indoor flea market crowd, tables filled with vintage items, people browsing, high ceiling structure, daylight shining in

13 Things I Always Buy at Antique Fairs

July 17, 2025341Views

Minutes Read

Antique fairs are a treasure trove of unique pieces just waiting to be discovered, a paradise for collectors, interior designers, and history buffs alike. From vintage clothing to ancient furniture, these fairs are a one-stop shop for all things old and beautiful.

But, with so many options to choose from, it can be a bit overwhelming to know what to look out for. So, here are 13 things I always buy at antique fairs, each with their own charm and story.

1. Vintage Postcards

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about vintage postcards. Not only do they offer a glimpse into the past, but they also double as beautiful pieces of art. I love hunting through boxes of old postcards, looking for interesting images, handwritten messages, or unique stamps. These can be framed and used as wall decor or kept as keepsakes.

2. Antique Furniture

Vintage wooden furniture set, including a mid-century style table, chairs, and a tall chest of drawers, arranged against a neutral-toned wall with tiled flooring — Image Credit: Fujiphilm/Unsplash.

Antique furniture is a given when you visit an antique fair. Whether it’s a rustic wooden chest, an ornate Victorian chair, or a mid-century modern table, each piece tells a story. Not only do these items add character and charm to your home, but they’re also often well-made and durable, standing the test of time.

3. Vintage Jewelry

Gold traditional jewelry set, includes a necklace, earrings, and bangle, adorned with red gemstone accents, displayed on a dark green fabric background, intricately designed with ethnic motifs — Image Credit: Viresh Studio/Pexels.

Another favorite of mine is vintage jewelry. These pieces can be as simple as an engraved silver locket or as extravagant as a diamond-encrusted brooch. The craftsmanship and detail found in vintage jewelry are often unmatched by modern mass-produced pieces, making them an investment and a pleasure to wear.

4. Old Books

Stack of antique leather-bound books with varying colors and textures. The collection includes dark green, brown, and burgundy volumes with gold-embossed spines, displayed against a dark wooden background — Image Credit: Hello Aesthe/Pexels.

There’s nothing quite like the smell of old books. From classic novels to outdated textbooks, old books are a must-buy for me at antique fairs. They not only add a cozy, intellectual vibe to your living space but also are a great conversation starter.

5. Vintage Clothing

Vintage clothing is one of the most fun things to buy at antique fairs. Not only do these pieces have a unique style, but they’re also often made with quality materials and craftsmanship. Plus, wearing vintage clothing is a great way to express your individuality and stand out from the crowd.

6. Antique Silverware

Antique silverware is another item I always keep an eye out for. These pieces can be incredibly detailed and ornate, and they add a touch of elegance to any dining table. Plus, they’re also often surprisingly affordable.

7. Vintage Toys

Vintage gray toy cannon with four wooden projectiles and rubber-rimmed wheels on a display surface — Image Credit: Sailko – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

Vintage toys are a fun and nostalgic purchase. From old board games to tin wind-up toys, these items can bring back fond memories of childhood. Plus, they can be a great investment, as some vintage toys can be worth a lot of money.

8. Antique Mirrors

Victorian Era Antique Mirrors — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Antique mirrors are a great way to add a touch of vintage charm to any room. They often come in unique shapes and sizes and have beautiful, ornate frames. Plus, they’re a practical purchase, as you can use them to check your outfit before heading out.

9. Vintage Cameras

Vintage film cameras with leather cases hanging at a market stall, green metal frame, crowded background — Image Credit: Pexels.

I love the look of vintage cameras. They make a great decorative item, and they’re also a fun way to experiment with photography. Plus, many vintage cameras are still in working order and can be used to take unique, old-school photos.

10. Antique Clocks

Antique wooden mantel clock, floral inlay design, round white clock face with Roman numerals, placed on polished wood surface — Image Credit: Wellington Silva/ Pexels.

Antique clocks are another item I always look for. These pieces can range from small, ornate mantel clocks to large, grand grandfather clocks. They not only keep time but also add a touch of vintage charm to any room.

11. Vintage Luggage

Stacked vintage suitcases, brown leather bag on top, retro background, warm lighting, nostalgic travel theme, old-fashioned luggage, organized storage, decorative suitcase display — Image Credit: Hani Baziyar/Pexels.

Vintage luggage is a unique and interesting purchase. These pieces can be used for their original purpose, or they can be used as decorative items, adding a touch of vintage charm to any room. Plus, they’re often surprisingly affordable.

12. Antique Glassware

Elegant blue vintage goblets on a dark wooden table with blue napkins and silver cutlery — Image credit: Valeria Boltneva/Pexels.

Antique glassware is another must-buy for me. These pieces can range from simple, elegant wine glasses to ornate, hand-painted vases. They add a touch of elegance to any dining table or display cabinet, and they’re also often surprisingly affordable.

13. Vintage Vinyl Records

Vinyl records and compact discs scattered on a white surface, multiple black records with colored labels, CDs reflecting light, casual display of music media collection — Image Credit: Muffin Creatives/Pexels.

Finally, I always keep an eye out for vintage vinyl records. These items are not only a great way to listen to music, but they also make a great decorative item. Plus, they’re a fun way to discover new (or old) musicians and bands.