No matter the season or year, you can always find a style to call old school or retro. Decorating your apartment in an old school or retro style can go either way when it comes to cost, but when you do it well it can be a fun place to live that entertains friends and keeps older relatives full of nostalgic conversation. I have scoured the web for some fun retro, yet tasteful, decorating ideas just for you. Enjoy.

The Gumball Machine: The first gumball machine surfaced early in the 20th century, but there are hundreds of styles that have been developed between then and now. Part of what makes a gumball machine so much fun to use as a design element is the fact that they come in so many shapes, sizes and colors, yet they are still very practical.

Clocks: Timepieces are another excellent way to add a lot of variety without spending a lot of money. There are plenty of retro-style clocks to be found at places like Target. However, if you have the time, money and discerning taste to go looking for an authentic retro clock, let me make a suggestion: start with the basements and attics of family. Chances are that if they don’t have the clock you are looking for, then they are bound to have something cool that you can use. When I suggest that you use retro clocks I don’t mean that you use just one. If you have a 1 or 2 bedroom apartment then you should have no less than 5 old school clocks either mounted on the wall or sitting on tabletops.

Seating: Retro seating can become very pricey very quickly, so I caution you to be a smart shopper and haggle with the vendor. You should keep in mind that some old things were left behind for a reason. After all, you can only use your favorite sock so many times. What I’m trying to say is that old chairs or couches might turn out to be very uncomfortable or even too worn to use and may collapse under stress, causing injury to you or your guests.

This brings up an interesting point. Safety is also a factor. Make sure that any old school electronics are tested by a professional to be safe. Oh, and remember how everything used to be slathered in lead-based paint?

Related posts:

1. Budget Decorating Ideas
2. Decorating your first place (A guy’s guide)
3. DIY Décor – In the Bedroom
4. Extras to Spruce Up Your New Digs
5. Not Allowed To Paint? Don’t Sweat It, You Don’t Have To!

Tags: 20th century, accessories, Antiques and Collectibles, apartment decor, Clock, Contemporary, Decor, decorating, decorating apartment, design, Home and Garden, shopping