Through the Telephone Lines: Favorite Films

Hello everyone!

I’m always on the lookout for movie recommendations, so I decided to ask some of my friends what their favorite films are! I also wanted to try and show that everyone can find a connection to classic films or to a different time period. The only limitations I gave were that the film can either be from the 90’s or before or that the film is set in a later time period. Here are some of their answers!

Sarah

Sarah is my coworker, so during our free time, I asked her about her favorite classic or period film. Here favorite is Pride & Prejudice from 2005 (which is an amazing movie if you haven’t seen it). It’s her favorite simply because of the atmosphere it creates. 19th century style and culture is portrayed beautifully in this film. The way the characters speak, the dancing sequences, and the historical outfits all caught Sarah’s attention. If you would like to watch it, it’s on Netflix!

Zora

Zora’s favorite classic film is also one of mine. It’s a Wonderful Life from 1946 is a must watch especially during Christmas. The film explores the impact that each individual has on the world and how his or her life is so valuable. Zora loves the message behind the movie as well as the 1940’s outfits and sets. Overall, it’s a great feel good movie that she loves to watch with her family during Christmas time.

Sydney

Sydney is back again! Sydney’s favorite film is Meet Me in St. Louis from 1944. Again, this is another one of my favorite films! The movie explores the life of a family living in St. Louis during the time of the 1904 World’s Fair. Sydney’s favorite part is watching the four sisters interact with each other over the span of a year. Sydney is exceptionally close with her sister, Elly, who we met in a later post. Whether you have sisters or not, you’ll enjoy this film!

Sadaris

Lastly, I spoke with my boss, Sadaris! Sad’s favorite classic films are the Star Wars films which started in 1977. He told me about how he loves the involved storyline and how the saga continues on as the movies go along. The early forms of special effects are also entertaining to watch! I would like to point out that he asked to pose dramatically, which I think matches the valiant feel of the Star Wars films!

I think that a person’s favorite movie says a lot about them as a person, so it was so fun interviewing everyone! I also believe that everyone can find a film, whether old or set back in time, that catches their interest.

Classically, Sofia.

The Odd Beauty Routine of the 1940s

Disclaimer: I do not recommend trying the odd trends mentioned in this post. The purpose of this post is strictly to inform.

Hello everyone!

Today I want to tell you all a little it about the beauty routines during World War II. While some aspects are still used today, others most certainly aren’t (or shouldn’t be). Those tips will be specified.

Let me provide some background. During the 1940s, World War II was raging on. Everyone and everything seemed to be affected in some way– even the beauty routines of American women. Rations were put into effect. Therefore, many beauty products were no longer available, yet women found a way. Here is a breakdown of the odd beauty routine of the 1940s.

Face

Skin care was simple back then. Women would often apply cold cream to dissolve makeup and moisturize the skin. They would then use a gentle bar of soap and a rag to wash their face.

For foundation, women used Pan-Cake makeup, a product first created by Max Factor. The makeup came compressed in a compact wand was applied lightly with a powder puff. Foundation, especially during the war, was very simple.

For cheeks, women would sometimes use cream rouge. If that wasn’t available, women would rub lipstick into the apples of their cheeks or even simply pinch them for a rosy look.

Eyes

The eyes is where this post gets a little interesting. Eyeshadow and eyeliner wasn’t usually worn on a daily basis. Women would sometime curl their lashed with a heated spoon (do not try this). For mascara, a women often used cake mascara. This type of mascara (which still exists) came in a compact block with a little brush. You simply mixed a drop of water in and had mascara. If that wasn’t available, (do not try this either) women would burn cork and mix it with Vaseline to apply to their lashes.

Lips

Lips were the simplest part of this routine. Lipstick wasn’t rationed because is was said to boost morale. Women often wore patriotic reds and corals. No homemade trick here!

Bonus

In the 1940s, women wore nylons (pantyhose). Nylon was rationed to make parachutes, so women had to get creative. To get the appearance of tanned, smooth legs, women would paint their legs in gravy browning. They also oftentimes used an eyebrow pencil to draw the seem of the stockings up the back of their leg. Imagine walking around with all of that on your legs!

So there you have it! I’m so thankful we don’t have to worry about rationing like women did back then, but they were quite creative!

Classically, Sofia.

Classic Hobbies to Pick Up This Season

Happy Friday everyone!

With school winding down, I’m about to have a lot more free time on my hands. If you’re in the same situation, look no further! Here is a list of some of my favorite classic past times that will keep you entertained during the break (or whenever)!

Needlework

Whether you decide to cross-stitch, knit, or embroider, needlework is a relaxing yet productive past time. I’m always in search of something to do mindlessly while watching a movie or listening to music. Though needle work isn’t completely mindless, it is very calming. You can buy starter kits for any of these techniques at your local craft store! I’ve been cross-stitching a rose since the summer. Your needlework creations can also make great Christmas gifts! Imagine giving a loved one a cozy, handmade scarf! Perfect!

Reading Classics

Sure, reading sounds like an obvious pastime, but don’t overlook the classics! Especially for vintage lovers, picking up a book like The Great Gatsby, Pride & Prejudice, or Little Women can be really eye opening! As the reader, you get to visit the authors’ imagination and understand ideas from hundreds of years ago. You are even able to learn details from the characters’ lives that act as windows to how life might have actually been in the 19th or 20th centuries. There are plenty of lists online consisting of some of literature’s most classic works. Check a couple out from your local library, and begin reading!

Baking

Baking is another great hobby perfect for the upcoming season! One of my favorite things to do is find old recipes whether they’re online or from cookbooks found in antique stores. I choose a couple of recipes that I like, and then I recreate them! I found one from the 1930s on how to make homemade pumpkin spice ice cream! I personally find it more fun to bake desserts, but you can also explore cooking options as well! Your baked goods will also make perfect Christmas gifts or Thanksgiving dishes!

Watching Films

Use your free time to explore movies! The world of film is much more vast than people think. If you like thrillers and suspense, Hitchcock films are perfect for you! A couple of my favorites include Rear Window, Psycho, and North by Northwest. There is also an incredible variety of musicals like Singin’ in the Rain and Meet Me in St. Louis. With Christmas coming up, explore some of the Christmas classics, too! Here are a couple to get you started: It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas, Holiday Inn, Christmas in Connecticut, and Miracle on 34th Street. Happy watching!

Classically, Sofia.

The Lost Art of Sign Painting

Hello again, everyone!

Today we’re going to talk about sign painting!

With businesses using vinyl, sign painting is slowly becoming obsolete. There are, however, people making an effort to preserve the timelessness of this art form. The smooth, methodic way that the letters are formed is not only satisfying to watch, but results in clean, whimsical advertisements.

As long as written languages have existed, so have signs. Signs direct us, inform us, and persuade us. During the 20th century especially, sign painting turned into a true art form. Businesses had hand-painted signs drawing eyes to their store fronts. Movie posters were stylishly hand-painted, beckoning crowds into the theaters for the latest Clark Gable film. Even iconic circus posters were painted by hand claiming that the “Strongest Man in the World” was only steps away. For decades, sign painting has reigned over the world of public advertising, but that’s been changing.

I first learned about sign painting from my dad. He has always had a passion for sign painting. If you walk through my town, almost every window has his signature under their logo. Some even include mine and my brother’s because he would bring us along to “help.” When I was around 6, I specifically remember going with him to paint a sign at a doctor’s office. He had bought me a glass bottle of the Frostie Blue Cream Soda, and I had set up my car seat out in the sun to watch him. Even as recently as a year ago, I spent a summer day on the job with him. I sat on one of his paint-covered milk crates and read a book while chasing the shade. The cool thing about all of this is that he used to do the same with his dad when he was growing up. My grandfather started painting signs in Ecorse, Michigan in 1956.

With all that being said, my eye has always been drawn to hand painted signs. I hope I can open your eyes to them as well. Here is a short interview with my dad:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnWp-JlwviQ&t=2s

Classically, Sofia

The Evolution of Lipstick

Hello again! I love learning the history behind specific products, and one product that can really dress up any look is lipstick. It’s a powerful accessory with a rich history. Let’s take a look at how lipstick has evolved during part of the 20th century. If you want to learn the history of lipstick all the way back to Ancient Egypt, visit https://www.bustle.com/articles/190243-the-history-of-red-lipstick-from-ancient-egypt-to-taylor-swift-everything-in-between.

1910’s

In the 1910’s, wearing prominent makeup was looked down upon. Women would use little pots of red rouge and thoroughly blend the color on their eyes, cheeks, and lips. Eventually, in 1915, cylinder shaped containers were invented by Maurice Levy.

1920’s

In the 1920’s, lipstick became part of women’s daily beauty routine. It was reasonably priced and easily produced. Lipsticks were worn dark and dramatic with heavy accentuation on the cupid’s bow. Stencils were even created to achieve this look. Clara Bow is the perfect example of this trend. In 1923, James Bruce Mason Jr. invented the tube that swiveled up. Women looked up to Hollywood stars, recreating their makeup looks. Popular colors were often dramatic shades of dark reds, browns, and plums. Popular companies included Chanel, Elizabeth Arden, and Estée Lauder.

1930’s

The 1930s were a moody and elegant time for makeup. Lipsticks often came in matte finishes, and deep plums and burgundy colors were popular. Max Factor, a popular makeup artist for Hollywood stars, started selling lip gloss to the public that was once only available to actresses. Even during the Great Depression, lipstick was an affordable “necessity” for women.

1940’s

During the time of World War Two, many “unnecessary” products stopped being produced. Companies that once produced hairpins began producing bolts. Women were forced to takeover the factory jobs of men while they were fighting overseas. This is where “Rosie the Riveter” originated. Since many materials were rationed, lipsticks had plastic or paper tubes instead of metal. Popular colors were bright, patriotic reds. Women were encouraged to wear lipstick to boost moral.

1950’s

Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor were the Hollywood actresses that America looked to for beauty inspiration. Bolder red and pink shades were exceptionally popular. Revlon’s Cherries in the Snow was a popular shade. During the 1950’s, Hazel Bishop created a successful ‘kiss-proof’ lipstick. Many brands began creating their own versions after that.

1970’s

The 1970’s is the next decade where lipsticks took a turn. Flavored lipstick which we all know as Lip Smackers was created by Bonnie Bell in 1973. Neutral and brown shades became popular during this era.

See? Isn’t lipstick pretty interesting? One of my favorite brands, Besame Cosmetics, creates vintage reproduction colors that are based of of actual shades from specific eras. Visit https://besamecosmetics.com/ to explore the shades (Chocolate Kiss is my favorite)!

Classically, Sofia.

Through the Telephone Lines: An Interview with Elly

Hello everyone! Today I sat down with another one of my friends, Elly! Elly has a huge personality with a fantastic sense of style. She also has an interest in vintage! Join me as we learn about her personal passion for vintage.

Elly in one of her favorite sweaters.

Question 1: Describe your vintage style?

Answer: I like wearing darker, earthy tones, because I feel that they fit the 1970’s vibe. The 1970’s is my favorite decade! I like bold, unique prints too. I find a lot of my clothing pieces in thrift stores like Good Will and Salvation Army. You can really find some treasure in those stores. I’m also fan of bell bottoms and boot cut jeans. My go-to item is cozy, kind of “ugly” sweater. I would call my wardrobe 70’s inspired. It’s modern with a funky, vintage twist.

Question 2: What ignited your interest in vintage?

Answer: When I was younger, I watched The Brady Bunch on Sunday afternoon. I had a crush on Greg, so I started buying clothing items that reminded me of him. When I got older, I started watching That 70’s Show. The style was so fun and odd, so my love for it grew. Those shows ignited my interest in vintage for sure.

Question 3: What decade is your favorite and why?

Answer: The 1970’s for sure. Again, the style is just so unique and fun. You can get away wearing bold pieces but still look breezy and relaxed. My parents both grew up in the 1970’s, so 70’s pop culture was constantly flowing in my house growing up. I listened to a lot of Queen, Fleetwood Mac, and Elton John. Overall, I was really exposed to the 1970s pop culture and style.

Question 4: What are some activities you take part in that reflect your love for vintage?

Answer: I play the piano, and a lot of the songs I play are from the 1970’s. My favorite song to play is “Tiny Dancer” by Elton John. I also like to read, but I read about pretty much any period in history. Right now, I’m reading Lovely War by Julie Berry. It’s set during World War One. I also spend a lot of my free time listening to music from the 1970’s especially when I drive.

Elly reading Lovely War by Julie Berry.

I always enjoy talking with Elly, so it was fun to interview her about her passion! She is also always dressed so fashionably. Now we all know that the secret is knowing how to search a Good Will! Until next time!

Classically, Sofia.

Decorations in Your Grandmother’s House That Are Still Stylish Today

Throughout my time being interested in vintage, I have collected many antique or vintage inspired items. These items can come from thrift shops, yard sales, or even (surprise!) your grandmother’s house! After about twelve years, I’ve compiled a lot of items that have gradually transformed my room and dorm into a vintage wonderland.

Here is a list of six decorations from your grandmother’s house that are still stylish today:

1. Vintage Posters

Some of my favorite items to collect are vintage movie posters and war propaganda posters. Displaying vintage posters is a great way to express your favorite films. These posters are almost always artistic depictions of the films instead of photographs, so you will have some unique art hanging up!

Some of the posters and pennants in my room!

2. Doilies

Doilies, if used correctly, can add a vintage flair to the room! Place them on empty desk space, shelf space, or anywhere that needs a little decoration. I love the delicate, feminine look that doilies add to the room.

3. Pennants

Able to be found new or vintage, pennants are colorful, unique, and easy to hang. Most of the time, schools have pennants as well as vacation spots. Collect pennants that have special meaning to you and hang them around your room! They make perfect mementos and fantastic gifts!

The doilies, typewriter, and printed photos I have on my vanity!

4. Machines

I had trouble thinking of the perfect word for these items, so by machines I mean old phones, record players, and type writers! Not only do they give a room a vintage feel, but they are also exceptionally useful! Listen to records, type letters, and take calls just like people did in the twentieth century! Search through thrift shops and antique stores for these items. You can even find some pretty authentic looking reproductions!

5. Printed Photos

One of my favorite Christmas gifts I have received is a Polaroid camera. I love that the images are so genuine and raw, and I also love the idea of showing my future children and grandchildren printed pictures. Collect pictures of you, your friends, your family, or even vintage images printed from the internet and display them in your room! Bonus points if you tuck the photos along the frame of a mirror!

6. Classic Bedding

In my opinion, the bed is often the center of a room. Dress it up a little bit! Quilts are warm, unique pieces to add to a room. In my dorm, I have one that my mother and grandmother sewed together. Another classic bedding option is a white, chenille bedspread! A chenille bedspread is a thin white (or possibly colored) blanket with tufts of fabric that form intricate designs. I have one of these blankets on my bed at home! It’s beautiful and cozy!

There are many more ways to dress up your room for a vintage look! Thrift stores and antique stores are your best friends when looking for these items! I’d love to hear about some of your favorite vintage decorations!

Classically, Sofia.

Diary Entry: Getting Crafty with Cornhole

Hello everyone! Today’s post is a little different. Instead of having a set theme for this post, I am just going to provide you all with a little snippet of my life!

For Halloween, my roommates and I are throwing a Stranger Things themed party (that closely follows CDC guidelines) with some of our close friends! A Stranger Things theme means a lot of eighties decorations. In my opinion, the eighties is one of the most fun decades to recreate! For my first project in regards to the party, I was asked to makeover a cornhole set!

I was presented with a cornhole set that looked at least fifty years old (and old is definitely good), but these poor boards needed a makeover! So, of course, the first thing I did was gather inspiration.

As I have mentioned before, Pinterest is my favorite place to gather inspiration. After about an hour of searching, I decided on a fun eighties pattern and color scheme to work with!

Next, we had to start sanding. My friend Sydney helped with that! We got a lot of the old design off and smoothed the wood so that it would be easier to paint. After the sanding was complete, some more friends came to help paint the boards white! Honestly, this was my least favorite part. We had to do multiple coats to get a full coverage.

Then came my favorite part: the colors! It took me about two full nights to paint the boards completely, and a lot of people ended up helping. That definitely made it so much more enjoyable! We all sat around and painted different parts. We started with the colors: aqua, pink, and yellow! It seemed like we painted multicolored squiggles, circles, and triangles for hours, but it was so much fun!

To pull it all together, we added the black detailing! After painting approximately 250 one-inch lines and misting the boards with a clear sealant, we were done!

Sydney working through some of the black detailing. Look at all of those little lines!

I am so excited about how they turned out! I think that they will add the perfect pops of color and authenticity to the party! After they dried completely, my friends had to test them out by playing a quick game of cornhole! Thankfully, they approved!

My friend Tom testing out the cornhole boards. Notice that he is accompanied by his gallon jug of Hawaiian Punch.

So there you have it: I small little glimpse into my one of my favorite vintage inspired projects. I encourage you all to find a fun little project to do and expand your creativity!

Classically, Sofia.

Through the Phone Lines: What’s Your Favorite Decade Pt. 2

Hello again! Here is my second installment of Through the Phone Lines: posts centering around my conversations with others. This week, I asked some friends and family members a couple of questions:

“What is your favorite decade and why?”

“How do you see that decade influencing how you live?”

My idea behind this post is to show how times gone by influence our lives now, especially if we have a slight interest in them. With that, let’s head into part 2!

Brooke

My third conversation was with Brooke! Brooke and I are close friends and past roommates. She has an amazing sense of style, so I was excited to hear her answers!

Brooke’s favorite decade is the 1990’s because of the laid-back style and popular sitcoms that emerged. When asked how she believes this decade influences her lifestyle, Brooke immediately talked about fashion. She loves scrunchies. In fact, she has one of the most impressive scrunchie collections I’ve ever seen! She also mentioned the shoes, especially white ones. Knowing Brooke, she always has super clean, stylish tennis shoes or sneakers on. Lastly, she watches a lot of 90’s sitcoms like Friends. The 90’s definitely fit the cool vibe she gives off!

Sam

My last conversation was with someone very special: my dad! I got to visit home this week, so I’m thankful that I got to get his input on these questions. After all, he’s a big reason that I love vintage!

My dad has two favorite decades: the 1950’s and the 1970’s. He loves the 1950’s because, even though he wasn’t alive then, he feels that that decade would have been the ideal time to grow up in America. He also loves the midcentury modern architecture and pop culture of the 50s. He loves the 70’s because those were the years of his childhood. He mentioned a lot about loving the television shows (The Six Million Dollar Man especially), the music, and the toys. The 70’s is a very nostalgic time for him. As for how these times influence his life now, he loves listening to the music and watching the shows and movies from back then. He’s also an artist, and much of his work is influenced by these time periods. As seen in the photo, he collects a lot too! His office is filled with neat, kitschy pieces from the 20th century as well as original works!

That completes my first Through the Phone Lines installment. Again, I really enjoyed having these conversations with people special to me!

Classically, Sofia.

Through the Phone Lines: What’s Your Favorite Decade Pt. 1

Hello, everyone! Here is my first installment of Through the Phone Lines, which is a post centering around my conversations with others. This week, I asked some friends and family members a couple of questions:

“What is your favorite decade and why?”

“How do you see that decade influencing how you live?”

My idea behind this post is to show how times gone by influence our lives now, especially if we have a slight interest in them.

Ashton

The first person I talked with was Ashton, a friend and past roommate. We watch Stranger Things together quite often, so I had an idea of what she would answer.

Ashton’s favorite decade is the 1980’s for several different reasons. Her parents were teens in the 80’s, so a lot of the stories she heard from them growing up were set in the time of permed hair and bold outfits. She even showed me a video of her mom, who was her high school’s basketball team captain, being interviewed after winning the homecoming game. For these reasons, the 1980’s create a sense of nostalgia for Ashton. She also loves the style. After talking some more, she realized that her own style has slight 80’s influences. She wears a lot of high waisted denim shorts and graphic tees that give off a relaxed yet funky 80’s feel.

Sydney

The second person I asked was Sydney, a close friend and past roommate. We both love classic films and thrift shopping, so I wasn’t surprised by her response!

Sydney’s favorite decade, just like mine, is the 1940’s. No wonder we’re such close friends! The 40’s are her favorite because of how the United States unified to pull through World War II. She is also inspired by the concept of “Rosie the Riveter” and the responsibility women took on during the war that eventually brought them fully into the workforce. Sydney’s love for the 40’s reveals itself through films she enjoys. Her favorite film is the 1949 adaptation of Little Women starring June Allyson, Elizabeth Taylor, Janet Leigh, and Margaret O’Brien. She also loves period films, especially those set in the 1940’s. You can definitely find us on any given Friday night enjoying one with a bowl of popcorn!

That wraps it up for my first Through the Phone Lines post. I enjoyed having these conversations with friends! Stay tuned for part 2!

Classically, Sofia.