​New York - Thrift stores, flea markets, second-hand stores, and garage sales have long been known as treasure troves for those seeking valuable and unique items. Despite the perception from many that these places only offer worn-out and past-their-prime goods, they often contain hidden gems that can hold considerable value, especially as baby boomers continue to divest themselves of goods and chattels in larger and larger numbers. For those in the antique and vintage business, many of these locations have long been a staple of supply when it comes to stocking up on their inventory. However, for an increasing number of dealers, 'recent finds' have made the trek to many of these venues all the more worthwhile, with some claiming multiple once-in-a-lifetime scores now happening on a far more frequent basis than in the past.

For Karen Dowd, who works as a realtor in an upmarket rural area just outside of Boston, part of her business involves estate liquidations that can be required in order to finalize sale conditions for a home. Dowd says that over the past few years she's seen an incredible uptick in the number of baby-boomers who want to downsize quickly, with as little 'muss-and-fuss' as possible. "They're often in a rush to get into something smaller," she says, "and that can sometimes lead to them disposing of items en mass without a lot of consideration for what they're letting go of..." Dowd says that she helps as many of her clients as possible to keep family heirlooms from her exit-sales, but laments that many of them just want to be rid of the extraneous baggage, while others are simply 'okay' with whatever she can get for the goods. While Dowd acknowledges that she's no expert in antique and vintage items, and that her sales are just an added feature she offers her clients to help expedite their move, she also knows that plenty of undervalued items have slipped through the cracks. "I've sold numerous jewelry box-lots at sales that I'm sure probably had some legitimate gems in them, but like anything else, it just comes down to time," she says, "especially with so many boomers now listing and selling their homes." Dowd believes that for every sale she conducts today, almost half are probably not vetted as thoroughly as she'd like. "Five years ago we would have labelled and priced every single item, today, I'm lucky to do three-quarters of that - people are getting deals, there's no question about it." 

In order to understand why many in the decorative arts industry are claiming witness to the rising prevalence of undiscovered treasures in second-hand locales, you need look no further than the current data and history behind it, says Terry Wolmack, a leading analyst for online Estate Sale Listing companies. "It's important to understand the demographics behind the boomer phenomenon," he says, "this generation still constitutes a significant portion of the population, and as they enter their retirement years or downsize their homes, many are finding themselves overwhelmed with the task of decluttering and divesting possessions accumulated over their lifetime. This process often leads them to donate or sell items that may hold hidden value." As a result, says Wolmack, second-hand stores, flea markets, thrift stores, and garage sales have once again become prime hunting grounds for dealers not only seeking out more common inventory, but also for those rare and unique items that may have gone unnoticed by those presenting the sale. Wolmack noted that the main complaint he now gets most frequently on his quarterly survey-questionnaire to estate sale liquidators, is that they simply can't cope with the volume of goods they're having to divest, and the sorting process that goes along with it - especially when it's a boomer sale. Wolmack says that a lot of clients who use estate sale service websites as part of their business are acutely aware of the fact that it's also not just a capacity issue when it comes to understanding the fine print, but a knowledge issue as well. "If you don't have a good working background in antique and vintage items, then steals-and-deals are going to happen," says Wolmack, "it's just a function of how the marketplace works."​ 

Carla Neal, a dealer and reseller on Etsy and OfferUp, believes that technological advancements are also playing a crucial role in the increasing prevalence of hitting the jackpot at many of these venues. "The advent of online platforms, such as eBay, Craigslist, and other online marketplaces, has revolutionized the way people buy and sell used goods," says Neal. "Baby-boomers, who are typically less tech-savvy than younger generations, often rely on more traditional methods of selling their belongings. Consequently, valuable items that could find a massive market online may end up at local thrift stores or garage sales instead." Neal says this creates an opportunity for astute buyers to uncover significant treasures that may have gone unnoticed by other sellers or enthusiasts. "I tend to scour the older boomer neighborhoods for garage and estate liquidation sales," she confides, "it's where I've made some truly outstanding finds." Neal says that on one particular outing recently, she came across a mid-century home that was heading to market, with the owners wanting to dispose of the chattels in a rushed curbside sale. "It was all the original furnishings and decorations from the mid-50s," she says, "I literally bought them out of house-and-home." However, Neal also believes that another factor influencing the greater number of 'super-finds' now occurring within the market is simply related to age. "The older people get, the less concerned they seem to be with possessions - it's of less value to them than time - and consequently they're often willing to let things go for far less than market value," she says.

Sometimes it's just first-hand experience that leads to this conclusion, as Darla Hendricks discovered, when visiting her parents while helping them transition into a retirement home across the pond in England. "I'm actually in the antique business," said Hendricks, "so finding out that my parents, who were both prolific collectors of Art Nouveau throughout their lifetimes, were going to just give away most of their collection to charity stores came as a bit of a surprise to me." Hendricks says that she arrived just in time to stop the pick-up, and that while she couldn't afford the cost to ship the entire collection back to the States for herself, she was able to wrangle a deal with a number of local antique dealers for many of the better pieces. "They weren't being taken advantage of," she says, "it's just that they couldn't be bothered at their age with a complicated disposal process." Hendricks also recounted that many of the English antique dealers that she spoke with were also of the mind that a lot of good examples from long-held collections were starting to come onto the market. "I'm not sure if it's just the last generation of baby-boomers relinquishing their collections, or something else," said Hendricks, "but you definitely had the sense that many of these dealers were looking to buy entire collections, and were willing to pay top-dollar (or Pound) for them."

For many in the industry, the baby-boomer generation is often seen as possessing items from periods that are considered retro or vintage by younger individuals. These items not only carry historical value but also represent a cultural and sentimental connection to the past. Younger generations, seeking to decorate their living spaces with unique and distinctive pieces, are drawn to these venues in the hopes of stumbling upon hidden gems that hold not only a personal nostalgia, but that can also lead to a substantial collectors value. Terry Wolmack perhaps best summarizes the theory by noting that, "It's understood that remaining boomer's are likely to have the choicest decorative arts collections in the world, so it's only natural that in those attic spaces and garage-wall storage shelves, you're also likely going to come across some of the best 'finds' in the world as well." 

- A.I.A. Staff Writers
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New York - It's no secret that over the past decade the antique and vintage industry has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with millennials being a significant factor in driving this trend. While some may argue that younger generations are more interested in digital experiences than actual possessions, numerous studies and sales reports from those in the decorative arts world would seem to contradict this assessment, suggesting instead, that millennials have now become the industry's single biggest purchaser of antique and vintage goods, and are well on their way to becoming the largest attending demographic group at many of today's antique and vintage fairs in both North America and Europe.

With that information in-hand, we decided to reach out to a number of top millennial dealers for some insight on expected antique and vintage trends that might turn hot at sales-booths and display-tables across the nation this summer. 

Jennifer Harper - Dealer, Curator and Online Sales Platforms
"As a millennial, I've always had a deep appreciation for authenticity and a yearning for nostalgia. Growing up in a digital age, where everything was mass-produced and easily accessible, I tended to crave unique and meaningful experiences. Over time, I began to find that antique and vintage items offered a connection to the past, embodying a sense of history and craftsmanship that I found resonated with my generation as we got a little bit older. These past few years, I've noticed that more and more buyers are my age, and they're not just interested in MCM (Mid-Century Modern), but other collectible areas as well"

Harper's choice for this summer's top picks are Art Deco and Costume jewelry.

"The glamour and sophistication of art deco jewelry remains highly sought after," says Harper. "Search out bold geometric designs and the use of precious stones that evoke the opulence of the 1920s and 1930s. Be on the lookout for necklaces, bracelets, and rings featuring stones set in platinum, gold or silver." While Harper acknowledges that not every millennial can afford such pieces, she thinks Costume jewelry can be an attractive alternative for younger buyers. "It's selling hot right now," she says, "especially at shows and fairs."  

Larry Cousins - Etsy, TIAS and Brick & Mortar Dealer
"Even though I grew up in a throwaway culture, concerns about environmental sustainability and ethical production practices were always issues I was interested in, which is probably why I gravitated towards the antiques and vintage business. As someone who is conscious of the impact of my consumption on the planet, opting for a decorative arts business simply aligned with my values of reusing, recycling, and reducing waste. By embracing many of these timeless pieces and putting them back into the marketplace, I think it contributes to a more sustainable and circular economy.​"

Cousin's top picks for summer buys are vintage vinyl records and cameras.

"Vinyl records have experienced a resurgence in recent years," says Cousins, "from classic rock to jazz and blues, original pressings and limited editions from iconic artists like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Miles Davis are commanding high prices among enthusiasts." Cousins says that millennials also seem to appreciate the charm and craftsmanship of vintage cameras. Classic models from brands like Leica, Nikon, and Hasselblad are highly coveted. Cousins recommends seeking out cameras with iconic designs, quality lenses, and working mechanisms, as these types of cameras offer both functional and aesthetic value to collectors.

Donna Perkins - Dealer Cooperative Manager, Online Sales Platforms and Antique Shows
​"Part of what initially motivated me to get into the decorative arts business was the sense of personal expression. I think as a group, millennials value self-expression and individuality, seeking to differentiate themselves from mass consumerism. Antique and vintage items provide a way for us to express our unique style and personality. Whether it's through clothing, furniture, or accessories, these items allow us to curate our spaces and wardrobes with one-of-a-kind pieces that stand out from mainstream trends."

Prekin's top picks for summer buys are textiles and Victorian oil paintings 

"Vintage textiles, such as quilts, tapestries, and embroidered fabrics, offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship and artistry of past eras," says Perkins, "and have been a hot seller recently." According to Perkins, buyers should be looking for textiles made from luxurious materials like silk or velvet, featuring intricate patterns or representing some form of historical significance. Additionally, Perkins says that while MCM furniture décor may still be popular among many of her cotemporaries, she notes that tastes in wall-art are beginning to change. "Many of our co-operative dealers are selling out of Victorian oils faster than they can replace them," she says, "even portraits and ornately framed examples are moving well." Perkins says that while you typically don't think of Victorian 'anything' as being in the wheelhouse of her generations interests, she's noticed that things are definitely beginning to move in a different direction, as older millennials like herself are reaching further and further back into the past for more interesting and unique pieces. "I think it's a bit of a desire to mix and match some 'contemporary' antique stylings like Art Deco, with slightly older pieces that are perhaps a bit more formal in nature," she says.

David Halston - Dealer, Picker, Estate Sales Agent and Online Sales Platforms
"I grew up hearing wonderful tales from my Grandfather about his past, and I think it was that great storytelling that probably piqued my interest in the decorative arts world. I've always found that antique and vintage items tend to carry stories and evoke a sense of nostalgia that often sparks conversation and connection. As a millennial, I'm drawn to the narratives behind these objects, it's something I can appreciate - especially the historical context and the human stories they represent. Sharing these stories with friends and family becomes a way to forge connections and foster a sense of community."

​Halston's top pick for summer buys are antique maps and globes.

Halston believes that old maps and globes from bygone eras can not only be a captivating addition to someone's collection, but they also tend to be great conversation starters about the past. "Look for antique maps that showcase historical regions, discoveries, or cartographic advancements," he says. "Globes that reflect the geopolitical landscape of the past can be particularly intriguing. These pieces serve as windows into how the world was once perceived." Halston says that while maps and old globes were at one time relatively easy to find, it's become increasingly harder to source decently priced inventory. "Younger folks are into it now," he says, "which has obviously driven up prices." For the best deals, Halston says he frequents garage sales in predominately senior neighborhoods, and then resells online. "Most of my buyers are probably in their early to mid-thirties," says Halston, "but they seem to be interested in almost all eras and genres related to map collecting and globes." 

Suzanne Olsen - Online Sales Platforms, Antique Shows & Fairs
"Part of my introduction into the antique and vintage world came about as a result of my desire for experiences rather than mere transactions. Antique and vintage stores provide an immersive and nostalgic shopping experience that appeals to many from my generation. For millennials, exploring these unique spaces, browsing through curated collections, and interacting with knowledgeable sellers seems to add an extra layer of enjoyment and engagement to the buying process."

Olsen's top picks for summer buys are old movie posters and textured ceramics.

"Our generation loves streaming - whether it's a new series or old films - we're all about the experience," says Olsen. Which is why she thinks millennial film buffs and collectors often seek out classic movie posters as both nostalgic décor and as a valuable investment. Original posters from iconic movies like Casablanca, Gone with the Wind, or Star Wars are all highly sought after. Olsen says to make sure to look for posters in good condition and with desirable artwork or promotional designs. On the more practical side, Olsen says she's also seen a marked uptick in intertest recently related to textured ceramics. "Look for handmade ceramic vases and sculptures with attractive glazes and colors. The natural material and unique shapes and textures can add a warm and personal accent to tables, cabinets, counters, and shelves."

As millennials continue to drive interest in the antique and vintage industry through their desire for unique, authentic, and sustainable products, there's probably never been a better time (nor reason) for keeping tabs on this socially active generation than now. With their emphasis on individuality, environmentalism, and quality, these younger consumers are not only contributing to the rising popularity within today's antique and vintage marketplace, but will also likely have a say in shaping its direction for years to come.

- AIA Staff Writer's
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