Category Archive

retro/vintage

How writing on a typewriter helps this modern writer

I finally made a special trip with Other Husband (Legal Husband was working) into New York City to Gramercy Typewriter. And it was just like being in Ollivander’s wand shop: the right one was going to choose me. I viewed this moment as a rebirth of my busy, writerly self. But why? Why would a typewriter make any difference at all, especially to a lady who got her start on Microsoft Word? Well, I’ll tell you, and it’s not just because it looks cool…

This 1970s time capsule home will strain your eyes in the best way

“Totally untouched ’70s condo for sale! Amazing, no?! YES. Ahem. Sorry, got a bit excited.” Dude, do NOT EVER say sorry for finding me an amazing time capsule home. Are you guys ready to get your groove on? Whether you hate this or love this, it’s definitely going to have an impact on your day…

The ultimate treasure hunt: My 5 secrets for thrift store shopping

Going shopping at the thrift store is like the ultimate treasure hunt. I buy most of my clothing, furniture, and home décor items used from second hand stores. Not only does it save me a ton of money but it’s great for the environment as it reduces waste. Here are my best tips for thrift store shopping…

I’m plotzing over the untouched 1955 period details in this house

Do you know what my three favorite words are when it comes to real estate? “Untouched period details.” Ungggggggg. Fellow lovers of the mid-century modern aesthetic are going to absolutely plotz when they see this 1955 time capsule home that I found in Glendale, California…

Check out this 1960 AirStream turned into a house!

Lookie what I just stumbled across… this is a 1960 AirStream that has been completely remodeled into a non-mobile mobile home, and then added on to! It’s for sale right now in Seal Beach, California. Yes, there is even a freaking fireplace. Holy crap, I’m in love with this “house.” Wanna peek inside the 1960 AirStream house with me?

Why I can’t help falling in love with the Elvis Presley Honeymoon Hideaway in Palm Springs

One of my favorite “let’s play pretend” real estate finds so far: The Elvis Presley Honeymoon Hideaway in Palm Springs. It is a treasure trove of vintage realness that you’ve come to expect from my tastes, and over-the-top-ness that you all know and love from Elvis’ tastes.

Step right up and see the vintage circus bathroom!

I love when you guys make requests for themed bathrooms. In the comments of the mortician-themed bathroom, Homie Amber asked: “Can I request a vintage circus theme? Ooh and/or a Night Circus theme?!” And I was all, “of course!”

Time capsule dance off: Can you beat this 1989 Vanilla Ice cassette tape jam?

We, at the Empire, think you really need to see this amazing video that my little brother found in his own archives… The year: 1989. Joey is all amped up on Christmas and sick beats, thoroughly enjoying his new Vanilla Ice cassette tape, and showing off his sweet, sweet moves (check out my drive-by cameo on rollerblades).