brass, the gold-toned fun continues in the form of trim on these faceted mint green columns from Younkers department store in Des Moines, Iowa. The street level of the store was remodeled to mirror Younkers’ lower level (called The Metropolis)!

Reflective and sleek. From round and metal to angled and mirrored, the columns in the cosmetics department of this North Miami, Florida Macy’s (in Aventura Mall) couldn’t be more modern-glam:

It’s hard to beat columns that are lit from within. The lacquer-cube grid ceiling is another standout feature of this retail space featuring wood and glass accents. Say hello to the men’s section of Rich’s department store in Atlanta, Georgia (located in Cumberland Mall):

A Column Revival

Let’s end today’s post with a new photo of a Vaporwave party hosted by Reddit user BlueRoll18. Yes, Greek columns are back. And they look a lot more stylized than when we scattered them throughout our ’80s traditional interiors. Just add palm plants, neon and checkered floors. Nice work, BlueRoll18! [featured at Vaporwave 420]

Original post at Columns: An ’80s Interior Design Trend Copyright Mirror80

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Today we’re taking a look at the beautifully styled world of retro drink photography! The ’80s images that follow celebrate the power of bold black backdrops, vivid gradients, and tropical motifs. I’m also sharing a few of my own photos (like the one above), and stay tuned for an easy-to-make Mai Tai recipe at the end of the post. Ready for a closer look at the breezy world of retro cocktails? Cheers to that…

A Backdrop in Black

’80s food and beverage photography frequently involved the use of black backdrops. The result was dramatic and stylized, with the consumables truly taking center stage. The photo below is by Michael Waine, featured in Creative Black Book: Photography (1985). [via Palm & Laser]

Black backdrops set the stage for ’80s photos with a modern look, but they also allowed for a dash of elegance. Gold-rimmed serveware, ornate stemware and a small bouquet of alstroemeria give the vignette below a chic vibe. The blatant use of chocolate doesn’t hurt, either! [photo by Photography Unlimited Inc, featured in Creative Black Book: Photography (1985), via Palm & Laser]

Retro drink styling tip #1: Bring on the chocolate shavings. 

Sprinkles are great (and definitely ’80s), but if you want a look that’s a bit more elegant, use a vegetable peeler to scrape the edge of a chocolate bar or block. I used a peeler, then a knife to chop up the shavings and crumbles that garnish the hot chocolate below, but if you use the peeler alone, you can get some fancy curls that will be retro-fabulous.

Gradient Style

While ombre gradients of color may seem like a new trend, they were definitely making waves in the ’80s. Sometimes, the drink itself seemed to come alive in a cloud of color! [photo by Schewe Photography, from Creative Black Book: Photography (1985) via Palm & Laser] 

Sometimes it was the background that showcased the gradient. [photo from The Mellow Bellows Group, featured in Creative Black Book: Photography (1985), via Palm & Laser]

Retro drink styling tip #2: Incorporate gradient style through ombre accessories (such as napkins) and colorful drink recipes.

While the Mirror80 photo below features an ombre backdrop, you can achieve an ombre effect in the drink itself with the help of ingredients like Pom pomegranate juice (which can be poured into the bottom of the glass before a lighter-colored mixture is added, as shown here).

Tropical Flair

Many an ’80s cocktail photo featured tropical accents, from drink umbrellas to freshly cut fruit. Below we see a still from the 1986 horror/comedy classic Night of the Creeps. This breezy moment occurs in one of the character’s dreams. Because who wouldn’t want to be handed a drink in a coconut…with two straws?!

I mentioned the importance of freshly cut fruit, right?! Oranges, pineapple, strawberries, maraschino cherries–you name it! Below (left) we see an image from Tumblr Neon Talk (an Aiwa ad from 1984), and below (right) is a photo of Fruit-Tea Punch from The Encyclopedia of Creative Cooking (1982):

Retro drink styling tip #3: Add tropical flair with drink umbrellas, fruit and retro staples like red drinking straws. 

Nearby tropical foliage can also help create an ’80s look. While party straws featuring patterns and designs are fabulous, choices were more limited in the ’80s. That’s why a red or a clear straw will definitely evoke a retro feel. But don’t hesitate to add in some modern elements as well! A beautifully designed party straw from today can definitely help play up an ’80s vibe.

A Retro Mai Tai Recipe

I’ll end today’s post with a Mai Tai recipe that’s been tested extensively. That’s because it was a signature drink I created for a summer gathering. It’s likable enough to serve to a group, yet it’s not as sweet as some of the Mai Tais you’ll find. Here’s the recipe…

1 ounce light rum

1 ounce dark rum

2 ounces pineapple juice

1 ounce cranberry juice

1 ounce orange juice

a splash of Orgeat

a splash of lime

In short, you’ll add one part rum to two parts juice. You can tweak the ratio of light to dark rum, and you can adjust the ratio of orange, pineapple and cranberry juice. Just make sure there’s twice as much juice as rum, and you’re set! Top it off with the Orgeat and lime, and you have a delicious tropical drink that’s perfect for summer, or dreaming of tropical weather in the midst of a cold winter.

Important: make sure you add the Orgeat and the splash of lime. This is what takes the drink to the next level, and the lime ensures your beverage doesn’t reside in syrupy sweet territory. When I mix up my Mai Tai, I cut the end off a lime and squeeze it liberally. Also, while the drink is not pictured with ice in the photo above, it’s really delicious when poured over ice. The ice dilutes the sweetness of the other potent ingredients. At the very least, serve it chilled.

Many Mai Tai recipes involve more rum, but I find the amount listed above to be perfect for a truly balanced drink when it comes to flavor. Want a stronger drink? Simply add more rum.

Cheers to ’80s cocktails!

Original post at Tips for Styling Retro Cocktails Copyright Mirror80