Top row: vintage salt box, a collection of old postcards and greeting cards, an antique sketch
Bottom row: box of antique ornate frames, glass lampwork, authentic porthole covers
Treasure isn’t easy to find. Sometimes it takes a whole lot of digging to get to that X that marks the spot, or in other cases a whole lot of digging through piles of old, dusty mason jars and broken chandeliers. As I found out today, antiquing is not a simple task. It requires devoting a large chunk of time and focus, and of course knowing what’s a treasured antique piece and what’s just plain old.
I began with the main mission of finding more Victorian frames to add to my wall-of-frames collection, but soon became consumed by world’s past. If you’ve never been in an antique store, like myself, you may underestimate the intrigue and charm the shop holds. The instant I stepped in the door, a feeling of vicarious nostalgia engulfed me. Although I have obviously not lived through the 1940’s, I felt a connection with the period as I browsed through old handwritten postcards from. And though I was born after the sixties, the piles of bright, mod jewelry told me otherwise.
Out There Antiques, St. Augustine, Fl. One of my four stops today
It wasn’t long before I lost sight of my original treasure hunt for picture frames — instead I suddenly wanted every porcelain trinket and decorative plate I laid my eyes on. The crowded aisles were packed full of items to gaze it, each holding stories of the past. Although there are sure to be some questionable “antiques” in such a large venue — I stumbled upon a jar full of those tiny plastic swords you stick in cocktails — there are also some true gems.
My ultimate favorite find was this collection of patina-covered brass portholes, straight off the ship. They would look so amazing repurposed as mirrors or even just as they are. Sadly, I don’t have $255 to spend on ship parts, so I was left admiring them from afar.
Portholes from Antique Warehouse
Second place goes to this luxurious chaise lounge in a majestic emerald from the 1880’s. Because who doesn’t want to feel like a queen when they take a seat?
Velvet lounge from Antique Warehouse
Since I don’t have the sort of budget that allows for purchases of massive, handmade furniture from the 1800’s, I stuck to the smaller items. I ended up discovering an entire box of the ornate frames that I wanted, and even made a little addition to my earring collection — all for under $13. I think it’s safe to say I found my treasure.
On myself: spotted shirt and apricot skirt from Forever 21, necklaces from Urban Outfitters and vintage
Sorry for the awful glare
Great finds! You’ve inspired me to hit up my local antique stores!
Thank you! You should really try it, it’s so much fun!
love the green velvet lounge, you scored! xoGlor
It’s gorgeous, isn’t it? I wish I had bought it! Sadly it was wayy expensive
damn it, oh well! It’s still gorgeous. You’ll always have the pic! 🙂