What’s hot in antiques right now?

Antiques trends are shaped by interior design movements, collector demand and changing lifestyles. So, what is actually hot right now, and how does that compare with what our own sales data tells us? By combining wider market insights with our best-performing artists and brands of 2025, we can give you a clearer picture of where the second-hand market is heading into 2026.

The big trends shaping the antiques market in 2025

Three themes continue to dominate buyer behaviour: nostalgia, sustainability and statement pieces.

Across the wider market, the strongest demand is currently seen in:

• Vintage toys and collectables, such as character figures and limited editions
• Mid-century modern and Art Deco furniture with bold shapes and clean lines
• Decorative art and home accessories, including lighting, barware and glassware
• Vintage and antique jewellery with distinctive designs
• Pieces with visible patina and honest ageing

Industry data shows that the global second-hand collectables market is now valued at over £110 billion, with antiques representing a significant share and growing at around 7% annually. This growth is being driven by younger buyers entering the market and homeowners investing more in character-led interiors.

What is selling best for us right now

While market trends provide useful context, our own results tell a more precise story. In 2025, our strongest-performing categories have been fine art, limited edition prints, collectable sculptures and nostalgia-led figures, alongside high-quality jewellery.

Some of our standout artists and brands include:

• Quentin Blake and Bob Dylan, whose signed works continue to attract strong interest due to their cultural significance and cross-generational appeal

Bob Dylan 'Man On A Bridge' Limited Edition Drawn Blank Series Print 2008 Signed

• Mackenzie Thorpe and Beryl Cook, both popular for their instantly recognisable styles and emotional storytelling

Mackenzie Thorpe, 'Man And Dog', Original Pastel, Halcyon Gallery, Signed

• Sherree Valentine Daines and Todd White, whose figurative scenes perform well in interior-led buying

Todd White, 'Piano Bar', Artists Proof Limited Edition Giclee Print 5/29, Signed

• Stephen Gayford and John Trickett, whose wildlife and animal studies appeal to collectors seeking realism and detail
• Tim “Frogman” Cotterill bronzes are valued for their limited editions and strong resale demand
• Moorcroft pottery, which remains a favourite thanks to its heritage design and collectability

Moorcroft Pottery - Birds & Trees, 2014 Trial, Squat Bulbous Vase

What stands out is the continued appetite for art-led interiors. Buyers are not simply filling wall space. They are investing in focal pieces that shape the mood of a room and reflect personality.

Why nostalgia continues to perform so strongly

Nostalgia is far more than a short-term trend. It taps into emotional connection and collectability at the same time.

Character figures such as Wallace & Gromit, Beano collectables, and classic teddy bears from Steiff and R John Wright continue to perform exceptionally well. These items appeal to seasoned collectors, gift buyers and younger audiences building their first collections.

Over 40% of first-time antiques buyers start with nostalgic collectables, making this one of the fastest-growing entry points into the market.

Fine art and limited editions remain a safe choice

Original paintings and signed limited edition prints continue to dominate our sales. Established names such as Vasarely, Blake, Daines and Thorpe benefit from strong provenance, recognisable styles and consistent demand.

We are also seeing increased interest in:

• Landscape and seascape paintings
• Contemporary narrative art
• Large-format prints and statement originals

Sustainability and quality materials matter more than ever

Sustainability is now a major factor influencing buying decisions. Buyers are prioritising longevity, quality materials and timeless design over disposable furniture and mass-produced décor.

This shift is reflected in strong demand for:

• Solid wood furniture
• High-quality ceramics and pottery
• Precious metal jewellery
• Well-preserved decorative antiques

A standout example of this trend is Mouseman furniture by Robert Thompson of Kilburn. Crafted from solid English oak using traditional techniques, Mouseman pieces are prized for their durability, distinctive adzed finish and iconic hand-carved mouse signature. With production remaining small-scale and family-run for generations, genuine Mouseman furniture is relatively rare, helping to support strong long-term resale values.

Interested in learning more about this iconic maker? Read our guide: What makes Mouseman furniture so valuable?

Is it better to sell or buy when the market is hot?

In most cases, a strong market often favours sellers. When demand is high, popular artists, signed works, and collectables tend to sell faster and achieve stronger prices.

For buyers, competition can be higher, but strong markets also bring better stock and more choice. We recommend focusing on quality, provenance and long-term appeal rather than short-term trends.

In simple terms, sell when demand is high and buy with patience and selectivity. If you are unsure, our team can help. 

If you own any of the artists or brands mentioned above and are considering selling antiques online, contact us for advice and professional quotation. You can also browse our latest arrivals to discover what antiques are trending in 2026.