Fashion magazines, talk shows, celebrities, basically the media, imparts to us what the up and coming crazes are or will be. Oddly enough, we attribute attraction to objects that are brand new; but, in this time of economic instability and penny pinching, antiques and vintage items are, quite literally, taking over the market and a fast growing past time for most Americans. So, with the holidays barreling towards us, let's take a look at some of the items that are quickly becoming hot items in the flea market world...
1. Interesting and Unusual Time Pieces-
We're not just talking about Dad's old watch...time pieces are all the rage right now. Yes, you can use your phone to tell time; but, a time piece says something about you. There was a time that everyone wore or carried this useful jewelry. Now, you can pick up a pocket watch or vintage Timex for half the cost, and, if you really want to make it special, you can have it engraved. A band can be replaced with colorful ribbon or sharp chain can be added to jazz it up. These make amazing gifts for a man or woman, especially if you really want them to know that you know what makes them tick.
2. Contemporary or Modern Art-
There is artwork available for anyone's budget. Obviously, if you want to start your own collection, I would highly recommend some research and shopping around for advice; but, if you are just looking to decorate your walls, what this trend is saying is, don't be afraid to mix modern with what you already own. For many, downsizing has become a way of life, so wall art is a way of saying volumes without hauling tons of furniture from place to place. It would be wonderful to have the cash to swoop up a signed painting or lithograph; but, we can't all afford that indulgence. A cool twist might be finding an unusual frame and a print from a magazine or coffee table book and hang them in a grouping on a wall that cries out to stand out from the other corners of your home or apartment. Remember, someone else's art becomes your creation on an empty wall...that is timeless.
3. Refurbished Wood Furniture-
Enough cannot be said about this trend. True wood furniture will beat out fabricated pieces, no matter how much the commercials say you need brand new. A refurbished wood piece has lasted a long time and will continue to last, if you care for it. It seems that every booth has painted, refinished or shabby chic-ed furniture. Retail for a new piece can run you into the thousands; but, that same thousand could become a new look for one room or an entire house, depending on your choices. Keep in mind, that mixing is always fun and interesting. A solid wood dining table could sport six chairs, all from different vendors, but with complementing looks. A small dresser could become a great entertainment center, with drawers for all those cords, DVDs and the nineteen remotes that your significant other cannot part with. If there is a choice between pressed, fabricated furniture and a refurbished piece, I would always choose wood.
4. China
I know you are thinking this couldn't possibly be true; but, it is undeniably on the rise. Let's face it, most of us never received more than three place settings for our wedding, and if we were to complete the set, it would take a huge bite out of our wallet. Having said this, we still like to entertain, and in the South, we value making a get together as a defining moment. There isn't a flea market that doesn't have multiple sets, often complete, of fine, bone, or vintage china. For those of you who are looking to spend even less, do what I do, I mix patterned china with colored glass pieces. You can scoop up one set of china and combine it with another. Pair it with interesting wine glasses or iced tea tumblers and your guests will be talking about you in front of you, instead of behind your back.
These are just a few of the things that you will see people flocking to, as we cross the threshold of 2014. Really, what goes out of fashion will return with a vengeance. So, your treasure goes through multiple changes over the years. The reason items are in the flea market is because they last, and that is what we are hoping for, something that lasts. Different or unusual is a good thing...march to the beat of your own drum. No matter what the craze is now, your discerning taste has the ability to create the next...second hand trend...
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