The other day, I came across a reel on Instagram that I just loved. It showed simple changes that a woman was making around her home to make it feel more special, more her. Think things like swapping a plastic laundry basket for a pretty wicker one or trading plain egg cartons for charming ceramic ones. It was all so simple. But watching that, I thought, “Wow, this is such an underrated way to make daily life feel like living, not just getting through it.”
And that got me thinking about 1950s housewives. Those ladies were the queens of finding elegance in the ordinary. They didn’t just tackle housework or homemaking like a to-do list; they embraced it as a way to add beauty to every corner of their space. Their homes weren’t just functional; they were a source of joy. Unfortunately, so many of the things we use now feel cold and engineered, and I think we can borrow a page from their book to romanticize our modern lives.
Here are some of my favorite ways to add a dash of 1950s charm to your home and elevate your day-to-day homemaking routine.
1. Bring Back Pretty Kitchen Canisters
If you’ve never seen vintage 1950s kitchen canisters, they often came in THE cutest pastel shades with pretty designs on them. They were used to store essentials like flour, coffee, sugar, and tea. You can still find so many of these at antique shops, flea markets, and even on Etsy.
BUT you don’t have to use authentic vintage kitchen canisters! Simply opting for modern choices that are in pretty colors or add some whimsy are a great way to add a little extra beauty.
2. Seek Out Vintage Pyrex Bakeware
1950s Pyrex is another absolute gem. Their designs were functional, yes, but also stunning. I’ll admit I’m obsessed, especially with the pink and turquoise patterns. There’s just something about pulling a casserole out of the oven in one of those dishes that feels… dare I say, glamorous? Or at least, I imagine it does because I haven’t been able to get a set of them for myself yet.
Something I have done is choose pretty pastel baking dishes and Tupperware in pinks and light blues so I still feel like I’m getting that vintage vibe. Without the hefty price tag.
3. Upgrade Your Laundry Hamper
I know, laundry isn’t exactly the most luxurious part of homemaking. But here’s the thing about the 1950s approach to life: every detail mattered. Even the laundry room. Vintage laundry hampers often had painted stencil designs or were covered in pretty fabric, turning something totally mundane into something lovely.
You can DIY your own version! Grab an inexpensive laundry basket and customize it with paint, stencils, or fabric that fits your home’s vibe.
4. Add a Gorgeous Apron to Your Routine
One thing that fI absolutely adore? A beautiful apron. 1950s housewives sewed gorgeous aprons for themselves and not just for practicality. Many featured stunning patterns, lace trims, or even embroidery.
You can find vintage aprons online or at thrift stores, but if you’re into sewing, you can also make your own! There are endless vintage-inspired patterns available. Something about tying on a beautiful apron just makes me so happy.
Need Cleaning Motivation? Try My 1950s Radio Cleaning Routine
Feeling overwhelmed or just unmotivated to tackle the mess? Good news, you’re human! Because I’ve totally felt that too. Some days, keeping up with chores feels like an endless battle. That’s why I created podcast cleaning routines!
Picture this: you pop in your earbuds, press play, and suddenly you’re being guided through a cleaning routine without realizing (or having to think about it!)
These episodes guide you through a step-by-step cleaning routine while you listen to a charming, 1950s radio show. Each episode only takes 30 minutes, so you don’t have to spend all day cleaning.
You can get your free episodes here.
Why It’s Worth Romanticizing Homemaking
Here’s the deal. Life moves fast, and it’s easy to fall into autopilot, rushing through household tasks just to get them done. But there’s something so special, so grounding, about finding joy in the little details.
These 1950s-inspired touches remind me to look for beauty in the everyday. And honestly? They make chores feel a little less like work.
Homemaking doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to feel like home. And if you have any favorite vintage-inspired hacks, send them my way—I’m always looking for new ways to sprinkle a little vintage vibes into my homemaking! 💕