I love stumbling across something that seems to fit my style perfectly, especially when it’s cheap.  While meandering through the Kitsap Peninsula on my birthday, my boyfriend and I stopped into a (loosely-titled) antique store in Port Gamble, where I found the prettiest sandstone ring and mustard yellow umbrella.

Buying something used (or, if you don’t like that word, “vintage”) is a great way to re-appropriate resources and cut manufacturing costs, as well as curb our country’s consumerist culture.  Additionally, if you’re buying from a local antique vendor, garage sale or thrift shop, you’re supporting your neighbors in the local economy.  It’s a total win-win.

See that funky glass casing and ring at the base of the umbrella?  They hooked me right away.  We were on a time crunch and I forgot to take photos of the umbrella once it was open (duh!) but trust me, it’s really pretty (and half the size of a typical Seattle umbrella…me-sized!).  The ring is gold-plated, but for four dollars it was worth it.  The way it sparkles makes it the perfect vintage-looking cocktail ring.

Have you made any vintage or otherwise used purchases lately?  What’s your favorite vintage item?

Tags: Awakened Options: Vintage, buy local, i bought it!, Jewelry