artisan pieces that are sturdier and last the test of time. Why else do you still see them around, still fetching some high-dollah prices?
The nostalgia I mentioned earlier that these pieces, and the rooms they inhabit or the person they adorn, tell a story. In one way, that story is yours, as they define who you are and what you are interested in. They can be playful, moody, sophisticated. They also tell the story of their past life or the person who owned them before: A vintage counter that sat in a soda fountain shop run by one family for over 100 years, taking care of generation after generation in that little mountain town. The gown that was designed by that woman who was a pioneer in her industry. The advertisement for a time when life was simpler. Perhaps it was the story of your childhood; a plaything that you cherished as a child, lost as a teen, and found again in a sale one Sunday afternoon as an adult, where those innocent memories came flooding back to your brain.
The thrill of the hunt Probably one of the least-mentioned aspects of shopping for vintage is the rush. Catching that perfect item out of the corner of your eye... How has no one snagged it?! I will tackle anyone I see approaching... It will be MINE! This will look perfect [insert special place here]! Because many of the things you see for sale in vintage shops and at yard or estate sales are more rare, there is definitely a good buzz to be had when you find something you KNOW no one else will have. AND you got it for a steal? It’s a total natural high. Then you go to another sale... hit another jackpot. And ANOTHER sale... No two are alike so it’s always like scoring a lost treasure when you get the goods. Yes, it can be addictive.
***** Whether you fancy intricate gadgets and electronics or lace and china, there is always a golden nugget of nostalgia waiting for you somewhere. Take your next free day to see what’s hiding in your neighborhood!
What’s your favorite thrifted find? When I was in high school, I stumbled upon a garage sale on my way home one day. At it were a ton of beautiful rhinestone jewelry pieces, and I was able to grab up some pins and (clip-on) earrings. To this day I still have so many of them, it was like falling into a treasure chest! I especially love accessorizing with the clip-on earrings, for instance: clipping to a simple neck chain or onto lapels. I’ve even used them on the tops of plain shoes. I haven’t been that lucky since; they were great finds! - Sue There are styles of vintage to suit every taste. Here’s a sampling of my favorite gets.
From 1968 and brand new!
Apr/May 2011 Spoon : 13