Designers Say You Should Never Overlook These Things at the Thrift Shop

Secondhand pieces aren’t just better for your wallet — they also make a space more meaningful. But for many people, shopping at a thrift store can feel overwhelming. How can you tell which pieces are “worth it,” and which are not? I spoke with two interior designers to get the answers and find out which items we should really be keeping an eye out for at the thrift store.  

At the end of the day, designers say you should always trust your instincts if you find yourself gravitating toward a vintage piece. “It’s all about personality and curation,” says Kerrie Kelly, CEO and creative director of Kerrie Kelly Studio. “[Thrifted] pieces bring authenticity, craftsmanship, and a sense of story that new items often can’t replicate. They allow you to create spaces that feel evolved over time, rather than purchased in a single afternoon.”

Thea Bloch-Neal, founder of Curated by Thea, agrees that an intentional and layered look is best. “I always layer in thrifted or vintage pieces because it can add so much texture and character to a room,” she says. “Often you are able to find things [at the thrift store] that you wouldn’t see in anyone else’s home, which makes your spaces feel really special,” she adds.

Unfortunately, you usually can’t go home with everything you’re drawn to at the thrift shop. So which pieces are truly worth it? Ahead, the designers share their top picks for the commonly found thrift store pieces that you should always add to your cart. 

You almost always need more seating, and thrift or vintage store chairs are a great investment because they’re practical and stylish. “A well-loved chair with good bones instantly adds soul to a room,” says Kelly. “A simple reconditioning can make it the hero piece of a reading nook.”

For these, think classic companies like Pendleton or Hudson’s Bay. “I love draping them at the foot of a bed or over an outdoor bench for that layered, collected look that feels equal parts Napa ranch and coastal retreat,” says Kelly.

Forget perfection — the more tarnished, the better! Even a dent lends character, and you can mix and match pieces for a one-of-a-kind tablescape. “I never pass up a silver tray or ice bucket,” says Kelly. “They add quiet luxury when paired with crisp linens and a glass of wine on the patio.”

Why settle for boring when you can find the most quirky, beautiful lamps secondhand? If the shade feels dated, swap it — suddenly it’s a whole new piece, says Bloch-Neal.

Mass-market art can be so bland, but thrifted artwork is always a good idea. “This is probably my favorite [thrift find] category of all,” says Bloch-Neal. “Look for work that’s clearly made by hand: a signature, a brushstroke, a bit of texture. It doesn’t have to be ‘important.’ It just has to speak to you. Real art, made by real people, will always feel better in your home.”

Thrifted side tables often are more solidly constructed and unique than what you can find at mass merchandisers. “I adore a mismatched pair of side tables in a living room, especially next to a cozy chair,” says Bloch-Neal. “There’s something so charming about finding a carved wood or marble piece that has a little history behind it. They don’t have to match — just feel like they belong.”

Old books are often out of print, so they’re truly special. “I can’t resist an old design book,” says Bloch-Neal. “They’re beautiful to flip through, and they add so much warmth and personality to a coffee table or shelf. You can feel the love in those old pages.”

Vintage linens often are of better quality than what you can buy nowadays, and they’re so durable that they usually wash up well. They work for dressing up an everyday meal, adding a colorful touch to the holiday table, or elevating an al fresco dinner party, says Kelly.

Bloch-Neal says handblown glass and painted pottery are definite scores. “These are the little treasures that bring soul to a space,” she says. “They’re so much more meaningful than something mass-produced, and honestly? Often way more affordable, too.”

Almost any room of your home can benefit from a mirror to add depth and interest. “A good vintage mirror is like jewelry for a room,” says Bloch-Neal. “I especially love ones with interesting frames. Bonus points if you’re up for repainting it in a fun color.”

These inexpensive pieces make a house feel layered and lived-in. Place one on a dresser, entryway table, or nightstand to corral everything from keys to your phone, says Bloch-Neal.

Who says every single piece of tableware has to be a part of a matched set? Bloch-Neal suggests selecting dishes with personality — especially vintage glassware with fun colors or interesting patterns. “I like to say if a piece of glass has made it this long, it’s probably well-made,” she says.