Shopping for Vintage Furnishings? Here are 9 Pieces to Look for That Never Go Out of Style

Trends are fun, but they don’t last, and when it comes to home furnishing, constantly updating items can take a big chunk out of your wallet. But some items and styles are found again and again over the years, and always make a home look tasteful, stylish, and inviting.

They also play well together. Classic pieces are easy to mix and match with modern and traditional spaces, without being overwhelming. How do they do it? Part of the appeal is craftsmanship, part is nostalgia, while others may have a funky or unique aesthetic that sparks joy. Whatever the reason, these vintage pieces have earned their staying power.

Our team frequently sees shoppers gravitate toward certain items. Here are nine classics that designers, collectors, and treasure hunters fall in love with, generation after generation. If you’re shopping in Cincinnati’s furniture consignment shops, you might want to keep an eye out for these:

1. Mid-Century Modern Chairs

You can hardly open a furniture catalog without seeing one of these enduring designs: tapered legs, clean lines, high-quality wood, and upholstery of wool or leather. Mid-century chairs are one of the most versatile furniture styles ever created, and blend perfectly with a huge range of other design styles. Whether an original from the 1950s or 60s, or a reproduction, these chairs are comfortable and elegant.

2. Persian and Oriental Rugs

Whether small enough to tuck into an alcove or sprawling over a living room floor, few items bring warmth, texture, and definition to a room like a beautifully woven rug. Often made from a blend of wool, silk, or cotton in vibrant colors, these rugs are hand-knotted and are famed for lasting up to a century or two.

3. Vintage Sideboards and Buffets

Who doesn’t need more storage in their home? Sideboards aren’t just for dining rooms, and they offer surface space and storage with a bold design statement anywhere you need one. These are often found in natural wood tones that bring warmth to a room and give you a chance to display artwork, flowers, or other decorative touches.

4. Art Deco Décor

Art Deco designs have been celebrated for over 100 years for their bold geometric patterns and luxurious materials. You’ll often see vases, decorative objects, artwork, or mirrored trays that give a vintage, yet surprisingly modern touch to a space.

5. Bar Carts

In the 1950s and 60s, you’d find a bar cart anywhere a good time was had, whether it was in the living room, home office, or by the pool. Whether glass-topped or in shining teak, bar carts are versatile and can be used for much more than serving drinks: try using one to display plants, art, or an interesting collection.

6. Vintage Glassware and Decanters

Speaking of serving drinks, there is something undeniably chic about serving one in a vintage glass. Make every day more special with etched glass, delicate crystal, or colorful mid-century glass — or just display them. Even when they’re not being used, vintage glassware and decanters are pretty to look at and add a touch of elegance.

7. Statement Lighting

Sculptural, artistic, sophisticated, or whimsical — a great lamp or lighting fixture can define a room and give a touch of unmistakable personality. Vintage lighting is functional and collectible, but make sure it works and is safely wired (if you’re not sure, check with an electrician or expert in vintage lighting).

8. Candle Holders

No classic design list would be complete without mentioning antique and vintage candlesticks. Brass, glass, wood, or bronze are easy to come by, but they offer a touch of coziness to dining spaces, tables, mantles, or bookshelves. Don’t worry if the finish isn’t perfect — an oxidized look is often sought after and makes a candle holder more interesting.

9. Textiles

Quilts, tapestries, tablecloths, and throws give a homey, inviting feel and make changing a room’s style easy throughout the year. These items tend to be overlooked in consignment shops in Cincinnati, but can be valued statement pieces of their own. Turn a beautiful quilt into a wall hanging, and you instantly have one-of-a-kind décor. Classic patterns, textures, and materials are prized for their timeless appeal and offer personality and impact.

Why do some styles keep coming back?

The same design pieces are seen over and over in homes and design magazines for a few reasons. The first is that they are well-made from materials that were intended to last beyond a single generation. They also tend to balance form, function, and effortless beauty that is timeless, versatile, and blends into their surroundings with ease. Finally, some items stick around because they are quite simply fun! Nostalgia and personality go a long way, and people tend to enjoy being around things that make them feel a sense of enjoyment.

Take a look around Legacies for enduring designs

Cincinnati’s treasure hunters know exactly where to go to find gently used furniture, jewelry, and home décor that offer quality and timeless appeal: Legacies Upscale Resale. We are a curated consignment and vintage furniture shop where you can find items with character and style that last. We’re also one of the best charities to donate to in the Queen City because purchases directly benefit the Cancer Support Community of Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. For meaningful purchases that are sure to delight you, stop by Legacies, or visit our Facebook page for updates on recent items!