10 Beautifully Designed Vintage Compacts That Belong in a Collection
The world of vintage compacts offers a fascinating glimpse into past eras. These small, elegant items were once used to carry powder and touch up makeup throughout the day. Today, they are highly sought after by collectors for their stunning craftsmanship. Whether adorned with delicate engravings or vibrant colors, vintage compacts represent timeless beauty. As you explore the variety of designs, you may find yourself captivated by their charm.
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Vanity Fair Enamel Compact
The Vanity Fair Enamel Compact was created in the 1940s and is highly regarded for its vibrant, colorful enamel designs. It features a beautiful floral pattern, with deep red and gold accents, making it a striking piece for any collection. Designed by a well-known enamel artist of the era, this compact reflects the elegance of the mid-20th century. The current market value of this piece ranges around $100 to $250, depending on the condition and rarity.
The compact’s smooth, polished surface contrasts beautifully with the intricate floral design, making it an eye-catching accessory. With a round shape, it fits perfectly in the palm, offering a stylish yet functional addition to vintage makeup collections. The gold-tone metal adds a luxurious touch to the overall appearance. Collectors particularly appreciate the careful craftsmanship and timeless design.
Dunhill Silver Compact
The Dunhill Silver Compact was designed in the 1950s and is known for its sleek, sophisticated design. Made of high-quality sterling silver, the compact features a simple yet elegant engraved pattern that gives it a refined and timeless appearance. Dunhill, a luxury brand known for its craftsmanship, created this compact to appeal to the discerning tastes of its clientele. Today, its market value can range from $300 to $600, depending on its condition.
This compact’s smooth silver finish and classic design give it a minimalist elegance that never goes out of style. The compact opens to reveal a mirror, still in good condition, with a perfectly functional powder compartment. It is an excellent example of mid-century luxury accessories. For collectors, its silver material adds intrinsic value, making it an item that is both functional and highly collectible.
Coty Vintage Compact with Art Deco Design
Coty’s vintage compact, made in the 1930s, features a stunning Art Deco design that captures the glamour of the era. The geometric shapes and sharp lines are characteristic of Art Deco, and the compact’s silver-tone base is accentuated by bold black and white enamel inlays. Its design is timeless, and collectors value it for both its aesthetic appeal and historical significance. It is valued between $100 and $200, depending on its condition.
The compact’s sleek, polished surface and geometric patterns give it a unique, modernist feel, representative of the early 20th century. Its square shape adds to its distinctive look, setting it apart from the more traditional round compacts. Coty, a prominent fragrance and beauty brand, made this compact as part of their high-end accessory collection. For collectors, this compact represents a fine example of vintage Art Deco craftsmanship.
Pillbox Compact by Stratton
Stratton produced the Pillbox Compact in the 1950s, inspired by the design of traditional pillboxes used for medicine. This compact features a rectangular shape, with a smooth, highly polished gold-tone surface and a decorative clasp. The simple, yet elegant design gives it a timeless appeal. The market value of this item is typically around $150 to $300, depending on condition.
The compact’s pillbox-inspired shape is unique, offering a more compact alternative to traditional round designs. Its minimalistic approach to decoration, featuring only the clasp as a focal point, adds to its understated elegance. Stratton’s impeccable craftsmanship ensures that this piece remains a desirable item for collectors today. It is a must-have for those who appreciate mid-century accessories that combine practicality with style.
Schiaparelli Compact with Pink Enamel
The Schiaparelli Compact with Pink Enamel was produced in the 1940s and is renowned for its vibrant pink color and distinctive design. Created by the famous Italian designer Elsa Schiaparelli, it features a unique combination of gold-tone accents and soft pink enamel. The compact’s beautiful color and elegant shape make it a favorite among collectors. The market value of this piece is typically between $350 and $600.
The pink enamel design is complemented by a sleek gold-tone border, making this compact a perfect example of luxury craftsmanship. Schiaparelli’s designs often pushed boundaries, and this compact is no exception. Its timeless design and vibrant color add to its charm. For collectors, it represents not only a stunning vintage accessory but also a piece of fashion history.
Saks Fifth Avenue Compact
Saks Fifth Avenue, a renowned luxury retailer, created this compact in the 1960s. Made with a gold-tone finish, this compact features a simple yet elegant design with floral etching on the surface. The compact opens to reveal a mirror and powder compartment, perfect for practical use while offering a touch of luxury. This compact’s market value is typically between $150 and $300.
The compact’s floral etchings add a delicate and timeless touch to the gold-tone surface. Its sturdy metal casing ensures durability, while its minimalistic design exudes class. The piece is a perfect example of mid-century luxury accessories designed for both style and functionality. Collectors are drawn to its elegant simplicity and high-quality craftsmanship.
Boucheron Compact
Created in the 1950s by the luxury brand Boucheron, this compact is made from sterling silver and features a beautiful floral design. The intricate engravings and detailed patterns give it an unmistakable antique feel, while the silver surface adds to its timeless beauty. Boucheron, known for its fine jewelry, made this compact as a luxury accessory. The current market value of this compact is estimated at $400 to $800.
The floral engravings on the silver surface create a delicate texture that is visually pleasing and elegant. The compact opens smoothly to reveal a mirror and powder compartment, which are still in excellent condition. For collectors, the brand name Boucheron adds immense value to this vintage piece. It is an ideal item for anyone interested in acquiring a rare, high-end collectible.
Marlene Dietrich Compact
The Marlene Dietrich Compact, produced in the 1930s, is an iconic item that reflects the glamorous Hollywood era. It features a sleek, polished silver-tone casing with intricate Art Deco designs, showcasing the elegance associated with the legendary actress. The compact’s market value ranges from $300 to $600, depending on its condition and rarity.
It offers a glimpse into the luxury accessories of the 1930s, capturing the essence of old Hollywood glamour. The smooth surface contrasts with the geometric detailing, giving it a stylish, modernist appeal. Collectors admire this compact for its historical significance as well as its exquisite craftsmanship. This vintage piece remains a sought-after collectible for those with an appreciation for both film history and fine accessories.
Bakelite Compact by Caron
Caron, a luxury brand known for its perfumes, produced this Bakelite Compact in the 1940s. The compact features a smooth Bakelite surface with floral carvings, making it a standout piece for collectors. The market value of this compact typically ranges from $150 to $300, depending on its condition. Its rich, warm hue and the craftsmanship that went into its design reflect the vintage luxury of the era.
The compact’s small, portable size makes it perfect for everyday use, while the intricate floral pattern adds a touch of elegance. Caron’s association with high-end beauty products adds an element of exclusivity to this vintage accessory. This compact remains a highly coveted piece for collectors who value both function and aesthetic beauty.
Tiffany and Co. Sterling Silver Compact
Released in the 1950s, the Tiffany and Co. Sterling Silver Compact features the luxury brand’s signature sterling silver material, showcasing a simple yet elegant design. With its smooth, polished surface and a subtle etched pattern, this compact radiates sophistication. The compact’s market value typically ranges from $400 to $800, depending on condition and rarity.
Tiffany and Co.’s name alone adds a level of prestige to this vintage piece, making it a must-have for collectors. Its practical design, with a mirror and powder compartment, makes it not only a beautiful accessory but also functional. The sterling silver construction ensures durability, while the classic design guarantees its timeless appeal. This compact is a great example of mid-century luxury that continues to hold value and charm.
Vintage compacts are more than just beautiful accessories. They are pieces of art with significant historical value.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.