The Vintage Tableware Pieces You're Probably Overlooking At The Thrift Store (Yes, They're Still In Style!)

Kitchen and decor trends come and go, but there are some pieces that have stood the test of time. And, if you are lucky enough, you may be able to score some of them on your next trip to the thrift store or secondhand shop. 

One item worth keeping your eyes out for, especially if you like to throw upscale dinner parties (you can check out our tips for a dinner party table spread here) or frequently entertain guests, is napkin holders. No, no — we're not talking about the standup ones that you shove all of your Chipotle napkins into. Rather, these little rings — which can be made of metal, acrylic, or other materials — are meant to sit in the center of cloth napkins. Historically, these napkin rings were engraved or somehow marked so that diners would know which napkin was theirs at the next meal. In the modern era of washing machines, though, their utility is a bit more aesthetic driven. You may be able to find some sets of these rings in thrift stores (or potentially at estate sales), though you can always add an artistic touch to individual ones and give them as gifts or use them to personalize place settings.

If you only find a single brass or acrylic napkin ring at your local Goodwill, fear not. With a little bit of craftiness — and a hot glue gun or superglue — you could be well on your way to cute napkin holders that don't look retro in the slightest. If you find a bag of glass beads or fake ice, for example, you can try gluing them onto the napkin holders. You can do the same thing with small, flat river rocks; this would be an excellent natural element to add to a napkin that's already been accented with a herb sprig. 

You can also paint the accents on your napkin holder to make it look more unique and to highlight the colors in your napkin or your table runner. You could even glue cut fake flowers onto them for a pop of color and a natural touch.