The Theology of Thrifting III

Vintage vs Antique vs Retro

Let us gather and define our terms.

For in the beginning, there was old stuff—and then we started naming it.

Within the resale industry, there is holy agreement on this: vintage and antique are not just vibes; they are matters of age and testimony.

Vintage items are at least 20 years old—fashion and furnishings that have survived a couple of decades and still show up looking righteous. Antiques, on the other hand, are the elders of the group: 100 years old or more, bearing the weight and wisdom of a full century.

Now hear this word of caution about retro. Retro may look the part. But it is not old. Retro is inspired by a bygone era; vintage and antique were born in it. One is a tribute band. The others are the original gospel.

And as with all things rare and true, there is a cost. Vintage and antique pricing is not pulled from thin air—it is revealed by the market. Age, condition, and scarcity determine the offering. Because these pieces are no longer being made and are not easily found, they often command prices higher than their original tags.

So when a business calls itself a Vintage Shop or an Antique Store, know what you are walking into. A vintage shop generally carries pieces 20 years and older. An antique store, on the other hand, tends to goods that have lasted a century or more.

Here in Chicago, places like Vintage Emporium, Lost Girl Vintage, Broadway Antique Market, and The Lazy Dog Antique Store carry on that tradition.

If your interpretation differs, we welcome your testimony. Let us reason together. ✨