A fond memory of mine from last Christmas is my older sister and I wandering around the Brighton Lanes, from one second-hand store to the other. We were carefully seeking hidden pre-loved gems for family members. I particularly remember spending a considerable amount of time trying to hunt down the perfect pre-loved hat for my dad.  

Last year was the first year we really dedicated ourselves to being more considerate with our gifting and it honestly felt great. Considering the year that we have just collectively faced, gifts seem significantly lower on the priority list of things to think about this festive period. I think overwhelmingly, what we all really want is to be with each other all in one place. However, that’s not to say I am forgetting presents this year all together. It just means I am placing more thought into what is being wrapped and placed under the tree.   

One way of doing so is by continuing the second-hand tradition and spreading some pre-loved love this Christmas. We might love Christmas, but the environment doesn’t as much. Excess waste from Christmas jumpers worn once then thrown away, to landfills filled with wrapping paper and unwanted gifts. A simple way of reducing our waste and our harmful impact is by shopping for items that already exist and ones that are looking for a new home.   

I thought I would compile a few of the places I will be shopping second-hand this year… Hopefully you can join me in opting for a more sustainable Christmas this festive season!  

Vestiaire Collective:  

Vestiare Collective is a luxury resale site that offers a curated selection of beautiful designer pieces, from bags and purses to coats and jumpers. Not only is this an environmentally friendly option but it’s equally as cost friendly, offering up to 70% off the original retail prices. Vestiaire Collective is the perfect way to gift some luxury this Christmas, whilst being environmentally considerate.  

Depop:

Another online option is the Depop app which offers a vast amount of second-hand clothing and accessories all in one place. This would be great perhaps for a younger sibling, with latest trend collections such as ‘Y2k’ ranges. The seller rating feature means you can find sellers you trust to provide timely delivery and high-quality pieces. Although Depop arguably requires more patience in finding items than the curated selection Vestiaire offers, it’s still a great way to find second-hand pieces from the comfort of your own home and for more affordable prices.  

Local Second-hand Treasures:

My personal favourite way to shop second-hand is through those local independent stores, full of hidden gems and treasures. However, of course this is Covid permitting. If we are allowed to have a mosey around shops, I will be happy to support some local independent stores this year. Especially in these challenging times! A quick Google of some charity shops near you can bring up a plethora of options and places to explore.  

Will you be more sustainable this Christmas?