Vintage gifts for Father’s Day
Jun 13, 2014 | by Becky Oeltjenbruns
Happy Father’s Day
It’s almost that time of year again, when we honor the man who helped teach us about the world. We want to help you make this day extra-special with great vintage gifts for Father’s Day. But first, a little blurb about the history of this holiday. Initially celebrated in the state of Washington in 1910, it wasn’t officially made a national holiday for another 62 years. (In contrast, Mother’s Day was granted national holiday status in 1914.) Establishing the importance of Father’s Day is largely the work of one woman: Sonora Smart Dodd. She and her five siblings were single handedly raised by their father after their mom’s death. To honor his love and hard work, Dodd tirelessly lobbied in public venues throughout her native Spokane and eventually expanded efforts statewide. By 1910 the governor established the day as a state holiday.
Father’s Day was not without controversy as many dads didn’t feel they needed a particular day, that it was overly sentimental and too feminine in nature. In the 1920s and 30s several people campaigned to get rid of both Mother’s and Father’s Day, instead observing a streamlined version: Parents’ Day. But after WWII, Father’s Day was seen as another venue for honoring the brave men who fought for freedom and came home to raise their families. The rest, as they say, is history. This day in June remains a favorite celebration and we’ll help you find a unique gift as special as your dad!
Vintage gifts for Father’s Day
Bar and bar ware available at Funky Finds
Bar ware
Dad works hard and there’s nothing better than enjoying some relaxing moments at the end of a long day. Make sure he has a snazzy set of accessories for preparing and savoring some pre-dinner drinks. Let him channel his Mad Men style with something unique. One of the benefits of vintage bar ware is that chrome is a favorite material. It’s masculine and functional – a perfect duo for any Father’s Day gift. Pair it with a prized liquor and you’ll have a gift that encourages him to unwind. See this inspiring set from our friends at Funky Finds Vintage and Retro.
Amazing sofa, available at RetrOKC
Mid-century furniture
Go big or go home, right? Nothing will take the cake on Sunday like a large gift. Furniture lets dad know you understand his need for sanctuary. Help him furnish his man cave with the timeless appeal of mid-century furniture. The modern styling is refined and strong, just like dad. Besides, you don’t want to see him in some duct-taped lazy boy like Martin on Fraiser! Check out this amazing sofa from RetrOKC: black, stylish, and streamlined. Show dad how he can be the most stylish, cool guy in the neighborhood. Help him make a man cave you want to hang out in too!
Paperweight, available at Plank and Pearl
Something rustic for the office
Perhaps nothing says dad like rustic. Even if your dad’s a city slicker, something about rustic will speak to him! An old tool box can be re-purposed as storage for his desk or a metal sculpture can become a unique focal point. With all the hard work dad does, it will be nice for him to have reminders of family in his work space. Spice up what’s usually reserved for dreaded memos or calendars. This golf-inspired paperweight from Plank and Pearl is a prime example of something functional mixed with something personal. Perfect for the dad who loves to spend his time on the course!
Zenith, available at the Vintage Bulldog
Classic tunes
Vinyl isn’t just for the hipsters anymore. Get dad some of his favorite records, a record player, or a classic radio. He’ll appreciate the nostalgia and happy memories of years gone by. While music may seem like a non-traditional choice, it can be a very personal option. You can enlist mom’s help to find the records that capture his youthful spirit! Show dad that he doesn’t need to rely on his Sirius subscription when he can get a unique, music experience right at home! Our friends at Vintage Bulldog have a great selection of records and radios to pick from.
Cause A Frockus would like to thank their tremendous resources: Funky Finds Vintage and Retro, RetrOKC, Plank and Pearl, Vintage Bulldog, and the History Channel.
For our readers: Tell us, what are you planning to get dad for his special day? What retro item(s) does your dad love the most?