style

The 1940s, 50s and 60s were all about style. Great attention was paid to details, from food and drinks offered to how they were artfully presented. Glassware ranged from elegant Dorothy Thorpe silver or platinum edged glasses to more modern and colorful styles from designers such as Fred Press, George Briard and Culver.

Drinks and food were plentiful at cocktail parties and were served with panache. Cocktails were shaken in front of guests in stylish silverplate or chrome shakers, from makers such as Chase and Farberware, or stirred in tall cylindrical glass pitchers with modern designs. Drinks were commonly served in small glassware.  By using small glasses, refills were part of the flow of the party causing hosts to interact more frequently with their guests.  In addition, by using small glasses, hosts would follow the "Rules of 3":  the best home cocktails involved 3 ingredients, contained 3 ounces and were consumed in 3 sips (ensuring that drinks never got warm).

Likewise, cocktail food was served on stylish platters and bowls. Not everything matched in barware or glassware, which added to the art of the cocktail party and also added to the party fun.  In fact, Couroc, a maker of black resin trays with whimsical designs, had a slogan which stated:  "Any tray can serve a drink.  Only Couroc can start a conversation." 

For today's host and hostess, the modern cocktail party is picking up where the 1940s, 50s and 60s left off.  Home entertaining is all about being unique and having style.  And that's what The Hour is all about. We offer an extensive collection of vintage and new glassware and barware, encouraging sophisticated flair for today's cocktail hour.