There is beauty to behold in the imperfect, the old, and the forgotten. Pieces from lost eras share a one-of-a-kind story with the world while adorning a home with new life. Vintage decor offers a sustainable way to add character—something that feels personal and lived in.
Whether you’re looking to style with some unique, found items or are starting with a fresh space, we hope this guide helps simplify styling vintage pieces for a collected home. Let’s get started!
Read the Room
If adding vintage pieces to home decor you already have, take note of your space before you go shopping. Think of the existing design as a foundation you can build on with more personality and story—often found in a good vintage item. Consider the overall style of your home and prominent features in the room, like colors, textures, and materials.
If starting from scratch or hoping to redecorate, scale back your space to only the furniture and decor you can’t live without. Keep in mind the balance of new and old pieces as you prepare to shop. Vintage and antique items are often a different size than their modern counterparts, so make sure to measure your space before buying—especially if you’re looking for furniture.
Tip: If shopping for vintage furniture, look for something comfortable, inviting, and in good condition. Color or fabric can always be changed, so it can be helpful to focus on frame and functionality when you buy.
Once you’ve taken inventory of what stands out in a room, try to notice what doesn’t. Is there anything missing from the space? What needs and preferences are not currently being met? Which areas look dull or perhaps lacking in depth?
Getting acquainted with your needs, wants, and available space before shopping is a great way to save time later on.
Start Shopping
Though it might seem intimidating for some, shopping for and styling vintage pieces is not as hard as you might think. In fact, it’s very similar to decorating with modern pieces. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while you browse:
- Look for pieces that match the style and/or time period of any existing decor in your home.
- Account for the size and shape of the space in your home and the items you are considering.
- Look for textures, colors, and materials that are similar to or complement any existing design.
- Make sure anything you bring home is in good condition (and have a plan for repair, just in case).
- Choose pieces that make sense for you. Find items that spark nostalgia or wonder, or keep an eye out for something meaningful from your past.
- If you aren’t sure where to shop, try looking for local antique stores, estate sales, flea markets, and online sellers—or even check your own attic or storage space! Consider styling an heirloom from your past for some extra-special decor.
Most importantly, have fun! The possibilities are endless, so play around until you find what you like. If you are unsure how to get started, small vintage decor like books, clocks, candlesticks, or games can easily add to empty shelves and small spaces.
Integrate Your Items
Now for the fun part: putting it all together. The most important—and challenging—part of decorating with vintage is balance. Avoid aging your space by evenly distributing older pieces throughout the room and layering them with newer items. Mixing new and old design will make your vintage pieces stand out more, giving them a substantial, storied feel.
As you decorate, keep in mind the durability of your vintage and antique items. If they are more delicate, you might want to keep them away from high activity areas.
Repurposing is another great way to incorporate vintage, especially if you have an item you aren’t sure how to style. Here is some inspiration to think differently about decor:
- Frame art from vintage books or magazines.
- Reupholster found furniture.
- Use vintage sit-abouts (like bowls and plates) as storage throughout the home.
- Decorate with items that are typically used practically, like a camera or matchbooks.
Remember: Styling vintage items is no different from decorating with newer ones. Try to keep your space balanced and place each item with intention for a home that feels uniquely you. Happy decorating!
