How to Mix Vintage with Contemporary—Without the Clutter

Thrifting goes modern—here’s how to give vintage treasures a fresh, designer feel.

If your social feed (or weekend plans) are full of thrift store hauls, flea markets, or vintage scores, you’re not alone. Thrifting is officially back—and it’s not just about nostalgia. It seems like everyone is mixing curated secondhand finds with contemporary pieces to create homes that feel more personal, more soulful, and surprisingly luxe.

And good news: you don’t have to overhaul your space to embrace this trend. In fact, a few vintage touches can go a long way. Let’s explore how to make thrifted treasures shine in a modern home—and how Furniture Row pieces can help you ground the look.

The Core Styling Principles for Thrifting

Want your thrifted space to feel curated, not chaotic? Keep these simple rules in mind:

Pick a cohesive palette: A clear color story (neutrals are your best friend) helps blend eras seamlessly.
Balance old/new with an 80/20 split: Let contemporary anchor furniture lead while vintage pieces layer in personality.
Contrast with purpose: Pair sleek with timeworn, matte with shine, and curved with linear for dynamic depth.
Repeat materials: If you introduce a vintage wood tone, echo it elsewhere—maybe in a tray, frame, or shelf bracket.
Use negative space: Give key pieces room to shine. When in doubt, remove one item.

Hartford Writing Desk styled in St Jude Home

What to Thrift Right Now

If you’re just getting started (or looking to refine your approach), here are a few top vintage finds that feel especially fresh right now:

Cane and wicker: These natural, tactile materials layer beautifully into organic-modern spaces.
Brass wall sconces and hardware: Warm metals add glow and character against clean backdrops.
Mid-century seating and wood accent tables: Classic shapes and statement grains add quiet drama.
Rounded silhouettes: Arched mirrors, curved lamps, and soft-edged seating are definitely on trend—and mix well with boxier pieces.

Small Decor, Big Impact: A Simple Formula for Styling

Finding amazing small decor items on your thrifting trips? That’s a good thing! Thrifted treasures don’t need to be big to make a big impression. Small decor—when styled with intention—can elevate your space while keeping things clutter-free. Here’s an easy formula to follow:

The Shelf Styling Formula

Clear the canvas: Always start by removing everything from the shelf or surface. A blank slate helps you see the space with fresh eyes.
Build vignettes in groups of three: Choose a mix of objects with varied height, texture, and shape—like a stack of books, a sculptural vase, and a small framed photo.
Repeat materials or tones: Echo a wood tone, metallic finish, or color from elsewhere in the space on to tie it all together.
Leave breathing room: Don’t fill every inch. Negative space lets the eye rest and helps key pieces stand out.
Curate seasonally: Rotate in new finds and pack away extras. This keeps your space dynamic and your decor feeling fresh.

Bonus Tip: Use trays to corral small items on coffee tables or nightstands so they read as one composed unit—not clutter.

Put It Together: Trending Styles to Try at Home

Need inspiration? Here are three foolproof formulas to help you mix thrifted finds with modern anchors:

1. Organic Modern

Furniture base: Light wood dining table, white linen dining chairs
Thrifted layers: Cane mirror, ceramic vases, and textured bowls
Styling tip: Echo natural tones and add softness with woven textures and living greenery

Pictured above, the Soho 5 Pc. Dining Room Set

2. Today's Contemporary Chic

Furniture base: Streamlined seating area, neutral rug, metal standing lamp
Thrifted layers: Vintage mid-century accent chair, eclectic wood accent tables, glass table lamp
Styling tip: Use decor and accents with similar textures to blend pieces with different styles

The Nouvelle Sofa in a living room with accent chairs

Pictured above, the Nouvelle Velvet Sofa, Sol Coffee Table, and Blakely Accent Chair

3. Cozy-Cottage

Furniture base: Upholstered bed, classic wood dresser, comfy accent chair,
Thrifted layers: Natural artwork, floral area rug, ceramic bedside lamp
Styling tip: Use flowers and pillows for additional charm, and add pieces with storage for better functionality

Pictured above, the Rainier Upholstered Bed, Sedona Dresser, and Willow Swivel Glider Chair

Final Thoughts

Thrifting doesn’t mean sacrificing style—and you don’t need a designer budget to build a space full of character. By mixing old and new with intention, you can create a home that feels layered, lived-in, and uniquely yours.

Start with timeless, high-quality Furniture Row staples. Then, hit your local thrift store, flea market, or online vintage shop for those special pieces that spark joy and tell your story.

Happy thrifting!