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Kelly Wearstler’s 5 Tips for Flea Market Shopping

Recently we had Kelly Wearstler on our podcast Clever, talking about her inspiration and her life from crafting as a young girl to turning a love of making things into a world renown lifestyle brand. During our chat, she talked about her love of “the hunt”—scouring the aisles of flea markets and antique/vintage shops to find the perfect pieces. We recently followed Kelly along as she hunted for treasures at the Paris flea market—follow along today on Instagram to see some of her discoveries—plus some tricks of the trade.

Photo by Stephan Julliard

Photo by Stephan Julliard

Because of her extensive experience and trained eye, we thought we’d hit her up for some good hunting tips:

Paris Flea Market

Paris Flea Market

1. Get there early.
The early bird really does get the worm.

Vintage Philippe Starck table used for a restaurant project of his in the 80’s -  Found at Paul Bert Serpette

Vintage Philippe Starck table used for a restaurant project of his in the 80’s –
Found at Paul Bert Serpette

2. Be prepared.
– Tape measure is crucial!
– Bring a cart or dolly for transporting heavier items
– Pack a camera. Photograph stand out pieces with vendor business cards. At the end of the day  you’ll have a catalogue of your favorite items with contact details for all the relevant vendors.
– Bring images of the space you’re purchasing for. It will really help you visualize a piece in a room.
– Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be on your feet all day!

kelly-wearstler-antique-shopping

wearstler-flea-market-tips-10

3. Visit the ATM
Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Cash is power!

Top of a table - all ceramic inlaid tile. Late 1960s at Paul Bert Serpette

Top of a table – all ceramic inlaid tile. Late 1960s at Paul Bert Serpette

4. Trust your instincts.
If there’s something you love but it’s a little out there, go for it. It’s the special anomalies that can make a room sing. It will reflect your soul.

Two Philippe Starck sculptural chairs from 80’s

Two Philippe Starck sculptural chairs from 80’s

5. Bring a friend.
It’s great to have a second set of eyes during the day and an extra pair of hands at the end.

See what Kelly discovered while hunting in Paris AND get some more great tips >>> on Instagram.

Jaime Derringer, Founder + Executive Editor of Design Milk, is a Jersey girl living in SoCal. She dreams about funky, artistic jewelry + having enough free time to enjoy some of her favorite things—running, reading, making music, and drawing.