Could you combine your passion for thrifting with your obligation to give gifts for the holiday season?
And yet here comes another thought, a niggling doubt: Is giving secondhand against holiday etiquette?
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Before we answer the question, lets lead with some context.
Goodwills and Salvation Armys have become a haven for young shoppers, vintage shoppers and even high-income shoppers.
In general, secondhand shopping is becoming more and more popular.
The worldwide second-hand apparel market is estimated to hit $84 billion by 2030.
Is It OK to Give Gifts From a Thrift Store?
Still, we acknowledge that some might say its a faux pas.
But it also has a unique asset: Its one-of-a-kind.
Their responses were varied.
Some, like Danielle Abeyta, said she purchased four gifts from Goodwill for Christmas.
Some people liked and appreciated the gifts, but a couple did not, she said.
They kind of looked down on it because of it being secondhand.
Other readers had positive experiences, purchasing original art at thrift stores or gifts for their husband and children.
The salient point, according to most readers, is to look for quality over price tag.
Set some ground rules before browsing.
Austin, Texas-based writer Megan, of Mid-century Millennial, commonly buys secondhand gifts forthe holiday season.
Megan is certainly not the only one to perform this ritual search.
Thrift store shoppers save an average of almost $150 per month.
Like any retail outlet, virtually all of them see higher traffic during the holiday season.
Know Your Audience
The key, thrift shoppers say, is to know who youre buying for.
The better you know your targets interests, the more likely youll find a gift that suits them.
Of course, thats always the case, but its even more important when buying at thrift stores.
I once gave a set of vintage cinnamon and sugar shakers from a thrift store to my boss.
He liked 1950s vintage.
You have to know the giftee, Julie P. Brusca added.
I bought a costume jewelry necklace at a resale shop for a girlfriend and she loved it.
But I know she likes retro stuff.
If someone prefers new items, I wouldnt risk giving them something used and trying to play it off.
Who wouldnt appreciate a new set of beautiful dishes, even if they had been used before.
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Here are some items that work well as Christmas gifts from thrift stores.
Wipe it down with disinfectant wipes, stick it in a gift bag and youre good to go.
Books:Theyre so cheap at thrift stores, and theres such a big selection.
And in case your gift recipient hates the gift, just know that costume jewelry actuallyhas resale value.
Clothes:This ones tougher.
Youd have to know the recipients size and taste.
For the women on your list, ensure to check out the belts and scarves, too.
Purses and bags:you could find designer labels in surprisingly good condition.
Frames:Every thrift store everywhere has a huge selection of framed posters and artwork.
Look for cool, unique frames.
Coffee table items:Mid-century millennial Megan likes to preparecoffee table accoutrementsas holiday gifts.
Think a decorative book, a glass tray or candle-holder and perhaps a candle (bought new).
Plantware:Is that a word?
Thrift stores are full of them.
Their aged quality may even work in their favor.
Just ensure you wash it first.
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Dos and Donts
Finding thrift stores is a breeze.
Nonprofits likeGoodwill, theSalvation Armyand theSt.
Vincent de Paul Societyhave store locators on their websites.
Or, usethethriftshopper.comto see thrift stores near you.
Its a resounding yes.
If you really have someone in mind who offends easily, dont buy them a thrift store gift.
Mike Brassfield (@mikebrassfield) is a staff writer at The Penny Hoarder.
Freelancer Elizabeth Djinis contributed to this report.
