6 Rare Collector’s Items You Can’t Afford to Miss—Tips for Buying Vintage Like a Pro!

April 22, 2025April 21, 2025 by Jeffrey T. Poss

Thrift shoppers know how exciting it is to find an antique treasure. Whether it’s a unique item or a bold statement piece, hunting for vintage finds is a great way to add character to your home without spending too much. This season, people are looking for fun and colorful items that can also serve a purpose. From big collectibles to quirky pieces, there’s something for every home.

To help you, we spoke with Emily Vaughn and Laura McMahon from The Guild, who just came back from a European buying trip. They shared their tips on what’s trending and what collectors are after.

According to McMahon, “Vintage items are a big trend in Europe right now.” People are collecting vintage furniture, kitchen gadgets, art deco lamps, albums, and even recycled fashion from popular brands.

One big trend is the use of bold colors. “Yellow and tangerine are big for spring, along with various shades of pink and green, especially in glassware and barware,” says McMahon.

But just because something is popular doesn’t mean you should buy it. Before purchasing, check the condition of the items. If a piece needs repairs and you’re not willing to fix it, it might be best to pass.

Vaughn advises, “Avoid items that aren’t in good shape unless you’re ready to spend time or money fixing them.” On the other hand, McMahon says, “If you truly love something, and it’s in good condition, go ahead and buy it!”

Table of Contents

6 Collector Must-Haves for 2025

1. Kitchen Accessories

Vintage kitchen items, from copper pots to decorative bread boxes and old mixers, are popular this season. Some might be pricey, but many can be found at flea markets for a few dollars. Don’t be afraid to mix different eras; as long as they look good together, they’ll make your kitchen stand out.

2. Painted Screens and Panels

Large items like painted screens or panels can change the feel of a room. They can help define different areas in open spaces or add color to a room. These items are also a great way to bring art into your home.

3. Art Deco Lamps

Art Deco lamps are known for their bold lines and geometric shapes. This style is still very popular and works well with the metallic chrome trend. If you’re looking for stylish and decorative lighting, an Art Deco lamp is a great option.

4. Barware and Glasses

Barware and glassware are popular again, especially for those who love to entertain. Even people who don’t drink often enjoy the aesthetic of a bar cart. Vintage glasses and accessories can make your dining or bar area look even more special.

5. Kitschy Plates

Vintage plates with fun designs, like flowers or bunnies, are trending. These plates add color and charm to your kitchen or dining table. Cabbageware, which features a plant-like pattern, is also very popular this season.

6. Fashion as Decor

Incorporating your personal interests into your home decor is a great way to make your space unique. If you love fashion, you can use vintage items like handbags or silk scarves as decoration. Vintage handbags can look great in closets or dressing rooms, adding both style and function to your space.