As vintage and antique interiors surge in popularity in 2026, experts are warning homeowners to be vigilant against scams. Google searches for "vintage homeware" are up 52%, and Pinterest has identified Opera Aesthetics as a key trend this year. Yet Which? reports that 32% of buyers have fallen victim to second-hand scams over the past two years, often receiving counterfeit or misrepresented items.
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Why vintage is trending
Magdalena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays at Barker and Stonehouse, explains that vintage and antique décor offers a transformative impact on interiors. "Vintage elements instantly inject character, charm, and storytelling into a room, making a space feel curated rather than purely functional," she says. "This year, many trends are moving away from modern minimalism toward the eclectic maximalist 'opera aesthetic'."
Natalia Willmott, vintage and antique expert, adds that sustainability drives the trend. "Buying vintage extends the life of beautifully crafted pieces and brings history into the home. A few carefully chosen items can spark conversation and connection."
Spotting genuine vintage
With scams increasing alongside the trend, experts advise caution when purchasing online or through marketplace apps. Willmott highlights key tips: "Weight, materials, finish, hallmarks, and signatures are critical clues. Vintage ceramics, for example, usually feel heavier, with glazes that show depth and subtle imperfections. Signs of age, wear, patina, minor imperfections, are reassuring."
Sally Banwell of Banwell's Antiques emphasises craftsmanship: "Genuine vintage shows natural wear, patina, slight asymmetry, or oxidation. Look for quality materials, construction, and maker's marks. Trust your senses, weight, feel, and even smell often reveal age in ways reproductions cannot."
Gierasinska encourages buyers to embrace the second-hand and reclaimed furniture movement while staying vigilant. "Buy better, buy once has always been at our core. Following expert advice, researching pieces, and sourcing from trusted dealers can dramatically reduce the risk of falling victim to scams."
As homeowners increasingly seek characterful, sustainable, and story-rich interiors, awareness and education remain key. By learning to identify authentic vintage pieces, buyers can enjoy the charm of the past without compromising their safety or investment.
Sources:
Google search trends taken from Google's Keyword Planner.
Opera Aesthetic according to Pinterest Predicts 2026
