LIVE A VINTAGE LIFESTYLE: BECOME A THROWBACK
The term “throwback” refers to someone who adapts old, ancestral ways. Those who cling to the past, in a way, remain thoroughly modern. Why else do we save old postcards and letters with seals from long ago, only to look at a deceased relative’s handwriting and to feel connected?
Embrace cultural traditions and fashions
There’s an African proverb that says, “When a child is born, an ancestor returns.” With new beginnings, we’re reminded of our past. Having a strong ancestry has indelibly shaped my life. Something as simple as joining an ancestry website and filing away for a mail-order DNA test is fun and fascinating. It gives us insight into where we’re from and what has shaped us.
I love old photographs of fashions from the swinging ’60s in London—which wasn’t that long ago—to illustrations that date as far back as the 18th century that depicts the Arabian Nights, complete with kaftans, gold coins, and silk turbans.
Choose a decade or period that truly interests you and study the fashions, culture and art. For example, the tiles, geometric mosaics, and gypsum carvings of the Middle East that adorn facades and gateways are all very old and, since young people aren’t learning the fine art of creating such beauty, vanishing. It’s beautiful traditions like this that are kept alive. Even if something seems arcane, it’s the rarity that makes them so special.
Make simple tasks an art form
- Sometimes, the simplest form of communication can be the most elegant. This means writing letters on plain white paper. If it’s an official document, use personalized stationery with your initials.
- Always send thank you notes in the post, not a text or email, but an actual greeting card. It doesn’t have to be fancy but, if you really love stationary, consider using a wax seal for extra flair.
- Send postcards from faraway travel destinations.
- Make it a habit to use cash when possible. So many forms of payment are now “contact-free” and only require the tap of a credit card, but for small items, why not use cash and actual coins? There’s nothing more charming than a little coin purse and, honestly, nothing more satisfying than exact change. Also, tip your neighborhood businesses by placing bills in the jar on the counter. People really appreciate it, and this never goes unnoticed! Using different modes of currency when traveling the world and coin collecting are absolutely fascinating.
Set the table for tea
- Having teatime in the afternoon around 3 o’clock is a great English tradition that staves off hunger before a late supper. It’s also a wonderful excuse to spend leisurely time with family during the day. Put away your smartphones and bring out the tea service! Sitting around having a conversation, sipping hot tea, and nibbling away at finger sandwiches, biscuits, or buttered scones is a favorite throwback custom.
- Use a percolator for coffee instead of a single-serve coffee machine and actually make use of your good china! For what good is it if you never use it?
Embrace a love for antiques
“When I was a teenager in New York I was buying antique clothes. I still am.”–Barbra Streisand
- Browse and collect vintage clothing and jewelry from all time periods. Repurposing old clothing—instead of throwing it away—is sustainable, economical, and creative. Wearing a family heirloom (such as a ring or necklace) not only adds to any outfit, it truly makes one feel as if they’re carrying a bit of the past with them wherever they go. These objects also carry with them great sentimental value.
- Invest in pieces that last. Get a bespoke suit made or have your favorite shoes cobbled rather than buying a new pair. This will seem really luxurious, but the truth is it’s more practical. Taking your favorite items to a tailor for repairs not only keeps a vanishing art alive, but it also helps to combat fast fashion and your favorite bits of attire will remain in your wardrobe for years. Remember: everything that was old is new again in fashion!
- Old/rare books: Browsing through antiquarian bookshops is truly one of my favorite activities. The smells of yellowing leaves and dusty stacks are wonderfully nostalgic.
- Antique art, old paintings, bric-a-brac, old jewelry, things with history…all of these things tell stories. Decorating with old prints of botanical illustrations, fashion ads, and vintage travel-inspired prints has influenced my life and work greatly. It’s vintage luggage trunks and tags that inspired my Nabila K collection of unique Voyager’s Garden gift tags, pouches, and notebooks!
For more information on the Nabila K lifestyle products mentioned above, follow the links below:
https://nabilak.com/product/voyagers-garden-gift-tags
https://nabilak.com/product-category/stationery/notebooks
https://nabilak.com/product-category/stationery/postcards
https://nabilak.com/product-category/accessories/toiletry-bags
To learn more about gypsum carving and other traditional arts, check out the following link: