Vintage versions are often higher in quality and lower in price.
By Katherine Lagomarsino, Country Living
Home decor trends come and go, and then (surprise!) they're back again. And somehow, when introduced to our current abodes, they're even better than when they first hit the design scene. Big retailers jump on these trends quickly, offering their own reproductions, but more often than not, vintage is better (think: higher quality, lower price) than the newly manufactured. Here, we've rounded up seven items you should never buy new.
1
1
Boho baskets
Hit up any thrift store or estate sale and there will likely be a robust selection of baskets in all their woven glory, in all shapes, sizes, and quality levels—most for just a few bucks each. Bonus: Not only are they functional, they add striking visual texture to the room.
2
Midcentury barware
Even though Mad Men's final episode aired a full two years ago, swank midcentury barware is still the rage. From sleek ice buckets to silver-rimmed glasses to bar tools, there is still plenty of the real deal in circulation. Much of these items were made in America in the 30s, 40s, and 50s, so quality is often superior to new items made overseas.
3
Rattan chairs
A nod to 1970s Palm Beach, rattan furniture is popping
up everywhere, from urban lofts to rustic farmhouses. Vintage pieces by makers
like Brighton Pavilion or Franco Albini are pricier but much more exciting than
many of the newer cookie-cutter offerings. They're also high quality, which is
important if you actually want to sit in them.
4
Brass animals
From wee mice to jumbo elephants, brass animals are the go-to accessories stylists reach for when filling bookcases or decorating mantels. While some retailers have created their own versions, the vintage, solid-brass variety, often made in Korea, have exquisite detailing. Their un-lacquered brass bodies develop a patina over time, giving you the option of having a dull or shiny finish.
5
Asian ginger jars
As arguably the anchor of the Chinoiserie style, the blue-and-white ginger jar is like a fine wine—better with age. Likewise, the older versions can come at a price. Look for hand-painted jars with a relatively matte finish, because the last thing you want is a shiny new jar.
6
Coffee table books
No coffee table worth its salt is anything without a carefully stacked pile of art books, especially those featuring the works of iconic artists and designers. Brand new, coffee table books are pricey, and to be honest, a little sterile. Peruse secondhand bookstores, thrift stores, or estate sales to find lovely, worn beauties with faded-to-perfection book jackets for a buck or two. Load up, and style away!
7
Gallery trays
These lovely round trays with rails were originally
intended for serving things like cocktails and snacks, but they can be used for
so much more, like corralling your perfume bottles on a vanity. Find them for just a few dollars at thrift stores and estate sales in
either brass or silver plate. Some can be almost black with tarnish; you
might find a surprise maker's mark hidden beneath.
See more at: Country Living
