Memphis-Milano-style sweets and treats
Today we celebrate the radiant color-fest at the heart of Memphis-Milano design, a movement that began with the formation of the Italy-based Memphis Group in 1981. The goal: to challenge the conventions of “tasteful” design. The result: bold colors and playful geometry. Memphis-Milano pieces are highly collectible, and a whole new generation of fans has formed with the passage of time. Also of interest is the large number of food-oriented pictures that juxtapose Memphis-Milano images on ’80s-style Tumblrs. We’re talking ice cream with sprinkles, squiggles of mustard on juicy hamburgers and much more. Today we channel the wonders of Memphis-style junk food in our latest edition of Retro Foodie!
Twizzlers make a Memphis-Milano statement
If you read Friday’s “New Retro Weekender” post, you know I was on the hunt for the perfect Memphis-style centerpiece. I considered an array of flowers and vases, but I ultimately opted for something a little less conventional… Twizzlers! Yes, they come in a rainbow of flavors. I arranged them in a duo of bright, geometric vases.
Twizzlers in geometric vases
Let’s talk about THE MENU:
With all of the sweets on the table, we thought it was important to offer something savory. Or at least cheesy. A cheese, cracker and olive platter was the perfect excuse for creating an assortment of mustard squiggles. Sliced pimiento-stuffed olives added a burst of color. In case you’re wondering, the china below is a pattern called High Spirits by Mikasa–one of my most beloved Goodwill finds!
Memphis-Milano snacks
Chocolate-iced donuts from Krispy Kreme were the dessert centerpiece of choice. The best part: the sprinkles! On the bottom left of the montage below, we see aqua napkins and cocktail stirrers in crazy shapes and colors. I’ve included images of these pieces in a couple of different Mirror80 mood boards, and I can’t tell you what a thrill it was to actually buy them in person at Party City for mere dollars. I have a feeling I’ll be using them again…
Sprinkles and squiggles and checks…
Don’t be afraid to get playful with your presentation here! We stacked bowls and vases on top of other pedestals to add height and geometric variation. In case you’re wondering about those pink drinks, they happen to be strawberry lemonade. Feel free to make them carbonated for a little bit of fizz!
Are you a Memphis-Milano foodie?
Don’t forget to leave room for more dessert! Strawberry ice cream in a rainbow assortment of cones added another sweet and tasty element to the mix. And of course, there were sprinkles. And chocolate Dutch mints to top off each scoop!
Leave room for dessert…
We hope you enjoyed our latest Retro Foodie adventure. Wishing you a sweet and colorful Wednesday…
I want to throw a 80’s party right now! Great inspiration. I love the Mikasa plate and bowl, awesome goodwill find! Looking forward to see more Retro Foodies! 🙂
Thanks so much!!! I have no doubt that I would love to attend any ’80s party you throw! : – )