Tried and true.

When asked to choose my favorite era in design history, I would have a difficult time trying to pick just one. I adore the simplicity of Mid-century Modern, the principles of the Arts and Crafts Movement, and the organic lines of Art Nouveau. But the style of Art Deco seems to have my heart. When I read The Daily Heller last week on a summer Master's program in Italy (Oh, how I'd love to go), and an Italian Deco design exhibit that just happens to coincide, I just felt the need to write about it. Italy and Art Deco. I love it.

When I had the chance to venture to that lovely country four years ago, I fell in love. Though it was a chilly February journey, we all had a fabulous time. And while the food was excellent, and the proximity to so much history left me humbled, I really found the the design of everyday objects—signs, packaging, clothing—to be overwhelmingly beautiful. And that is what made the most lasting impression on me.

Art Deco was still in full-force, especially in the signs scattered around Rome. And it made me wonder, "Why don't we do this back home?" The truth is, we're a young country—one that is still trying to figure out what it wants to be when it grows up. Italy, on the other hand, has several thousand years under its belt. They've been around a while.

Though I know I won't make it in time for the exhibit, it's definitely time to return—time to remind myself why I loved it so much in the first place. But in the meantime, I'll just have to look at the photos once again, and treat myself to a few unnecessary products, purchased only for their packaging :-)