The Real Chic Life

Lately, things have been coming to me in twos, which I’ll take as a sign of harmony or balance. During a recently viewed episode of Homeworthy, (a YouTube-based home design show) an art collector in Boston mentioned that in addition to her art, she has a large collection of Sheila Bridges china. Earlier that same week, I listened to an episode of the Let’s Get Dressed podcast about collecting investment handbags. While the subjects were slightly different, both conversations arrived at the same idea: collecting isn’t about buying more, it’s about choosing carefully. Most of us have known someone, an aunt or a grandmother, whose shelves were crowded with knick-knacks that appeared to be gathered without much thought. Which is perfectly fine if it brings them joy. But the art of collecting is about seeking out pieces that resonate. It’s about building a collection with intention rather than accumulation.

While the podcast featured handbags that resell for more than some homes, I also believe the most beautiful collections aren’t necessarily the most expensive. They’re the ones gathered slowly over time, each piece carrying a memory, a story, or a connection to who we are. Whether it’s a shelf of vintage books, blue-and-white porcelain, antique silver, or seashells collected on family vacations, collections tell the story of a life well lived.

Collecting is about more than acquiring things. It’s about curating beauty, preserving memories, and creating a home that reflects your personal history.

Here are a few thoughts on embracing the art of collecting.

1. Collect What You Genuinely Love

The best collections begin with curiosity, not trends.

Perhaps you’re drawn to old leather-bound books, botanical prints, woven baskets, crystal candlesticks, or vintage jewelry. Whatever catches your eye repeatedly deserves your attention.

A meaningful collection feels personal. It should bring you joy every time you see it.

2. Let Your Collection Tell a Story

Every object has the potential to become part of your narrative.

A hand-painted bowl discovered on a trip. A teacup inherited from your grandmother. A first-edition novel found in a tiny bookstore. These pieces become markers of moments and memories.

Over time, your collection becomes a visual autobiography.

3. Embrace the Hunt

Part of the pleasure of collecting is the search itself.

Wandering through antique shops, estate sales, flea markets, independent bookstores, or local art fairs often leads to unexpected treasures. The thrill isn’t in finding everything at once—it’s in discovering the right piece when you least expect it.

The hunt teaches patience and appreciation.

4. Display with Intention

Collections deserve to be enjoyed.

Arrange favorite pieces on bookshelves, coffee tables, mantels, or in glass-front cabinets. Grouping similar items together creates visual impact while allowing each piece to shine. I do this with my coffee table book collection, but my elephant collection (most of which I’ve acquired through our travels) is placed sparingly around our home. 

Think of your home as a gallery of things you love.

5. Quality Matters More Than Quantity

A collection doesn’t need to be large to be meaningful.

A handful of carefully chosen pieces often has more impact than shelves overflowing with objects. Collect slowly and thoughtfully, selecting items that truly resonate with you.

The goal isn’t abundance. Its significance.

6. Don’t Overlook Everyday Heirlooms

Not everything worth collecting comes from an antique store.

Beautiful linen napkins, handcrafted pottery, monogrammed silver, family photographs, and cherished cookbooks can become tomorrow’s heirlooms. These everyday treasures often carry the deepest meaning because they are woven into the fabric of daily life.

Collecting can be as much about preserving as acquiring.

7. Leave Something Behind

One of the loveliest aspects of collecting is that it creates a legacy.

Long after we’re gone, the things we’ve lovingly gathered often remain. A granddaughter may treasure your jewelry box. A son may display your collection of books. A favorite piece of art may become part of family history.

Collections remind us that beauty can outlive us and continue telling our stories for generations.

The art of collecting isn’t about filling your home with things. It’s about filling your life with meaning.

Collect the books that inspire you. The artwork that moves you. The treasures that remind you of where you’ve been and what you’ve loved. Gather objects that spark conversation, preserve memories, and make your home uniquely yours.

Because in the end, the most beautiful collections aren’t measured by value. They’re measured by the stories they hold.

And those stories are priceless.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on collecting. 

Xo, Tonya