On today’s show, we’re chatting with Virginia Chamlee, a longtime journalist and staff writer for People magazine who has a lifelong passion for collecting vintage.

Nearly a decade ago, she began selling her finds, quickly become a Super Seller on Chairish and developing a roster of clients from AD 100 interior designers to A-list celebrities. In 2022, her first book, Big Thrift Energy, was released worldwide and since then she has traveled the country sharing her tips on how to shop for vintage furniture, housewares and accessories.

This episode is a lot of fun, and – especially if you love vintage homewares – I think you’re really gonna love it – so let’s dive right in!

DISCUSSED IN THE EPISODE:

[2:06] Virginia’s early love of thrifting and home decor came from her grandmother, who raised her.
[10:48] How she started selling vintage furniture and home decor herself.
[16:13] The business and logistics of reselling decor online.
[21:30] Sharing her vintage shopping tips online, which led to publishing a guide book.
[28:05] Maker’s marks, and other ways to identify a vintage decor object.
[38:41] Shopping estate sales, and finding unexpected pieces like her Goyard trunk.

EPISODE MENTIONS:

LET’S CONNECT:

SPECIAL THANKS:

A special thanks goes out to my Patron Insiders – your support makes Pre-Loved Podcast possible!

Patty Weber
Kathy Brand
Lisa of Queenie & Pearl
Lucille of Galipette Vintage
KT
Lydia Welp
Anastacia Banicke of Goods & Provisions
Michael A.
Megan Morris
Jennifer
Alana Rivero

S9 Ep12 VIRGINIA CHAMLEE: Super Seller on Chairish with a lifelong passion for collecting vintage - on how to shop for vintage furniture, housewares and accessories.