Thrifting Is Gifting
Picture taken at Galeries Lafayette Paris
As the holiday season approaches, the buzz of shopping intensifies, but in a world drowning in overproduction, why not try something different? Gifting second-hand, pre-loved items is a growing trend, and for good reason. No longer is second-hand shopping seen as second best. Thanks to platforms like eBay, Vinted, Depop, Thrift+, Reskinned, Vestaire and Luxe Collective, thrifting has transformed into a chic, eco-conscious way to give. Fashion magazines now showcase pre-loved finds alongside designer pieces, and second offerings can be found in iconic stores such as Selfridges and Galeries Lafayette, proving that second-hand is no longer a second-class citizen.
The numbers back up this cultural shift. UK consumers are set to spend over £2 billion on second-hand gifts this Christmas, according to a report by Vinted and Retail Economics, with 84% of shoppers planning to spend part of their holiday budget on pre-loved items. It’s estimated that second-hand gifting will account for 10% of all holiday spending this year, with younger generations leading the way. In fact, 53% of those under 45 are already purchasing second-hand items at least once a month, proving that sustainability and affordability are reshaping shopping habits.
This surge in thrifting is driven by more than just a desire to save money—it’s also about finding unique, meaningful gifts that can’t be found on store shelves. From vintage designer pieces to toys with a touch of nostalgia, second-hand gifts offer something personal and thoughtful. Platforms like eBay even highlight the environmental benefits: if every person in the UK opted for pre-loved gifts, the nation could save £9 billion annually, roughly £320 per household.
Beyond the personal joy of finding a unique treasure, second-hand gifting plays a crucial role in reducing environmental impact. By extending the life of products, thrifting reduces the need for new materials, conserving resources and cutting down on the carbon and water footprints of consumption. According to WRAP’s Textiles 2030 Circularity Roadmap, scaling up resale is vital to tackling fashion’s environmental footprint. Apparel now makes up 65% of charity retail sales, worth an estimated £553 million in 2022, with demand at an all-time high thanks to better retail strategies in charity shops.
The trend is not just about buying, but also selling. 43% of consumers are now selling their items on Vinted to fund their Christmas shopping, making the second-hand economy a win-win for both buyers and sellers. Personally, I’ve cleared out my own children’s toys and clothes, knowing they’ll be enjoyed by other families. It’s a rewarding feeling—not only are those once-loved toys finding a new home, but it’s also a great way to find high-quality items, often new or barely used, at a fraction of the price. Don’t overlook your local charity shops - they’re like hidden treasure troves waiting to be explored. In my own town, the second-hand bookshop is a gem. The books are in such pristine condition that, if it weren’t for the sign above the door, you’d never guess they were pre-loved.
Embrace thrifting as the new gifting. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind finds, trying to save money, or wanting to reduce your environmental impact, pre-loved gifts are a thoughtful, sustainable, and stylish way to celebrate the season.
This festive season let’s give the planet a gift too.