The One Thing

When it comes to vintage, I collect a variety of things. Holiday decor, dishes, knick knacks, etc..But when I'm out thrifting, there is one thing that will always stop me in my tracks and, at the very least, spark some serious contemplation on whether to buy it or not.

More often than not, it ends up in my cart. What am I talking about? Mid-century barware.

I'm not sure what it is about them. The way they shine? Their unique stylization? Their flair? More like all the above and more. They call to me, and, for a moment, I feel transported from the aisle of the thrift store to a scene from Mad Men. They make me want to go home, throw on a shift dress, put on a Ray Conniff album (incidentally one is playing in the background as I write this), and whip up a pitcher of Gin Rickeys.

Just yesterday I found two great sets (the two to the right pictured below). The 6 Victor Records double old fashioned glasses each feature a musical hit of the 30s and 40s. In the center, I picked up 3 of these Federal highball glasses with red roses and gold trim (gorgeous!). On the far left is a set of Jeanette highballs I picked up a couple of weeks ago. They are so fun, featuring recipes for Tom Collins, Mint Juleps, Bloody Marys, Singapore Slings right on them. My question is which one do you you start with?!?

I haven't used any of these glasses yet, but plan to soon. Maybe I'll make some Old Fashioneds and throw on Blue Moon. Or maybe I'll mix up a batch of Singapore Slings. I figure you can't go wrong either way.

Ultimately, haven't decided if these will end up in my collection (if so, I better start figuring out how to expand our barware storage) or if I will put them up for sale so that someone else can enjoy a cocktail or two with a side of mid-century modern.