Millennials Are Choosing Vintage Furniture Over Fast ...

The climate crisis is only getting worse, and everything we do and purchase in our life interacts in some way with the environment. 

Whether it’s single-use plastic consumption, food waste, fast fashion or furniture, millennials are turning towards online e-commerce sites for vintage, antique or secondhand furniture that brings unique style into their home while contributing to sustainability. 

Chairish's pieces can be found in the beautiful home of interior designer Cortney Bishop.

Chairish, founded in 2013, is an online retailer that sells rare vintage, antique and contemporary furnishings and art. The site is expertly curated for a range of styles and the site features pieces from 12,000 small businesses and artists. With more than 85% of its inventory being vintage, it’s attracted millions of shoppers who seek more sustainable solutions.

Anna Brockway, co-founder and president of Chairish

“Research shows that sustainability is a top priority for consumers of all ages and demographics,” says Chairish co-founder and president, Anna Brockway. “Our 2021 Chairish consumer study revealed that 58% of millennial respondents in particular agreed that the resale market plays a big role in the future of sustainability.” 

Fast furniture has a lasting negative impact on the environment. Not only is fast furniture made with poor-quality materials, but they often contain toxic chemicals, like formaldehyde. As a younger demographic continues to relocate and toss and re-purchase fast furniture, it contributes to landfills. Much of this furniture is also non-recyclable, meaning the life cycle of fast furniture is short.

1970s Vintage Ligne Roset Togo Sofa by Michel Ducaroy, $9,000

“In most cases, vintage furniture costs up to 80% less, is better made and immediately available and brings character, uniqueness and style to a room,” says Brockway. “It is also kinder to the planet.”

Not only that, but many seek a rare piece of furniture or art that can’t be found elsewhere.

Paul Evans Directional Brass Cityscape Credenza Cabinet With Two Doors, $14,500

“As they come into homeownership, millennials are looking for items that can’t be found everywhere,” Brockway says. “About 61% of millennials say that unique and stylish inventory led to their interest in used, vintage or antique home furnishings. Vintage pieces allow shoppers to express their one-of-a-kind style and create highly personal spaces.”

Another popular site for vintage, antique and contemporary furnishings and art is 1stDibs, an e-commerce site that has been credited with bringing antiques to the 21st century. Not only can you find one-of-a-kind art, but also fine jewelry from the world’s most renowned designers and exceptionally rare vintage pieces sourced from all over the world. 

18th Century Colorful Dutch Delft Plate #4, $188

According to 1stDibs, more than 60% of the company’s orders from millennials are vintage and antique furniture. The company’s stats show that millennials are ordering chandeliers, pendants, coffee tables, wall mirrors and lounge chairs that are vintage or antique than ever before.

“[This interest] is partially a result of shifting generational taste,” says Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director and director of fine  art at 1stDibs. “The furniture and decor that slightly older folks remember from childhood as they were falling out of favor are now being discovered by younger collectors as refreshingly different and full of character. This is also partially a matter of economics. As antiques have become less desirable, they have also become more affordable, often costing less than some newly made piece ubiquitously found in design magazines and in the interiors of your friends’ homes.”

Vintage Chinese Blue and Red Cloisonné Birds, $2,700

Secondhand furniture is becoming an essential part of the circular economy, and it’s clear that younger generations are leading the charge.

“It’s depressing to think that 12 million tons of furniture are disposed of in the U.S. every year,” Brockway says. “Buying and selling vintage extends the lives of well made pieces and keeps them in circulation longer, kinder to the planet.”

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