I recently started a new gig writing for the online design magazine Decoist. The site features interesting architecture and interior design finds, how-to advice for maintaining a stylish home, exciting new products, and collections of design strategies and ideas. I wanted to share one of my recent Decoist articles with Mirror80 readers–a piece on the wonders of acrylic furniture. Many acrylic finds have an ’80s Modern look, and the beauty of these clear furnishings is their versatility.
An ’80s Floral Statement
Here at Mirror80 we’ve featured an array of floral arrangements in 1980s hues. From a heart-shaped vase filled with stargazer lilies to a blue ’80s Deco container holding purple iris, these creations have often screamed ’80s! Today’s selection is simple and modern, yet it combines two of our favorite ’80s trademarks: calla lillies and metallic vases.
Poster Art by Jason Munn
Another South by Southwest Festival has come and gone, and as I reflect on the past week, one of my favorite moments was discovering the poster art of Jason Munn. Each year a poster show called Flatstock features outstanding work from artists around the world. Concert posters are the genre of choice, and given that the event is held during the music portion of South by Southwest, the artwork couldn’t be more appropriate! This year I purchased an amazing selection from Jason Munn…
Friday Video Pick: “Big Time” by Peter Gabriel
Today’s Friday Video Pick comes from Peter Gabriel, who is known for his artistic, visually stunning music videos. “Big Time” was a hit from his 1986 album So. Wayne White served as the video’s art director, and he won a Billboard award for his work. We’ve featured White this week at Mirror80, noting his many amazing talents. Watch this video and you’ll see it in action…
Pic Fix: Pee-wee’s Playhouse
Today we celebrate the stylish world of Pee-wee’s Playhouse. Paul Reubens produced, directed and starred in this popular CBS children’s television show, which combined live action, puppetry and video animation. The program was based on Reuben’s popular stage show that featured his beloved character Pee-Wee Herman. The set of Pee-wee’s Playhouse channeled Mid-Century Modern design, particularly the geometric, Space Age style known as Googie.
Beauty Is Embarrassing
This weekend at the South by Southwest Film Festival I was lucky to see Neil Berkeley’s documentary Beauty Is Embarrassing. This film tells the engaging story of artist Wayne White, who designed sets and puppets for the hit ’80s children’s show Pee Wee’s Playhouse. But White’s work on this beloved series is just the beginning of his amazing career…
Friday Video Pick: “Don’t Change” by INXS
Today’s Friday Video Picks come from Australian rock band INXS. Plucked from the album Shabooh Shoobah, “Don’t Change” features a raw, guitar-driven sound, less sleek and processed than the band’s later hits. Which is why we love it. There’s an irresistible energy here, and the two videos featured today do not disappoint.
’80s-Style Geometric Fashion From Forever 21
Spring is in the air, and geometric clothing reminiscent of the ’80s is in stores, most notably at Forever 21! Some of this geometry channels a tribal vibe, such as the ’80s Southwestern look. Other shape-filled tops remind us of childhood and its playfully bright forms. And we can’t forget the way geometry can channel the future, or at the very least, a modern feel that manages to be retro at the same time.
Lacquer and Mirrors: Three New Furnishings That Bring the ’80s Home
It’s a wonderful sign when you can purchase furniture reminiscent of the 1980s at your favorite modern stores. In fact, ’80s-style furniture is creeping its way back into the mainstream. Which styles and materials seem to be capturing the attention of shoppers? Geometric pieces featuring lacquer and mirrors.
Friday Video Pick: A Swatch Watch Commercial From 1989
Today we delve into the magic of the Swatch. Did you wear them in stacks on your arms? Did you cover them with neon guards? I still remember occasionally having to move my rubber Swatch guard to the side so I could read the time. But I didn’t care–the guard was cool! To some, these Swiss-made gems may as well have been bangles–collectible fashion statements rather than functional watches. To others, they were the ultimate time-keeping device.
