My Dakini Trading taglines read, 'Where Vintage Meets Zen' and , 'Where Spirit Gets Funky'. But what do those phrases actually mean - and how do they connect mind, body, and spirit with nature?
My goal in starting Dakini Trading is to someday have the kind of physical shop I would want to go to: for lifestyle supplies, for small events, and to connect with others who share my outlook and values. The framework is in place for two online stores: one focusing on vintage items, and one for print on demand digital artwork. The first of these, DakiniTradingCo on Etsy, clearly covers the vintage aspect, and can also serve for some of the funky elements. The second, DakiniDesignsCo, speaks to the funkier side as well as covering some of the spiritual aspects.
This spring I plan to add a third Etsy shop under the name DakiniHandcraftsCo. That should allow me to bring these separate elements together more clearly while I work towards the eventual goal of having them physically all under one roof.
Now that we’ve got some background in place, let’s explore some of these elements a little further:
"Where Vintage Meets Zen"
Have you ever encountered a piece that just seemed to radiate history? Whatever it is, you just know that if that piece could talk, it would have some stories to tell: of the child that loved it, the dinner parties it witnessed, the outfits it once complemented.
Here at Dakini Trading, we look for pieces that embody this sense of history, to bring the classic energy of past good times forward into today’s home. Our style is more relaxed than formal; more eclectic and unique than reflecting current design fads. Many of our pieces have mid-century provenance, often associated with the Mad Men style of design.
However, the midcentury style is not our only guideline. Here are some of the looks and eras that inspire us:
Craftsman Style - 1910s and 20s; high ceilings, arched doorways, hardwood floors, decorative moldings. Decor featured earth tones, textiles, houseplants and elements inspired by nature
Art Deco - 1930s and 40s; moved away from the emphasis on nature and towards a futuristic approach. Decor turned to steel, glass, and bakelite pieces in minimalist rooms with stark palettes.
Post-War - 1940s, 50s, and 60s; minimalist interiors continued as the housing boom favored quick and simple construction that featured plastics and engineered wood. Decor was increasingly mass produced and affordable, though materials like wood, rattan, and natural fibers still had their place.
‘Classic’ MidCentury Modern - bright accent colors against primary neutral tones of white, black, and wood. Abstract and sculptural aesthetics combined with mass-produced objects to furnish postwar homes.
The Eclectic 1970s: Bohemian and Disco Vibes - layered textures and big geometric patterns, mood lighting and quirky knick-knacks.
We’ll be returning to each of these eras for a more in-depth exploration in future blog posts. But for now, let’s explore the concept of mindful living and how vintage items can play a role.
Incorporating vintage pieces into a mindful lifestyle can be a wonderful way to embrace sustainability, celebrate history, and infuse your home with character and charm. They can add character and a sense of connection to the past to your living space. Here are some steps you can take to begin incorporating vintage pieces into your accommodations:
Start Small: Begin by adding one or two vintage pieces that resonate with you to your home decor. It could be a piece of furniture, a decorative item, or even clothing. Introduce them into your space gradually to see how they match your existing decor and lifestyle. This allows you to see how they fit with your existing style and can spark ideas about changes you might want to make to welcome them in.
When choosing vintage pieces, prioritize quality over quantity. Look for well-made items that have stood the test of time and are still in good condition. Quality craftsmanship ensures that your vintage items will stand the test of time and continue to add value to your space. Investing in such pieces will ensure that they last longer and continue to bring joy to your life.
Don't be afraid to mix vintage pieces with modern elements in your home decor. Combining old and new creates a unique and eclectic look that reflects your personal style. Experiment with combining different textures, materials, and eras for a visually interesting space.
Enjoy learning about the provenance of the items you bring into your home. Each vintage piece has its own history and story. Whether it's a piece of furniture passed down through generations or a thrift store find with a mysterious past, embracing the stories behind your vintage pieces adds depth and meaning to your living space.
By purchasing vintage items, you're contributing to sustainable consumption practices by giving old items new life. Getting creative with how you use vintage items in your home is part of the fun! Repurpose old crates as shelves, turn vintage fabrics into throw pillows, or transform an antique trunk into a coffee table. Upcycling vintage pieces not only gives them new life but also reduces waste and adds a personal touch to your decor.
You can search through thrift stores, flea markets, and antique shops to find unique vintage pieces. But if you don’t have time for the treasure hunt aspect of shopping for vintage items, Dakini Trading is happy to help. We seek out vintage shops, flea markets, and antique fairs in our larger region, to discover unique treasures that you won't find elsewhere. We also encourage you to embrace the imperfections and patina of vintage pieces as part of their charm. These signs of age add character and authenticity to your space, making it truly unique.
Incorporating vintage pieces into a mindful lifestyle is not just about decorating your home; it's about embracing a philosophy of sustainability, appreciation for craftsmanship, and a love for the stories that make each piece unique.
We hope you have found these tips useful. Do visit our online shop, explore the featured items, and share your thoughts or experiences. We look forward to helping you enjoy the process of curating your space with meaningful finds that reflect your personality and values.
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