As the weather warms up, many people are turning to weekend activities such as estate sales and outdoor flea markets in search of vintage treasures for their homes. While vintage dishware, textiles, and artwork are popular items to look for, one often overlooked gem is vintage luggage. Secondhand trunks and cases can add a touch of nostalgia to your home decor while also providing practical storage solutions.
Stylish storage
Vintage suitcases and trunks come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, from small vintage vanity cases to giant steamer trunks from the early 20th century. All are great accent pieces for the home that add immediate vintage charm, whether the midcentury modern vibe of a stack of sleek suitcases or the antique flea market chic look of a large wooden trunk. You can often find them in great vintage condition, though even those with some wear and marks of age can be put to good use. They also usually come with interesting decorative details like carved handles, intricate buckles and latches, freight marks or stickers, and satin or paper lining. These old suitcases and trunks usually tell a story of some kind, making them perfect for adding both texture and interest to your design scheme.
Vintage trunks and cases allow you to gain a ton of additional storage discreetly. Because they are visually beautiful, they can be left in plain sight, looking much more stylish than boring bins and containers. On top of that, larger trunks and smaller stacked suitcases can be a perfect way to create an easy end table or nightstand. Large steamer trunks make great coffee tables, entertainment consoles, and, if reinforced along the top, even extra seating.
Repurposing vintage trunks can add a touch of charm and functionality to your home decor. Instead of traditional storage solutions, consider using vintage trunks to store accessories, clothing, shoes, or off-season items. In the bathroom, small train cases can serve as portable storage for cosmetics and hair tools. Larger antique trunks are perfect for storing blankets, linens, toys, books, vinyl, dishware, and other home goods discreetly. Vintage briefcases can also be a delightful way to organize paperwork and art supplies in an office or studio.
Finding and DIYing vintage luggage
While vintage suitcases from the midcentury and later are easier to find, larger steamer trunks can be more challenging to come by. Retailers offer vintage reproduction trunks and cases that closely resemble the originals. If you can't find authentic pieces, newer alternatives can be found on Amazon and Wayfair, crafted from luxurious materials like wood and leather.
You can also transform basic storage trunks into retro masterpieces through DIY projects such as paint treatments or decoupage. Refurbishing older trunks by repairing and refinishing them can align them with your design aesthetic. With some creativity, you can repurpose trunks into unique pieces like side tables, planters, or stylish pet beds.
