9 Vintage Fall Décor Items to Look for at Thrift Stores, According to Design Insiders

Fall is the time for all things cozy and charming, and thrift stores are chock-full of both qualities. If you’re ready to give your home a seasonal update, vintage décor is your best bet.

From antique candleholders to bewitching quilts, there’s a piece that can speak to every space—regardless of your budget or style. In need of inspiration? Here, designers and experts share nine vintage fall décor items that they love finding at thrift stores.

Embroidered Linens

Whether you're hosting a casual dinner or preparing a Thanksgiving feast, a stylish setup is sure to impress guests—and that starts with linens.

"We love vintage linen napkins that have embroidered borders," says Caryn Paradis, interior designer and founder of Studio Paradis. "[I'm] loving cross stitch right now, and homespun textiles in muted reds, blues, and greens—that could be anything from a great tablecloth to yardage that we have made into drapery."

Stone Trays

Complimenting wood and stone trays are the perfect backdrop for holiday spreads. "My favorite is utilizing items in unexpected ways, like a stone chess board to feature amazing food assortments," says Taylor Jochim-Smoot, founder of secondhand home décor shop Portland Revibe. "The checkered stone pattern adds so much character!"

Labware

Surprising silhouettes can turn a basic tablescape into an inviting, photo-worthy moment. "Add modern flatware, lab glassware, apothecary bottles, or botanical specimens for a touch of curiosity and an unexpected, modern edge," says Paradis. "When we throw in more modern lines, like labware, suddenly the vintage looks current."

Handmade Quilts

Craving something to snuggle up in? Nothing beats a vintage, handmade quilt.

"Each are so unique and made with such care!" says Jochim-Smoot. "I love finding quilts that have the perfect color combinations and patterns I’m searching for. They blend and layer well with other colors and patterns in my home, and I love draping them over the couch."

Aged Candleholders

Tall brass and copper candleholders instantly invoke an eerie, autumnal vibe. Paradis likes grouping aged ones in a mix of metals for a collected look. "Natural beeswax tapers add warmth and draw out each metal’s unique patina; a single bold color taper adds a unifying visual," she says.

Metal Platters

Metal trays add warmth and shine to spaces as the weather gets bleak.

"A type [that] I tend to find in antique and vintage shops are the large copper or brass Middle Eastern trays—sometimes called Moorish trays," says Bene Raia, auctioneer, appraiser, and founder of Raia Auctioneers. "These trays can be very large, and can also be used as tables if placed on an ottoman or on wooden legs."

Cozy Lighting

If you're not a fan of candlelight, you can always brighten up your space in other ways. "I find the most unique and extraordinary lighting at vintage shops," says Jochim-Smoot. "I love putting smaller, stylish table lamps or hanging pendant lights around the house on various shelves, and in darker nooks for a styled, cozy moment."

Covered Glass Jars

Simple and prolific in vintage stores, covered glass jars come in an array of types, from candy dishes to large pickle jars used in general stores.

"I would visit a few shops and pick up several within the same size range—10 to 12 inches in diameter. These would be perfect for displaying treats," says Raia. "You can also put battery-operated fairy lights in large glass jars and use them as a centerpiece for a holiday dinner."

Woven Baskets

Woven baskets are especially apt for autumn, and vintage stores offer more personality-driven options.

"When I’m decorating for the fall, I want something with age, and somewhat unique—so I look for antique sweet grass baskets, a creel basket, or a Nantucket basket," Raia says. "I would then style these baskets as vessels to hold flowers—usually hydrangeas—and use them as a centerpiece or on the floor beside the fireplace."