This is a very unique gift guide that I haven’t done before. I think this year is the year I became really passionate about shopping more sustainably. I started renting my clothes and shopping mainly secondhand around this time last year and it has made such a difference in the way I think about consumerism and shopping. During the holidays, I know there are a ton of gift ideas on the internet (I even made a few gift guides myself this year) but I wanted to create this gift guide to inspire you to pick up some gifts from your local thrift store. Just because it was previously owned, doesn’t make it any less of a great gift, especially if it’s something really personalized. Here are eight gift ideas you can purchase secondhand, and how you can make each customized and personal, so you know the recipient will love it.
Books: One of my best friends, Ashley, gets every book she reads from Goodwill. I don’t think a lot of people consider the fact that secondhand shops usually have a pretty good selections of books. I recommend taking a walk past these shelves next time you’re thrifting (and look closely because there is usually not a lot of rhyme or reason to how they organize these books). If you’re looking for a specific book, I’ve used Thriftbooks before.
T-shirts: This can be such a personalized gift. If you know your friend really likes a band, a sports team, a movie, etc… you can really make their day with this one. I recommend checking out thredUP for t-shirts if you’re not comfortable going in a store right now. They have a huge selection with really reasonable prices and the best price for shipping that I’ve found. Plus, it already comes in fun polka dot tissue paper so it’s already half wrapped.
Loungewear: Since ya know… we’re all just staying in our houses as of late (at least we should be), some comfy wear is a very considerate gift. When I say loungewear, I mean colorful pj pants, oversized sweatshirts, fuzzy sherpas. Sometimes thrifting clothes for someone can be hard if you aren’t sure what size your friend or family member is, or if you don’t know if they would even like it. But loungewear is that sort of thing you don’t have to worry too much about sizing and style. Take it home, wash it, and mail it to a friend. This is like gifting them the hug you can’t physically give them right now.
Glassware: The other day I bought these gorgeous cocktail glasses from my local thrift store and I am so obsessed with them-they are my new favorite thing! If you have a friend who you usually grab drinks with or is trying their hand at mixology, this can be a really fun and unique present. Make the gift complete by including a cocktail recipe and scheduling a Zoom date to do a virtual happy hour together!
Picture Frames: You can find such great frames at the thrift store, and for such a bargain. Some still have the tags on them! This is an especially sweet gift for someone you can’t physically see right now because of COVID. Print out a picture of you two together from a happier time and throw it in a thrifted frame. You could also print out some lyrics or a quote on some paper, or paint something of your own for more of a ‘decor’ vibe. This is also a very easy gift to mail!
Baskets: You can always find a high quality basket at your local thriftstore. My best friend Taylor is really good at arranging baskets as presents (she got me one for my jaw surgery and it was one of the sweetest gifts I’ve ever gotten.) But you don’t have to spend a ton of money on this gift! Find a pre-owned basket at your local secondhand shop and fill it with candy, pictures, food… anything!
Mugs/Plates: Kitchenware can be great secondhand gifts, especially for your friend who just moved out. They’re usually pretty good quality as opposed to have lasted long enough to be sold again. If you want to make it more personalized, add some candy to the mug, or a hot chocolate making set. You could also bake some cookies and put them on the plate, and drop them off to someone who you can’t spend the holidays with.
Vases: The same idea goes for vases. Purchase some flowers and throw them in a thrifted vase. Perfect for neighbors, co-workers or aunts who you won’t be seeing for the holidays in person. Just leave it on their doorstep and it is sure to bright up their day.
Any other ideas I forgot to mention? Comment below! I would love to hear your ideas!
Thanks for reading! xx