Calling all Rustics!

[Forgotten Man]

Well, I finally did it. I want to find who’s out there that are died in the wool period purists! I’m all about the details, doing the hair right, getting authentic clothing and looking as if I stepped right out of the past. Also, trying to make my home as close as possible to the eras I adore. Hiding as much modern amenities as I can… and using as much vintage appliances and items as possible.

Who’s out there in Fedora Lounge land that is striving for this? Who realize it takes more then putting on an old suit, hat or dress! Those who know that doing the hair, grooming or makeup is vitally important to achieve an authentic or classic look! To make old clothes not look “Costume” and to make them look legitimate! Those who love to read old magazines, finds the modern world a cesspool of ugly and boring and horrible attitudes? Who here aches for days gone by? Who feel it a drag to use modern junk, that feel they were born too late? I wanna hear from them! Most importantly; those who do it not to show off but, those who do it from just a pure interest and passion for the past.

So, for those who aren’t die hards, please enjoy the read and maybe you could learn something… but please do not post contradictive things… I want to keep this thread on track and find those who are obsessed with a specific time period and who live it i.e. 1920s to 1950s. Feel free to share photos of your impression and such... I want to see those who take this stuff serious!

So, calling all purists, Olly, Olly Oxen Free!

Thank you!

 

[dhermann1]

Not me. Not by a long shot. I would if I could. But I know a lady on the Rockbound Coast of Maine who qualifies!

 

[retrogirl1941]

Im with you forgotten man. I'm trying to go back to the 1940s/1930s completly(with a few exceptions of course) . I do this for my own personal enjoyment but it also enhances my WWII reenacting impressions. Most things I buy to enhance my life never go near a display or an event. People keep telling me I should do displays with what I have but, its just for me. Hurah for the purists!

Samantha

 

[Miss 1929]

Everyone gets a pass for the computer of course...

 

[LizzieMaine]

Not me. Not by a long shot. I would if I could. But I know a lady on the Rockbound Coast of Maine who qualifies!

Well, assuming you mean me, I don't consciously attempt to replicate a specific period of time so much as I remain true to, for want of a better term, my native culture: that much of that culture was heavily influenced by a thirties-forties mindset and aesthetic is purely coincidental.

 

[Brinybay]

I want to find who’s out there that are died in the wool period purists! I’m all about the details, doing the hair right, getting authentic clothing and looking as if I stepped right out of the past. Also, trying to make my home as close as possible to the eras I adore. Hiding as much modern amenities as I can… and using as much vintage appliances and items as possible.

Not exactly a "purist", but I love antiques and period decor, mostly 20s, 30s, but I'm not too picky. Limitation of funds keeps me from buying more antiques, so I try to get "the look" as best I can within my budget.

What I would like to see or have you describe is tips and tricks folks use to "adapt" to make your home decor or attire "period correct" or at least reasonable facsimiles? For example, this lamp I found at a Goodwill is not genuine antique, but it was close enough to the style and "look" to satisfy me, and as far as I know, not made in China:

 

[retrogirl1941]

To Briny Bay: I use a mixture of antiques, reproduction's and peices that are modern but have the same look and feel as the originals. Im still working on getting all peices for my house(it will take a bit of time for that to happen).

Samantha

 

[kpreed]

Not exactly a "purist", but I love antiques and period decor, mostly 20s, 30s, but I'm not too picky. Limitation of funds keeps me from buying more antiques, so I try to get "the look" as best I can within my budget.

What I would like to see or have you describe is tips and tricks folks use to "adapt" to make your home decor or attire "period correct" or at least reasonable facsimiles? For example, this lamp I found at a Goodwill is not genuine antique, but it was close enough to the style and "look" to satisfy me, and as far as I know, not made in China:

I totally agree with this idea and think the the lamp looks great!
The home here has many old things, not made anymore, but much of my stuff (1/4), just looks old, and as long as it is built to last, I'm just fine with it. Many new items are junk that look old just are not made very sturdy I find, then I tend to get the old, usually at much, much less and if it does the job after 50 or 60+ years, so be it.
Much I find at garage sales or Goodwill/ 2nd hand type shops.

 

[Paisley]

I do the best I can without being a slave to it. Most vintage clothes don't fit me, so I wear new vintage-inspired or classic clothes. A pincurl set won't dry in eight hours on my head in the winter, so I use a curling iron instead. I won't go out in wash-and-wear hair.

 

[Guttersnipe]

The devil is in the details...

I have to say you touched on one of my pet peeves. I agree that it totally kills the mood of a look when it's spoiled by modern hair/grooming. Although, I do enjoy the style of multiple decades, my preference in for the 1940's. Also, I don't mix and match eras, if I'm wearing a 40's suit, I wear a 40's tie and comb my hair accordingly.

And, as for minimizing and/or placing discreetly modern items in the home - you must read my mind, because that's been my new year resolution for the last six months.

 

[Forgotten Man]

A period home comes with time. I’ve been collecting items of the past since I was 9 years of age. Started with old kerosene lanterns, a black potbellied stove at age 11 and then an interest in WWII then, a vintage radio addiction by age 15 and then the clothes by age 18… I’m now 30 years of age and I’ve acquired a healthy collection of clothing, radios, appliances and such. I’ve been on a limited budget most of my life, I just spend what I can and I always shop at the “junk type” of antique shops. I feel I’m kinda handy with stuff so, I try and restore whatever I can get on the cheap, or I’ll buy something with a few passable flaws since it looks right and I know I can have it fixed down the road… but will still work. I'm a bargain hunter deluxe! I never like paying more then I think an item is really worth. If I find something I have to have, and it’s out of my price range, I’ll put it on lay-away or maybe offer a trade for an item of equal value. I always try and find a way. I admit, I’ve been very fortunate, my ’40 GE fridge was a gift to me, it worked already but, I had to restore the exterior… hard work it was but the pay off is 10 fold!

I like the lamp that was posted; it looks very early 30s or late 20s… all due to the shade! Some things made today I agree will pass, or can look rather traditional that will work or fit into a period home setting. If one is handy, they can invest a little in some cloth covered lamp cord and replace the cord on most modern things if he/she is handy. Also, one can find plugs of the 20s to 40s that will also help sell it. I love it when I’m cleaning or trying to find something on the floor, I see cloth covered cords and bakelite plugs in the wall… like I said, I’m about the small details.

One thing to remember when trying to outfit one’s home with period décor is to keep it simple, to figure what time period is your favorite, look at old photos as much as possible of interiors of people’s homes… not easy but they’re out there. Find a few choice items to start with… this is a major key factor! I have made a simple list of items one should start with if he/she would want a more period styled environment.

1. Radio

2. Antique telephone

3. Antique Electric fan

4. Refrigerator

5. Stove

6. Doilies!

Some items can be pricey, but they’re worth it when you go into the kitchen and see a vintage fridge or stove or both… it really puts you there! And the great thing is, most real antique refrigeration units are energy efficient! No joke, I pay next to nothing to run my GE! Also the Monitor Top GE models were known to be very economical!

I’m here as a vintage crusader, but one who will teach those who want to learn how to acieve a true classic life. And if one feels they become a slave to it, they should re-think why they do it in the first place, this hobby is about enjoying, not about enslaving anyone. I decorate the way I do, I dress the way I do because I just love it pure and simple… I get a kick out of using a rotary dialed telephone, out of starting a cold Plymouth on a winter’s day and experiencing what my grandparents did… experiencing day to day things that people haven’t experienced in a long time… one can then relate to a lot of movies and stories we hear about those eras… it’s very gratifying!

 

[Forgotten Man]

I have to say you touched on one of my pet peeves. I agree that it totally kills the mood of a look when it's spoiled by modern hair/grooming. Although, I do enjoy the style of multiple decades, my preference in for the 1940's. Also, I don't mix and match eras, if I'm wearing a 40's suit, I wear a 40's tie and comb my hair accordingly.

And, as for minimizing and/or placing discreetly modern items in the home - you must read my mind, because that's been my new year resolution for the last six months.

:eusa_clap Welcome to the discussion like minded friend!

I admit, it's a pet peeve of mine when I see someone wearing a classic styled outfit but, miss the mark due to bad hair or whatever. I'm extremely lucky that my girlfriend knows the tricks to period styled hair and can do it very well and quickly! It takes practice but, it's worth it.

An excellent new years resolution friend! To hide as much modern items out of view isn't easy but it's worth it when you're done. I find the hardest one to hide is a desk top PC! I admit, mine sits out in plane view but, that's because I use it so much for my art and conversing with vintage enthusiasts on myspace or here.

 

[reetpleat]

I am a purist in some ways. Even when I was a wardrobe purist and nothing but in San Francisco, I was not in a position to do so with my home and not sure if I wanted to. These days in Seattle, i don't dress vintage much anymore.

But the purist comes in as far as vintage goes. I will not mix and match, I will not war things that look vintage, and, while I am not going to put anyone down, I have no interest in "Classic style or inspired look" It is either pure authentic vintage or nothing. And don't even get me started on what passes for lindy hop these days. When I dance, and the only dance I care to do or see is that which at least strives to be as authentic as possible.

There wa a time, and I suppose it still would be interesting to live an authentic lifestyle, but the time and effort is just too much for me.

I know most of us posting this thread are not who you were looking for, but as long as no one is criticizing or being contrary, we can at least keep you from hearing crickets chirping. And say good for you for living true to your vision of how your life should be.

 

[Amy Jeanne]

It would be impossible for me to be a purist, but here are a couple of things I get a kick out of:

I'm sewing my own clothes now from 30s and 40s patterns. I get a kick out of having to "work" to get them on!! No cheap elastic there!

I was also very disheartened when they recently replaced the original 1926 windows in our apartment building. I actually enjoyed having to "work" (again) to open them lol I'm for real.

Really, I do enjoy the "vintage effort" of certain things. It makes me feel all warm and cozy inside.

 

[KittyT]

I do the best I can without being a slave to it.

I think Paisley makes a great point.

Personally, I see no need to not fuse a vintage aesthetic with modern sensibilities. I am, after all, a modern girl. I work in technology, I own a cell phone, I love my computer and iPod, and if it weren't for modern technology, I would've been dead 15 years ago.

I see a certain value in being period correct, but I think it's also very important to not always feel compelled to go "by the book" and to be able to fuse vintage into your own unique style. There's a big difference between someone who looks costumey dressed in a 40s frock or who goes out on the town but can't be bothered with details, and someone who is able to mix up their vintage in a fun and funky way.

:
I admit, it's a pet peeve of mine when I see someone wearing a classic styled outfit but, miss the mark due to bad hair or whatever.

I agree, but keep in mind that we here know a hell of a lot more than most folks who are into vintage. Learn to cut people some slack. If someone dresses up nice and still has sloppy hair, they at least deserve some credit for not throwing on their sweat pants and Crocs. Remember that we all started somewhere too

 

[Forgotten Man]

Well, nothing is imposable when the desire is there. If there isn't a burning desire to transform ones life into living history, then its best not to try because then one would feel as a slave to some ideal... it's not a religion, it's not a must, I just want to see who's out there that may feel they're transplants from another era, or those who ache for another style of life.

My self, I'm not a "classic" or "retro" type of person; I am old fashioned to the core. I just find a lot of things today pretty dull and I am grateful for some modern things such as the computer, I'd never had met so many people like my self had I stayed away from the PC. Eventually, I'd love to have a home with a basement with a little room off to the side that has a wood and glass door from an old office building that says: TOP SECRET on the door! There's where my PC will live. lol

When I come home, it's a sanctuary from the outside world... I'm in my place as I like it... well, as best as I can have it right now... and the rest of the world with all of its problems can just go on without me... Ahhhhhhh!

 

[Forgotten Man]

I think Paisley makes a great point.

Personally, I see no need to not fuse a vintage aesthetic with modern sensibilities. I am, after all, a modern girl. I work in technology, I own a cell phone, I love my computer and iPod, and if it weren't for modern technology, I would've been dead 15 years ago.

I see a certain value in being period correct, but I think it's also very important to not always feel compelled to go "by the book" and to be able to fuse vintage into your own unique style. There's a big difference between someone who looks costumey dressed in a 40s frock or who goes out on the town but can't be bothered with details, and someone who is able to mix up their vintage in a fun and funky way.



I agree, but keep in mind that we here know a hell of a lot more than most folks who are into vintage. Learn to cut people some slack. If someone dresses up nice and still has sloppy hair, they at least deserve some credit for not throwing on their sweat pants and Crocs. Remember that we all started somewhere too

Well, I'm sorry but I respectfully disagree. When I started to dress old fashioned, I started by combing my hair 40s... now it's true, I am a guy and it's easier for me to do a period hair fashion however, had I been a girl I would have experimented with doing my hair as I've seen it in old movies... I wouldn't let my self go out not looking as if I at least tried to do my hair. When I watch an old movie, I want that look more then anything and I wouldn't rest till I figured it out. Dressing in the clothes is fine, but please do not say you're representing a period when the hair and what not isn't appropriate. There’s a place for those who pick and choose what they like about the past… this thread is not for their participation.

There are enough people who mix vintage in a “fun and funky way” I’m not about funky, that’s 60s and 70s… they have their own style and that’s fine but, I’m not that way, I believe in being true to a period I am passionate about… not looking like I got chewed up and spit out by a time machine.

I wish you'd not post such things in this thread, as I have reiterated that I'm wanting to hear from those who embrace the past with both hands... because they love it... I don't fault you for who you are and who you want to be, that's fine, I'm ok with that... but I have heard all this before, I've been on this site longer then some and I just want to hear from those who find it annoying to be some place and see everyone on ipods and black berries and cell phones... driving, shopping, eating dinner... it never ends!

So, please friends, lets keep on track... I've heard the redundant "I'm a modern bla bla blah" before... please do not take it the wrong way, I'm not snubbing anyone I just want a discussion from those who may feel what I feel... that is all.

 

[KittyT]

Well, nothing is imposable when the desire is there.

I think you give people waaaay too much credit. Many people aren't smart enough to figure it out.

 

[skyvue]

It's worth keeping in mind that most wardrobes are accumulated -- and certainly most homes are furnished and accessorized -- over a long period of time, so while wearing only Forties ties with Forties suits is fine, if that's the way one wants to go, a man who bought a new suit in 1943 may well have already owned a favorite tie he purchased in 1938 that went just dandy with it. Would he have tossed out that five-year-old tie just because it was from the Thirties?

Not likely.

Similarly, most homes then, just like today, were filled with objects and furnishings that were acquired over a five-, ten-, fifteen- or twenty-year period (or even longer) -- a sofa from 1933, a toaster from 1938, a radio from 1942, curtains first hung in 1944.

One can settle on a specific period and stick strictly to it, if one wishes, but don't judge too harshly someone who wears a late Thirties ties, a mid-Forties suit and shoes from 1950 -- you can rest assured that plenty of people back in the day dressed just that way.

As for how purely vintage a home or wardrobe is pure enough, that's a slippery slope. No matter how committed one is, you can rest assured that somewhere there's someone who takes it even more seriously than you do, who would consider you a poseur for even owning a computer (a sentiment you'd likely and understandably resent, as some will likely object to your exclusionary attitude in this thread).

Perhaps you should compose a list of required possessions and articles of clothing without which a poster should not even post in this thread. Otherwise, it's a gradient scale, and you're likely to grow awfully frustrated as poster after poster fails to live up to your very high standards.

 

[KittyT]

Dressing in the clothes is fine, but please do not say you're representing a period when the hair and what not isn't appropriate. There’s a place for those who pick and choose what they like about the past… this thread is not for their participation.

EXCUSE ME but you have some nerve. My understanding is that every thread on this forum, with the exception of a few select ladies threads, is open for EVERYONE's participation. Bartenders, feel free to correct me if I'm wrong.

Forgotten Man, you're acting like everyone who dresses vintage claims that they're representing a period. It's great that people like you truly are, and that's one of the things that makes FL what it is, but don't forget that there are a lot of vintage nuts out there who *don't* claim to be representing a period, but who choose to focus on a classic style or even a retro aesthetic and who choose to incorporate that into their lives in whatever way they find possible and personally satisfying.

There are enough people who mix vintage in a “fun and funky way” I’m not about funky, that’s 60s and 70s… they have their own style and that’s fine but, I’m not that way, I believe in being true to a period I am passionate about… not looking like I got chewed up and spit out by a time machine.

You should know full well that that's not what I'm referring to. Maybe a gal is wearing a pair of modern ballet flats, a 50s shirt dress, a modern cardigan and a 40s Coro parure. This is what I refer to as "mixing it up". "not about funky, that’s 60s and 70s" - you're completely misinterpreting what I'm referring to.

I wish you'd not post such things in this thread, as I have reiterated that I'm wanting to hear from those who embrace the past with both hands... because they love it... I don't fault you for who you are and who you want to be, that's fine, I'm ok with that... but I have heard all this before, I've been on this site longer then some

Well I'm sorry, but I have every right to post here as a sort of devil's advocate, whether you want to hear it or not. I'm sure your sick of this sort of thing .... as much as I'm sick of the vintage purist bullsh*t that pops up in many other threads here - though most of us don't complain about that in those threads when we disagree with it. I feel like I've already read threads like this a million times here, so I'm not convinced we're talking about anything super special here.

I just want to hear from those who find it annoying to be some place and see everyone on ipods and black berries and cell phones... driving, shopping, eating dinner... it never ends!

Says the fellow who is so wholeheartedly into vintage lifestyle everything.... as he posts from his computer lol