
Top Thrift Store Items That Scream Boho
Boho style is all about creative freedom, comfort, and character, and where better to find those things than your local thrift store? With the right eye and a little patience, you can transform your home into a vibrant, soulful retreat without blowing your budget. Whether you’re new to secondhand shopping or a seasoned thrifter, this guide will help you zero in on the best thrift store décor that truly screams boho.
We’ll explore what to look for, how to style your finds, and how to create that coveted layered, eclectic look using budget bohemian tips and smart styling ideas for thrifted home styling. If you love natural textures, rich colours, and vintage vibes, this guide is for you.
Why Thrift Stores Are a Boho Decor Goldmine
The bohemian aesthetic thrives on uniqueness, stories, and a handmade feel. Thrift stores are the perfect place to find all three. Every item comes with a past, and when you bring it into your space, it becomes part of your personal style narrative.
Perks of Thrift Shopping for Boho Decor:
- Budget-friendly: Gorgeous finds for a fraction of retail prices
- Eco-conscious: Keeps items out of landfills
- Curated chaos: Great for mixing eras, textures, and patterns
- Authenticity: Nothing mass-produced here
Human cue: I once picked up an old brass lamp base for £8, spray-painted it matte black, and paired it with a macramé shade. It now looks like something out of an interiors magazine — total cost under £15.
The Ultimate Boho Thrift Store Checklist
Walk into any charity or secondhand shop with this mental list, and you’ll be ready to find pieces that bring character and charm to your home.
1. Woven Baskets
Woven baskets add instant texture and are versatile as:
- Storage for throws or magazines
- Planter covers
- Wall decor grouped in threes or fives
Look for natural materials like rattan, jute, or bamboo. The more imperfect, the better.
2. Vintage Rugs
You don’t need a pristine Persian rug. Look for:
- Kilim, Turkish, or Moroccan-style patterns
- Slight wear or fraying for a lived-in look
- Runners for hallways or under beds
Tip: Even small rugs work great layered on top of larger jute or neutral area rugs.
3. Macramé and Textiles
Keep your eyes peeled for:
- Wall hangings and window dressings
- Embroidered or fringe-edged cushions
- Table runners with global prints
Macramé can hang on its own or over mirrors and windows for that airy, boho touch.
4. Wooden Furniture
Solid wood is always a win. Look for:
- Coffee tables with carved details
- Bookshelves with good bones
- Low-profile chairs or benches
Paint or refinish them to suit your colour palette (sage green, clay, or mustard are perfect).
Internal Link: Learn more transformation ideas in DIY Upcycled Furniture for Boho Vibes.
Unexpected Boho Finds That Work Wonders
Not every great boho piece screams “boho” at first glance. Some need a little vision.
5. Trays and Platters
Great for tabletop styling or as bases for candles, crystals, or plants. Look for:
- Brass or copper
- Patterned ceramic
- Wood with patina
6. Picture Frames
You can easily:
- Paint them to match your palette
- Add woven fabric or wallpaper as backing
- Cluster different shapes and sizes into a gallery wall
7. Mirrors
Key boho styling tip: layer mirrors.
Choose those with:
- Ornate, vintage-style frames
- Worn wood or gold leaf
- Irregular shapes (bonus points for oval or hexagonal)
Design tip: Hang vintage mirrors near natural light sources to boost brightness and make the space feel bigger.
Budget Boho Accessories You Should Never Skip
These smaller thrifted finds can add up to a big visual impact.
8. Candlestick Holders
Mix metal, ceramic, and wood. Group different heights and materials for a collected feel.
9. Lamps and Light Fixtures
Vintage bases are easy to update with:
- New shades (think rattan or linen)
- DIY paint jobs
- Beaded trims or tassels
Internal Link: For more soft lighting ideas, visit Choosing Budget Fairy Lights for Boho Ambiance.
10. Vases and Jugs
Look for earthy tones, aged glazes, and organic shapes. Use for fresh flowers, dried arrangements, or just on their own.
Story: I once found a mismatched set of three old pottery jugs for £6 total. They now sit on my windowsill catching afternoon sun—a little reminder that good style doesn’t need to be expensive.
Styling Tips to Make Thrift Finds Feel Cohesive
Mix, Don’t Match
Boho is eclectic by nature. Combine different eras, textures, and shapes. The key is balancing contrast with cohesion.
Stick to a Colour Palette
Pick 3–4 main shades. Common boho tones include:
- Terracotta
- Olive green
- Warm white
- Teal or navy as an accent
Group Items with Purpose
Groupings look best in odd numbers and varying heights. Try:
- Baskets of different widths
- Candle holders in a triangle arrangement
- Mixed vases along a mantel
Layer, Layer, Layer
Place rugs on top of each other, add throws to chairs, and stack books with objects on top.
Human cue: If it looks a bit too put-together, it might not be boho enough. Let a bit of chaos in!
Seasonal Swaps Using Thrifted Decor
Update your boho space for different seasons with minimal effort.
Spring/Summer:
- Swap in lightweight textiles
- Add glassware and ceramic bowls
- Use brighter accents like coral or mint
Autumn/Winter:
- Layer extra throws in wool or velvet
- Bring in rust, mustard, and plum shades
- Add candle groupings for a cosy glow
A Sample Thrift Haul Breakdown: Boho Living Room for £100
Here’s what one savvy shopper picked up:
Item | Cost | Use |
Kilim rug | £20 | Layered under the coffee table |
Brass tray | £5 | Candle base |
Rattan chair | £15 | Reading corner |
Macramé hanging | £10 | Wall art |
Pottery jug | £3 | Shelf styling |
Candleholders (set of 3) | £6 | Table centrepiece |
Mirror | £10 | Entryway light enhancer |
Cushion covers (set) | £8 | Sofa accents |
Linen throw | £6 | Armchair layering |
Wicker basket | £7 | Blanket storage |
Total: £100 — A fully styled boho space with personality and charm.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Thrifting for Boho Decor
1. Ignoring Condition
A bit of wear adds charm, but avoid items with mould, major cracks, or unstable frames unless you’re up for a project.
2. Buying Without a Plan
Always think: where will this go, and does it match my palette or style vision?
3. Overcrowding Your Space
More isn’t always better. Edit as you go. Your home should feel curated, not cluttered.
Quick Tip: For every new thrifted item you add, consider removing or relocating one.
Your Boho Dream Home is Just a Thrift Trip Away
Creating a boho-styled home doesn’t require a designer budget — just a little creativity and an open mind. With the right finds, smart styling, and a love for character-filled pieces, you can curate a space that feels warm, worldly, and wonderfully you.
So next time you pass your local charity shop or scroll through Marketplace, keep your eyes peeled. That brass candlestick or woven stool might be the start of your next boho masterpiece.
Inspired yet? Share your thrifted boho finds on social using #ThriftedBohoStyle, or drop a comment below with your favourite budget decor tip. Don’t forget to subscribe for more boho home inspiration delivered weekly.