You Can’t Buy This Vintage IKEA Dresser Anymore, but These Finds Come Close

I have a complicated relationship with vintage finds. I love that finding something so unique feels like the greatest reward after a long treasure hunt. Alternatively, though, it’s not always easy to source specific secondhand finds — even when they originally came from big-box stores like IKEA. 

Whenever you get ahold of a vintage find that you adore, it’s important to hold onto it forever. Emily Lawrence, the influencer manager at Hommey, understands this in her colorful and modern Melbourne apartment. During the House Tour, she admitted that one of her favorite pieces is her vintage IKEA VAJER chest of drawers. 

Tomas Jelinek designed the chest of drawers in 1995 after being inspired by the “somewhat bulbous, bow-shaped drawer fronts on Baroque and Rococo chests of drawers,” according to IKEA. While they were being produced, Tomas used plastic to create the fronts, which gave them an almost wavy shape, and they came in fun colors (red being the most popular). 

Emily has the green version of the IKEA VAJER in her primary bedroom. On top of the dresser, she has coffee table books, some sculptural art pieces, and even a handmade lamp. The colorful cabinet fronts lend a happy vibe to the overall design, and the nine drawers likely offer ample storage.  

While I’ll forever be praying that IKEA brings the VAJER back (crossing my fingers that the brand sees this!), some lucky folks might be able to source an original dresser. However, if you’re unable to find a vintage piece, no need to fret entirely — there are a few pieces from current big-box stores that look similar. 

If you’re looking for something colorful, look no further than Urban Outfitters’s Aria six-drawer dresser. The drawers are wider than the IKEA VAJER, which might make the amount of storage the same (or even more!). It comes in a whopping seven colors, including wine, blue, and even lichen. The squiggle shape and color will add an eclectic touch to any space. 

Some people might prefer the wavy drawer fronts but want a neutral color. That’s where the Joss & Main Insley dresser, which is available at Wayfair, comes in handy. Even though it doesn’t have as vibrant of a color as the Urban Outfitters option, that doesn’t mean it’s sacrificing style. 

“This chest is a stunning piece of art and a distinctive addition to our great room,” Linda, a Wayfair reviewer, wrote on the website. “I needed an accent chest where I could store tablecloths, cloth napkins, and placemats, but was also beautiful and complementary to the room itself. It is well-made, drawers move smoothly, an heirloom worthy piece of furniture. I couldn’t be happier.” 

It’s no wonder Linda referred to the Wayfair dresser as an “heirloom worthy piece of furniture,” as both it and the Urban Outfitters option are over $1,000. If you’re looking for a piece that’s inexpensive while capturing that unique style, Walmart has a wonderful chest of drawers for you. The YOCWO dresser comes in two colors — black and light wood — and two sizes — three or nine drawers. Luckily, the nine-drawer dresser costs just under $300. 

Even though there’s no way to buy an IKEA VAJER brand-new, these gorgeous dressers come pretty close to the original. Consider the options above to add more color, sculpture, and storage to your home. If you want to see how Emily incorporated color, including the dresser in her home, visit the full House Tour.