Nutcracker figurines on display, vibrant holiday decor, red and gold color theme, festive table setting

13 Things You Thought Were Tacky in Grandma’s House

You’ve probably walked into your grandma’s house and thought some things looked a bit outdated or even tacky. But what if those same items you used to roll your eyes at are now considered trendy and even sought after?

This article will show you 13 things from Grandma’s house that you might have dismissed but are actually back in style today. You’ll start to see those old pieces in a new light, appreciating their charm and why they fit right in with current trends.

1. Tacky ceramic pig cookie jars

Decorative ceramic pig cookie jar with white glazed body, painted red scarf, closed eyes, and purple fruit with green leaves pattern. Standing upright with a smiling expression
Image Credit:PassedPossessions/Etsy.

You probably remember those ceramic pig cookie jars from grandma’s kitchen. They might have seemed cheesy or outdated back then.

Now, they’re making a comeback as quirky retro pieces. Some of these jars can even be worth a few hundred dollars if they’re in good shape.

So, if you spot one at a thrift store, it might be worth bringing home instead of passing by.

2. Chunky sparkly brooches

Close-up of a person wearing a white lace-collared blouse, vintage silver brooch pinned at the neck, fingers gently touching brooch
Image Credit: cottonbro studio/Pexels.

You probably remember those big, glittery brooches your grandma loved. Back then, they seemed a bit over the top or old-fashioned.

Now, chunky sparkly brooches are making a comeback as bold accessories. They add a fun, vintage touch to your outfits without feeling outdated.

Pin one on a jacket or bag to instantly brighten your look. It’s an easy way to mix old-school charm with today’s style.

3. Oversized wall clocks

Wall clock on a tiled wall, black frame, white face, black hour and minute hands, red second hand, showing the time as 1:26
Image Credit:Shawn Stutzman/Pexels.

You might remember those giant clocks in your grandma’s living room that seemed way too big for the wall. Now, oversized wall clocks are actually a popular decor choice. They add a bold focal point without needing extra furniture.

Many of these clocks come in modern styles or vintage looks, so you can find one that fits your vibe. Some even use eco-friendly materials, which is a nice bonus if you care about sustainability.

4. Vintage magnet collections

A colorful collection of travel-themed fridge magnets arranged on a white surface, featuring locations like New Orleans, Venice, Nova Scotia, Reno, and Muir Woods, along with decorative icons like lighthouses, animals, hearts, and cultural symbols
Image Credit:VintageDuds1/Ebay.

You might have rolled your eyes at your grandma’s “tacky” magnet collection once. Now, those magnets are having a moment as fun, personal decor pieces.

Collecting magnets from places visited or funny designs adds a unique touch to your kitchen or living space. It’s a simple way to bring a bit of nostalgia and personality into your home that actually looks cool.

5. Grandma’s village Christmas display

Miniature snowy Christmas village display, small decorated buildings, snow-covered rooftops, pine trees, tiny figurines of people, festive holiday scene, winter-themed setup
Image Credit: Kolforn – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

You might have thought those little at Grandma’s were outdated or even tacky. But now, they’re a popular holiday decoration that adds charm and nostalgia to your home.

Setting up a village display brings warmth and a cozy vibe during the holidays. It’s all about the details, from tiny houses to miniature trees, which feel pretty special once you start collecting them yourself.

6. Multiple themed Christmas trees

A hand placing a silver ornament on a decorated Christmas tree, warm glowing lights, white and gold decorations, a blurred framed picture in the background
Image Credit: Element5 Digital/Pexels.

You might have thought having several Christmas trees around the house was over the top. Now, it’s actually a fun way to show off different styles or themes in each room.

One tree could be all vintage ornaments, while another is covered in bright, mismatched decorations. It’s like giving every tree its own personality.

If your grandma had a collection of quirky ornaments, this trend helps you celebrate those little stories with each themed tree.

7. Tacky living room floral prints

Woman relaxing on a vintage cream-colored couch, floral wallpaper background, soft lighting, dried floral wall décor
Image Credit: Ayumi Photo / Pexels.

You might remember those big, bold floral prints from Grandma’s living room as outdated or tacky. But now, they’re making a comeback in a fresh way. Designers are using floral patterns to add warmth and personality without feeling old-fashioned.

Today’s floral prints are more modern and subtle. You can find them on wallpaper, cushions, or curtains, giving your space a cozy, inviting vibe. It’s all about balancing vintage charm with new styles.

8. Tacky kitchen knick-knacks

Retro kitchen with yellow cabinets, turquoise tile backsplash, vintage white stove, microwave, decorative plates, wood flooring
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

You might have rolled your eyes at those cookie jars shaped like pigs or ceramic salt and pepper shakers in Grandma’s kitchen. Now, those quirky items have found their way into trendy home decor circles.

Collectors and vintage lovers appreciate these odd knick-knacks for their charm and nostalgia. So, what once felt outdated can actually add personality to your kitchen today.

9. Chunky costume necklaces

Gold traditional jewelry set, includes a necklace, earrings, and bangle, adorned with red gemstone accents, displayed on a dark green fabric background, intricately designed with ethnic motifs
Image Credit: Viresh Studio/Pexels.

You might have once thought those big, bold necklaces in your grandma’s jewelry box were a bit much. Today, chunky costume necklaces are actually a popular statement piece.

They add a fun, retro vibe to simple outfits without breaking the bank. If you liked them then, there’s no reason not to rock them now.

Plus, wearing one with sentimental value makes it even better. It’s all about mixing old-school charm with your own style.

10. Colorful 90s kitchen decor

Kitchen interior, colorful tiled backsplash, white cabinets, built-in microwave, stovetop with hanging utensils above, wooden countertop with yellow placemat
Image Credit: Max Vakhtbovycn /Pexels.

You might have thought your grandma’s bright, mismatched kitchen was a bit much. Those bold colors and quirky patterns were often called tacky back in the day.

Now, a lot of people actually love that 90s vibe. Kitchens with colorful cabinets and fun accessories are making a comeback, turning what was once “too much” into a happy, lively space you’d want to spend time in.

If you want to try it, don’t be afraid to mix bold hues and playful designs. It can make your kitchen feel unique and full of personality.

11. Tinsel and garland overload

Close-up of a Christmas tree decorated with silver tinsel garland, shiny baubles in silver and gold, and red garland strands, set against a blurred outdoor background
Image Credit:Magda Ehlers/Pexels.

You might remember grandma’s house sparkling with so much tinsel and garland it almost looked like a winter wonderland explosion. Back then, it felt a bit excessive.

Now, that same look is making a comeback. People love layering shiny tinsel and thick garland around the tree, doorways, and banisters.

If you want to bring that old-school charm back, don’t be shy with the sparkle. Just keep it balanced with other decorations to avoid feeling too busy.

12. Quirky ceramic salt and pepper shakers

Two ceramic snowman figurines, one with a pink hat and scarf, the other with a blue hat and scarf, standing side by side on a wooden surface
Image Credit:Semocratic – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

You might remember those odd-shaped ceramic salt and pepper shakers from grandma’s kitchen. They were often colorful and had funny designs that felt out of place back then.

Now, those same shakers add a playful touch to your dining table. They’re no longer just for utility but also a way to show some personality.

If you want to mix nostalgia with style, grabbing a couple of quirky shakers can be a simple way to do it. They’re small, fun, and can start a conversation when guests come over.

13. Mismatched china sets

Colorful vintage porcelain tea set, floral patterns, gold trim, mismatched cups and saucers, rose motifs on plates and teacups
Image Credit: Shutterstock.

You might have thought mismatched china looked messy in Grandma’s kitchen. But now, mixing different patterns and styles is actually trendy.

It adds a unique, personal touch to your table setting. Each piece tells its own story, making your meals feel more special.

So, don’t be afraid to use those varied dishes from different sets. They’re perfect for casual dinners or even fancy gatherings.

Like what you read? Here’s more by us: