When the Recession Hits Home, Decorate Retro Style
More Americans are hunkering down in their houses as a result of the current economic downturn, staying at home while eschewing activities like fine dining or nights out on the town. But even hardened homebodies appreciate a change in scenery every once in a while. How to decorate on a tight budget? Harken back to better days and go retro with the following tips!
1. Don’t necessarily think of retro as “shabby chic.” That actually is a great style but unfortunately, other words for shabby can include “tattered,” “threadbare” and “dilapidated.” Let’s get out of that negative mindset, and try thinking “vintage” instead. This may bring to mind vintage wines or vintage automobiles, all treasured objects that get better with age.
2. Continuing on that theme, retro is not necessarily inexpensive. Some vintage posters, for example, may cost thousands of dollars. So if you wanted to purchase one and save money, consider purchasing a reproduction. Many of your guests who view your new art may not even be able to tell the difference!
3. Better than flea is free: of course you already know to scour local thrift shops, church rummage sales, garage sales and flea markets for fabulous secondhand finds. But some people are just giving them away! Two savvy resources are the free listings on Craigslist as well as The Freecycle Network ™.
Hopefully these tips will serve as a springboard for your imagination. Even a recession can’t hamper creativity, and the sky’s still the limit for trendy decorating options.
BIO:
Luna Mandrake is co-proprietor of Moon Mandrake, an online shop that features curious collectibles and vintage treasures of yesteryear. Learn more by visiting their blog at http://moonmandrake.com.
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