Sometimes, the most interesting thing in a room is the piece that doesn’t quite match anything else. Sometimes, it’s the slightly odd lamp, colorful vintage phone, or tiny ceramic animal on a bookshelf that makes a room feel like your own.
Thrift stores are full of pieces that can bring humor and personality to your decor. The trick is to choose a few things that make you smile and give them room to stand out.
Playful vintage clocks
A vintage clock with a colorful face, unusual shape, or quirky design can add a little personality to a plain wall or mantel. Even if it no longer keeps time, it can still serve as a fun decorative piece that adds a touch of nostalgia.
Unusual vintage mirrors
A mirror with a scalloped edge, ornate gold frame, or unexpected shape can make a plain wall feel more interesting. Hang one above a small entryway table or mix it into a gallery wall to break up a collection of rectangular frames.
Quirky animal figurines
A brass duck, ceramic frog, or glass bird can bring a playful touch to an otherwise ordinary bookshelf. Tuck one between a few books and a small plant so it can stand out.
Colorful rotary phones
An old rotary phone in bright red, yellow, or pastel pink can make an unexpected statement on a side table. Even if it no longer works, its retro shape and cheerful color make it a fun decorative piece.
Vintage toys and games
Old wooden trucks, tin toys, colorful game boards, and oversized dice can add a little nostalgia to your decor. Display a favorite toy on a shelf or prop up a vintage game board in a home office or family room.
Related: These 17 Vintage Toys Could Be Worth Hundreds—or Even Thousands
Animal-shaped lamps
A lamp with a ceramic bird, brass monkey, or other unusual creature as its base adds personality while providing useful light. Pair it with a simple lampshade so the quirky base gets most of the attention.
Vintage perfume bottles
Empty perfume bottles often have decorative stoppers, interesting shapes, and beautiful colored glass, making them worth displaying. Group a few on a small tray in your bedroom or bathroom for a charming vintage touch.
Vintage storybook illustrations
Old children’s books sometimes have illustrations too lovely to keep hidden on a shelf. If you find a damaged copy with artwork you love, frame a favorite page to create inexpensive art for a reading nook or gallery wall.
Related: The Vintage Books You Should Look for When Thrifting
Bold retro fabrics
Vintage floral curtains, patterned tablecloths, and colorful fabric remnants can add a playful touch to a room without requiring a major makeover. Turn a small piece into a pillow cover or frame an interesting pattern as textile art.
Unusual wicker baskets
Look for wicker baskets shaped like animals, fruit, or other unexpected objects instead of the usual rectangular storage bins. An unusual basket can hold magazines, craft supplies, or a small plant while adding character to a corner of your home.
Mismatched vintage picture frames
Thrift stores are full of picture frames with ornate details, unusual shapes, and finishes that don’t necessarily match anything else. Mix a few different styles to display family photos or quirky artwork for a gallery wall that feels collected over time.
Related: How to Create a Stunning Gallery Wall on Stairs
Novelty salt and pepper shakers
From tiny ceramic mushrooms to miniature animals and fruit, vintage salt and pepper shakers come in all kinds of playful designs. Display a favorite pair on an open kitchen shelf or dining table for a little whimsy that doesn’t take up much space.
Vintage door knockers
An old brass door knocker shaped like a lion, owl, or hand adds a little personality before guests even enter your home. If you can’t install it on your front door, mount it on a small piece of wood and display it as wall decor.
Animal-shaped furniture
A wicker elephant side table or a small animal-shaped stool can bring humor to a room while still serving a purpose. Let a piece like this stand on its own rather than surrounding it with too many other novelty finds.
