Yankee Magazine's map of the Brimfield Antique Show. Check out the link to read more!
This coming week is the year's start of a major antiques festival. You may have heard of it, since it has a cult following that includes Martha Stewart (or I suppose her minions); Emily Henderson; that woman who invented Shabby Chic...NBD. I have been going yearly for many years, as my mother is an avid antiquer and collector. I've always loved going, partially because I end up getting a workout in with all the walking and carrying of goods, but mainly because I love seeing all of the beautiful old random items people have. And when I find something unique that I just have to have, it's the best trip ever!
Over the past few years, it's started to become this hip thing to do, and I've noticed many more people in their early-twenties scouring the fields, which I guess is fine, but part of me is jealous and doesn't want it to suddenly become trendy to collect antiques. Again, it's something I've grown up living with - I typically prefer antique over new. The young'n's actually dress like they're going to Coachella versus what they're actually doing - walking through dusty dirt paths and mud. I've developed my own Brimfield uniform over the past few years, and here's what I plan to wear this year:
Over the past few years, it's started to become this hip thing to do, and I've noticed many more people in their early-twenties scouring the fields, which I guess is fine, but part of me is jealous and doesn't want it to suddenly become trendy to collect antiques. Again, it's something I've grown up living with - I typically prefer antique over new. The young'n's actually dress like they're going to Coachella versus what they're actually doing - walking through dusty dirt paths and mud. I've developed my own Brimfield uniform over the past few years, and here's what I plan to wear this year:
 suntegrity natural mineral sunscreen - the scented version smells delicious and citrusy! |  Floppy straw hat from Target |
 FEED 1 bag. I've had this bag for years (thanks Tim!), and it's on it's last legs, but man does it hold a lot! |  Banana Republic linen boat neck tunic |
Gap black legging jeans, cuffed or rolled up (unless it's hot...then bermuda shorts or lululemon leggings!
Converse sneakers - with insoles to be more comfortable for all the walking!
I do love to wear my Wellies when I go to Brimfield, but lately it's been warmer and those are not the best shoes to wear on a warm day - nor are they super comfortable to walk in for 10 hours.
The key to dressing appropriately for Brimfield, or any outdoor festival/market, is that you don't want to look too posh - don't be afraid to dress simply or plainly. Leave your nice jewelry at home. Bring smaller bills but a decent amount of cash. Don't be afraid to bargain, something I still struggle at doing. You want to avoid offending the seller by going to low, but you also don't want to be a pushover and ask for, say, 5% off. I've read that typically 10% off is a good number, but maybe push the envelope and ask for less. Worst case scenario, they say no and you walk away. Always be prepared to walk away from a sale. If it's meant to be, it will work out. If not, it's ok, you didn't need that gorgeous worn brown leather suitcase anyway. (Can you tell I haven't let that go?) HYDRATE. Seriously, drink water like it's your job. I plan to bring at least a liter of water for the car ride there, and another to have while walking around. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Lastly, do NOT miss the amazing Dad's Kettle Korn. I know, it's like, so unhealthy and so not good for your teeth, but it's the best kettle corn on the planet. And the men who make it are adorable and über tan. Find them about halfway down the stretch...and buy a large bag. You'll want some leftover for the car ride home, and the next few days.
Have fun, hope you get lots of goodies!
xx
S
The key to dressing appropriately for Brimfield, or any outdoor festival/market, is that you don't want to look too posh - don't be afraid to dress simply or plainly. Leave your nice jewelry at home. Bring smaller bills but a decent amount of cash. Don't be afraid to bargain, something I still struggle at doing. You want to avoid offending the seller by going to low, but you also don't want to be a pushover and ask for, say, 5% off. I've read that typically 10% off is a good number, but maybe push the envelope and ask for less. Worst case scenario, they say no and you walk away. Always be prepared to walk away from a sale. If it's meant to be, it will work out. If not, it's ok, you didn't need that gorgeous worn brown leather suitcase anyway. (Can you tell I haven't let that go?) HYDRATE. Seriously, drink water like it's your job. I plan to bring at least a liter of water for the car ride there, and another to have while walking around. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Lastly, do NOT miss the amazing Dad's Kettle Korn. I know, it's like, so unhealthy and so not good for your teeth, but it's the best kettle corn on the planet. And the men who make it are adorable and über tan. Find them about halfway down the stretch...and buy a large bag. You'll want some leftover for the car ride home, and the next few days.
Have fun, hope you get lots of goodies!
xx
S
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