If you’ve ever stood in your parents’ or grandparents’ living room and wondered why on earth they kept those ruffled lampshades, ceramic figurines, velvet paintings, or glass candy dishes… you may owe them an apology.

Because according to a recent article from House Beautiful, those so-called “tacky” treasures are officially back in style.
👉 Read the full article here: https://www.housebeautiful.com/design-inspiration/a69276804/tacky-antiques-that-are-cool-again/

Designers across the country are embracing what they call “anti-minimalism,” leaning into bold colors, ornate shapes, layered textures, and pieces with personality. Gone are the days of sterile white walls and everything beige. The pendulum has swung back toward charm, nostalgia, and character — and yes, even a little bit of kitsch.

Why the Comeback?

As the House Beautiful article explains, people are craving homes that feel lived in. Not curated to perfection. Not staged for Instagram. But filled with memories, stories, and things that make them smile.

And honestly? I love that.

There’s a comfort in seeing the objects that shaped our childhoods return with a new appreciation. Murano glass. Skirted sofas. Colorful ceramic animals. Ornate mirrors. Pattern-on-pattern upholstery. What once made us cringe is now being styled by top designers into fabulous, personality-packed interiors.

The Lesson for Families Sorting Through Homes

Here’s where this trend becomes especially important for the families we serve at Caring Transitions of Winston Salem.

Every week, we help people navigate downsizing, estates, and transitions. And one of the biggest challenges is deciding what to keep, what to sell, and what to let go of. Too often, things get labeled as “junk” simply because we’ve seen them our whole lives.

But as this new trend shows, value isn’t always obvious at first glance.

Sometimes the quirky item you dismissed might be exactly the kind of character-filled piece younger buyers are hunting for.

What Does This Mean for You?

• Don’t assume something is worthless just because it feels outdated. Trends change — and they are changing right now.

• Unique and nostalgic items often do well at auction. Especially pieces with color, whimsy, or a bold look.

• If a piece makes you smile, that’s a kind of value too. Homes should feel like stories, not showrooms.

• Ask for help. As professionals, we can help you identify which items have resale value, collector interest, or trend potential.

A Fresh Way to Think About “Stuff”

At the end of the day, this return of “tacky” antiques is about more than décor — it’s about rediscovering joy in the things that make our homes feel human.

So before you toss that vintage lamp or ceramic swan, give it one more look. It might not just be “cool again”… it might be exactly what someone out there is searching for.

And if you're navigating a transition and need a caring, seasoned guide along the way, Caring Transitions of Winston Salem is here to help you make sense of it all — with compassion, clarity, and maybe even a little laughter.