The Adorable Kitschy Planters From The '50s Thrifters Love Finding

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When you think of decor and style from the 1950s, bold sophistication, thanks to mid-century modern design, often springs to mind. But the '50s weren't all about serious style and refined taste. Nope, the decade also had its fair share of cute and kitschy pieces, and that cuteness and kitsch are something today's thrifters keep their eyes out for, mainly in the form of vintage ceramic planters featuring a barnyard and forest full of different animals.

From adorable little lambs and elegant swans and geese to donkeys pulling carts, vintage animal planters come in a huge range of shapes and sizes. That's part of what makes collecting them so fun — you never know what critter you might find peeking out from a thrift store shelf or staring up at you from a flea market table. Another thing that makes these planters even more appealing? Their price. While you're sure to come across a rare planter or two that sells for well over $100, for the most part, animal-themed planters sell in the $20 (or under) range.

You don't need to have a green thumb, or even aspire to have one, to enjoy these cutesy pots. Depending on their size, they have plenty of uses beyond holding greenery.

It can help to have a theme when you start collecting vintage animal planters. For instance, maybe you want to focus on birds, like ducks, geese, and swans, of which there are many options. Or, you may want to collect horses, cows, or deer. Of course, you're welcome to skip picking a theme and just pick out planters you love, no matter what their motif. Whichever route you take, expect these 1950s planters to feature warm colors, glossy finishes, and cute faces. 

If you plan on putting houseplants in your planters, keep an eye out for ones with drainage holes or consider adding materials that can be used for drainage under the soil. Another option is to use the planters as cache pots to hide nursery pots. Beyond plants, a tall, narrow planter can act as a vase, while one with a cylindrical opening may be perfect as a pencil cup. You could even set a planter with a shallow, wide opening (like one of those donkeys pulling a cart) by your entryway and stash your keys in it after walking through the door. In the bathroom, a clean planter can hold your makeup or toothbrushes. 

You can also simply appreciate the planters for what they are and enjoy them as decorative objects. Set a few on a bookcase alongside other quirky, 1950s thrift finds, like TV lamps. Whether you end up with one or several, they'll definitely be conversation starters the next time you have guests over.