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Posted 2 years ago
Tillymint
(5 items)
Treasure hunting for vintage vanity items is such a fabulous passtime, it is incredible how many gorgeous, elegant and exquisitely designed items one can collect from a whole range of sources. Here's a few pieces I thought worthy of sharing. I just delight in the fascination of these beautiful accessories associated with being a woman! - Who? Why? When? - Where would one be without her silver enamel purse, pink swansdown powder puff, golden fan and of course a compulsary aide memoire!.
CompactsIn the 1920s, la garçonne, or the young flapper woman of the Art Deco era, …
Hand FansBack in 1325 B.C.E., when King Tut ruled Egypt, minions would keep the air …
I love your collection....I am a new collector of all things "vanity", with a focus on Tango purses, compacts and vanity carry all's. If I remove original contents from compacts such as lipstick and powder, will item lower in value ?
Also what is your favorite event or show to attend, and best online shopping?
I admire your experience and great collection. Respectfully, Darlene (darlenedio)
Hey Darlene
Thank you! - Personally I always remove the powder with a small brush, as it often clouds the mirror gets into the hinges and is generally a mess - I do not feel it lowers the value at all. With lipstick, if it has been used and gooey, again I would take it out. I use olive oil to clean items too, I find that is the best and doesnt damage. There are lots of on-line shops and my website is a good link to start! - I go to many antique and collectors fairs, or vintage fashion events are always brilliant!. Good luck and do let me know how you go on! :) Best wishes Tilly
You are very kind. Thank you so much for the great information! One more question and I will set you free! Would replacing a compact mirror devalue? And would a jeweler do this? I will check out your site now! finding a mentor is not easy when you are new kid on the block...Thank you again!
Hi
no problem, very happy to chat about compacts - I always buy old compacts that are no longer wanted, scratched or broken and I can pick them up for a few pound. If I then find something that needs a new mirror, sifter, pouchette or puff, I use the old bits as spares - carefully done, replacement is not a problem, and won't devalue if done properly - sometimes this is not so easy with the fine silver pieces, and if possible it would be better to ask a Jeweller to do it - but certainly with standard Kigu or Stratton or similar it is not a problem as the mirrors are generally glued, or fitted behind a frame which can be carefully removed without damage. You have found a great hobby and I am sure you will have lots of fun treasure hunting!. Kind regards Tilly