A Vintage Moment

I don’t know how long this movement will last, but vintage is definitely in right now. I am turning the pages of more and more home decor magazines to find the “well worn” look infiltrating where once only pristine spreads existed.

There is speculation on how the movement got started. Was it a result of the economic downturn and a necessity on the part of consumers to become more thrifty? Or did we all just become tired of the store-bought, semi-sterile look and start seeking a more personal and collected look?

There have always been the standby resources of garage sales, estate sales and antique malls. Years ago eBay popped up and then Craigslist followed. There are the more high-end websites such as 1st Dibs for the discerning antiques consumer. Even flash sale sites such as One Kings Lane have started featuring sales by designers that are curating collections including vintage and new items.

From what I can tell, the public is eating it up. Here in Kansas City, we have the very popular, almost pop-up-like vintage stores that only open up one weekend a month in the West Bottoms.

DIY projects have also seemed to reach a pinnacle of popularity. I find many people wear the title of “DIYer” as a badge of honor. Being able to say, “Look what I came up with and transformed on my own” is very empowering. I have run into my fair share of men and women who declare decorating a hobby and spend time in the eternal search for the perfect piece to fix up, put a personal spin on and add into their collection.

I have always been a fan of the mix of old and new. As with most things in life, moderation is key. All new or all old becomes boring. At Coveted Home we carry mainly new items, but there’s a small but growing inventory of vintage or antique pieces. A few years ago I traveled to Paris and brought back several antique pieces from the flea markets. These types of items are always the ones people “ooh” and “ahh” over. Mixed in with the new furniture, it is just the right touch.

Do you have any great sources for vintage or antique pieces? If so, join our conversation on Facebook at facebook.com/covetedhome and tell us about it! I know it is tempting sometimes to keep good finds to yourself, but the businesses you share with the rest of us will be so grateful you are spreading the word and keeping their doors open, trust me.

 Modern wallpaper mixed with a vintage table & lamp create a nice juxtaposition.

Photo by Roy Inman

 A vintage industrial table is successfully mixed with a modern rug and accessories in this setting. 
Photo by Roy Inman



This article was written by Jaclyn Joslin and published in the KC Star Magazine on 7/15/12.