Jingle in July: Vintage Christmas Celebration

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Greetings, fellow vintage lovers and Christmas aficionados! The sun may be shining, and the beach might be calling, but here on our cozy corner of the internet, we’re channeling a winter wonderland with a kitschy twist. Yes, it’s that magical time when we blend the nostalgic charm of yesteryear with the sun-soaked joy of summer—welcome to Christmas in July!

Vintage Vibes: A Trip Down Memory Lane

Imagine stepping into a time capsule where tinsel shimmers, Santa sports a Hawaiian shirt, and the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sweetness of candy canes. That’s right, we’re taking a trip back to the 1950s and 60s, when Christmas was all about big, bold decorations, and the spirit of the season was captured in the most delightfully kitschy ways.

Mid-Century Modern Merriment

Vintage Aluminum Christmas Tree
Vintage Aluminum Christmas Tree

Nothing says mid-century modern like a sleek aluminum Christmas tree adorned with vibrant, colorful ornaments. Picture your living room bathed in the warm glow of vintage fairy lights, casting a festive hue over your cherished collection of retro baubles. Add a few classic mid-century furniture pieces, and your space is ready for the ultimate Christmas in July celebration.

Pinup Perfection: Fashion to Flaunt

Vintage Christmas Fashion
Vintage Christmas Fashion

Let’s not forget the fashion! Channel your inner pinup girl with playful, flirty novelty print swing skirt, and cherry red lipstick. Imagine greeting your guests in a darling vintage-inspired apron, serving up frosty eggnog and festive treats with a smile that rivals the twinkle of your Christmas lights.

For the gents, think dapper with a twist: Hawaiian shirts in holiday prints, bow ties, and perhaps a jaunty Santa hat. After all, Christmas in July is all about embracing the unexpected and having a little fun with tradition.

Collectibles and Curios: Deck Your Halls

This is the perfect time to showcase your collection of vintage Christmas decorations. From ceramic Santa figurines to glittering tree toppers, each piece tells a story of holidays past. Create a whimsical display on your mantel or a festive centerpiece for your July soiree. And don’t forget the stockings—hang them with care, and maybe even fill them with summer-themed goodies for a unique twist.

Spread the Cheer: Kindness and Compassion Year-Round

Christmas in July is more than just festive decorations and joyful gatherings—it’s a reminder to spread the spirit of kindness and compassion every day. Just as we go the extra mile to make others feel loved and cherished during the holiday season, let’s carry that warmth into our everyday lives. Small acts of kindness, like a thoughtful note, a warm smile, or helping a neighbor, can brighten someone’s day. Volunteer your time at local charities, donate to those in need, or simply lend an ear to a friend. By embracing the essence of Christmas—generosity, empathy, and love—we can make every day a little brighter for everyone around us. Remember, it’s the little things that create the biggest impact, and there’s no better time to start than now.

Closing Thoughts

Christmas in July is the perfect excuse to blend your love for all things vintage, kitsch, and mid-century modern with the sunny spirit of summer. So, deck the halls, don your pinup finest, and raise a glass to the most whimsical, wonderful time of the year—no matter the season!

Remember, it’s not about the date on the calendar but the joy in your heart and the sparkle in your eye. Here’s to celebrating Christmas in July with all the charm and cheer of a true vintage holiday. Cheers, darlings!

Craving even MORE vintage Christmas magic?

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Dive into a treasure trove of Vintage Christmas Ceramics history, discover forgotten manufacturers, and feast your eyes on stunning photos of vintage decorations, all in one fabulous book! Unwrap the magic of Christmas past and add this gem to your collection.

Uncover even more festive history, rare collectibles, and the stories behind those treasured decorations. My Vintage Christmas Collecting Series is your one-stop shop for everything vintage Christmas. Don’t miss out!

Get your twinkle on with the Starry Eyed Santa top, and other vintage kitschy designs available in a wide range of styles to suit everyone:

  • Sizes: Small through 4XL, ensuring a perfect fit for all body types.
  • Colors: Choose from winter white, sleek black, and more.
  • Women’s, Men’s, Unisex Styles:

Find your perfect looks and spread the cheer in style at Crazy4Me Style Shop!

4th of July Celebration: Mid-Century Outfits & Collectibles

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Curvy Nautical Patriotic Style - Yasmina Greco
Curvy Nautical Patriotic Style – Yasmina Greco

As we approach the 4th of July, let’s take a nostalgic trip down memory lane and explore how you can infuse the vintage 50’s era into your wardrobe and home. Celebrate Independence Day with mid-century outfits and collectibles featuring patriotic, nautical-themed Pinup and Rockabilly styles, and charming mid-century kitsch.

Nautical Outfits: Classic American Fashion with a 50’s Twist

Patriotic and nautical fashion has been an iconic part of American style for decades. These themes blend beautifully during 4th of July celebrations, offering a chance to showcase your creativity and love for vintage fashion.

The Vintage Nautical Look

Creating a vintage 50’s nautical outfit starts with the basics: think sailor pants, wide collars, and classic navy-and-white or red-and-white stripes. The 1950s was also an era of full skirts and A-line dresses, so consider adding a full, pleated, midi-length skirt in navy blue or red to your ensemble. Top it off with a striped boat neck top for that truly nostalgic look.

Seaside Sweetie Nautical Sailor Girl Red T-Shirt
Seaside Sweetie Nautical Sailor Girl Red T-Shirt by Crazy4MeStyle

My t-shirt in the photo above is one of my favorites, designed for my brand, Seaside Sweetie Nautical Pinup Tee. You can explore more about 50s kitschy fun fashions here: 1950s Kitsch at its Best: The Ultimate Poodle Purses, Skirts, and Dresses.

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Aloha to Tiki Collectibles: A Fun and Whimsical Dive!

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Yasmina Greco Tiki Bar Pinup Girl
Yasmina Greco Tiki Bar Pinup Girl

Welcome, tiki enthusiasts and curious collectors! I’d like to take you on a colorful plunge into the enchanting world of vintage tiki collectibles. Whether you’re a seasoned tiki aficionado or just discovering the magic of these Polynesian-inspired treasures, this blog post is sure to make you want to don a Hawaiian shirt, mix a Mai Tai, and set sail on an island adventure from the comfort of your home.

What Do Tiki Mugs Represent?

It seems like every tiki collector I have encountered collects tiki mugs and I can see why!! Tiki mugs are more than just fancy drinkware. These ceramic beauties represent a slice of mid-century Bali Hai escapism and a nod to Polynesian mythology popular in the 1950s-1960s.

The original tiki mugs were designed to bring a piece of the exotic islands into everyday life, making every sip an adventure. Each mug is a mini work of art, often depicting gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures from Polynesian lore. Talk about drinking in history!

Fun Facts About Tiki

Tiki Mug Collection
Tiki Mug Collection

The Tiki Bar Boom: The tiki craze began in the 1930s when Donn Beach opened the first tiki bar, Don the Beachcomber, in Hollywood. It was an instant hit, offering an exotic escape with rum-based cocktails, tropical decor, and Polynesian cuisine. Oh, how I would have loved to visit and experience this location in its heyday!!

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Retro Summer BBQ Bash: Mid-Century Essentials

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Summer’s here, and it’s time to fire for a retro barbecue and up the grill, slip into our favorite vintage summer outfits, and let the good times roll! If you’re like me, you can’t wait to dust off your mid-century treasures and infuse your backyard gatherings with a healthy dose of nostalgia. Let’s dive into some kitschy must-haves that will make your summer BBQ the talk of the neighborhood.

Hot Diggity Dog!

Vintage Lefton Hotdog Head and Hamburger Head Pixieare Condiment Jars
Vintage Lefton Hotdog Head and Hamburger Head Pixieare Condiment Jars

No backyard BBQ is complete without hot dogs and hamburgers, and what better way to serve up your favorite condiments than in those darling Lefton Pixieware mustard jars? These adorable anthropomorphic ceramics, shaped like hot dogs and hamburgers with whimsical expressions, will bring a smile to everyone’s face and add a touch of kitschy charm to your table setting.

Holt Howard Mustard Jar MCM Starburst Franciscan Plate
Holt Howard Mustard Jar MCM Starburst Franciscan Plate

Shake It Up, Baby!

Salt and pepper shakers are a must-have for any BBQ, but why settle for ordinary when you can have extraordinary? Anthropomorphic salt and pepper shakers are where it’s at! Think cute corn cob couples, smiling strawberries, and even cute corn cob plates with matching skewers! These quirky characters will bring a smile to your guests’ faces and add a touch of kitsch to your table.

Retro Fashion and Summer Memories:

And let’s not forget about backyard BBQ fashion! A fun 1950s novelty border print dress adorned with cheerful oranges perfectly complements the summery vibe, while a stylish harlequin print circle skirt makes a statement as you arrive in your classic 1956 Nash Metropolitan. More summer fashion here.

Let’s Get This Party Started!

With your retro treasures in place, you’re ready to host a summer BBQ that will transport your guests back in time. So put on some swingin’ tunes, break out the hula hoops, and let the good times roll! Remember, it’s not just about the food – it’s about creating an experience that’s fun, festive, and full of vintage charm.

Bonus Tip: Of course, no retro gathering is complete without a vintage Polaroid camera to capture those picture-perfect moments of laughter, delicious food, and unforgettable memories. Don’t forget to snap some photos of your kitschy BBQ spread! Share them on social media with the hash tag #retrobbq and let’s spread the mid-century love!

Let’s Get Kitsch-y Together!

Do you have any favorite mid-century collectibles that you love to showcase at your summer BBQs? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below! Let’s inspire each other to create unforgettable retro gatherings.

Happy Summer, Kitsch-Lovers!

Mid-Century Magic: Portland’s Antique Mall Adventure

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Oh, the joy of antiquing! There’s nothing quite like the thrill of the hunt for that perfect piece of the past to bring into the present. My recent antiquing spree in the charming city of Portland, Oregon was nothing short of magical. The city, with its quirky and retro vibe, is a treasure trove for lovers of mid-century modern, atomic, and retro vintage treasures.

My first stop was the famed Stars Antique Mall, a place where the past comes alive. The aisles were brimming with delightful finds from vintage furniture to quaint knick-knacks. I left with some amazing vintage pieces!! Each booth told a story of a bygone era waiting to be rediscovered. I enjoy shopping at Stars for a couple of reasons:

Stars Antique Mall
Stars Antique Mall

The Stars Antique Mall in Portland is a captivating blend of variety, space, and convenience, making it a must-visit hub for antique enthusiasts. Housing a lively community of 200 dealers, the mall offers a rich tapestry of merchandise ranging from Mid-Century Modern pieces of the 1950s-1960s, retro delights from the 1970s-1980s, vinyl records, whimsical kitchen kitsch, ephemeral items, charming figurines, novelties, and seasonal collectibles, among others.

This diverse array of merchandise not only creates a vibrant and dynamic shopping environment but also invites visitors into a nostalgic journey through time. Adding to its allure is the mall’s spacious and expansive layout, spread across two storefronts on the same block. The generous space provides a comfortable ambiance for shoppers to meander through the huge showrooms, making the exploration of antique and vintage treasures an exciting adventure.

Located in the quaint Westmoreland neighborhood of southeast Portland, the mall is easily accessible to both locals and visitors. To top off the delightful shopping experience, the vicinity boasts a range of refreshment options. Just a short stroll away, one can find a welcoming array of food and beverage outlets, from the comforting brews of Starbucks to the savory delights of Pizzicato, catering to every palate and making the antiquing adventure not just a feast for the eyes, but also a satisfying treat for the taste buds.

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Lefton Bluebirds Best Tips and Price Guide for Collectors

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Yasmina Greco Lefton Bluebirds Topline Import Bluebirds
Yasmina Greco Lefton Bluebirds Topline Import Bluebirds

Lefton bluebirds, there’s something undeniably captivating about their allure. With their delicate features and cheerful expressions, these charming little creatures have soared into the hearts of collectors worldwide. In this blog, we’ll explore bluebirds by manufacturers Norcrest, Napco Lefton, and Topline Imports, the origins of these delightful figurines, discover how they became a beloved symbol of happiness and hope, and share the best tips and price guide for collectors.

NOTE: You can read about my collections here at Antique Trader Magazine

Norcrest bluebirds and Topline Imports bluebirds are often confused with Lefton bluebirds because they were also produced during the same era and have similar designs. Norcrest bluebirds were produced by the Norcrest China Company, which was founded in Japan in 1953. Norcrest bluebirds are typically marked with a “Norcrest” stamp and are known for their bright colors and playful designs.

Topline Imports bluebirds were produced by the Topline Imports Company, which was founded in Japan in the 1950s. Topline Imports bluebirds are known for their simple, elegant design and often feature a matte finish.

One reason why collectors confuse these three types of bluebirds is that they were all produced during the same era and share similar design features. Additionally, many of these bluebirds were not marked with identifying information, making it difficult to determine their origin.

However, there are some key differences between these three types of bluebirds that can help collectors identify them. For example, Lefton bluebirds are typically marked with a “Lefton” stamp, while Norcrest bluebirds are marked with a “Norcrest” stamp. Topline Imports bluebirds are often marked with a paper label or foil sticker that reads “Topline Imports.”

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