One-dimensional (1D) nanostructures have received prime attention due to their high potential in understanding fundamental physical concepts and constructing nanoscale electronic devices. ZnS and CdS, the well-known direct and wide bandgap semiconductors, have recently attracted significant research interest due to their special properties and applications in sensing, optoelectronics, piezoelectronics, and lasing. This article reviews the most recent activities in ZnS and CdS nanostructures, with an emphasis on the authors’ own results, and on 1D ZnS and CdS nanostructures, especially those synthesized using vapor deposition techniques. The review begins with a survey of ZnS and CdS nanostructures, and then is primarily focused on their 1D nanostructures, syntheses, characterizations, formation mechanisms, and optical and field-emission (FE) properties. Additionally, developments of Zn_xCd_1–xS composite nanostructures, including nanocombs and zigzag nanowires, are also discussed. Finally, we conclude this review with the perspectives and outlook on the future developments in this field.