Thrifting the Perfect Vintage Holiday Look

Go beyond Bridgerton with these new takes on vintage holiday decor. This year, it's easy to enjoy a retro holiday with trending vintage looks. Brass details, rich hardwood flooring, tapered candles, and original light fixtures inspired by nostalgia are all wonderful ways to add a festive flair to your house. Plus, thrift shopping is the perfect pastime during the holiday season, saving you time and money!

Whether you choose to shop at antique stores or second-hand shops, find a variety of antique holiday pieces that help create the perfect antique holiday look, while also creating a more sustainable future by investing in reusable pieces from the past.

How do you style a vintage look?

Design by LISA KOOISTRA Photography by BLYNDA DACOSTA

Creating a timeless and charming vintage look for your holiday home decor involves a delicate blend of classic elements and thoughtful styling. Start by incorporating key pieces such as antique ornaments, heirloom decorations, and retro-inspired textiles. Opt for a muted color palette with warm tones like burgundy, forest green, and gold to evoke a nostalgic ambiance. Embrace the beauty of mismatched patterns and textures, combining vintage-inspired prints with cozy knits for a truly authentic feel.

Hunt for unique finds at thrift stores or flea markets to add one-of-a-kind touches, like vintage candle holders or rustic signage. Don't forget to infuse the space with the soft glow of warm ambient lighting through strategically placed string lights or vintage lamps. By combining these elements with a keen eye for detail, you'll effortlessly evoke the charm of yesteryear in your holiday home decor, creating a welcoming and festive atmosphere for all to enjoy.

Here are a few ideas on what to look for when thrifting your vintage decor this year. Try them all or mix and match a few here and there, and you’ll quickly be on your way to a gorgeous holiday style!

Got Brass in Pocket?

Design by PATTI WILSON Photography by MIKE CHAJECKI

Holiday décor or not, retro brass light fixtures add distinction to your space. Those specifically adorned with details around the top and bottom bring a touch of vintage formality, elegance, and style. Thrifting these vintage fixtures is simple! Look in antique stores and thrift shops to find old metal fixtures that likely still work. 

A little work and some cleaning will quickly brighten them up and bring a new feel to your home during the holiday season. To blend these fixtures with other pieces in your home, choose a variety of mixed metals, florals, and even wallpaper, or get creative and make a design all your own!

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

Decorate your mantelpiece or tree with flameless holiday candles that sparkle and shine to provide a one-of-a-kind vintage look. Whether you find old bronze candle clips or a newer style, these candles ensure that you have just the right touch of vintage décor on a tree, wreath, or mantle in your space! You can even use flameless candles that work on a timer and flicker like genuine candles to get the most out of these unique pieces.

Viva La Vintage: Vases and Candle Stands

Creating holiday looks is all about the pieces you put together. Styling vintage pieces throughout your home can infuse a bit of warmth and old-world charm. When thrift shopping for your vintage collection, consider metal and wood candle stands and antique glass vases. Not only do these items last for years to come, but they also add warmth to your space through organic, natural materials. Plus, they can be enjoyed year-round!

Fill a repurposed glass vase with your favorite winter florals or dried grasses and combine it with a few colorful candles to spice up your holiday look this season. And, when the holidays are long gone, use these pieces on top of a fireplace, side table, or entryway table as heightened décor!

Silver and Gold

Beads are a top trend this season, especially when it comes to decorating for the holidays. Whether it’s wooden or glass beads, these pieces are an ideal addition to almost any tree, fireplace mantle, or centerpiece. When thrifting, you can find a variety of bead materials and sizes, so mix it up and have fun with it to bring a dimensional look to your home!

Old jewelry is another commonly found item that can be thrifted. Pearls and genuine gold jewelry hung on a candelabra will create a stunning centerpiece that is elegant and sophisticated.

Restoring Solid Wood Flooring

Hardwood flooring by Carpet One Floor & Home

Revitalize your holiday home's timeless charm by restoring solid wood floors to their original splendor. Transforming worn-out wooden flooring into a stunning vintage centerpiece enhances the overall aesthetic of your festive decor. Hardwood floors not only showcase the character of your vintage home but also serve as a durable and elegant backdrop for your holiday decorations. Consult with the experts at Carpet One Floor & Home for best practices on restoring your hardwood flooring—or to shop for new vintage-look floors!

No matter what you’re searching for this holiday season, thrifting is a great way to find what you’re looking for. To explore classic wood-look floors or traditional carpet that not only complement your vintage holiday style but look good year-round, shop our extensive catalog of products at your local Carpet One Floor & Home!