Is Your Vintage Decor Timeless or Tacky?

Vintage shops and thrift stores can be treasure troves for all odds and ends to fill any space of the house—especially because vintage decor is having a major moment right now. But as sustainable and fun as antiquing can be, it does come with some drawbacks. According to design experts, if you're not careful, you could end up with items that are simply just old and not worth much.

To avoid losing money on something you'll want to donate or toss soon, designers and antique experts are sharing how to tell if a piece has vintage charm or is truly just tacky. Learn their best antiquing tips so you can score vintage decor without regret.

Why Is Vintage Decor So Popular Right Now?

Whether it's an antique mirror, ornate storage chest, or an idyllic oil painting, there's something special about decorating with secondhand finds. Is it their rich history, the character they bring, or just the thrill of scoring a great deal? Experts say it's all of the above.

"In fashion, the reason something is labeled a 'classic' is because it never goes out of style, like a white dress shirt or a well-tailored blazer—the same is true for interiors," designer Lucia Deen says.

"True antiques—100 years old or more—can help add a feeling of history and permanence to an interior space, but the wrong piece will make the space feel awkward and uncomfortable," Deen explains.

Ken Murphy of OfferUp explains there's also a steadfast community of people looking for items with "great bones," that they can upcycle into fresh decor. "Many shoppers specifically look for items with solid construction, quality materials, and unique details—knowing they can refinish, repaint, or reupholster to match their style," he says.

How to Incorporate Vintage Decor That Won't Look Tacky

Deen and Murphy agree that achieving the right look is all about cultivating balance. Go ahead and mix vintage and modern pieces to design spaces that feel curated, but swing too far in either direction, and you may end up with a space that feels either too new, overly nostalgic, or overly themed.

"If [antiques are used] correctly, these pieces will add character, texture, history and a little unexpected interest to a space," Deen says. For example, hanging a contemporary abstract painting above a carved French chest appointed with an art deco lamp sets the stage for a well balanced space, she explains. "What makes a home interesting is that unexpected mix, the eclectic mix of different styles and time periods," she says.

Murphy suggests using your vintage finds as statement pieces—like a mid-century coffee table in a contemporary living room—versus buying every single item secondhand. Or, seek out small accents like antique mirrors or retro lamps to add character and complement your existing modern pieces.

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