The Regal And Slept-On Furniture Style You Should Look Out For At Thrift Stores

When browsing the aisles of your favorite thrift store, chances are you're already tuned in to the allure of Art Deco curves, mid-century modern lines, and the occasional Victorian relic. But there's one quietly elegant furniture style you might be overlooking, and it's high time it landed on your radar, especially if you're into pieces that blend history with timeless charm and elegance.

Gustavian furniture offers just that. It's a style that comes straight out of 18th-century Sweden, when King Gustav III was inspired by French interior design after a visit to Versailles. But instead of replicating the rich, gilded look of French palaces (because the Swedes couldn't afford to import the materials), the Scandinavian nation made their own interpretation, giving it a softer, more laid-back twist, creating their very own furniture style. Think symmetrical shapes, clean lines, and a light, muted color palette of soft whites, grays, and dusty blues. 

If you regularly buy antique furniture for your home, finding Gustavian furniture in a thrift store might feel like discovering a hidden gem. While true 18th-century pieces are rare, Gustavian-inspired designs and reproductions pop up more often than you'd think (even some IKEA designs are inspired by the style). So, what should you look for when you want to buy Gustavian furniture for your home?

The key to thrifting Gustavian furniture is knowing what to look for, but it usually comes down to the shape and the details. A hallmark of Gustavian furniture is often its slender, tapered, and fluted legs on its tables and chairs. Also, keep an eye out for details such as carved rosettes or wreath-like motifs, which are staples of Gustavian design. Painted finishes are another giveaway; think soft, powdery tones that are slightly distressed or time-worn. If a piece feels light and airy, with just the right amount of ornamentation, it might just be Gustavian, or at least inspired by it.

Picking up a piece of Gustavian furniture at a thrift store will usually mean you grab a bargain. And if it's worse for wear, don't worry. You can refurbish your wood furniture that's in need of some TLC to bring it back to its former glory. Fill any dents or dings with wood filler, sand away scratches or imperfections, and buff the surface with furniture wax. Alternatively, you could paint your latest find in a dusky color reminiscent of the Gustavian style.

One of the best things about the Gustavian furniture style? How effortlessly it can blend into any space. While it can feel a touch ornate with intricate details, these designs are subtle, so they won't take over the vibe of the space but enhance it instead. That's what makes Gustavian style so versatile – it allows you to nail the quiet luxury decor trend without overwhelming a room.

The beauty of Gustavian furniture is that it works well and fits in with almost any vibe and aesthetic. Whether your home leans modern, rustic, eclectic, cottagecore, or traditional, a Gustavian piece can add a layer of softness and sophistication without overpowering the room. A weathered, powdery white chest, for example, works just as beautifully in a minimalist bedroom as it does in a cozy rustic entryway. The key is to let the piece breathe and give it space to stand out, rather than crowding it with other heavily styled elements.

Because Gustavian design is all about light and balance, it's best paired with other neutral tones, natural textures (like linen or rattan), and plenty of soft lighting to really allow it to shine. If you want to bring out the modern elements of the Gustavian design, you could even pair it with some industrial accents like a contemporary art canvas or a sleek metal lamp for contrast.