Thrift stores are treasure troves – equal parts chaos and charm – where $5 can score you a gem or a glorified dust collector. But when you know what to look for, decorating your home becomes less about spending big and more about spotting the magic in unexpected places.
Whether you’re thrifting on a tight budget or ready to splurge a little on something truly special, this guide has you covered.
I’ve rounded up 17 beautiful decor finds under $30 that bring serious style, plus 17 higher-ticket pieces that are absolutely worth the extra bucks. Let’s dive into the thrift – and find the gold.
UNDER $30: Vintage Glass Vases
Ever noticed how a single vase can transform a room? Vintage glass vases add a splash of elegance and color, turning any dull corner into a focal point. Found in various shapes and sizes, each piece boasts its own unique charm.
At thrift stores, these beauties often come at a fraction of their original price. Mix and match different styles to create a cohesive yet eclectic look. Whether filled with fresh flowers or standing alone, they bring a touch of sophistication to any space.
Search thrift stores for vibrant hues that complement your decor palette.
OVER $30: Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Chairs that look like art? Mid-century modern designs are a timeless choice for adding sophistication to your seating arrangement.
Scout thrift stores for these absolute gems! Their sleek lines and minimalist aesthetic fit seamlessly into contemporary spaces. Pair them with a cozy throw for added comfort.
These chairs not only provide seating but also elevate the room’s design quotient.
UNDER $30: Ceramic Planters
Green thumbs or not, ceramic planters are a must-have for adding life to your home. These pots come in countless colors and patterns, making it easy to find one that matches your style.
Thrift stores often carry a wide selection of ceramic planters that can be the perfect home for your leafy friends. Display them on windowsills or shelves to create a mini indoor garden. The ceramic texture adds an earthy feel, making it a versatile decor piece.
OVER $30: Patterned Rugs
Tired of bare floors? Patterned rugs are the perfect antidote, offering both comfort and style. They anchor a room while adding texture and color.
Thrift stores are excellent places to find rugs with unique patterns and vibrant hues. Use them in living areas or bedrooms to pull together your decor scheme.
A well-placed rug can redefine a space, making it cozy and inviting.
UNDER $30: Antique Picture Frames
Why settle for ordinary when you can frame your memories in something extraordinary? Antique picture frames add a touch of nostalgia and elegance to your photos.
Hunting for these frames in thrift stores is a rewarding adventure, as each piece tells its own story. With detailed carvings and rich patinas, they enhance any photograph. Use them to create a gallery wall that speaks of history and charm.
A perfect blend of past and present, these frames are timeless decor pieces.
OVER $30: Crystal Chandeliers
Looking to make a statement? Crystal chandeliers offer a touch of opulence, turning any room into a grand ballroom.
Thrift stores are surprising places to find these glamorous light fixtures. Hang them in dining rooms or entryways for maximum impact. Their sparkle and elegance are unparalleled.
Let a chandelier be the crown jewel of your home, adding drama and sophistication to the atmosphere.
UNDER $30: Quirky Bookends
Bookshelves looking a bit too plain? Quirky bookends are just the fix to add personality and pizzazz. Often depicting animals or abstract shapes, they are both functional and fun.
Thrift stores offer a range of bookends that can suit any theme you have in mind. Use them to prop up your favorite reads while adding an artistic touch. These playful pieces are conversation starters, adding character to your reading nook.
OVER $30: Antique Side Tables
Side tables don’t have to be boring. Antique side tables add sophistication and utility, serving as the perfect spot for your coffee or a reading lamp.
Visit thrift stores to find tables with carved details and rich finishes that tell a story. Position them beside sofas or in nooks for added charm.
These tables are small in size but big on style, making them an ideal addition to any room.
UNDER $30: Woven Baskets
Overflowing with style and functionality, woven baskets are a decorator’s dream. They offer a rustic touch, perfect for storing anything from blankets to plants.
At thrift stores, you can find baskets of all shapes and sizes, each with its own unique weave pattern. Use them to declutter your space or as decorative items on their own. Their natural texture complements a variety of interior styles.
This versatile decor is not only stylish but also a practical addition to any home.
OVER $30: Retro Lamps
Lamps from the ’50s to ’70s have a distinct, sculptural appeal that modern versions struggle to replicate. Ceramic bases with textured glazes, wood and brass combos, or tripod legs – they’re design gold.
Rewiring may be needed, and thrift shops tend to price these up when the bases are in great shape. But once rewired and paired with the right shade, these lamps don’t just light a room – they define it.
They’re practical pieces that double as art, and well worth the extra few bucks.
UNDER $30: Decorative Trays
Searching for a touch of elegance? Decorative trays are the unsung heroes of chic organization. Placed strategically, they transform clutter into curated exhibits.
Thrift stores abound with trays that feature intricate designs or vintage appeal. Use them on coffee tables or dressers to hold candles, keys, or trinkets. Their versatility makes them an essential decor element.
Whether you prefer ornate or minimalist styles, these trays are the perfect blend of beauty and utility.
OVER $30: Antique Mirrors
It’s not just about reflection – it’s about presence. Antique mirrors with wood-carved or gilded frames can command higher prices in secondhand shops, but the effect they bring to a room is unmatched.
The slight imperfections in the glass, the ornate detail in the frame, the warm aged finish – these mirrors double as artwork.
Hang one over a mantel, in a hallway, or above a dresser, and it instantly becomes a focal point. Heavy? Yes. Pricey? Sometimes. But once it’s on your wall, you’ll be glad you didn’t walk away.
UNDER $30: Vintage Clocks
Time flies, but vintage clocks ensure you do so in style. These timepieces add a classic touch to any room while keeping you punctual.
Thrift stores offer a treasure trove of clocks with timeless designs and intricate details. Hang them in your living room or study for an old-world charm. Their elegant faces and hands are both functional and decorative.
OVER $30: Framed Oil Paintings
There’s something charmingly unpredictable about thrifted art. Among the dated prints and velvet Elvises, you’ll occasionally find a framed oil painting that stops you in your tracks.
The texture, brushwork, and energy of an original piece adds authenticity to your walls. Yes, some thrift stores price these higher, especially if they’re signed or well-framed – but they’re often still cheaper than mass-produced art from home decor chains.
Whether it’s a moody seascape or a quirky still life, the right piece will feel like it was waiting for you.
UNDER $30: Unique Candle Holders
Ambiance is everything, and unique candle holders ensure your home glows warmly. These pieces add an artistic flair and can turn any dining experience into a romantic one.
Thrift stores often carry a variety of candle holders, each with distinct characteristics. Place them on tables or shelves for a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Their charm lies in their individuality, making each piece a conversation starter.
OVER $30: Brass Lighting Fixtures
Old-school brass sconces, pendants, or chandeliers often get overlooked under layers of grime, but a quick polish can reveal something spectacular.
The weight, detail, and patina of solid brass lighting are leagues beyond modern imitations. These pieces have presence – and when rewired properly, they’re both beautiful and functional.
Thrift stores may charge a premium for them, especially if they’re from known makers or mid-century designers, but they instantly elevate a space.
UNDER $30: Art Deco Statues
Who says sculptures are just for museums? Art deco statues bring a touch of elegance and history into your home.
Thrift stores often hold these treasures, each telling a story through its design. With their geometric shapes and metallic finishes, they add a modern touch to any decor.
Place them on mantlepieces or side tables to act as conversation starters, imbuing your space with artistic flair.
OVER $30: Vintage Bar Carts
There’s a certain charm in an old brass or chrome bar cart with wheels that still roll smooth and shelves that gleam. Whether it’s art deco, mid-century, or glam 1970s, a well-designed bar cart adds both function and flair.
Use it for cocktails, coffee, plants, or books – it works in every room and always looks like it came from someone with a great eye.
UNDER $30: Colorful Throw Pillows
Comfort meets color with throw pillows that pop. These soft accents add personality and warmth to any seating arrangement.
Thrift stores offer a rainbow of options, each pillow telling its own story through patterns and textures. Mix and match to create a dynamic look without the commitment of new furniture.
OVER $30: Record Cabinets
Even if you don’t own vinyl, vintage record cabinets are a storage dream. Their compact footprint and cool proportions make them a perfect fit for modern homes.
Some are simple with clean lines; others come with sliding doors, spindle legs, or funky inlays. Thrift stores with a keen sense of style will tag these a bit higher, but you’re still getting a solid piece of functional furniture.
They’re great as end tables, TV stands, or sideboards – and they bring that nostalgic edge without trying too hard.
UNDER $30: Brass Candle Lanterns
Love the look of candlelight but want something more dramatic? Brass candle lanterns provide an exotic flair, casting mesmerizing shadows.
Thrift stores frequently stock these lanterns, ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Arrange them on patios or in living rooms to create an intimate setting.
Their metallic sheen and intricate patterns add a luxurious touch without the hefty price tag.
OVER $30: Ceramics with Artist Signatures
That lopsided bowl or wobbly mug? It might just be a hand-thrown treasure. Signed studio pottery is a growing collector’s niche, and thrift stores sometimes price it up when they know it’s legit.
But even at the higher end, these pieces are often far less expensive than anything sold in boutiques or galleries.
The textures, glazes, and shapes are wonderfully imperfect. Whether functional or decorative, these ceramics tell a story – and they give your shelves a richness that mass-produced pieces never could.
UNDER $30: Vintage Tea Sets
Afternoon tea just got an upgrade with vintage tea sets that exude charm and sophistication. These sets are perfect for hosting or simply enjoying a moment of quiet elegance.
Thrift stores often have a delightful array of tea sets, each with its own unique design. Use them to serve guests or as decorative kitchen pieces.
A vintage tea set is more than just crockery; it’s a journey back to a time of grace and refinement.
OVER $30: Vintage Globes
There’s something magical about a well-worn globe – especially one with colors that have faded just so, or countries that no longer exist.
They make great conversation starters and lend a sense of time and curiosity to a space.
They’re more than just nostalgic decor – they’re educational, sculptural, and oddly grounding. Place one on a shelf or desk, and it becomes an instant focal point.
UNDER $30: Rustic Wall Art
Walls looking a bit bare? Rustic wall art is the solution, adding texture and personality. These pieces bring an earthy feel and are often crafted from reclaimed materials.
Thrift stores are treasure troves for finding unique art that speaks to your personal style. Hang them in your living room or entryway for an instant facelift.
The beauty of rustic art is in its imperfections, each piece telling a story of its own.
OVER $30: Wooden Trunks or Steamer Chests
Nothing beats the character of an old wooden trunk – the scratches, the metal hardware, the layers of history. These often get priced higher in secondhand shops because they’re multifunctional: storage, coffee table, bench, conversation piece.
A good one will be solid, heavy, and full of charm. Even if it needs a little cleaning or conditioning, the bones are usually fantastic. Trunks add a storied, world-traveled vibe to a room, and they never go out of style.
UNDER $30: Decorative Plates
Plates aren’t just for the kitchen anymore. Decorative plates make stunning wall art, showcasing intricate designs and colors.
Thrift stores often have an eclectic mix of plates that can transform a blank wall into a visual feast. Arrange them in a pattern or at random for an artistic touch.
These plates add a dash of culture and creativity, proving that beauty can be both functional and decorative.
OVER $30: Marble or Stone Side Tables
When you find a marble-topped side table at a thrift store, grab it – even if the price is higher than you’d hoped. Real stone brings weight, durability, and natural elegance to a room.
These pieces often have metal or wood bases that clean up beautifully, and the marble usually has that gorgeous aged veining you just can’t fake.
New marble furniture costs a small fortune, so even a “pricey” thrift find is usually a deal in disguise. They work in bedrooms, living rooms, entryways – basically anywhere you want a little touch of old-world charm.
UNDER $30: Unique Door Knobs
Doors have feelings too, and unique door knobs are just the facelift they deserve. These knobs are small but mighty, offering an instant upgrade.
Thrift stores carry an assortment of door knobs that can be fitted to any door, adding character and charm. Their intricate designs make them standout pieces.
Swap out standard knobs for these beauties to inject personality into your home’s entryways.
OVER $30: Industrial Metal Stools or Chairs
The real-deal industrial stuff – think steel stools with worn paint or metal chairs with riveted backs – rarely comes cheap, even at secondhand shops. But it’s worth the investment.
These pieces are built to last and add edge and character to any room. Perfect for kitchens, workspaces, or even as plant stands, they bring in that weathered, no-fuss charm that never feels overstyled.
Even the dings and scuffs are part of the appeal. Clean them up, maybe add a cushion if needed, and you’ve got something cool and built like a tank.
UNDER $30: Iron Wall Hooks
Hooks need not be boring, and iron wall hooks prove it. With their robust build and decorative designs, they add both function and flair.
Thrift stores provide a variety of hooks perfect for entryways, kitchens, or bathrooms. Use them to hang coats, bags, or even plants.
These hooks are not just practical; they’re a stylish way to keep your space organized and appealing.
OVER $30: Murano Glass or Art Glass Bowls
If you ever come across a heavy, swirled glass bowl with rich color and funky shapes – check the bottom. Murano and studio art glass pieces are highly collectible, and thrift shops sometimes know it.
The way they catch light is almost hypnotic, and each one feels like a sculpture. Even the unsigned ones carry a sense of artistry that lifts a whole room.
UNDER $30: Hand-Painted Ceramics
Ceramics can be as expressive as the art they hold, and hand-painted pieces offer a splash of personality and culture.
Thrift stores are wonderful places to find ceramics with unique patterns and vibrant hues. Use them for dining or as decorative items that brighten up shelves.
Each piece of ceramic tells a story, adding a homemade touch to your decor.
OVER $30: Vintage Wall Tapestries
You don’t see them often, but when you do, they’re stunning. Vintage tapestries – whether they’re woven, embroidered, or printed – can turn a blank wall into a cozy, layered focal point.
They soften hard lines, add texture, and often carry earthy, natural color palettes that work in all kinds of spaces. Hang one above a sofa or bed and your room instantly feels more curated and collected.