Thrift The Halls: Why Secondhand Is The Chicest Way To Shop The Holidays

If there’s one holiday trend that’s sparkling brighter than tinsel this season, it’s secondhand shopping. Canadians are officially rethinking how they gift, decorate, and dress for the holidays—and thrifting is taking centre stage. According to new insights from the National Retail Federation’s 2025 Holiday Consumer Survey, secondhand gifts are on the rise as shoppers look for thoughtful ways to stretch budgets without sacrificing style or meaning.

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But it’s not just about saving money anymore. Sustainability, individuality, and the pure thrill of the hunt are driving the shift. And with vintage décor, one-of-a-kind fashion finds, and creative gift wrapping all trending, thrifting is feeling less like a compromise and more like a flex.

At Value Village, the holiday magic is already in full swing. “This holiday season we’re seeing shoppers lean into the joy of discovery and finding distinctive pieces that make their holiday feel more personal and unique,” says Nicole McPherson, Vice President of Canada Field Operations. “Canadians are on the hunt for nostalgic holiday apparel, retro glassware, and character-filled décor. Every visit feels like a treasure hunt—and that’s exactly what makes secondhand shopping so exciting during the holidays.”

Sustainable Gifting, With a Twist

One of the biggest surprises this season? Secondhand gift wrapping. “With 34,000 unique pieces arriving on the sales floor each week at each Value Village store, there’s endless inspiration,” McPherson explains. “Vintage tins, wooden or metal boxes, and glass jars make charming reusable alternatives to traditional wrapping. Patterned fabric like scarves or tablecloths can also be repurposed—giving shoppers a two-in-one gift that’s visually unique and eco-friendly.”

It’s also a powerful environmental choice. “In the last five years, Value Village has diverted over 1.5 billion pounds of textiles and housewares from landfills across Canada,” McPherson shares. “Plus, donations support nonprofit partners and help fund local community programs.”

And for anyone still feeling hesitant about dipping their toe into thrifting? “The best advice is to go in with an open mind. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing—mixing thrifted finds with new items is a great way to create thoughtful, budget-friendly, and environmentally friendly gifts,” she says.

How Style Insider Mana Mansour Thrifts the Holidays

Award-winning style expert and CTV favourite Mana Mansour has long been a champion of secondhand—and for her, the holidays are when thrifting truly shines.

“As an avid thrifter, I’m proud to say my home is decorated mostly with secondhand finds,” she shares. “Every holiday season, I especially love bringing out the barware I’ve collected from thrift stores and flea markets over the years. My Art Deco glasses with gold motifs and an epic velvet-covered ice bucket from the 1970s are perfect for chilling champagne.”

Her secret to turning thrifted finds into luxe gifts? Quality first. “Always choose pieces made from high-quality materials so they look and feel elevated,” she says. “For example, find a wool or cashmere sweater instead of something synthetic. For the home, natural materials like wood or stone always feel special—like a gorgeous wooden jewelry box that will last forever.”

She also shops with trends in mind. “Faux fur is huge right now, and you can easily find it secondhand. Knowing what to look for makes thrifting less overwhelming and way more fun.”

And while the rest of the world rushes into big-box chaos, Mana finds meaning in opting out. “At this time of year, we’re bombarded with holiday sales and pressure to buy new. A more cost-effective and sustainable alternative is to buy secondhand—it lets you feel better about your purchasing choices. Your wallet and the environment will thank you.”

For anyone who thinks thrifting is intimidating? “Start small with accessories,” she suggests. “Jewelry, purses, silk scarves, ties, and belts aren’t size-exclusive and can totally elevate a look. A simple dress can feel brand new with a thrifted clutch and statement jewelry.”

And her favourite secondhand holiday tradition? “Party pieces! I love going secondhand from head to toe if I can—sequined blazers, velvet trousers, even full silk evening gowns. A secondhand party look ensures you’ll never show up looking like everyone else.”

The Bottom Line

This holiday season, secondhand isn’t just smart—it’s stylish, sustainable, and deeply personal. Whether you’re setting a nostalgic table, wrapping gifts creatively, or building a one-of-a-kind winter wardrobe, thrifting proves that the best holiday magic doesn’t have to come brand new.

And frankly? That’s a trend we’ll happily carry straight into 2026. —Noa Nichol