If you're looking for something functional that sparks joy, one kitchenware item is having its moment in the sun. Interior designers say colourful vintage glassware is having a "major moment" in 2025.

Vintage and antique items have personality in spades. Mix and match aesthetics, retro colours, unique hand-blown glass for a look that is uniquely yours. Interior designer Marie Cloud of Indigo Pruitt says there's so much to choose from, but she particularly likes the look of colourful options. 

What's the difference between vintage and antique? Vintage refers to items at least 40 years old whilst antique means they're more than 100 years old. 

"Colorful vintage glassware is having a major moment," Marie told Good Housekeeping.

"From hand-blown Murano to pressed glass in jewel tones, these pieces instantly add a playful, collected feel to any space.

"I love how they bring both form and function — beautiful for open shelving, bar carts or even styled into a tablescape."

How to buy vintage or antique glassware

Marie shared how to shop for older glassware. The trick is quite simple — hold it up to the light. You'll be able to see and feel the difference.

"Vintage glass tends to have a richer glow, and the weight is often heavier," she said.

"Pressed glass may show mold seams, while hand-blown pieces might have a pontil mark on the bottom — a telltale dimple from where it was broken off the glassblower’s rod."

As for specific colours, classic ones are amber, green and cobalt blue are classic shades.

It'll be harder to find "especially striking" colours like lilac, blush or smoky topaz — the interior designer says those are "great scores".