Fabulous Fabrics Of The 50s

Now reissued with a striking new cover, Fabulous Fabrics of the 50s is the classic guide to the textiles of the exuberant post-war era, a time when bold new patterns and unprecedented color combinations revitalized dcor. Designs based on science and fantasy proliferated; no home was complete without boomerang-patterned drapes slung across the picture window or a cowboy-print couch in the living room. In this nostalgia-packed celebration of textile design, more than 170 full-color photographs accompany lively text and detailed captions highlighting the playful patterns of the 50s. Their genesis is revealed in equally fabulous fabrics from earlier eras, such as jaunty nautical designs from the 40s, over-blown florals of the 30s, and the deco-inspired prints of the 20s. A must-have resource book for collectors, designers, decorators, artists, style mavens, and pop-culture buffs, Fabulous Fabrics of the 50s is a chic and colorful tribute to a fascinating era in textile design.

Full color photos document hundreds of beautiful textiles from the Parisian high fashion houses of the 1950s. Featuring exotic and exquisite designs in silk, rayon, and cotton, these fabrics were used to create elegant women's couture fashions. Of special interest are fabric swatches reflecting seasonal styles, "special effects" photo-engraving and lavish imitation weaves. A valuable resource for designers, historians, and collectors.

Conversational prints were a prominent feature in the homes of the 1950s. These large and sometimes splashy print designs were used for drapery, upholstery, slipcover, and tablecloth fabrics, establishing a decorative theme or bringing a splash of color and humor. 250 color photos of vintage conversational prints are accompanied by full descriptions, making this a rich resource for designers and historians.

Modern living in the 1950s, including clothing, furniture, lamps, clocks, textiles, jewelry, glassware, etc. is shown in over 770 color photos that display this lively period in all its fantastic glory. Here are Hawaiian shirts, poodle skirts, vinyl handbags, gabardine jackets, rayon dresses and more, nearly every aspect of modern living in the 1950s that is avidly collected today.

With over 200 color photographs, this book showcases the beautiful array of patterns, colors, and motifs used in the barkcloth of the past. It is a valuable resource for designs, collectors, dealers, and anyone interested in collecting, restoring, and, most of all, enjoying these wonderful fabrics.

Looking through the pages of this book will transport you back to the days of shirt plaids, cowboy heroes flannel pajamas, early American rec room drapery, splashy lounge chair tropical blooms, housewives' duster florals, and festive south-of-the-border kitchen curtains. This full-color book offers hundreds of fabric styles that reflect an innocent era. It will be cherished by designers and collectors alike.

The authors of "Atomic Cocktails" strike again, this time with a feminine twist. "Highballs High Heels" combines '50s cocktail party nostalgia with career girl independence to offer 50 fabulous swizzle-stick sensations. 100 photos and illustrations.