Sooner or later everybody seems to own an antique or a collectible. Perhaps it’s an old bottle that you found in the basement or a vase you had to have at a house sale.

The days of Star Wars, Alf and the Smurfs are still remembered. But what about Mom’s or Grandma’s church bonnet? Little girls have played dress up for a lifetime, donning hats, gloves and high heels.

In the early 50s we chose hats for important engagements and always for Sunday church. Beautiful straw, velvet and felt hats, trimmed in flowers, feathers, ribbons, beads and Jewels. Some covered by veils, netting or chiffon.

Then came Jackie Kennedy in her pill box hats and Princess Diane with her stylish hats. Today’s North Platte sees the wonderful Red Hats ladies in their classy attire. Add a pair of gloves and purse to complete the look.

In the early nineteenth century gorgeous gold and silver mesh handbags were used for evening wear. Some were enameled with designs. The 60s and 70s brought beaded evening clutch purses. All of these items along with family jewelry, fancy hankies and old pictures can be used for interesting displays.

Place them on your dressing table, a bench or mount a hat rack and display your goodies. A shadow box or just a plain picture frame and some straight pins and presto you have mounted your memories.

Clarice is the Owner/Operator of The Hayloft Antique store located in North Platte, Nebraska.

North Platte Antique Shops Map Key

1. Grandma’s Memories Antiques and Collectibles
806 North Jeffers,
over the Jeffers Street viaduct.
308-534-8781

2. The Hayloft
2006 East 4th Street.
308-532-1300

3. Red Roof Antiques
301 West Eugene,
South over the overpass
308-532-4841