HOW TO: SHOP THE FIELDS IN ROUND TOP
Paige Hull
For those who’ve never been to the Round Top Antiques Show, it’s hard to imagine the incredible ‘circus-like’ atmosphere that comes to town twice per year. Attracting both world-class designers and local antique lovers, there’s something for everyone in the fields. It’s a marathon of sorts -- walking miles in cow pastures as well as newly constructed venues, hunting for treasures, deliberating purchases, and hauling your finds -- is certainly not for the faint of heart!
Our Round Top Antique Show Guide gives you a full overview of the show including what to wear, where to park, and how to get all your treasures home, however, this post is focusing on how and what to shop for!
Before you head out, you should go with one of three things — a specific list, a totally open mind, or a certain theme in mind.
By putting together “a specific list” of items you’re searching for, it keeps the overwhelm at bay and allows you to scan the booths for just those specific items. Going with “a totally open mind” can be really exciting, and allows you to find pieces that catch your eye and evoke some sort of reaction or emotion. There’s never a shortage of unique and interesting finds, so it can feel a little more manageable when you’re shopping for “a certain theme in mind” like all kitchen items or all Moroccan-style décor.
One thing to note - the Round Top Antique Show has evolved and has become a Vintage and Design Show with the addition of maker-wares, new merchandise, and reproductions to the plethora of vintage and antiques.
We’ve curated a list of treasures to look for based on certain themes below. We hope it will give you some ideas to consider when you’re preparing for and in the middle of the fields.
Photo credit: Carley Page
For the entertainer:
Cutting boards, cutlery, serving ware, table runners, wine openers, old vintage napkins, vases, glassware, stoneware, coasters.
Photo Credit: Stacy Allen
For the decorator:
Pillows, vintage books, mirrors, wooden bowls, lamps, frames, bottles, art, crocks, rugs, unusual/unique finds, coffee table books, baskets, architectural salvage, furniture.
Photo credit: Stacy Allen
For the industrial enthusiast:
Metal drums or farm implements (can be used as décor or made into lighting like in our 1450 cottage), old wheels, metal letters, antique signs, hardware storage cabinets, wire baskets, industrial carts.
Photo credit: Haylei Smith
For the collector:
Ironstone, art, books, shells, patches, jewelry, postcards, sports or army memorabilia, globes, typewriters, signage, crosses, trophies, vintage linens, wood crates, musical instruments.
Photo Credit: Natalie Lange
Our personal favorites:
Boxes, clocks, books, typography, botanicals, dried branches, jewelry boxes, suitcases, fabric, rugs, copper pots, trunks, coat racks, bottles, unique finds + conversation starters.
Photo credit: Natalie Lange
A few pointers to make the most of your shopping experience:
Bring a large tote bag to carry water, snacks, and to put all your small items in.
Bring a notebook or use your phone to write vendors’ contact info and location, dimensions, etc.
Pack hand sanitizer to clean your hands throughout the day
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are a must — the weather is as unpredictable as what you’ll find in the fields!
Bring a measuring tape (and take measurements of pieces you’re looking for or areas in your home you want to fill), so you’re prepared!
Bring swatches of paint, materials, and photos to help with color pairing or matching.
Bring cash! Although vendors take credit cards, Wi-Fi can sometimes be spotty and cash can sometimes entice dealers to give you a better deal.
Golden rule: If you love it, buy it! Shopping the fields can be a tricky game — you never know what you’re going to see! Chances are, that item you were coveting won’t be there when you come back. I can’t tell you how many pieces became “the one that got away.”
If you can’t make it to Round Top or would prefer for someone else to do the shopping for you, check out our web shop full of curated modern vintage finds!