The definition of vintage and antique is similar, in that they both refer to items of the past, neither of which are defined by the object’s worth. Furniture, art, jewellery, clothes and homewares can all be vintage or antique – but there is a notable difference between the two terms.
What is the difference between antique and vintage?
The term ‘antique‘ tends to be used to define items that are over the age of 100 years old, whereas ‘vintage‘ items tend to be under 100 (but more than 20).
The term ‘retro’ is different again to both antique and vintage, with retro items made new but refer to and mimic styles of the past. Sometimes it can be quite difficult to decipher a retro item from an authentic vintage piece.
If you’re wondering about a specific item in your collection, find out how to identify a true vintage item and how to get an antique valued.