Vintage, antique, antique, vintage – “wth is the difference??” “Aren’t they the same?” Well.. no not exactly. First let’s talk about the difference between vintage and antique. I will use both these words many times throughout this post. And while they are synonymous, they are in fact different.
So simply put, antique items are at least 100 years old. While vintage items are under 100 years old but at least 20. I wanted to make this distinction because depending on the style you’re going for, one category may make more sense than the other. But when shopping for your unique items, I think the ‘rules’ are the same. So let’s get into it!
1.Where to shop?
There really are so many options when looking for vintage and antique decor. Some are more expensive than others. Some online and some in person. The pro of in person shopping is getting to see and feel the item. You get to see the size of it and you’re able to better picture it in use. But on the other hand a pro of online shopping is, of course, more options. You have access to more than what your local shops can offer and you can search specific design styles.
My favorite options for in person shopping are thrift stores, flea markets, estate sales, consignments, and antique shops. These places can be more affordable than you think and sometimes you are even able to negotiate for a bargain! Like who could pass up a good bargain?! My favorite options for online finds are Etsy, Facebook Marketplace (or any other local online marketplace), Chairish, and I’m continuing to discover so many more. There’s a lot to discover, so let’s talk about what to look for.
2.Finding the basics
I like to look for a few key things when I first get to a store or online shop. These are things I feel like you can not go wrong with and they can fit most design styles. Materials like marble, ceramics, and glassware. Metals like bronze, gold, brass , copper, and silver are staples and are timeless. More specifically, I look for picture frames, mugs, vases, candlesticks, books, trays, or eating utensils. Picture frames are great for the touch of character and warmth, whether you replace that picture with something more personal or keep the one it came with. Mugs are great if you are someone like me and you like to mix and match your dishware. Also mugs can double or triple as a beverage holder, pencil holder, or vase. Vintage books can be read or used as a base for coffee table decor. And who doesn’t love a catch all tray?
I enjoy looking for more substantial decor to fill a space. However if you’re just starting out with vintage and antique shopping, smaller trinkets and knick knacks can be a great find too while also being more budget friendly. I’d say that the smaller decor items can give a space more charm as well.
An important thing to remember when it comes to antique vs. vintage is that because antiques are very old, they may serve better as decor that sits pretty on a wall or shelf. Whereas vintage items can be used in a more functional capacity because they aren’t as old. Of course this is in a general sense and you will probably be able to tell when you see and feel the items.
3.DON’T MISS ANYTHING
Look, there are sooo many treasures to find and it can be overwhelming when you step into an antique shop or thrift store or wherever. I highly recommend dedicating an entire day to do this. I know that may sound extreme and you’re probably like “girl it’s not that serious!”. And it’s not lol, however if you are looking to collect a decent amount of things, or you are going to multiple locations, or you really do not want to leave any stones unturned, then I’d say it’s worth it! But of course break it up if need be.
If you enjoy it enough, it may even become a hobby. These places can be piled up and chock-FULL of finds, so look carefully. You don’t want to miss that special item. Now you want to find things that spark joy, have a story, bring character and charm to your domicile. I would personally be mindful to not fill the space with a bunch of decor just to say it’s full. And remember, old things can be junk too. Just because it is vintage or antique doesn’t make it nice decor, it just makes it vintage or antique junk. But for the most part, rare finds and unique shapes can take your home decor up a notch.
4.Bringing your babies home
Listen if you’ve read this far, you probably don’t want to be.. basic. You probably are looking to think outside the box. You’re probably over big box stores’ boring and repetitive, run of the mill junk. Well look, basic doesn’t stop once you bring these items home. Arranging your items can be just as important as buying them in the first place. Again, we want to set ourselves apart. It’s not about being stuck up or too good for mass produced items.
It’s about showcasing who YOU are or who you want to become. Think about the story you’re telling when someone walks into your space. Does it feel like you? Does it convey your interests, your likes? Everyone is unique, so why shouldn’t your space be as well? Just because Sally and Stacie both have a general mid-century modern style, doesn’t mean their spaces will reflect the same. One may have a more colorful Danish feel, another may have a more neutral Scandinavian feel. Your space will and should feel like you, when done right.
So let’s talk about item arrangements. There really isn’t a hard and fast rule about this. And of course your landlord isn’t going to grade you on your decor choices (so long as they’re not breaking any rental agreements), but there are some tips I follow and that I think generally work well.
-Arrangements of three is a good start. It brings visual interest without being too busy.
-On the same note, combining items of different sizes and/or shapes gives the eye some visual interest
-Create a color story. Trinkets of different material but similar color can bring a fun element to your space
-PLAY WITH TEXTURE!! Please, especially if you have a neutral colored home
-And finally don’t be afraid to use a pedestal riser or books to display an item for even more visual interest!
Okay I think i’ve said enough and I’m sure you get the point by now. Old things can be fun to balance with the new. Giving these older items a new life, while being kind to the planet sounds like a win win to me. I hope you’ve learned some new tips and tricks. And I’m excited to share more. Signing off -Kris <3
