Shopping for secondhand items is a fantastic way to discover unique pieces of home décor that boast character and charm. However, after bringing these treasures home, you may be wondering how to incorporate them into your space effectively. The most memorable interiors use décor to weave a story, and blending secondhand finds with your existing objects can help you create a space that reflects your personality. To help you get started, we consulted with experts on how to decorate with these unique treasures, ranging from wall art to costume jewelry and more.
Meet the Experts:
– Willow Wright, owner of Urban Redeux Vintage & Antiques
– Lisa Mabey, designer and founder of Lisee Ree Designs
– Tania Richardson, CEO and co-founder of Tomas Pearce Interior Design Consulting
Mixing Old with New:
Pairing vintage pieces with modern items can result in a look that is entirely distinctive and mirrors your personal style. For instance, consider placing a beautiful vintage mirror above a new bathroom vanity or using a midcentury credenza as a TV console, suggests Willow Wright. This approach ensures that your décor remains current without feeling overly trendy.
Utilize Pieces Creatively:
When styling thrifted décor, think outside the box. Using items in unexpected ways can make a striking statement. For example, try hanging non-traditional items like plates, quilts, or tapestries on your walls. Lisa Mabey recommends displaying an antique sewing machine as an entry table to add a touch of creativity and uniqueness to your space.
Create a Curated Collection:
Part of the thrill of shopping secondhand is finding individual pieces that would typically come in a set, such as glassware, ceramics, or flatware. Embrace the mix-and-match variety by curating your own sets to introduce pops of color or texture to open shelving. Tania Richardson suggests selecting a specific color scheme and varying the shades to achieve visual unity, making the process of collecting both engaging and rewarding.
Begin Small:
If you’re new to thrifting, take your time before filling every corner of your home with secondhand treasures. Willow Wright advises starting small by creating vignettes around your home. For instance, you can place a pair of vintage candlesticks on a stack of books and add a third object to adhere to the design principle of the ‘rule of three.’
Maximize Function with Storage:
Secondhand pieces not only add beauty but can also offer functionality. Look for trays or baskets at thrift stores to help organize items. Consider repurposing vintage finds, such as using a toast caddy to tidy up mail or teacups to store trinkets on a dresser.
Repurpose and Get Creative:
Silver trays are commonly found in thrift stores and can be repurposed in various ways beyond their original kitchen use. Get creative with how you use these trays to add a touch of elegance and functionality to your space.
Place a vintage tray on your dresser or vanity to showcase your perfumes, or in your bathroom to neatly hold your hand towels. “Utilize them in a powder room to introduce a touch of vintage charm,” suggests Richardson.
Frame Vintage Jewelry
Instead of opting for conventional artwork to adorn your walls, consider framing vintage brooches and costume jewelry in small frames or shadow boxes. This offers a creative way to exhibit pieces that might otherwise remain forgotten in a jewelry box or at the back of your closet. “Arrange them in a collage on a wall to craft an inspiring and sophisticated statement piece,” remarks Richardson.
Display Items in Curio Cabinets
If there’s one vintage furniture piece that has made a comeback in style, it’s the curio cabinet. Whether you already possess one or chance upon one secondhand, this piece serves as an excellent platform to showcase your most treasured possessions—especially those you’ve thrifted. “Convert a glass display into a boutique-style exhibit for shoes or handbags,” Richardson suggests. You can even enhance the cabinet with LED lighting to elevate its appeal.
Combine Different Styles
When it comes to styling thrifted objects, don’t shy away from being a bit eclectic. “We are multifaceted individuals with varied interests and preferences, so it’s only natural that our home décor wouldn’t conform to a single style,” notes Mabey. Experiment with blending pieces that represent traditional and contemporary styles, such as art nouveau and midcentury modern, along with any other styles that resonate with your personality. Look for commonalities or differences, like color or texture, to seamlessly bring together seemingly disparate pieces—that convergence is what will distinguish your décor, according to Mabey.
Decorate With Vintage Coffee Table Books
Coffee table books can be strategically placed throughout your home. “Use color-coordinated spines to construct cohesive displays on shelves,” advises Richardson. To achieve this visually impactful look, she recommends discarding the dust jackets and selecting one or two colors for a specific area. Display them vertically on shelves for decoration, or stack them horizontally to serve as risers for decorative items.
Incorporate Vintage Sporting Equipment
Any item that reflects your personality, taste, and style can double as home décor, including vintage or antique sporting gear. “Infuse your space with sports nostalgia by exhibiting vintage tennis rackets, skis, or oars as wall décor,” Richardson recommends. For smaller items, she suggests preserving them in shadow boxes.
By following these tips, you can infuse your living space with a touch of vintage allure and uniqueness while also showcasing your individual style and interests. Whether through repurposing vintage items or blending different styles, the key is to create a décor that speaks to you and sets your home apart in a meaningful way.
