10 Thrift Store Finds I Always Buy (And How I Style Them)

Thrift stores are my playground. I don’t walk in looking for something specific—I walk in ready to spot the gems I know I’ll always grab when I see them. Over the years, I’ve figured out which pieces are worth scooping up every single time and how to style them so they look intentional, not random. This isn’t about filling your home or closet with clutter—it’s about finding those timeless, versatile items that always look good, tell a story, and save you money while they do it.

Vintage Mirrors

I never pass up a good vintage mirror. The ones worth grabbing usually have some personality—ornate gold or brass frames, carved wood details, or that slightly worn patina that makes them feel collected instead of store-bought. Even the quirky shapes—arched tops, oval frames, or scalloped edges—can make a big impact once styled right.

When I’m shopping, I look for mirrors with sturdy frames (even if the finish is chipped, because that can be painted or left rustic) and glass that isn’t completely fogged over. A little “age spot” here and there actually adds character and charm.

At home, I’ll use them a few different ways: a large gilded mirror leaned against a wall in the living room to bounce light and open the space, a smaller carved one layered on a mantel behind candlesticks for depth, or a mix of mismatched mirrors hung gallery-style in a hallway. Even propped casually on a dresser, a vintage mirror adds instant polish and makes your thrifted finds look intentional.

Woven Baskets

Baskets are one of the most versatile thrift store finds you’ll ever bring home, and I never skip this aisle. I look for sturdy natural materials like rattan, seagrass, or wicker—bonus points if they’ve got leather handles, lids, or interesting weaves that make them stand out. Oversized floor baskets are perfect for storing blankets or extra pillows in the living room, while medium-sized ones work beautifully as planters (just drop your potted plant inside to instantly upgrade it).

Shallow trays or lidded baskets are great for keeping counters and shelves looking neat—I’ll use one in the kitchen to hold oils and spices, another in the bathroom for rolled hand towels, or on an entryway console to catch keys and mail. Smaller baskets can be styled on shelves to hide the little things that otherwise look like clutter, and I love stacking a mix of sizes on top of cabinets for a collected, layered feel.

The best part is how easily they work with any style—boho, farmhouse, coastal, or modern. A basket draped with a cozy throw instantly softens a corner, and a lined one by the bed makes the perfect spot for slippers or books. They’re functional, timeless, and add that touch of natural texture that makes a room feel more lived-in.

Vintage Frames

Frames are one of those pieces that can transform a wall instantly, and thrift stores are full of them. I look for ones with character—ornate gold leaf, chippy wood, or even sleek mid-century lines. Don’t worry about what’s inside the frame; half the time, the art is dated and I swap it out. What matters is the shape, size, and finish of the frame itself.

I’ll use them to build out a gallery wall where no two frames match but somehow all look cohesive together. Large frames can be left empty for a statement, or fitted with modern prints to balance out the vintage vibe. Small frames are perfect for pressed botanicals, thrifted sheet music, or even your own photography. Layering frames on mantels or leaning them against walls creates instant depth and makes any space feel collected over time.

Lamps and Lamp Bases

Lamps are one of my favorite ways to add style and warmth, and they’re everywhere in thrift stores. The key is to ignore the shade and focus on the base. Heavy ceramic bases, brass candlestick styles, and carved wood are all winners. Even if the finish is outdated, you can spray paint or refinish it for a totally different look.

Once home, I’ll swap on a crisp linen or pleated shade and suddenly it feels high-end. Pairs of matching bases are gold for nightstands or living room side tables, but even a single lamp can work beautifully as an accent piece. A statement base on a console or desk makes the whole space feel intentional.

Glassware and Pitchers

The glass aisle is always a treasure hunt. I grab colored glass tumblers, vintage crystal, or anything with texture. A full set is amazing, but I actually love mixing styles for a collected look. Mismatched glasses grouped on open shelving or styled in a bar cart look curated instead of random.

Pitchers are another must-have—they’re practical, but they’re also beautiful styled as vases. A chunky glass pitcher filled with fresh flowers feels timeless, and vintage ceramic or enamel pitchers look just as good empty on a kitchen shelf. They’re pieces that can flex between functional and decorative in seconds.

Side Tables

Side tables are the unsung heroes of thrift stores. They’re almost always affordable, and their small size makes them perfect candidates for a DIY refresh. I look for sturdy legs and interesting shapes—even if the finish is dated, a coat of paint or a sand-and-stain makes it brand new.

I’ll tuck them next to an armchair, style them as nightstands, or use them as plant stands. A stack of books topped with a candle or a vase instantly turns a $10 table into something that looks designer. They’re the kind of piece you can move around the house as your style changes, and they always come in handy.

Cookware and Cast Iron

Heavy cookware is a no-brainer at thrift stores. Cast iron skillets, Dutch ovens, and enamel pots are built to last and usually just need a good scrub and seasoning. I’ll also grab copper or brass pans when I find them—they add so much character hanging on a kitchen wall or displayed on open shelving.

The beauty here is that you’re getting quality cookware that actually functions better than most modern pieces, but you also gain built-in kitchen décor. A stack of cast iron on the stove or a few enamel pots on display makes the space feel warm and lived-in.

Linens and Textiles

The textile section is where hidden gems live. I hunt for vintage quilts, crochet blankets, embroidered tablecloths, and even curtains. A quilt folded at the end of a bed adds instant character, while old tablecloths can be repurposed into runners, napkins, or even pillow covers.

I’ll also grab unique curtains to use as fabric for DIY projects or cut them down to make smaller home décor pieces. Textiles are an easy way to add layers and softness, and thrifted ones often have patterns or details you just can’t find in stores today.

Books

Books are décor disguised as entertainment. I’ll scan for hardcovers with interesting spines—neutrals, jewel tones, or anything with vintage lettering. They make perfect risers on coffee tables, nightstands, or bookshelves to add height and balance to vignettes.

A stack of deep green or navy books under a brass candleholder looks chic, while neutral spines layered with ceramics create a softer vibe. And of course, sometimes you stumble on an actual great read, which is the bonus of styling with books.

Trays

Trays are functional and stylish, and I never skip over them. Wooden trays, mirrored versions, or brass details all bring something different to the table. I use them to corral items and make clutter look intentional.

On a coffee table, a tray groups candles, coasters, and remotes into one neat setup. In the kitchen, they’re perfect for oils and spices, while on a dresser they instantly elevate perfume bottles or jewelry. A tray makes everyday items feel styled instead of scattered.

Chairs

Chairs are one of the best big finds at a thrift store. Whether it’s a single rattan chair, a pair of mid-century side chairs, or a rustic wooden dining chair, they can be mixed into any room. I look for sturdy frames and interesting lines—upholstery can always be changed.

I’ll use them in entryways with a throw draped over the back, at desks as statement seating, or even as plant stands in corners. A quick paint job or reupholstery project completely transforms them, and they almost always look more unique than anything you’ll find new.

Thrifting isn’t just about saving money—it’s about curating pieces that bring character and story into your home. The finds on this list are the ones I never hesitate to grab because they always earn their keep. With a little creativity in how you style them, these secondhand treasures can look just as polished as anything brand new (and often better). The fun is in the hunt, but the magic is in giving these items a new life that feels intentional, stylish, and uniquely yours.