Everyone Had It In The '80s, Now It's The Thrift Store Find Bringing Color Back Into Homes

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There was a time when homeowners weren't afraid of color. The shelves of our parents and grandparents were full of mauve, green, and orange decor. From their couches to their wallpaper, everything felt bold and vibrant. Then, sometime in the 2000s, interiors took a turn toward sleek black-and-white minimalism. Fast forward to 2020, and entire homes are covered in millennial gray walls and beige furniture. Despite the palette shift, some pieces from the '80s are still hanging around, tucked away in thrift stores and antique malls. After years of collecting dust, pink and mauve ceramic accessories are ready to bring cheerful color back into our homes.

Those pinkish art deco-inspired pieces that are so reminiscent of the '80s were once everywhere. They were in the form of vases, soap dishes, lamps, and decorative swans. If you think about it, you'll probably recall seeing some of those pieces growing up or on the shelves of second-hand shops. 

The exact coloration of these ceramic pieces varies, but they always have that dusty rose hue. Whether they're closer to mauve or pink, they look muted, like a deep pastel. These are typically made with a glazed ceramics technique, which leaves a glassy, shiny finish. They blend well with today's interiors because they're sleek and not so bold that they look out of place or clash with more muted pieces. Despite being pink, they don't look childish, but rather elevated and mature. Even if you have depressing gray vinyl flooring or dull beige walls, these easy-to-find vintage accessories will add a subtle pop of personality.

As with many thrift store finds, a good strategy for sourcing pieces is to go in person and look through the aisles. If you can't find what you're looking for, a quick online search for "mauve, dusty pink ceramics '80s" will yield tons of unique vintage finds featuring that color palette and glazing technique, on Etsy, eBay, and elsewhere. From elegant vases for $50 (or less!) to a pair of taper candle holders for $15, there are a lot of affordable options that add small, colorful details to your space. Larger and pricier options include lamp bases or floor vases, which can reach closer to or above $100. For more playful decor, look for those classic '80s swan figurines, many of which were designed to hold washcloths or hand towels, and typically cost under $30.

While you may love how these glazed ceramic pieces look, you might be worried about their weight and fragility. If you move often or have rambunctious pets, these types of ceramics might not be the best fit. One alternative here is to purchase modern '80s-style pieces made of plastic. These sturdier versions may also be a good idea for bathroom sets with toothbrush holders, which can be harder to clean. Sure, the plastic accessories are not as valuable, but they're cute and still bring pretty pink hues into your home.