There are so many holiday decorating trends coming and going, it’s hard to keep up. One year, it’s all about minimalist Scandinavian vibes, and the next, it’s a full-blown neon explosion.
If you’re looking for a way to step off the trend treadmill, turning to vintage decorations can bring a sense of history and warmth to your home. These are the pieces that have already proven their staying power. They connect us to past celebrations and create a festive atmosphere that feels genuine.
Here are six vintage holiday decorations you can find on the resale market today.
1. Ceramic Light-Up Christmas Trees
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If you grew up in the 70s or 80s, you probably remember these glowing trees. They were a staple on side tables and mantels, often crafted in a ceramics class by a determined relative. These ceramic trees, dotted with colorful plastic “lights,” are experiencing a major comeback. They offer a dose of pure nostalgia, casting a gentle, multi-colored glow that instantly makes a room feel more festive.
Modern reproductions exist, but the originals have a charm that’s hard to replicate. The glazes might be slightly imperfect, and the colors have a depth that comes from older manufacturing processes. They come in all sizes, from tiny tabletop versions to larger statement pieces, and in colors ranging from traditional green to snowy white or even pastel pink.
2. Shiny Brite Ornaments
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Before shatterproof plastic ornaments became the norm, Shiny Brites were the stars of the Christmas tree. These delicate glass ornaments, first produced in America in the late 1930s, are known for their vibrant colors, simple striped patterns, and iconic metal caps. The story goes that an American department store buyer, cut off from German ornament supplies by the war, worked with Corning to create a domestic alternative.
You can find them in their original (and often beautifully designed) boxes at flea markets, antique shops, and online. Their lightweight design makes them suitable for any tree, real or artificial, without weighing down the branches. They might also be worth a pretty penny.
3. Bottle Brush Trees
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These little bottlebrush trees have been adding wintry cheer to holiday scenes for decades. Originally made in the 1930s from dyed bristles on a wire, they were often decorated with little beads to simulate ornaments. Their simple, bristly texture and whimsical appearance make them perfect for creating miniature forests on a mantelpiece, bookshelf, or as part of a larger centerpiece.
Vintage versions have a distinct look. The bristles might be a bit sparse, the colors slightly faded, and they often sit on a simple wood or cardboard base. This aged appearance is precisely what makes them so appealing. They come in a rainbow of colors, from traditional forest green to pastel blues, pinks, and yellows, offering a fun way to add a pop of color to your decor.
4. Delft Blue Village Houses
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While not exclusively for Christmas, these little ceramic houses become holiday favorites for many. Given away to first-class passengers on KLM Royal Dutch Airlines since the 1950s, each miniature house is a replica of a real Dutch building and is filled with Dutch gin. Even empty, they make a stunning collectible display. Their iconic blue-and-white design offers a sophisticated alternative to more colorful Christmas villages.
Arranged on a mantel with faux snow and fairy lights, a collection of Delft Blue houses creates an elegant and worldly winter wonderland. Each house is numbered, making collecting them a fun pursuit. Because they are still being produced and given away, you can find both vintage and more recent versions on the resale market.
5. Vintage Christmas Books & Magazines
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Before the internet, holiday inspiration came from the pages of magazines like Better Homes & Gardens or Good Housekeeping. These old issues are time capsules of holiday style, filled with recipes, decorating ideas, and advertisements that paint a picture of Christmases past. The illustrations and photography have a unique aesthetic that can feel both humorous and heartwarming from a modern perspective.
Children’s Christmas books from past eras also carry a special sentiment. A well-loved copy of a classic holiday story, with its dated illustrations and worn pages, can become a treasured part of your annual traditions. Using these items as decor, by propping a book on a side table or framing a beautiful magazine cover, adds a narrative layer to your holiday setup.
6. Putz Houses
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The term “Putz” comes from the German word putzen, meaning “to decorate.” These small cardboard houses, originating from Germany and later popularized in Japan after World War II, were used to create nativity or village scenes. Covered in glitter and featuring cellophane windows, these little structures were designed to have a small light placed inside, making them glow from within.
A collection of Putz houses creates a magical, sparkling village. Their glittery roofs and snow-dusted walls catch the light beautifully. Finding vintage ones in good condition can be a treasure hunt, as the cardboard and cellophane are delicate. They represent a simpler time and add a handmade, sentimental quality to holiday decorating.
Finding Your Holiday Style
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Incorporating vintage items into your holiday decor is a way to create traditions that are uniquely yours. If you’d like to slowly build a collection of meaningful pieces, start by looking for one or two items that you genuinely love. You might check out local antique shops, flea markets, or online resale sites. Don’t worry about creating a “perfect” display. Mix these older pieces with your current decorations to create a holiday home that tells a story and feels truly personal.