One of the best parts of entertaining is pulling together a unique party decor. Right now I’m all about vintage looks and the charm that goes with it so I thought I’d share a few style tips and design ideas on how to pull a vintage look together.
Entertaining Vintage Style
Style Tip: A foundation to any vintage table setting is a mix of vintage china and dinnerware. Collecting pieces with different colors, patterns and styles will give your table true vintage personality and layering from larger to smaller pieces will create dimension at each place setting. Shop thrift stores, flea markets and estate sales to score your best deals.
Style Tip: A really simple and inexpensive way to add a vintage touch to your table is with vintage dinner napkins. While vintage napkins can be found at flea markets you can also shop for vintage sheets and pillowcase, cut them into napkin squares, pick the edges and use them as napkins! I love this idea not only for its ease but also because the napkins are wash and go.
Style Tip: Use vintage dinnerware in unexpected ways. As a teacup collector, I love the idea of using teacups for things other than tea. Teacups as mini flower vases will add an elegant touch to your table and I also like the idea of using teacups to serve dessert in.
Style Tip: Lace=Vintage. The addition of a lace tablecloth or topper will add instant vintage charm as well as make your table pretty. If you want an even more eclectic look, try dying your lace in a fun color.
Style Tip: What fun it is to mix and match your silverware? Start collecting pieces you like and before you know it you’ll be able to create a fun look at your next party. And, don’t be afraid to mix gold and silver pieces together.
Style Tip: Sometimes a more casual dinner party does not need a tablecloth. Instead, bring vintage style to the table by creating a runner using vintage tiles. When it’s time for another party, use the tiles as placemats to change things up a bit.
If you’re really crafty, try decopauging vintage fabric pieces on to plain tiles to create a custom look.
Design Idea: I love a good vintage inspired DIY project like this bandana tablecloth. This look is great for an outdoor party or old-fashioned BBQ.
Michael’s or Hobby Lobby carry a vast range of bandana colors so the color possibilities are endless.
Design Idea: If you’re looking for an inexpensive and versatile centerpiece, try grouping a collection of vintage vases and glassware together and adding a flowers all in the same color family.
For a quick DIY project, try painting thrift store glassware in soft, vintage pastel colors.
Style Tip: Layering is a key part of vintage charm and this table setting is a great example of how to get the look. Layer from the bottom up, using different textures and materials.
Larger Vintage Dollies make great placemats and smaller sizes are great to wrap around a plain napkin.
Design Idea: Silverware Caddies are a look that has been used for years with more antique and vintage inspired table decor. Simple pockets like this one made of burlap can be dressed up with vintage looking flowers, pearls and lace ribbon.
Style Tip: Another great idea of using something for what it’s not meant for….curtain rings as napkin rings!
Vintage curtain rings are another thing to add to your thrift store shopping list. Look for rings in antique gold or brass with clasp the resemble claw foots.
Entertaining in vintage style is all about the combination of items you use..mixing, matching and layering. The beauty is not in repetition but in the randomness of things.
Thanks for stopping by today!