While watching an old black and white movie from 1938 I spent more time noticing the old décor then listening to the story line. It was fascinating to see how the old has become new.

Like the sparkling short jacket with the familiar bling the actress wore. It was just like what you see now on manikins in the store all decked out with sequins and beads. The next scene showed plaid pants that are boasted as the latest fashion. Little do they know that plaid is back in now in 2012.

The actress wore a wide metal bracelet and a large hostess ring with a black stone on her finger. Does that sound familiar? Go to any store to see exactly the same style. The boyfriend is using a metal drink shaker at the party to make his favorite concoction. Just head to the men’s department to see the same martini maker ready to be purchased. There is a big Ben alarm clock in the bedroom and a large white face clock in the hall that reminds me of a modern kitchen clock of 2012. All this reminds me that things have not changed a lot. Check out the large pottery urn outside the elevator. It looks an awful lot like the decorative vase I just saw at the craft store just yesterday. It even has the same ridged edges on it.

Old does become new in this modern world of today. Styles change and there is always something new being introduced. But, are they really a new idea? The reality is that styles and ideas repeat themselves but the quality has shifted and changed. Objects are copied from the past. Just look at the latest Miles Kimball catalog with the reproductions of the beautiful depression glass patterns of the past. Mass production has changed the quality of products made now days. So what is the solution? Why, of course just recycle. Recycling is “in” and a new idea for many. It is not new to those of us who sell “old stuff”. Vintage is the old turned new. We have been recycling for a long time and know the truth about the old items we find. All you have to do is feel the weight of the old vase or see the detail of the beautiful cut of the ring from the past to know it is quality.

The vintage brushed metal shaker is stylish and just what your favorite man would like. No tin feel to that old shaker. You won’t be sorry when you choose old and enjoy it as new! And if you kept the old “stuff”, pat yourself on the back, you were smarter than many people and started recycling long before the trend started. Weren't you smart!

Written by Carol Henckel

Carmel Collectibles on Ruby Lane

Check out my shops of recycled vintage goods. See what I found that I’d love to share with you.