Appearances are deceiving.
While seemingly banal, certain objects from the past actually hide inestimable value. Treasures that look like old trash, they can bring their owner hundreds of euros – if the eye is expert enough to recognize them. However, even if they are used to spending hours hunting at garage sales, most people are not aware that the items they want to get rid of are worth a lot of money. During her last stroll in a Parisian flea market, Zoé Hotuqui, vintage fashion expert and author of the book “Vintage and Second Hand”, came across a fashion item that sells for several hundred euros on the virtual second hand market. A nugget which obviously did not escape her keen bargain-hunting eye, and which she hastened to purchase in several copies. Resale price of the object of desire? Up to 225 euros on Etsyand up to $683 on eBay. So if you happen to come across the latter this weekend, don’t pass your way: you might well regret it.
However, at first glance, the object does not look like much and does not have an ultra-quality appearance. In reality, its expensive value comes mainly from its rarity and its vintage character – the law of supply and demand obliges. Indeed, it is an accessory that dates from the 70s and that no brand has reproduced since. This rare accessory, “highly sought after by collectors”is a trompe-l’oeil bag that perfectly imitates a folded magazine.
In addition to its extremely rare side, the piece has acquired unprecedented fashion legitimacy thanks to an iconic pop culture reference: the series Sex and the City. Thus, in episode 8 of season 3, Carrie Bradshaw, dressed in a navy blue dress, sports an “Elegance Paris” magazine clutch that fashionistas and other fans of the series have been snapping up ever since.
On TikTokfashionistas who got their hands on this gem show off with looks inspired by the heroine. So never forget: “Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder”especially at garage sales.
