Big Thrift Energy

Praise

“Virginia has total sage sister vibes, helping you score pieces for a song with tips that are so good, I kind of can’t believe she’s letting us in on these trade secrets. Vintage shopping can be super-tricky; it’s hard to know where to start, how to scout things that look and feel like “you,” and what to splurge or save on. With this beautiful and thoughtful book though, you’ll feel like you have a field guide for furnishing your best home ever with pre-loved, storied stuff.”
– Danielle Blundell, Apartment Therapy

“A list of Chamlee’s own vintage scores is impressive: she picked up a Goyard trunk worth $10,000 for $90, for example. The wealth of resources plus Chamlee’s friendly tone makes this a handy one-stop-shop for new thrifters.”
– Publishers Weekly

“Virginia and I both agree that there’s enough thrifting to go around. As every vintage hunter knows, sharing thrifting tips can bring good shopping karma. I follow Virginia’s shopping escapades on instagram and even though I’m jealous of her one-of-a-kind scores; I love that I can bring a piece of them home in the form of her new book. Big Thrift Energy Is a great guide for experts and newbies alike.”
-Max Humphrey, Designer, Author of Modern Americana, named one of Country Living’s 100 most creative people

“As an artist, writer, and true vintage fanatic, Virginia Chamlee has quite a few lessons to share about creating spaces you love. She’s sharing all of them in her new book, Big Thrift Energy, which offers tips for how to become a vintage pro and make pieces work with your personal aeshetic.”
-Dennis Sarlo, Chairish.com

“Thrifting is an art, and those who accept its challenges are often rewarded with retro regalia, colorful home decor and, occasionally, fabulous one-of-a-kind finds. Of course, finding a valuable ancient artifact—or just a good deal—isn’t as easy as it sounds. Virginia Chamlee, a journalist, artist and avid thrifter, is here to help fledgling shoppers with her new book, Big Thrift Energy, a handy guide to shopping for affordable vintage home decor and styling it in a modern home.”
-Chloe Nelson, Sarasota Magazine

“Lifelong collector and People writer Chamlee shares her tips on scoring the good stuff (and knowing it when you see it) at estate sales, antique stores and thrift shops. Let fab finds begin!”
-PEOPLE Magazine

“Virginia Chamlee is an avid collector and seller of vintage items. This book provides advice on how to find the best vintage pieces and how to upcycle old ones and give them new life.”
-House Beautiful

“Virginia’s book makes you want to stop what you’re doing, jump in your car, and head to the nearest thrift store. Its beautiful imagery and detailed descriptions are incredibly motivating. We especially love all the tips and tricks she provided for styling your space!”
-Roxy Prima and Phoebe Cornog, authors of Wonder Walls and co-founders of Pandr Design Co.