Modernism

Definition: “Sharp, clean-cut geometries. An open space, minimalist look.” (Jagelski, 2021). Sleek and dull, modern design contrasts the characteristics of the vintage americana aesthetic. Modernism is a common design choice for houses in the 2000’s. Characteristics in modernist homes possess neutral colors, smooth textures, and rectangular geometric designs. 

This clean-cut, sleek design can also be seen in modernist accessories.

This “Modernist Minimalist” (MINTMARKETBOUTIQUE, 2025) bag is only two colors and has streamlined design. If I were to recreate this aesthetic into my upcycle project, I would have to follow the sleek and clean-cut design processes seen above.

Modernism in an Upcycled Vintage Americana Chalk Bag

If I were to incorporate this aesthetic into a chalk bag, I would have to change my material and overall design. My current design would incorporate a drawstring, piece of material to attach to a harness, and thrifted material that gives a nostalgic feel.

In order to transform this vintage americana bag into a modernist bag, I would get rid of the black strap that attaches to a harness and replace the drawstring with a refined fold over buckle. Additionally, I would replace the denim material with a neutral cotton fabric and the interior flannel material with a neutral cotton fabric. My inspiration for a drawing of the bag is from a Black Diamond minimalist chalk bag.

With a discreet zipper pocket, use of only dark two colors, and a refined design, this chalk bag is everything my upcycled chalk bag project is not. Since my upcycled project provides a nostalgic feel and looks like a pair of old jeans, I would need to make various changes for it to give a modern, minimalist aesthetic.

In my drawing, the modernist aesthetic chalk bag has a buckle to secure the chalk, a sleek zipper pocket, and is made using only dark, neutral colors. In order to enact this with my current materials, I would make a new pattern to reflect the fold over design. Additionally, I already have a buckle that I would sew to the black strap I was going to use to secure the bag to my harness. The bag would still function the same, however it would hold more chalk and a streamlined design.

References

Baldwin, E. (2020, October 8). These Are the World’s Most Beautiful Modern Residences in 2020 – Architizer Journal. Journal. https://architizer.com/blog/inspiration/collections/2020-best-residences/