Under $200 Finds That Don't Look Like It

The key to a collected, lived-in home is slowly layering things with character and meaning that tell your story. I’ve always advocated for craftmade, vintage, and antique pieces — and I still do. But a mix of high and low is more realistic for most of us. We don’t all have endless budgets, and sometimes you can’t wait. With a little effort and a trained eye, you can find pieces that are special and functional without the whopping price tag.

I love it when interior designers or tastemakers share their surprisingly affordable home finds (who doesn’t?). It proves the point that a home can be beautiful and personal without everything being high-end or painstakingly collected. So now it’s my turn. I very much enjoyed the challenge of finding unique pieces under $200 – not just decor, but also substantial, hard-working items like tables and lighting.

But first, I’m going to share a few thoughts about what to look for in a well-priced find and how to mix them with the pieces you already own.

1. Hunt for the unique — There is so much poorly designed stuff out there that isn’t worth the price even if it is cheap. You’ll have to hunt for longer, but it’s worth it to find the pieces that feel unique and special. Avoid anything you’ve seen a million times. Look for items that have an interesting detail, a memorable shape, stand out colors or pattern.

2. Make sure it earns its spot — Look around your house, and you’ll notice that most things are doing something – eg: a decorative bowl is used as a catch all. Don’t buy anything just because it’s cheap; buy it with a use in mind. That will help you cut down on clutter and waste.

3. Check the label before the price tag — Part of what separates a good budget find from a bad one is quality. To discern the difference, look at the origin and materials. Items made in Europe, India, Turkey tend to be better made (for reference, many Zara Home products are made in Portugal.). Ditto with items made with natural materials like solid wood, cotton, etc.

4. Make it a part of the collection — The trick to styling is context. A grouping of several budget finds could read as cheap; but pairing one with a couple vintage or craftmade items borrows credibility through proximity. It’s just like creating an outfit – a simple t-shirt and jeans (low) are elevated by a nice handbag and a Rivière necklace (high).

Putting it all together, here’s an example from my own life. I randomly came across a sugar bowl shaped like a pear on Target (not my typical place I shop, mind you) for like $20. The coloring and shape of the pear was so realistic owing to the fact that it was designed in collaboration with British heritage brand Portmeirion (collabs between high street brands and tasteful designers is a great way to find good stuff for less). It’s useful for storing sugar in my kitchen. It’s delicate yet sturdy. You’d never know it was a bargain find – I display it on an open shelf in my kitchen beside a figurine I brought back from Italy and a high end olive oil cruet or bring it to the table with other collected ceramic or silver serving pieces. It’s just part of the story of my home now.

Without further ado, feast your eyes on these home finds under $200…

I consider it my job to make sure more people know about this rug. The price is outstanding for a substantial size and excellent quality. Plus, it’s the perfect finishing touch for a room, like a kitchen or hallway. My internet pal Emily Schoen has this one in her gorgeous new kitchen. I think I might like it even more than the blue version I have in my own kitchen.

At first I didn’t realize the lampshade was included and tried to find the listing separately. Make no mistake, the lamp and lampshade are sold TOGETHER for this awesome price. The lampshade reminds me of this highly recognizable one by Munro and Kerr x A Considered Space that is a lot pricier – on its own. If you’re on the hunt for a kitchen counter lamp, look no further.

Two down, several to go — including a couple of substantial pieces I still can't believe are under $200.