50's Cocktail Party - Decor and Ambience

Give your guests the true essence of the era by creating a 50’s vibe.

Characteristic of the 1950's are clean designs with a Scandinavian influence, space and atomic age-inspired shapes.

Decorate the buffet table with tapered candles in candle holders or candelabras and fresh flowers.

Popular patterns of the time were stars, stripes, checks and polka dots. Fruits, flowers and abstract designs were everywhere.

Also atomic graphics inspired by space and science like planets, galaxies and the famous “Boomerang” pattern, were all used on wallpaper, tablecloths, curtains and furniture fabrics.

DIY Project:

Use a retro looking lamp base and cover the lampshade with atomic patterned fabric.

How to video on Youtube:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Zd1BRD2aGQ

fabric from Fabric.com

Among the things that could be found in a ’50s kitchen were chrome appliances, pastel plastics, enamel-coated or stainless steel canisters and bread bins.

Colorful Melamine and melmac dishware and bowls, as well as Tupperware storage containers, were very popular.

Popular dinnerware patterns of the time were minimalist floral motifs, gold trim, fiesta ware, and atomic age

Ask friends and family if they have anything related to this time period. Also a good place to look is vintage shops, flea markets, thrift stores, ebay and etsy. The white plate with gold trim above is plastic and can be found at PartyCity.

Place everyday objects such as a retro pillows, ashtrays, phones, cameras, or a record player around the room for added ambience.

Have bowls of old fashioned candies around the room. It not only adds to the decor, but will give your guests a sweet treat! You can find the candies online.

Print covers of vintage magazines and glue them to the top of a current one and place on end tables.

Or dig out an old cookbook for display.

For more inspiration on decor, visit my Pinterest page.