Antique markets hold a unique allure for thrifting enthusiasts, where hesitation over a one-of-a-kind find can quickly turn into regret. Many seasoned thrifters understand the value of reserved spending—but when it comes to vintage shopping, certain items are worth grabbing on the spot, even if they don’t fill an immediate need.
To uncover what vintage pieces professionals prioritize, three expert thrifters shared their top picks—items they rarely pass up when the price and condition align.
Meet the Experts
Angela Houska, interior design specialist and creative stylist behind @hello.haveaseat, offers expert advice on incorporating thrifted items into home decor.
Danavee Long, owner of This Vintage Grove, operates multiple antique booths and focuses on distinctive vintage finds.
Jen Jeppsen of Goldenrod curates a mix of primitive, mid-century, and vintage cottage pieces across flea markets in the Midwest.
1. Original Canvas Art
Danavee Long constantly scans antique booths for original canvas art, favoring pieces with character—weathered, frayed, or worn—that promise uniqueness. “These pieces tell a story and stand out as either bold statements or subtle accents,” she explains, particularly drawn to florals and unusual subjects unlikely to be found again.
2. Patterned Chairs
Vintage chairs featuring floral, toile, gingham, or striped fabrics are a staple for Jen Jeppsen. She emphasizes their versatility, noting that chairs add warmth and comfort in unexpected spaces—from kitchen nooks where children gather, to bedrooms or near fireplaces where they invite relaxation.
3. Small Vases and Vessels
Angela Houska sees tiny vases and vessels as endlessly useful treasures. Beyond floral arrangements, she creatively repurposes these pieces as match holders, ingeniously adapting strike pads to their bases. Their size and charm make them easy additions to any home.
4. Brass Items
Brass is a unanimous favorite among the experts. Houska is drawn to brass trays with patina, Long hunts for candlesticks and lighting, while Jeppsen recently launched a booth focused on brass collectibles. Brass’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to add character and shine, whether in sculptures, fixtures, or decorative accents.
5. Trays
For Angela Houska, trays are indispensable. Whether silver, ceramic, or brass, trays combine aesthetics with function. She recommends using trays to create curated, organized displays—like grouping soap, candles, and matches in a bathroom or arranging jewelry and lotions on a bedside table.
6. Small Accent Tables
Small tables are prized for their versatility, offering display surfaces for books, plants, or bedside essentials. Danavee Long appreciates a broad range of styles, prioritizing sturdiness and clean lines, and uses them throughout her home to add dimension and style.
Antique markets offer endless opportunities to discover timeless pieces that bring warmth, personality, and style to any space. For thrifters, knowing which items hold lasting value can turn a casual browsing trip into a treasure hunt with meaningful rewards.
