Tips from a Veteran Santa Barbara Vintage Shopper
Antiquing Advice from Anne Luther, Owner of The Antique Center
Unlike many of today’s cheaply manufactured products, antiques were built to last a lifetime. These high-quality items can be a chic, unique, and eco-conscious way to furnish your home. But you need to know what to look for.
Antiques dealer Anne Luther founded Raggedy Anneteques at age 14, selling her wares at flea markets and swap meets. She shared some tips during a recent walk through the Antique Center Mall on Hollister Avenue, where her collections are on display (she also has space at the Summerland Antique Collective).
DON’T JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER: “Don’t think because you see a rack of Hawaiian shirts when you walk in that there won’t be anything in the store for you,” said Luther. “Multi-dealer collectives often have a mix of dealers with a range of items to offer. Shopping at these kinds of places saves you time and helps you develop your own style. Dealers will sometimes have to buy an entire estate or box at auction to get the items they really want. So make sure to look closely. That Asian art dealer may also have a small box of English china in the corner. You never know.” This is also a good way to find bargains, she said.
