Do you love vintage and foraged decor but struggle with how to mix it with your new decor?

Do you love vintage and foraged decor but struggle with how to mix it with your new decor?

If you love the idea of a home that feels collected, meaningful and timeless — this post is for you. We’re diving into how to combine vintage decor with foraged natural elements to craft a space that’s full of character, sustainability and personality.

Why vintage + foraged decor works

There are two big trends here:

  • First, vintage home decor is prized because it brings history, texture and uniqueness into a space. For example, interior designers say mixing vintage pieces with newer ones gives a home soul without feeling outdated.

  • Second, foraged or natural elements (branches, dried flowers, seed pods) are increasingly used to bring organic texture and sustainability into homes. 
    Combining them means you get the best of both: pieces that tell a story + the natural, grounded feel of organic materials.

Step-by-step: How to build the look

1. Start with the “80/20” ratio

Begin with mostly modern or neutral furnishings (about 80 %) and then layer in vintage treasures and foraged accents (about 20 %). This helps the vintage pieces stand out rather than overwhelm and turn into grandma's house. (even though I love grandma's house)

2. Scout for vintage pieces

Look for things like:

  • Antique frames, pottery, brass lamps, wooden chests, baskets, cutting boards,  and interesting pieces. These pieces bring character and authenticity. 

  • Items with patina, wear and visible history—they don’t need to look pristine. The worn finish is part of the charm.

3. Forage natural materials

Pick up or source:

  • Dried seed pods, pinecones, branches, driftwood, grasses. These are ideal décor elements. Place them in a thrifted vase, basket, or jar to bring the outside in. 

  • If you’re gathering yourself: Clean and dry the materials properly so they last indoors. (See DIY tips below.)

4. Combine both in styling

Here are creative ways to mix:

  • Place a vintage tray or box, then fill it with foraged pinecones or grasses for a tabletop display.

  • Hang an old wooden frame and inside mount pressed leaves or branches you found.

  • Use a vintage metal bucket or enamel pitch­er as a vase for dried foraged flowers.

5. Choose the right palette & textures

Keep your base palette simple—off-whites, soft greys, natural browns—to allow the vintage & natural pieces to shine. Textures matter: worn wood, patina metal, wicker, linen. Foraged elements should add subtle contrast in shape and texture.

6. Focus on meaningful pieces

Avoid filling the space with “just anything old” and “just anything foraged.” Instead, choose objects that you love and that speak to you. That’s what makes it authentic.

Send me pictures of you new/old treasures and foraged items

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