Don't get me wrong – I love vintage rugs. They're woven with character, glowing with charm, and hold a level of uniqueness that few new styles can replicate. That said, what I don't love about vintage rugs are their unfortunate downsides – the potential damages, delicacy, and high costs.
To avoid any of the problems that come along with decorating with antique textiles, I've found it beneficial to go for the next best thing – vintage-inspired rugs. Now, as a vintage lover myself, it feels wrong to admit that I'd choose a vintage-inspired rug over one that's truly vintage. However, it all comes down to one thing: practicality.
Rugs are subject to high-traffic – especially living room rugs – and vintage styles might not be able to handle that kind of constant wear and tear. Plus, some vintage rugs might already have damages from their past life. That's why choosing a new rug that's durable for modern life but woven with the same charming details of a vintage style might be a wise decision for your home.
Shop Vintage-Inspired Rugs
Finding a vintage-inspired rug that actually looks as good as a true vintage style is no easy feat. Unfortunately, lots of rug designs try too hard to nail the vintage look, and end up missing the mark.
So that you don't fall victim to a try-hard, vintage-inspired rug, I've scoured the internet to find you the best designs that actually get it right. Not only do these rugs feature designs full of character and personality, but they're durable for modern living. Shop them, below.
Size: 6' x 9' (more sizes available)
Normally, I'm against buying pre-faded rugs – they run the risk of looking as if they're trying to hard for the aged look. However, this rug gets it right. From Amber Lewis' latest collaboration with Loloi, this rug reimagines antique motifs in a charming green palette. This style could tastefully enhance a modern rustic style room.
Size: 9'6" x 12'3" (more sizes available)
This rug is from Joanna Gaines' Magnolia Home collaboration with Loloi and its design is inspired by the intricate elegance of vintage Turkish rugs. Because of its neutral color scheme, this rug can complement any room of the home and become a grounding feature on the floor.
Size: 6' x 9' (more sizes available)
With its warm color scheme and botanical motifs, this rug is an inviting style that can enrich any room with timeless elegance and vintage-inspired charm. It's woven from 100% Sardinian wool fibers and features a medium pile height. This is the kind of rug that can instantly make your home look more interesting and feel more full of character.
Size: 6'x9' (more sizes available)
Aside from its intricate medallion detailing, charming border detail, and fringe edges, this Persian rug is reversible by design. That means it's two vintage-inspired rugs in one. Since it's made with durable yarns and a low-pile design, this rug is ideal for busy rooms, or it can be used in a layered rug scheme.
Size: 6' x 9' (more sizes available)
Looking for a vintage-inspired rug to match the light and airy elegance of your modern cottage style home? Here's your pick. This dusty yellow rug features interlocking vines around its border that frame a delicate floral inner design. Unlike a true vintage style, this rug is completely machine washable, making it a practical choice for modern living.
Size: 7'6" x 9'6" (more sizes available)
This rug is from another Loloi rug collaboration – the brands collection with Drew Scott, AKA Lone Fox. Drew is known on social media for his admiration of all things vintage, and this rug reflects that. Its pattern is meant to mimic that of medieval tapestries, and it does so beautifully. This rug can definitely add character to any room in your home.
Size: 5' x 8' (more sizes available)
This rug is intricate, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant. It's a vintage-inspired style that sings with personality and character thanks to its repetitive motifs and warm color scheme. This rug is certainly a splurge, however it's made from 100% wool and handwoven by artisans. In my opinion, this rug is well worthy of the spend and a spot in your home.
Size: 5' x 8' (more sizes available)
From its subtle fade to its geometric design, this rug is bound to make a stylish statement in your home. Its fresh and inviting colors won't overwhelm a room. Instead, they'll tastefully complement its existing design scheme. Made of 100% wool, this rug ensures comfort and durability for years to come.
Size: 6' x 9' (more sizes available)
With its rich, dark color scheme, this vintage-inspired rug would be perfect for a dark academia-style room. Its design features a subtle fade, medallion details, and an intricate border. To soften its dark look, this rug is accentuated with flecks of gold. This rug is water-resistant, stain-resistant, and for ease with cleaning, it's completely machine washable.
One of the benefits of buying a vintage-inspired rug instead of a rug that's over 20 years old is that the newer styles are typically much easier to keep clean, and some are even machine washable.
To maintain the look of your vintage-inspired rug, read up on our tips on how to clean an area rug. This way, you can have a rug that maintains its charming old look without appearing tarnished or dirty.
