
Fifty years ago, 1958 — the jet age officially makes its mark in history with the launch of the Boeing 707. Jet planes could fly to their destinations non stop, cheaper and faster than before. Air travel was now longer not restricted only to people of wealth. “Fly me friendly”, “coffee, tea or me?” We have all heard it before, stewardesses with big smiles, elegant outfits and long legs making sure that your trip is an unforgettable experience. But what was it really like? Is there any truth behind how air travel was portrayed in its golden days? Ultra Swank travels back to 1970 to talk to former Pan Am stewardess Valerie Waterman.
Continue reading »

Anyone fancy a wide range of delicious Swedish cuisine? Do not look further, go and try Sweden House's Smorgasbord and enjoy the lovely service of their blond and tall waitresses! I did some research about the restaurant and found out that it was located in Tampa, Florida (at 2720 North Dale Mabry Highway to be precise). The postcards most likely date back from the early 1970s or late 1960s. Does anyone know if it is still around? Please let us know.
Continue reading »

I turned 29 on May 19th, so happy late birthday to me! This Dean Morris card says it even better though. You can find more funny, clever and somewhat rude British flavored cards on their website.

You've waited and wondered with starry eyes, will there be another Ultra Swank compilation? Of course and here it's the first one for 2008. As the title suggests we are moving away from lush cocktail parties, stewardesses and martinis for a while to go down one flight of stairs into the world of swingers, beatniks, hipsters and cool cats. Welcome to the Electric Psychedelic Swingers Pussycat Club downtown London, were we play psychedelic rock and pop from the late '60s and early '70s until the break of dawn.
Continue reading »

Found these great vintage photos taken at two different ICA stores in Gothenburg, Sweden. Most likely taken for publicity reasons for use in catalogs or magazines. ICA is one the largest retail chains in Sweden, started back in 1938 and today boasting over 1 600 stores nationwide. Can't help thinking how Americanized the ICA store top photo looks like.
Continue reading »

More retro photos of Domus stores in Sweden. Why? Because it's good for you. Someone please bring back Domus, we miss you. Oh and clean up on aisle three.
Continue reading »

Spring is officially here in Scandinavia, a good time to enjoy something new (or old). Warm colors, international design and clean lines are all trademarks of Danish designer and architect Arne Jacobsen. If you are in the process or remodeling or thinking about it here are some personal favorites of mine available to buy from Hivemodern.com. Enjoy!
Continue reading »