Vintage Decor: Creating a Timeless Home with the Best in Retro Style

Looking to create the ultimate vintage-inspired space that wows? Look no further! In this article, we've rounded up the best vintage decor ideas to help you bring a touch of timeless elegance into your home. From mixing and matching furniture to incorporating unique textures and patterns, we've got you covered. So, if you're ready to turn your living space into a haven of retro charm, read on for the ultimate guide to the best vintage decor tips and tricks!

1350 North Vintage

Best For | Glassware, barware, and chinaBased In | IllinoisProduct Range | A wide variety of glassware, china, dinner and barware, baskets & vessels, textiles, decorPrice Range | $2–$450

1350 North Vintage is a highly rated seller with over 11,000 sales and thousands of five-star reviews. They offer a wide range of vintage glassware, including milk glass, colored glass, and depression glass, among others. They also have an excellent selection of crystal, china, and dinnerware in various styles to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer bold solids or delicate handpainted florals, they have something for everyone.

Price

The price of vintage finds can vary greatly, ranging from very affordable to investment-worthy pieces. It's important to have an idea of your budget and familiarize yourself with the general price range of items at each retailer you are considering. Websites like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Etsy offer a wide range of pricing options, with more niche retailers generally having less variation in prices.

Shipping

Please note that shipping furniture can be quite expensive. If you need an item immediately or have a limited budget for shipping fees, it's advisable to choose websites that offer local pickup options or those that provide free shipping promotions for orders above a certain dollar amount.

• How do you decorate a room in vintage style?

  The key is to mix and match both vintage and contemporary pieces in a way that creates a curated look without appearing too outdated. Don't be afraid to incorporate eclectic touches. Additionally, embrace the imperfections of vintage furnishings, as they often add character and tell a story. A bit of patina is seen as a positive aspect in vintage pieces.

• How do you mix vintage and modern decor?

  If your space is already filled with modern furniture, you can incorporate vintage accents, such as lamps, jars, and vases, to add a unique and collected look. On the other hand, if most of your furniture is vintage, consider adding more contemporary accent pieces to prevent the space from feeling outdated.

• How do you decorate with vintage suitcases?

  Stacking vintage suitcases on the floor can create a wonderful visual display, and a stack of three can even function as a unique side table. Take advantage of the storage capabilities of suitcases, as they can be great for storing blankets, out-of-season clothing, or magazines.

This article was researched and written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce. She consulted with interior design experts, including Reed Van Dyck, the owner of Good Chance Goods; Lucy Small, founder and lead designer of State and Season Home Design; and Michael Cox, principal at Foley & Cox, to evaluate each website and retailer based on factors like selection, value, authentication, purchasing options, shipping, return policies, and more. She has personal shopping experience with several of the sites mentioned, including Facebook Marketplace, Rejuvenation, and Food52. 

Additional reporting was done by Sarah Lyon, a home, lifestyle, and wellness writer whose work has appeared in Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, The Everygirl, Lonny, MyDomaine, the Wall Street Journal, and more.

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Decide on a Room Theme

Photo via @vampeva

Creating a themed room is a wonderful way to showcase your antique collectibles. For example, you can go back in time with a room dedicated to 1950s tin signs, complete with a funky chair and a jukebox. Alternatively, you can display your music tastes by dedicating an area to old records, band posters, and a phonograph.

Mismatch Your Furniture & Decor

Photo via @polkadotgrid

Creating your own unique home decorating style can involve mixing different antique decor and furniture. While matching decor can provide a harmonious look, mismatched decor can add character and life to a room. One area where you can easily experiment with mismatched decor is your kitchen or dining table.

Blend Different Textures

Add warmth to any room by incorporating different textures of antique and vintage decor. Layer neutral fur rugs on top of large Persian rugs or place silk pillows on a leather couch. Utilize old woven baskets to store knitted blankets under a Mid-Century Modern table.

Incorporate Multiple Design Styles

Mid-Century Modern tables and chairs are excellent additions to minimalist rooms, as their sleek design creates clean lines while maintaining simplicity and openness.

Play with Patterns

Photo via @polkadotgrid

Don't be afraid to combine patterns when designing your room. If there are specific items you want to include, such as a multicolored rug, bright pillows, or an Afghan blanket, they can all work together to create an appealing and visually interesting space.

Light Fixtures

Quality vintage light fixtures can add charm and uniqueness to a space. Consider exploring vintage and consignment stores for one-of-a-kind lighting options. Wall-mounted lighting fixtures with decorative patina or timeless table and floor lamps can create a special ambiance in your home. If necessary, consult a professional electrician to rewire any vintage fixtures that may have non-functioning wires. Additionally, be mindful of the voltage requirements of vintage lamps.

Utilize a Vintage Bar Cart

A vintage bar cart is a versatile decor item that can bring both elegance and additional storage space to any room. Use it to display knick-knacks, crystal decanters, or heirloom cocktail shakers.

Opt for an Apothecary Cabinet

Add functional storage to your living room decor by incorporating apothecary cabinets. These can be placed behind the couch or in a hallway as an entryway table. Alternatively, you can place an apothecary cabinet on top of a sturdy desk to store stationary in a home office.

Bring the Outdoors Inside

Photo via @sarahjoyblog

For stylish and functional antique kitchen decor, consider repurposing an old workbench as a kitchen island. This not only provides more counter space for cooking but also offers additional storage for vintage bowls and water pitchers.

Show Off a Credenza

A credenza can add a touch of retro style to your living room, entryway, or dining room. Use it to store fine china, as a TV stand, or as a mini bar. Pair it with a round vintage mirror on the wall or a milk jug vase to highlight its sleek design and add warmth to the space.

Create Storage with a Ladder

Photo via @bryartonfarm

Ladders are not only useful for reaching high places but can also serve as creative vintage home decor. Hang towels on a ladder near the bathtub or create DIY shelves for small antique collectibles.

Get Old Lockers for a Drop Zone

Create a functional and stylish entryway by using old lockers as a drop zone. This will keep shoes, coats, and extra items neatly organized and off the floor. If you have children, designate individual lockers for each child.

Oil Paintings

Consider adding original vintage artwork to your home to stand out from the crowd. Older paintings often have a unique historical element that cannot be found in modern paintings. Look for paintings that may be slightly worn, as imperfections can add character and value. If necessary, consult an art restoration company to restore the artwork to its original condition.

Mix & Match Different Antique Finds

Photo via @agi_at_59

Create a cohesive and visually interesting look by mixing vintage furniture with unique antique collectibles. A bright puffy chair combined with a collection of black-and-white photos on the wall can create an appealing aesthetic. Alternatively, use a variety of vases as a centerpiece on a coffee table.

Rugs

Vintage rugs have significant resale value, even if they show signs of wear. They can make a strong statement in your home if they have worn evenly. Vintage rugs are known for their durability, as they are tightly handwoven and vegetable-dyed. These rugs are versatile and can be used in various spaces, including kitchens, dining rooms, hallways, and entryways. Take care of your vintage rugs to ensure they last for many years.

Glassware

Mixing and matching vintage glassware can add a whimsical and unique touch to any space. While new glassware is great, vintage glassware offers a special charm that cannot be replicated. If your drinking glasses are cloudy due to age, try soaking them in white vinegar to restore their sparkle.

Leather Armchairs

Invest in a high-quality leather armchair that will age beautifully over time. Worn-in leather adds a cozy and inviting feel to a space. Opt for vintage or original leather that matches your home's style and decor. Vintage upholstered dining chairs are also great options for their superior craftsmanship and durability.

Dining Chairs

Vintage upholstered dining chairs offer excellent quality and craftsmanship compared to modern mass-produced furniture. Hand-done vintage upholstery adds character and durability to the chairs. Consider buying mismatched chairs for a fun and eclectic look, or ensure that they coordinate within the same color scheme for a cohesive design.

Use Books for Vintage Wall Decor

Instead of storing old books on shelves or coffee tables, utilize them as antique wall decor. Fasten books to the wall using nails to create a unique and eye-catching statement piece. You can also create a collage with torn-out pages and frame them with decorative vintage frames.

Go Crazy with Wooden Crates

Wooden crates are versatile antique decor items that can be used for various purposes. They can serve as plant holders on a windowsill, document organizers in a home office, coffee tables, or outdoor patio furniture.

Transform Doors into a Headboard

Ditch the typical tufted headboards and opt for a unique and rustic look by repurposing worn vintage doors as headboards. Paint the doors in the same color as your bedroom furniture to create a cohesive aesthetic. Complement the look with additional vintage bedroom decor, such as a hutch for storing blankets or an antique chandelier.

Make a Gallery Wall from Vintage Decor

To showcase your antique collectibles, create a gallery wall using various vintage items. Local antique shops often sell black-and-white photos, decorative frames, vintage mirrors, old business signs, and more, which can all be incorporated into a visually pleasing arrangement.

Include an Armoire in the Living Room

Photo via @sarahjoyblog

Highlight your valuable finds by incorporating a vintage armoire into your living room decor. Use it to display your antique collectibles, and consider removing the shelves to create hidden storage for your TV or extra blankets and pillows.

Add Sparkle with Sconce Lighting

Photo via @maisondemings

Rustic sconce lighting can add a touch of elegance to any room in your vintage home. Install candelabra-style sconces in your bathroom to create a sophisticated French-inspired look.

Not sure how to incorporate antique collectibles into your current modern home design? Find tips on how to mix the new with the old through vintage home decor!

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Need more room at home for your antique and vintage finds? Extra Space Storage has convenient facilities throughout the U.S. that can help you maximize your space. Find a storage facility near you!

Treasures Of Trousseau

Best For | TextilesBased In | Atlanta, GeorgiaProduct Range | Scarves & shawls, rugs, quilts, pillow covers, tablecloths, pre-cut fabricsPrice Range | $5–$368

If you're looking for high-quality vintage rugs, don't miss out on Treasures Of Trousseau. This highly rated seller has over 1,800 sales and an average review rating of 4.8 stars. They offer a variety of Indian textiles in mint condition, including quilt tapestries, bedspreads, runners, and shawls. All items are stored in a pet-free and smoke-free environment in Atlanta, Georgia, and are shipped within one day of payment.

Shop Treasures of Trousseau

Transform Suitcases into Stylish Tables

Photo courtesy of @suolamaella

Do you happen to have vintage suitcases lying around unused? Give them a new lease on life by stacking them up and utilizing them as trendy side tables in your living room or as appealing nightstands in your bedroom! These suitcases can also provide extra storage space for any miscellaneous trinkets you may have.

Incorporating vintage decor into your home is a timeless way to add character and charm. From utilizing a vintage bar cart to transforming doors into a headboard, the possibilities are endless. Mismatch furniture and decor, blend textures, and play with patterns to create a unique and eclectic look. Don't forget to bring the outdoors inside and utilize storage with a ladder or old lockers. Mix and match antique finds, showcase oil paintings, and add sparkle with sconce lighting. With these tips and tricks, you can create a space that truly captures the essence of vintage charm. So go ahead, let your creativity run wild and transform your home into a treasure trove of vintage delight.