It’s not too early to start thinking about holiday giving. Gifts from mid-century collectibles to hard-to-find books and objects can be found at tcgVINTAGEetc.
Experiential gifts are becoming the preferred choice for gift givers and gift getters, but it’s still fun to open a package. When looking for that one special something gift to open holiday morning, vintage gifts bring great joy – history and memories – and an appreciation of days gone by. Repurposing vintage objects is a great way to cut down on consumerism and mass production, and maybe pass along to another vintage lover in your life.
This sampling of collectibles from my Etsy shop, tcgVINTAGEetc, highlights mid-century objects, unique books, fashion, and retail shopping bags.
Vintage Books | Acting, Travel, Yoga
This eclectic trio of vintage books are lesser known and hard-to-find titles. They make special gifts for book collectors.
1974 The Craft of Comedy by Athene Seyler and Stephen Haggard
This unique edition houses an historical inlay (surprise!) and is a great reference guide for actors working in comedy, or as an entertaining read for fans of books about acting.
1964 African Creeks I Have Been Up by Sue Spencer
Read about the hilarious misadventures of the author and her family who triumphed over difficult living conditions and a trying West African climate. This rare, early-edition #travelessay is full of mishaps and family fun.
1963 The Garland of Letters (Varnamala): Studies in the Mantra-Sastra by John Woodroffe
A rare copy of the examination of the advaita philosophy of Shaktism, this is a fascinating, informative read for yoga practitioners. The author’s work heightened interest in Hindu philosophy in the West.
Vintage Cake Toppers | Little Girls With Bonnets
These sweet, Little Girls with Bonnets Cake Picks help brighten up parties with a 1950s twist. This sturdy plastic set of six typifies mid-century design and color. Stored in a vintage, soft-pink case, these candle holders are a great gift for gadget collectors or for moms hosting a retro-themed kiddie party.
Vintage Brass Bookmarks | Michael Kalil Design
Artist Michael Kalil’s vintage bookmarks are collected by modern design aficionados around the world. Issued by Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) circa 1988, two of the three rare, and beautifully-designed brass #bookmarks from the ‘Three Bookmarks Series’ are available. For those who love to read books or modern design collectors, this is a rare gift. Each bookmark comes in its own folder, based on the original 1973 packaging.
Vintage Fashion Pinbacks | Liz Claiborne Brand
Fans of 1980s fashion will love these Liz Claiborne Pinback Button Sets with vintage graphic design. Bold rectangles and squares with the LC signature yellow color against white and black grounds. Used as an in-store promotion for an '80s fashion line, the pinbacks make fun, #retro accessory gifts – decorate scarves or handbags with them.
Vintage Industrial Objects | Mid-Century Keys
As Industrial decor, wearable jewelry or simply as collectibles, these uncommon 1940s keys make inventive gifts. The tiny cash register/sewing machine key and Yale Tubular Emergency Key are excellent examples of mid-century design. Their age and wear add to their character.
Vintage Shopping Bags | Takashimaya, London’s Design Museum, Henri Bendel
Fashionistas and fans of fashion history will love this selection of unique vintage shopping bags. Hard-to-find ephemera, retail bags remain a status symbol for collectors, and much-loved gifts!
This rare and unique triangle shopping bag epitomized the now-shuttered Fifth Avenue store in its heyday. Beautifully constructed and printed, this minimal design serves as an elegant paper sculpture and as a special gift.
These bags are excellent examples of elegant #branding from the Design Museum when it was located on South Bank. This set of two bags make perfect gifts for designers. Frame them or use them as carry-alls.
The iconic, Henri Bendel shopping bag has become a collectible since the brand recently shuttered. The quintessential brown stripes were synonymous with high-end, New York City shopping. A snazzy gift for fans of the brand, or for collectors of retail memorabilia.
Vintage Vinyl LP | Blue Magic
The first album featuring the Philly soul and R&B sounds of Blue Magic included the hits Sideshow and Look Me Up. Recorded in the 1970s at Philadelphia’s Sigma Sound Studios, the album became a classic, as well as one of the best Philly soul albums of all-time. This vintage collectible is a great collection addition for those who appreciate the rich sound of vinyl.
Vintage Kitchen Gadgets | Snap-On Bottle Caps
For retro fans of 1960s gadgets, Orange Snap-on Bottle Caps are perfect for you or to give as a gift. With this pair of retro snap-on/snap-off plastic bottle caps, your fizz will keep fizzing. Classic 1960s color and design make these great to use or display.
Get shopping now and enjoy holiday time! Check out more one-of-a-kind, vintage gift ideas in my Etsy shop.
Illustration: © 2019 Janet Giampietro
