Ready for a little bit of decadence? If you’re a fan of New Romantic groups like Spandau Ballet and Human League, you know that INXS is not typically associated with the movement. Yet their early-’80s video for “The One Thing” channels a New Romantic vibe, complete with a banquet table covered in produce, flowers and candelabras. Using the video as inspiration, I’ve created a tablescape that’s fit for a fall feast!
The screen shots above illustrate the video’s decadent vibe, from the candlelight and heaps of food to the big hair and big jewelry. And in true early-’80s form, there’s a whitewashed background. Just promise me if you try this at home, you won’t put cats on your table. For their safety and yours. OK?!
Bring on the figs, loaves of bread and grapes! The photo above definitely epitomizes the vibe of my photo shoot, and for additional inspiration, watch the video below:
To get this look, you’ll need a candelabra. I found mine at Goodwill. For 99 cents! Yes, 99 cents:
A vase of flowers is also a must. The ’80s vase below is another Goodwill find. The flowers are a lovely shade of wine, and the whole bouquet of mums cost me a few dollars at the local market. I love how the look of this tablescape is super opulent…yet ultimately super affordable!
Finish off the table by letting the food double as decor. Not sure what to include? Just watch the INXS video. I used figs, grapes and a loaf of bread. Add some greenery to break up all of the warm tones, and you’re set. You can also sprinkle some pumpkins into the mix.
What do you wear to a New Romantic feast? The biggest and best in ’80s jewelry, of course! Etsy is a great resource for 1980s jewelry finds, and I also love shopping at estate sales for jewelry. Even if the decor is not ’80s, chances are there are a few pieces of jewelry from the era. And they’re sometimes overlooked by the estate sale company doing the pricing, so you just might score a great deal. For more estate sale shopping tips, check out this post.
And don’t forget the value of new finds with an ’80s look! I bought these earrings last year at Sears. I believe they were $12 or less:
This tablescape is perfect for a fall feast such as Thanksgiving dinner, but it also works for an elegant Halloween centerpiece, especially if you add in a few spooky elements. Thanks for reading! XOXO, Kate
Good job! :). I like gold earrings in the last shot.
Thank you, Shelley! I hope you’re having a wonderful fall!