Unearthing Treasure: How Antiquing Reignited My Soul (and Bathroom)

Beyond Musty Memories: Discovering the Thrill of the Hunt

If the word "antiquing" evokes images of dusty trinkets and a lingering musty odor, you're not alone. I once felt the same way. But beneath the surface of forgotten relics lies a world of thrilling discoveries, unique style, and a connection to history that mass-produced items simply can't offer.

In a world saturated with targeted ads and fleeting trends, where 75% of Americans embrace the ease of online shopping, it's easy to lose sight of originality. The ethical dilemmas of fast fashion and overconsumption further tarnish the joy of new possessions. I, too, have fallen prey to the allure of instant gratification, transforming fleeting trends into entire personality shifts.

My own journey into the world of antiques began unexpectedly, amidst personal challenges and a lukewarm response to the generic offerings of modern furniture stores. Furnishing a condo in Palm Beach, Florida, home of the famed Antique Row, presented a unique opportunity to escape the algorithm and embrace the unexpected.

From Indecision to Inspiration: Finding Beauty in the Unexpected

It was a closing antique store on Antique Row that changed everything. A sensory explosion of beautiful, unique pieces at surprisingly affordable prices sparked a newfound excitement. Inspiration flooded in where there had been only indecision.

Unlike the bombardment of online ads, I was free to absorb the stories whispered by each object: the enigmatic gaze of a bronze bust, the silent tales of art deco chairs that witnessed the Roaring Twenties. These weren't just stunning pieces of furniture; they were survivors, each with a history, beckoning for a new chapter.

"Antiques are survivors beckoning for a second (or third, fourth, fifth) chance at a new life. They felt just like me."

Joining the Community: The Human Touch of Antiquing

The antiquing community thrives on shared passion and a genuine love for the objects they curate. Shop owners and enthusiasts alike weave tales of decades-long collections and globe-trotting adventures. They care deeply about these pieces and readily share their stories, creating a welcoming and interconnected world.

I soon became part of this community, graduating from Antique Row to exhilarating estate sales. Hunting amongst a trove of treasures reignited my passions, pride, and a long-dormant curiosity for aesthetics. I found myself drawn to a vibrant oil painting, a $200 original by Iranian artist Hessam Abrishami whose works typically command thousands. His mission to portray optimism resonated deeply, forging a connection that transcended the canvas.

The Golden Sink: A Touch of Versailles in Palm Beach

Then, I spotted her: a gleaming sink, reminiscent of a Versailles powder room, an enchanting objet d'art with a practical purpose. Even my husband, typically skeptical of my unconventional ideas, was captivated. This impractical yet perfect piece belonged to the late Sydell L. Miller, the pioneering founder of Ardell lashes and Matrix hair care.

As a longtime beauty editor, I was instantly drawn to Miller's legacy as an inclusive trailblazer in a male-dominated era. Repurposing her sink felt like fate, a chance to honor her legacy while adding a touch of history to our home. The $900 investment was well worth the effort.

Everything Old is New Again: Lettuce Ware and the Enduring Appeal of Antiques

While waiting to pick up the sink, I stumbled upon a display of lettuce ware, the very same salad plates I'd seen advertised on social media. This amusing juxtaposition highlighted the cyclical nature of trends. Instead of paying exorbitant prices for modern reproductions, I could own the originals at a fraction of the cost. Leaning in for a sniff (a ritual I highly recommend), I found no trace of must, only the allure of timeless style.