Our love of antique printers’ blocks is obviously shared by the designer of the Alpha Coffee Table.
Carved from a single piece of wood, the table top has raised letters and numbers painted in different colours to look like those vintage blocks. The wood used is sustainable plantation-grown shesham wood, so you can buy it with a clear conscious too.
It is available exclusively from Crate and Barrel priced $899 (approximately £500).
A timeless design dating back to the 1940s – the Lisa Johansson-Pape aluminium light shades.
Dating back to 1947, you can take your pick from both of the shapes above, as well as a range of colours ranging from fairly neutral silver and brass through to bold reds and blues. But there are some common factors – the stylish organic form and the perforation design on the shades – which add an interesting pattern to the light thrown out by the shade.
All are priced at 345 Euros online.
Find out more at the Finnish Design Shop website
If you’re looking for some cool collectables for your home, these Bitossi Blu Rimini ceramics could be a good place to start.
Originally created by Aldo Londi in the early 50s, the collection of designs is vast, but all have one thing in common – that slightly irregular (and certainly unique) shape, as well as the bold blue ceramic glaze.
The collection has now been reissued, with SCP showing off the collection in an exhibition and selling online. Take your pick from the likes of cats, dogs, lions and fish through to plates, bowls and vases. Prices start at around £17.99, all coming with the Bitossi stamp, a certificate of authenticity and an individual box.
Find out more at the SCP website
At the more adventurous end of retro fashion, with burlesque and pin-up influence, towering heels that make a statement are a must have shoe. Whether you’re looking for some burlesque glamour, or perhaps A Wizard of Oz influenced Dorothy look, these Red Sparkle heels by Hollywood Heels are a shoe in (groan…).
With an all over unmissable sparkle, the now classic peep toe platform shape is transformed. The shaping of the shoe is perfectly made and easy to wear, while the patent bow gives a little something extra in the cutesie, retro stakes.
This pair are currently available from The Atomic Boutique for a discounted price of $34.99.
Not just a looker, the Vico Magistretti Maralunga sofa has the comfort to match.
Originally introduced back in 1973 and now reissued by Cassina, the Maralunga is available as a standard or large sofa, as well as an armchair. All share the same design features, with a steel frame supporting super-plush seat cottons made of polyurethane foam and polyester padding. And if you fancy slouching while your partner wants to read, you can, thanks to its independent convertible headrests.
Prices vary dependent on size and finish, but start around the £1,200 mark.
Not everything with a 50s edge has to mean full circle skirts and prom style. If you’re looking for formal style that’s easy to wear but still has a touch of fifties retro at its heart, this Milly dress is perfect.
With a more fitted pencil skirt style, it’s much easier to wear for most of us. The cinched waist with bow and the notched neckline are my favourite details, adding a subtle flair that doesn’t swamp the polka dots.
It’s available online from Shopbop for $435.
