Tiny treasures, big meaning: Why the humble trinket is making a huge comeback in NYC

Trinketcore: The Tiny Trend Taking Over New York

The latest aesthetic trend sweeping through New York City is trinketcore, where small objects hold a big place in the hearts of city dwellers. From thrifted knick-knacks to $10 blind-box toys, people are transforming their living spaces and accessories into showcases of nostalgia and whimsy.

QingYing “Mimi” Guan, a 26-year-old resident of Chinatown, has turned her apartment into a personal museum filled with Sonny Angels, Nyota figures, and Hirono statuettes. For Guan, trinkets are anything nostalgic and wholesome, reminiscent of the ’90s “I Spy” books that she adores. She describes her collection as a way to create a life surrounded by wholesome trinkets.

One of the most popular collectibles among New Yorkers is Labubus, a plush monster from Hong Kong illustrator Kasing Lung. Collectors are willing to pay anywhere from $40 to several thousand dollars for these creatures, lining them up as trophies or using them as charms on their purses.

For many young New Yorkers, collecting trinkets is a form of escapism and nostalgia in a world dominated by social media. Katlyn Le Leal, a 25-year-old thrifter from Bushwick, sees collecting trinkets as a way to connect with her inner child and create a sense of grounding in her life.

Alice Kim, a 26-year-old designer from Bushwick, collects a mix of Sanrio, Monchhichi, and San-X toys, finding joy in the simplicity and fun of collecting. She describes it as a way to unwind and receive a little prize after a long day of work.

Trinket collecting is not just about accumulating clutter; it’s a form of self-expression and a way to create a unique living space. Kristen Alvarenga, a 26-year-old resident of Bushwick, enjoys collecting vintage trinkets like candelabras, matchboxes, and lampshades to give her space a cinematic feel.

In New York City, there are several spots where collectors can find unique trinkets to add to their collections. Friends NYC in Bushwick offers a wide range of quirky finds, including blind-box toys and cult-favorite figurines like Sonny Angel and Miffy.

For dollhouse enthusiasts, Tiny Doll House on the Upper East Side is a miniature paradise, offering everything from miniature furniture to dollhouses for collectors of all ages. The shop has seen an influx of younger customers thanks to platforms like TikTok.

Greenwich Letterpress in the West Village is a treasure trove of collectible items, including personalized stationery, stickers, and decorative items. The store has become a go-to destination for small, indie collectibles that appeal to a younger crowd.

A Shop of Things, a new store in the Lower East Side, offers a sassy and fun collection of housewares, charms, and figurines. Customers describe the store as a place of escapism, where they can relive their childhood and find joy in collecting tiny, whimsical items.

Trinketcore is more than just a passing trend in New York City; it’s a way for residents to connect with their past, express their individuality, and create unique spaces filled with joy and nostalgia. Whether it’s a Labubu plush or a vintage trinket, these small objects hold a special place in the hearts of collectors across the city.