Trends in the antiques trade
The old saying that for every season there is a reason seems to be dead on when it comes to those looking for antiques. The Asheford Institute (AIA), a professional level distance learning program related to the study of antiques, appraising and the decorative arts, recently released the results of its 2018 survey. Each year, the AIA surveys trade professionals for trends and movements within the antiques and collectibles marketplace.
The primary focus of the survey has always been towards gauging meaningful interest by the public, in regard to current and popular trends related to the antiques, vintage, and retro-inspired marketplace. The results are based on actual sales and requests for particular items.
Perhaps the biggest trend in the antiques industry right now is that those who participated in the survey, mostly antique store owners, says that there was definitely a younger vibe to the collecting experience than ever before. Youth is definitely into thrifting and vintage. There is a younger demographic appearing than ever before. Whether or not this surge will last remains to be seen but right now the young want the old!
Some of the movers and shakers from the poll included vintage fashions and textiles (which had a stronger showing over previous years) as well as costume and vintage jewelry, which continued its surge in popularity and price. Costume and vintage jewelry hasn’t seen a resurgence in awhile so if you are still hanging on to Grandma’s fashion jewelry from the 1920s on up, you may want to revisit their value.
Other notable items included toys, specifically Star Wars items, and American Western memorabilia, all of which continue to draw high ticket prices. Star Wars has always done well but folks are looking for the really old, rare and odd pieces from the original Star Wars movies. Toys have always trended and now items from all decades seem to be sought after.
With the interest of the younger collectors, there is also an interest in kitchenware and furniture. Gone are the days of wasteful younger generations. This new young generation cares about the planet and sustainability. What better way to this than to recycle vintage and antiques and actually use them in everyday life? The younger generation has caught on to this and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon.
With all of the trends going on in the antiques world, it’s no wonder that antique store owners are seeing a higher traffic flow than ever before. We want to incorporate the old into the new that is our lives. Young or old or somewhere in between, we want to preserve the past and hold onto the knowledge of yesteryear as long as we can.
