Mirror80 Turns 9!

This August, Mirror80 turned 9. Yes, 9! It’s fun to look back at the very first post I wrote for the blog…’80s tribal style was everywhere, and ’80s Deco was one of the most obvious styles to re-emerge at thrift shops. Fast forward 9 years, and there’s already been a Memphis-Milano revival that’s filtered down to mainstream retailers through products such as clothing, pens and daily planners. 1980s interior design imagery is everywhere, thanks to sites such as Tumblr, Pinterest and Instagram. Not to mention, the ’80s revival is alive and well in the media, with plenty of reboots, prequels, and original series that have brought the decade back in a BIG way (hello Stranger Things). So where do we go from here?!

When I think about how to move forward with the blog, I’m hesitant to go down a path that others are already traveling. For example, there’s a growing number of social media accounts that feature scans from ’80s design books. I love them, by the way. There’s nothing like going straight to the source and bringing these images into the public eye. I have a huge amount of respect for people who take on this important role.

I’ll always feature a LOT of authentic retro design inspiration (original scans included), but I think what makes Mirror80 unique is the way it explores how to bring the past into the present. Featuring artists and makers who are inspired by the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s in their new work will always be a passion of mine. I’m also increasingly drawn to interiors that re-imagine the past in a new way, or that incorporate elements of ’80s design into modern themes.

Digging a little bit deeper into past design trends will also continue to be a goal of mine on the blog. With so many retro images at our fingertips, it’s impossible not to want to string them together and notice common themes and trends. There are also styles and movements that are way less high-profile than ’80s Deco and Memphis-Milano. I’d love to shine the spotlight on some of these images and trends.

Last but not least, I can’t wait to take a bigger dip in the nostalgia pool. It’s been amazing hearing from many of you about why you’re drawn to the ’70s through the ’90s, what it’s meant to you, and what shared qualities unite many of us. One common thread I see is a creative streak. Many of our readers are artists and makers, or people who have a love of art, film, music and more. For those of us born during this time period, the imagery was so vivid, and it was our first exposure to the media and creativity in general. What a time to experience art and pop culture! Interestingly, some of the most insightful analysis of this time period has come from readers who were not alive at the time (or who were very young).

The development I’m most proud of in recent years is starting the ’80s Design group on Facebook. If you feel so inclined, please join us! There’s nothing like connecting with others who love design from this magical decade. Members post photos of their interiors, thrift store finds, and new fashion purchases. Resources are shared. Questions are answered. It’s an authentic community of genuine people. It’s also given me a lot of insight into your areas of interest, which has been extremely helpful as a blogger.

In case you missed it, I now have a Society6 shop featuring my original photography. I’ll be greatly expanding the shop over the coming year.

Now it’s your turn. What would you like to see more of right here at Mirror80? I will read and respond to each and every comment, so please leave one below. Thank you is an understatement. This blog would be a mere shell of itself without you. Cheers to the next 9 years!…