Difference between vintage and retro

We explain the difference between antique, retro and vintage.

ANTIQUE

Antique is a collective term for old decorative, artistic and utilitarian objects. An object is only antique if it is 100 years or older and is handmade. An exception to this are books, which are considered antique at 75 years old.

RETRO

Retro is an indication of a feeling, nostalgia or something you remember. A retro object does not have to be old, it can also be new products that are inspired by the past. Disco balls and lava lamps are often seen as retro, this does not mean that they are produced again.

VINTAGE

With vintage we often talk about furniture, clothing and similar objects. Something that is vintage is old but still usable or wearable. There are traces of use present, but this is often to be expected with objects of this age. In addition, the traces of use often make the items more interesting and unique.

In the fashion world, garments by designers that are timeless are often referred to as vintage. Also, garments that are typical of a certain period are vintage.

For vintage interior almost the same rules apply. Timeless designs from famous designers like Kartell or Danish furniture are often found as vintage. This does not only have to do with the quality of the object but also with the rarity and whether the design fits in every time period that we know.

SUSTAINABILITY

Buying second-hand or vintage is sustainable. Another added value is that the pieces are often unique and have character. By buying second-hand more often, you prevent buying your stuff from fast-fashion brands. These are brands that produce products at high speed and with (often) poor quality. Because so many products are produced, a lot also ends up in the garbage dump because consumers cannot keep up with the supply.