The Dos and Don’ts of Decorating with Vintage
Decorating with vintage can turn your home into a space that feels soulful, layered, and utterly unique. But it’s easy to go from charmingly curated to looking like you raided Grandma’s basement blindfolded. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just dipping your toe into the world of patina and brass, here are the golden rules to help you style vintage well.
Image Credit: Heavenly Havenly
DO mix eras and styles.
One of the best things about vintage is that it doesn’t have to match — it just has to work. Pair a mid-century chair with a Victorian table. Hang a ’70s painting above a minimalist modern bench. The contrast creates depth and makes each piece stand out. Just ground the look with a cohesive color palette or material finish.
DON’T overdo it.
Yes, you can have too much of a good thing. A room full of vintage pieces with no visual break can start to feel like a time capsule. Mix in contemporary touches — clean-lined upholstery, modern lighting, or neutral textiles — to keep things fresh and balanced.
DO look for quality.
A $30 dresser on Facebook Marketplace might feel like a steal, but check those drawers. Well-made vintage will usually have dovetail joints, solid wood, or some kind of weight and craftsmanship. A little wear is fine (even charming!), but know the difference between character and damage.
DON’T buy just because it’s “old.”
Not all vintage is created equal. If it doesn’t work with your style, your layout, or your life (hello, tiny antique settee no one wants to sit on), it’s okay to leave it behind. Collect intentionally, not impulsively.
Image Credit: Jake Arnold
DO use vintage for warmth and personality.
A single vintage lamp or mirror can bring instant soul to a room. Try layering a vintage rug over a jute base, adding a quirky ceramic to your shelf, or framing old architectural drawings as art. These are the details that make a house feel lived-in and loved.
DON’T forget function.
Some vintage pieces are better admired than used. If you're styling a high-traffic area, choose vintage items that can hold up to real life. A glass-topped brass coffee table might look chic, but it’s less ideal if you’ve got toddlers with sticky hands and zero spatial awareness.
DO embrace patina.
Scuffs, dings, and faded finishes? They're not flaws — they're stories. While you can refinish or repaint, sometimes leaving things a little worn makes a piece feel more honest. Just be sure you're preserving, not just masking.
DON’T be afraid to edit.
Sometimes a vintage item needs a new seat cover, a cleaned-up frame, or just a better backdrop. Editing isn’t cheating. It's how you make it yours.
Final tip? Style with what you love, not just what’s trendy. The best rooms are the ones that reflect you — and vintage makes that a whole lot easier.
-Juliette