Is there anything more thrilling than finding a true vintage gem? Whether you’re after retro clothing, classic jewelry, or unique home decor, Deseret Industries is full of potential treasures waiting to be discovered! 

Here’s your guide to mastering the art of vintage shopping at DI, from spotting the signs of authentic pieces to enjoying every moment of the hunt. 

1. Know Your Vintage Eras 

Get familiar with different decades and clothing styles —think ‘50s full skirts, ‘70s boho, or ‘90s grunge! You can quickly identify whether a piece is genuinely vintage by familiarizing yourself with each era's unique colors, materials, and patterns. 

Quick Tip: Check for labels! Many brands from earlier eras used specific fonts and materials for labels, so a quick Google search can sometimes give you a solid hint about a piece’s age. 

2. Feel the Fabric 

Vintage pieces often have a unique weight and texture to them. For clothing, natural fabrics like cotton, wool, and silk are common in older pieces. For furniture, look for natural wood with a nice patina or solid metal handles—vintage often means built to last. 

3. Examine Details

They don’t make things like they used to—and that’s a good thing when it comes to vintage! Look for details like metal zippers (instead of plastic), lining in jackets, and sturdy seams. Quality was the standard back in the day, and those extra details can help you spot authentic vintage items. 

Quick Tip: Check the stitching! High-quality items are often stitched by hand or have double seams, which makes them sturdier and more likely to stand the test of time. 

4. Vintage Jewelry

Jewelry is another hot category for vintage finds at DI. Look for hallmarks on metals, such as tiny stamps that indicate sterling silver or gold content. Aged pieces might show a soft patina, which can add character and present authenticity. 

Quick Tip: Real vintage metal will have slight tarnishing or wear, giving it a lovely, lived-in feel. A shiny, perfect piece might not be genuine vintage, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t fabulous! 

5. Don’t Forget Vintage Decor 

From retro lamps and classic ceramics to mid-century furniture and colorful Pyrex, vintage home decor adds instant charm. Look for unique shapes and colors that defined specific decades, like mustard yellow, avocado green, or the pastel hues of the ‘50s. 

Quick Tip: Check the bottom for makers’ marks! Many vintage dishes and decor items have markings that reveal their brand and age. 

6. Take Your Time and Enjoy the Hunt 

Vintage shopping is about the journey, not just the destination. At DI, new items are added to the shelves daily, and you never know what hidden gems you might uncover. Sometimes, you’ll need to dig a little—but that’s half the fun! 

Quick Tip: Make it a social event—grab a friend or two and make a day of it. The more eyes, the better, and friends are great for those “Should I buy this?” moments! 

The Heart of Vintage Shopping at DI 

Vintage shopping at Deseret Industries isn’t just about unique finds—it’s about making a difference. Each purchase helps DI provide job training and resources that empower individuals to build brighter futures. So, when you bring home a one-of-a-kind treasure, you’re also supporting people in your community. 

Ready to start your vintage adventure? Visit your local DI and uncover something special today. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram! Share your finds with us using #FoundAtDI—we can’t wait to see your discoveries!