Spark

Uptown Modern

I love the idea of vintage and unusual items for decorating my room, but how do I find the good stuff? I get totally overwhelmed when I go in an antique store or flea market?

Hunting down vintage treasures can be just as rewarding as seeing how these goodies add warmth and character to your home. Unique, off-beat items add personality and depth to your home. It is absolutely worth it to wake up early, grab of wad of cash and start shopping!

Where to go? Start with special event antique shows and flea markets. This weekend is the Austin City Wide Garage Sale and the end of the month marks the kickoff of the 43rd annual fall antique fair at Round Top. Scan the newspaper and your neighborhood for promising garage and estate sales. Squeeze in visits to local antique and thrift stores while you’re running errands. We love Uncommon Objects, Uptown Modern and Gatherings in Georgetown. These sorts of stores have a constantly revolving inventory because the owners never stop scavenging and seeking out good buys.

Uncommon Object

What to look for? Look for what you love, what catches your eye, and what brings a smile of association. Now don’t go crazy and buy everything you adore (think hoarder), but don’t limit yourself either. Use your imagination and think of innovative ways to group and repurpose items.

Remember how I was recommending Emily Henderson’s new program last week? Well, I still think you should watch Secrets from a Stylist, especially if you want to see how to work with vintage pieces. Emily featured a great list of tips for tackling the flea market. Rather than say all the same things, I’m just going suggest you read her article. . . and visit her blog.

Round Top Antiques Fair

However, I am sure our dear Curlin will have a few shopping tips to add because the woman is a teensy bit obsessed (in a good way) with scouting out vintage stores. Ashley is also a whiz at repurposing cast-offs and making treasures out of trash. So if you truly are overwhelmed, let us know and we’ll send one our creative sparkly stylists your way!

For those of you who are vintage shopping pros, what are your favorite spots to shop?

Curlin and I moseyed over to Uncommon Objects for a hit of South Congress happiness last week and we were not disappointed. Inspiration can be had at any price point in this phenomenal store – some of my favorite discoveries are below. I’m drawn to glass in the garden, especially when it has watery hues [...]