Staffordshire Dogs

Staffordshire dogs are ceramic spaniel figurines made in 19th century England, and they are in incredible demand right now. Lauren Reveley, antique collector and co-founder of Bessette, attributes their popularity to the rise in collected, curated homes and a wider appreciation for all things English-inspired. 

“Staffordshire dogs fit perfectly into that aesthetic,” Reveley says. “We love them because they add history and a touch of whimsy to a space. If you see a Staffordshire dog in someone's home, odds are they treasure hunted for them.” 

She says to look for hand-painted details, unusual coloring, and overall craftsmanship, which point to a high-value figurine. Older examples often have a beautiful, slightly imperfect quality that gives them charm. 

Old Books

The lived-in pages, textured patina, old library stamps, and handwritten notes scrawled inside make every book feel like a rare find. They're almost like little time capsules, Reveley says. They're also being increasingly used as décor in homes, which is a key reason they're a popular flea market find. 

“Vintage books are one of the first things we look for at flea markets. We're especially drawn to old art books, design monographs, vintage cookbooks, and nautical titles with linen-bound covers, beautiful illustrations, or interesting typography,” Reveley says. “Even when they're not being read, they add so much character to a home and often feel like decorative objects in their own right.” 

She says to look underneath the dust jacket; some of the most beautiful covers are hidden beneath. First editions, out-of-print art and photography books, and anything with a strong visual element tend to hold their appeal. 

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