Every Home Had It In The '60s, Now It's A Thrift Store Gem For Dinner Tables

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In the 1960s, there were a few items people likely saw in nearly every home they came across. While some of those pieces lost popularity in subsequent decades and haven't been seen very often since, certain ones have become stylish again in the context of the modern home. This is perhaps because, with the rise of interior design styles such as maximalist decor and cottagecore aesthetics, many people are interested in adding whimsy back into their interiors, following recent years when minimalism reigned.

So, if you'd like to add some whimsy back into your house with fun, retro decor, why not try thrifting your very own Lucite napkin holder? Lucite is the name of a specific brand of acrylic resin invented in the 1930s, originally for military use. It became popular in the decades that followed for use in everyday items such as jewelry, food containers, and even sunglasses due to its open look, durability, and lighter weight. They even used it in the 1960s to make charming, decorative napkin holders, great for adding a stylish touch to any dining arrangement. 

Luckily, there are still examples of these cute, retro holders that survive today. They can be found in thrift stores or online marketplaces such as eBay for as little as $10. These napkin holders came in a variety of different colors, shapes, and styles that reflected the most popular interior design trends of the 1960s, though, so you may want to take your time and look through all the options available to figure out which gem you'd like to snag. Let's take a look!

If you can dream it, then there is probably a 1960s Lucite napkin holder in that style — or just about. These came in everything from silly crocodile designs to sparkly red owls and sweet, multi-colored florals. However, you may want to thrift one that matches your personal style so that the napkin holder doesn't look too out of place. For example, if you favor calm designs, such as those you might find in Scandinavian decor, you could opt for a 1960s specimen in a monochrome color scheme to prevent wild colors from clashing with your vibe. Or, if you really love the color palettes of the 1960s, you could opt for one featuring the classic burnt orange and avocado green shades typical of the era.

Once you find one you like at a thrift store or online, you can consider how to style it. If you already have a midcentury furniture piece, such as a sideboard or coffee table, placing your '60s napkin holder on it is a great way to emphasize the space's retro feel while keeping napkins readily accessible. Alternatively, if you don't use many napkins, there are plenty of ways to repurpose these charming Lucite napkin holders. For example, why not use one to hold old recipe cards or pot holders, or as a stand for an unframed piece of art? Just make sure to test whether the napkin holder is sturdy enough to stay upright when you put your items inside, as this will prevent it from tipping over and getting scratched, which Lucite can be prone to.