Over the last 20 years I’ve been lucky enough to turn a life-long interest in “old things†into my current day jobs – auctioneering in Emsworth Auctions and running an antiques & collectables shop, Emsworth Antiques Etc. in the town’s West Street.
Through these, I’m often asked “So, what’s ‘In’ at the moment?â€
Of course, Entertaining & Hosting is on a lot of people’s minds. Topping up on vintage table-settings, cutlery and glasses. Good quality vintage wares will very often cost less than their new high-street equivalents and give your table an individual air.
MY BUYING TIP : Cut glass tableware dating from around 1900. Since nearly all the Stourbridge glass workshops have closed, the skills that produced these handsome pieces are being lost.
Christmas Present hunting is on the go – the vintage and antique favourites seem to be jewellery, watches, pens, books and small silver pieces of all sorts, as well as curious stockingfillers. Plus the odd old sixpenny piece for the Christmas pudding!
And For Yourself? The trend in shawl collars, polonecks and loose jackets in subdued shades invites the wearer to personalise and accentuate their ‘look’ with off-the-high-street fabrics and jewellery : ‘70s scarves, Edwardian cameos, antique pendants and bar brooches with pearls.
For partying, sleeves are short or pushed-back ready for action; ideal for lots of bangles and bracelets – some ‘bling’ and some silver (vintage silver jewellery is very keenly priced at the moment). And all to be finished off with a small – but gorgeous – ring or two.
A selection of antique and vintage jewellery suitable for mixed use today – a wide variety in stock at Emsworth Antiques Etc. – prices from below £10.
MY BUYING TIP: Antique and vintage jewellery can be an exciting area of collecting and pieces can prove to be a good investment.