Each week, preferably as a team, we hop in the car and go on “brokers tour” to see all of the new homes for sale in Berkeley and beyond. This week was no exception. It was a beautiful day and there were some gorgeous homes to preview including a stunning Kensington midcentury home.
So while we were talking shop and spilling tea, Alissa brought up something near and dear to my heart.
Thrifting! Vintage, Resale, secondhand, whatever the kids are calling it these days. It’s transcended from an option to an ideology and who is at the forefront? Our children!
I am so proud. As a lover of all things design as well as a person that considers themself environmentally conscientious, I too was drawn to the idea of finding something special as a young person, a one of a kind treasure; something with a story that not only brought me joy, but did so with minimal waste and well within budget! I bring that same love for vintage to the homes we sell.
Well, our children got the memo. 83% of Gen Z thrift, or want to, our children included. 64% consider the resale value of an item before they make that purchase?! 2 out of 5 items in their closet are second hand! The younger generations are also laser focused on homes with character, soul, and original features. All this to say, the kids are on to something and congrats to us because we literally made these humans. I have no intention of preaching about why this is so important and wonderful. We know!
But I would like to take this opportunity to say two things.
The first being- it’s never too late to explore and evolve. Maybe going into a brick and mortar feels off-putting or intimidating. That doesn’t need to be the case! Locals shops like RElove, Mercy Vintage, and Pretty Penny, just to name a few, cater to many different demos and trust me, there’s something for everyone.
Beyond the store fronts are the events. Staples like the Alameda Flea and the Oakland Vintage Market (hosted by the incredible vintage coop Narrative) have been around for years with no signs of slowing down. Furthermore, the trend has moved far beyond clothing. Furniture, housewares, and pretty much anything else you can think of is being made available at the flea or online (which is another topic entirely).
The second and last thing I’ll say is this:
As we remain focused on community or as the kids are calling it, Neighborism, reach out for recommendations. If you would like more information on the in’s and out’s of local vintage, where to find anything secondhand, or what updates do an don't make sense on a classic home, please reach out!
Lissa Moon xx
