Hadn’t been to auction for about a month. I was getting the shakes (especially with F&F retail looming in the near future and the need to get more inventory).  So yesterday I decided to venture out for the 4 pm estate sale.  Mr. F&F looked at me incredulously, asking why I was going to an auction mere hours before guests were arriving.  The food was cooked, I said, and I’d be home well before our 7 pm dinner party.  What(?), I added, you’ve known me thirty years, and you just now figured out I push the envelope?  Out the door before he could block it…the auction had posted pictures and I got a few smaller items but this vintage luggage is what I was after.

I like vintage luggage but this set was particularly appealing with its clean lines and modern profile…inside it was all vintage and girly…

…closer inspection revealed this tag on the inside…Hartmann Luggage…

Hartmann is one of  America’s oldest luggage companies…and the most recent versions are quite expensive.  Found one on ebay, strikingly similar to what I bought, for more than I paid for two.  But the ebay luggage was still a decent price when compared to Hartmann’s new luggage.  This leather luggage is extremely well-made with reinforced handles, beautiful locks and side straps that snap.  Wouldn’t use this for travel now for fear of bumps and bruises, but stacked as a side table or out in the open as beautiful storage…that’s the ticket.   PS – I got home at 6:35 with plenty of time to spare…while Mr. F&F strolled in at 6:45, still needing a shower.  I guess we both fly by the seat of our pants but the dinner was a success as was the thrill of the hunt.