Anyone who knows me knows I love a good bargain.
Showcasing these larger than life (literally: the top of that frame is 7’ from my floor) framed prints I picked up last week on Facebook Marketplace for $50. Total. Yup. That was a good get, my friends. I told myself I was buying them for a client, but I’m not sure they will ever leave my living room.
It’s no secret that I love vintage furnishings. Like people, they are more interesting with a backstory. I love building a room with pieces that no one else can put together, because you can’t buy them off a showroom floor. I love mixing them with contemporary pieces and styling it all a way that looks as if it evolved over time.
What else do I love about Shopping Vintage?
Quality. If something has lasted for decades, you can bet it is well made. There were no shortcuts. Refinishing, reupholstering, or even just a good cleaning is sometimes all you need.
new ( hudson valley chandelier, curtains, side chairs)
Budget. Previously owned furnishings are, by nature, less expensive than buying new. Especially when you measure your dollar against quality. Which leaves more budget for other fun things that you may need to purchase brand-new.
Fun. I love the thrill of the hunt. Estate sales, thrift stores, antique malls, online marketplaces, garage sales, resale shops are my regular haunts. You can’t predict what you will find or when you will find it, but when you do, it’s a thrill. (These framed prints in my living room for example.)
Earth-Friendly. This is the ultimate Re-Use corner of the triangle. Keeping heirloom quality goods out of the landfill and/or burn pit (gasp) is an easy way to do your part. Aside from procuring the item, there is zero carbon footprint. So that feels good.
$250 at an estate sale.
I know it’s hard to be patient, to wait for The Find. It takes more time than money, but I’ve been doing this for over 30 years and it’s second nature to me at this point. What are you hunting for these days??
Christina Carleton 