South Shore Prom 1954

Lauren

2008

Arline

1954

Best Friends' pose creates stunninng inspiration for another generation.

Cinderella goes to the Prom circa 1955

"Its deja vu all over again" as the wise man once said. I would have to say my 2008 Cinderella measures up nicely next to her 1955 counterparts! Take a vintage 50's prom dress, heirloom jewelry and handbag, add rockin' pink platform maryjane's and you have recycling at its finest. I think Arline and Joan would approve. These two best friends were stunning inspiration for this contemporary 18 year old going to her senior prom 53 years later. She found a mint condition dress at an antique shop a year and a half ago and tucked it away for the occasion. I unwrapped my mom's exquisite rhinestone necklace and earrings (the very same she wore to her prom!) and added her silver bag. Sure, she went out on a limb, and the adult chaperones probably appreciated her style more than her peers, but if anyone could pull it off, she could. It wasn't exactly the Boulevard Room at the Conrad Hilton, but the night was a success none the less.

8037 Crandon Ave.

This little gem is merely a shadow of its former self these days. Perusing public records, I've seen a recent picture and she could use some TLC. A classic Chicago Bungalow that could use my touch. What I wouldn't give to have the chance to bring her back, with a few improvements of course. My mom grew up here and always spoke about what a wonderful city it was back then. Minutes from the beach and the Loop. South Shore Country Club, Jackson Park beach, theaters downtown where you could catch a live performance by your favorite "rat packer". Her obsession was Dean and Jerry back then. After the war, and the early 50's life was good (OK, let me have my fantasy I know it wasn't good for everyone). Something tells me life wouldn't be quite so peaceful now in this neighborhood as it was back then. I'm afraid it hasn't experienced the rejuvenation that many classic neighborhoods have.

Pardon me while I rant...
I've spent hours combing sites about Chicago bungee rehabs. Seen countless photos of proud homeowners showing their handiwork. Question: What possesses someone to purchase a quaint vintage bungalow and turn it into a rehab monstrosity? Second story additions just blow my mind. Re dos of a 1928 kitchen that look like they came straight out of a 2003 Home Depot brochure! These modern kitchen and bath re dos look like they belong in a 21st century suburban tract house! I know, modern conveniences, blah blah blah. Vintage design doesn't have to equal archaic or impractical. Where is the architectural integrity?

So I will have my bungalow rehab dreams and pray that, if I ever really get the chance, my dream bungalow doesn't turn into a money pit nightmare!