When I’m not at my desk writing about home decor, I’m usually out thrifting, and given that summer is a season filled with flea markets, yard sales, and the like, I have high hopes that I’ll encounter some of the pieces at the top of my current secondhand wish list. Below, I’m giving you the details of all the extremely specific vintage finds that I’m hoping to scoop up this season. Maybe some of these items are already on your radar, too!
A Wicker Picnic Basket, Ideally of French Origin
I’m lucky enough to live walking distance from a couple of wonderful parks, and this summer, I’m really looking to up my park picnic game and stop transporting my snacks and sandwiches in a simple canvas tote bag. I’d love to score a beautiful vintage wicker picnic basket that will make my weekend lunches outdoors a little more aesthetic. The main issue is that as an apartment dweller, I don’t have much storage for a bulky basket, so I’m going to need to source something on the more petite end. Bonus points if whatever I come across has French ties, given that I’m a major Francophile and love all the wicker pieces that are made throughout the country.
A Vintage Italian Grotto Chair
I’ve long admired vintage Italian grotto chairs, but I’ve found that most of these pieces are well out of my price range. (I also definitely don’t need a set of four or six, which is how they’re often sold!) After being on the hunt for years, I’d honestly be thrilled to come across even just a singular grotto chair to weave into my apartment. The shell motif would be extra fitting for summer, but I’m sure I’d treasure this piece all year long, regardless of the weather outside. Even if I end up finding a grotto chair that calls for a reupholstery project, I’d still be pleased, so long as I’m scoring a deal for the most part!
A Rush Chair
Speaking of chairs (yes, I have a bit of an obsession with chic seating!), I’d also be delighted to source a rush chair for my living room. Any type of woven material just screams summer—I’m already breaking out raffia bags and sandals galore, so why not keep the trend going in my home? I’ve admired some lovely new rush chairs online but would love to go the vintage route if possible, given that I love owning something one-of-a-kind that’s clearly been constructed to last.
Tapestry-Inspired Decor
I have more than a few verdure tapestries that I’ve collected at flea markets and via other secondhand platforms. However, I would love to source more tapestry-inspired decor, such as a bench covered in verdure fabric or even some pillows. I know that tapestries are having a major moment right now, so I may need to bring my game face as I keep my eyes peeled for these types of items, but let’s just say I’m not one to be deterred by a bit of thrifting competition!
Scalloped Planters
I have wide windowsills in my apartment that are perfect for displaying indoor plants … I just need some cute planters to complete the setup. I love ceramic pots with a scalloped border and hope to find a couple of these while thrifting over the coming months. If the pots I see have patina, that’s even better—I love the weathered, English garden look and can see it translating well into my space.
