A still from a 1986 Sofa Mart commercial
It’s hard to believe that diamond étagères and smoke glass swing tables were once sold for $39.99 apiece. If only I had a time machine with room for storage… Enjoy today’s video pick–a Sofa Mart commercial from 1986! Don’t be fooled by its humble intro. Things get real good real fast.
I didn’t know anyone in the ’80s who actually had a house full of chrome, brass and glass furnishings. I guess my theory that it was too cutting edge is put to rest by this regional commercial for a Fort Worth, Texas chain store. Really?! It was this easy to have a living room from the set of Less Than Zero? Even the sectional sofa above would be chic sans pattern.
As you watch the video below, take comfort in the fact that although these pieces are likely triple their original price at upscale vintage shops, a lucky trip to Goodwill could still prove fruitful. Happy Friday!
I would kill for that diamond étagères.
And for $39.99! Crazy, right?!
I live in Denton, which is a little north of Dallas and east of Fort Worth.
DFW was a pretty happenin’ place in the 80’s. Not like Miami or LA, but maybe a B or C grade 80’s locale. As such, this kind of thing was popular with the younger set. I have very young parents and they and their friends had stuff like that. Mirrors and glass and black lacquer.
If you’re into buildings at all (I think I’ve seen a few posts here on exteriors?), much of Dallas’ skyline was built in the 80’s and has very telling architecture. Lots of modern and post-modern skyscrapers with art deco influence.
We still have a similar diamond etagere as shown in the commercial. It was a fantastic buy for 15 dollars on Craigslist. My husband bought it for me for my birthday about 6 years ago. It was made in the 80s. Our sofas are the pub back style, and are very comfortable. They still look great. I wish furniture was still selling at those prices today!