With the popularity of television shows like “Madmen” there has been a resurgence of interest in decorating trends from the 1950′s through the  early sixties.  If you are fortunate enough to live in a mid-century style home you are already familiar with soaring windows and Eames furniture.  However, there are some style elements of this period that can be used in any home to add just a touch of retro design.  For example:

• Turquoise has already been named the  2010 color of the year by Pantone and it was certainly popular in the early sixties.  It is possible to find mixing bowls, toasters and other kitchen items in this color as well as other colors of the time including yellow, red and pink.  Look for it in dishware also.  Remember melamine dishes?
• Low slung Danish modern furniture was popular during this time period.  Upholster your chairs in a white, green or turqoise vinyl to really stay true to the period.  For more information and to purchase vinyl suitable for upholstery, visit our site at www.onlinefabricstore.net.
• Fabrics were bright and colorful and featured large floral and fern patterns as well as some  prints with sputnik and other “spacey” designs.  Remember, it was 1961 when we first placed a man on the moon and space was a new territory.  Pop art patterns were also used to add a bright and modern touch to interior spaces.
• Popular colors included orange (popular again now), turquoise (need I say more about this color?) and mint green.  Neutrals were also used in combinations that included chocolate brown and turquoise (there it is again), fuchsia or various shades of green.

Things changed in 1963 with the assassination of our President and the turmoil that followed.  Design styles changed and flower power and hippie style moved in as young America turned on and tuned out.  But true retro design includes furniture, fabric and accessories from 1950-1963.  So have fun and relive childhood memories through the use of colors and shapes from this decorating era.