I’m a professional thrift shopper—these are the holiday decorations I routinely buy secondhand

Forget the overcrowded aisles of a big box store; I’ve found the best holiday decorations at thrift stores, where quality meets history at a fraction of the price.

Walking into a big box store during the holidays can feel like an assault on the senses, with rows of plastic glitter and inflated prices greeting you at the door. I learned years ago that the best way to deck the halls without draining my bank account was to hit the thrift stores instead. Thrifting for holiday decor is not just about being cheap; it is about finding high-quality, nostalgic pieces that carry a history you simply cannot buy off a shelf.

The financial pressure of the festive season is real, and savvy shoppers are increasingly turning to resale markets to stretch their dollars further. According to the National Retail Federation, consumers are expected to spend an average of $902 on gifts, food, and decorations during the 2024 holiday season. By choosing secondhand treasures, I keep my spending low while curating a look that feels warm, personal, and decidedly high-end.

Artificial Greenery And Wreaths

High-quality faux garlands and wreaths are shockingly expensive when purchased brand-new, often costing hundreds of dollars for realistic versions. I constantly scan the back walls of thrift shops for these items, where they are usually priced at a fraction of retail. You can easily fluff up a flattened wreath or add fresh pinecones to bring an older piece back to life.

Buying these items used is also a smart environmental move, as synthetic greenery is made from non-biodegradable plastics. A study by Earth.org suggests that you need to use an artificial tree for about 12 years to make its environmental impact lower than that of a real tree. Rescuing one from a thrift store extends its lifespan and keeps that plastic out of the landfill.

Vintage Glass Ornaments

Modern ornaments are often made of shatterproof plastic, which is practical but lacks the shimmer and weight of traditional glass. I scour the shelves for boxes of vintage baubles, looking for the distinct mercury-glass shine or the hand-painted details of the mid-century. This approach turns your Christmas tree into a stunning investment in art and history rather than a display of disposable plastic.

The resale market recognizes the value of these nostalgic items, yet you can still find them hidden in donation center mixed bags. The global secondhand market is booming and is expected to reach $350 billion by 2028, according to a 2024 ThredUp report. Grabbing these collectibles now is a fun way to preserve the past while decorating for the future.

Gift Wrap Tins And Ribbons

I refuse to spend money on expensive paper that will be torn off and thrown away in seconds. Thrift stores are goldmines for metal tins, wicker baskets, and spools of fabric ribbon that can be used to wrap presents beautifully. These sturdy containers become part of the gift itself, offering the recipient something they can reuse later.

The amount of paper waste generated in December is truly alarming, and switching to durable containers can help mitigate it. Earth911 estimates that approximately 4.6 million pounds of wrapping paper are produced in the U.S. each year, most of which ends up in the trash. Swapping paper for thrifted tins is a creative way to break this wasteful cycle.

Holiday China And Glassware

Hosting a holiday dinner often requires more plates and glasses than a standard household possesses. Instead of buying flimsy paper plates, I head to the thrift store to find mismatched china and crystal stemware that add character to my table. It creates a sophisticated vibe that makes every guest feel part of a special occasion and tradition.

Using authentic dishes also combats the massive wave of waste that typically accompanies holiday gatherings. Stanford University reports that Americans throw away 25% more trash during the Thanksgiving-to-New Year’s holiday period, amounting to 25 million extra tons of garbage. Washing a few extra thrifted plates is a small price to pay for reducing that staggering statistic.

Brass Candle Holders

Nothing sets a mood quite like the warm glow of candlelight reflecting off polished brass. New solid brass candlesticks can cost a fortune, but they are a staple in almost every secondhand shop I visit. I consider these heavy, golden finds the anchor of my holiday mantle display, adding a touch of timeless elegance.

The demand for these classic home goods is high, proving that people are eager to embrace sustainable style. According to a 2023 OfferUp report, 76% of shoppers believe the stigma around secondhand shopping has decreased, and 41% say buying secondhand is a status symbol, signaling a significant shift toward pre-loved home decor. Polishing up a tarnished set is a satisfying project that yields brilliant results for very little cash.

Wicker Baskets For Tree Skirts

Commercial tree skirts can be surprisingly pricey and often look a bit flimsy at the base of a large tree. I prefer to buy large wicker baskets or hampers secondhand and remove the bottom to create a chic, structured collar for my tree. It gives the room a designer texture that complements a rustic or modern budget.

Repurposing these woven items keeps bulky furniture and decor out of the waste stream. The Environmental Protection Agency notes that furniture and home furnishings account for over 12 million tons of municipal waste annually in the United States. Turning an old laundry hamper into a tree collar is a creative way to save money and benefit the planet.

Key Takeaway

Thrifting for your holiday decor is a treasure hunt that pays off in style, savings, and sustainability. It allows you to build a collection that is rich in character while actively rejecting the cycle of disposable consumerism. You end up with a home that looks curated and expensive, all while spending pennies on the dollar.

So this season, skip the chaotic lines at the department store and take a stroll through your local charity shop. You might find that the perfect centerpiece or ornament has been waiting there for you all along. Giving these forgotten items a second life is the ultimate way to spread holiday cheer.

Read the original article on Crafting Your Home.