We couldn’t have a home and garden special without including the interior design craze that’s sweeping the nation: all things vintage! JLife goes bargain-hunting…
These days, it seems everyone has caught the vintage fashion bug. From the odd charity shop bargain to a rehomed piece of furniture from eBay, the ‘make do and mend’ spirit of old is once again in full swing.
Vintage fairs and furniture bazaars are popping up all over the place, so we decided to enlist the help of Judy Berger from The Vintage Furniture Flea, a travelling furniture fair, to give an insight into the delights that can be found. Here are some examples of the sort of treasures you’re likely to find on your next visit:
Salvaged Salvation
Industrial and salvaged items are extremely popular at the moment. Many traders source old factory lighting and fixtures, which make interesting additions to the home, especially for a sleek kitchen or a trendy home office.
Judy says: “We are in love with this letter ‘E’ from an old cinema! It’s nice to know these items aren’t left to rot away and can be repurposed.”
Attractive An-teaks
From an assortment of small coffee tables to large sideboards and dining sets, you never know what you might find at your local vintage gathering. The beauty of buying pre-loved items is that there is something for everyone’s budget. Whether you take home a grand wardrobe or a small dressing table, it’s sure to be a talking point.
Judy says: “Teak furniture is always one of the biggest sellers at furniture markets. Brands like the Danish G Plan (which can be identified by their gold-embossed labels) are well made and have stood the test of time.”
Food for Thought
Retro kitchenware is always a guarantee at a furniture market, and it’s not unusual to spot something that reminds you of childhood meal times and old family gatherings. Dinner party favourites like the hostess trolleys are making a comeback, while 1950s cocktail glasses and coffee pots can fetch a pretty penny.
Judy says: “As a cocktail fan, it’s nice to see the popularity of vintage and retro barware. Classic pieces like pineapple ice buckets and Babycham glasses always pop up across the country.”
Farewell Flat-Pack
The Leeds Vintage Furniture Flea is coming back to Leeds after a successful first event at the Corn Exchange in March. Returning on 21st May, there’ll be plenty of affordable and unique bargains to discover, and it’s free entry too. Gathering vintage traders from all over the UK, visitors can step back in time to browse the styles and palettes of mid-century living onwards.
To discover more details about the next Vintage Furniture Flea in Leeds or similar events, visit Judysvintagefair.co.uk
