What women actually want for Christmas (second-hand edition)
Written by Jess
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Ah, Christmas. That magical time of year when women are bombarded with bath sets, novelty socks, and the dreaded "here’s a gift card, I didn’t try." This year, we’re flipping the script. Not only will we tell you what women really want for Christmas, but we’re doing it sustainably—hello, second-hand chic. Because pre-loved doesn’t mean "less loved," it means thoughtful, unique, and eco-friendly. Here’s a list of gifts she’ll actually swoon over. Partners, take notes.
For the organised (or aspiring) queen:
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Stackers jewellery box
Think compartments, layers, and a place for everything. A pre-loved one still holds the same charm (and will finally stop her earrings from vanishing into the void).
For the hostess with the mostest:
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Olive forks
Yes, olive forks. If she likes olives, she wants them, trust me. Bonus points if they’re vintage and match her aesthetic.
For the cozy goddess:
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Sheepskin slippers
Found a pair of barely-worn sheepskin slippers online? Wrap them up and prepare for eternal gratitude.
For the zen gardener:
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LEGO Botanicals
Yes, the flower set. No watering required, and it’ll make her inner child and her coffee table happy.
For the glamorous lounger:
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Rosie Gown
A luxurious dressing gown that screams "Old Hollywood." Second-hand means you’re shopping sustainably—and affordably.
For the homebody stylist:
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Large velvet cushion
Second-hand velvet cushions add an effortlessly chic vibe to any space. Bonus: they’re already pre-softened!
For the light seeker:
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A lamp
Yes, a lamp. A cool, mid-century one she’s spotted while scrolling Instagram but thinks is “too indulgent.”
For the jewellery enthusiast:
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Gold hoop earrings or fine gold necklace
Pre-loved jewellery often has more character. Find a pair of timeless hoops or a dainty necklace, and you’re golden (literally).
For the Sentimentalist:
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Monica Vinader, Missoma, Swarovski or Tiffany & Co
Timeless pieces with a backstory. Pre-loved makes them even more unique.
For the flower lover:
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Vase
Quirky, vintage, or minimalistic—it’s the perfect vessel for all the flowers you’ll now be buying her.
For the culinary experimenter:
Ninja soup maker
Soup? On demand? Yes, please. It’s the gift that keeps on giving—straight to her stomach.
For the hair perfectionist:
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Heatless hair curler
Genius, damage-free, and often found in nearly new condition.
For the creative soul:
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Brush markers, sketch book or notepad
If she’s even vaguely artsy or loves a good to-do list, these are a winner. Extra points for a stylish, second-hand journal.
For the music maven:
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Vinyl records
Pick up a vintage record or two from her favorite artists. Bonus points if you pair it with a thrifted record player.
For the pyjama connoisseur:
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Chelsea Peers
Second-hand, but make it fabulous. Soft, stylish, and perfect for lounging in festive bliss.
For the beauty minimalist:
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Body Shop goodies
Loads of second-hand marketplaces offer unopened skincare and beauty bundles. She’ll thank you (and her skin will too).
For the mystery/thriller bookworm; books she won't be able to put down:
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Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell, American Gods by Neil Gaiman or Fairy Tale by Stephen King
Find other trending titles second-hand and wrap them up—instant brownie points.
For the handbag aficionado:
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Coach shoulder bag, Osprey London Bag, a large leather tote, or the Mulberry Bayswater Tote
Second-hand designer finds are a treasure trove. Chanel? Gucci? She’ll faint. In a good way.
For the Tech-Loving Trendsetter:
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Sonic Cleaner
Perfect for cleaning jewellery, glasses, and other small treasures. Practical and cool.
For the Fitness Lover:
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Shokz Headphones
Pre-loved but still premium. Perfect for workouts or podcast binging.
For the Reader:
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Kindle
A second-hand Kindle is a savvy, sustainable, and oh-so-thoughtful gift.
For the Gamer:
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Switch & Animal Crossing
If she’s hinted about farming virtual turnips, this is your sign.
For the Kitchen Adventurer:
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Breadmaker
Nothing says love like enabling her sourdough dreams.
For the Fashionista:
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Adanola, Arket, Alo Yoga, Urban Outfitters or Lululemon Clothing
Stylish, sustainable, and way cooler than socks.
For the Glam Guru:
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Dyson Airwrap or UV Nail Lamp
Yes, they’re pricey, but second-hand steals make these attainable and unforgettable.
For the Interior Design Buff:
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Reading Chair, Modernist Architecture or Taschen book
Elevate her reading corner into a Pinterest-worthy haven.
For the Shoe Lover:
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UGG Slippers or Vagabond Boots
Stylish and cozy footwear? You’ve nailed it.
For the Wellness Guru:
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Oura Ring or Facial Steamer
Second-hand self-care gadgets are the gift of the season.
For the Instant Photo Lover:
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Instax Mini
Capture memories in real time with a pre-loved Instax Mini. Pair it with some extra film and let the nostalgia begin.
For the Audiophile:
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AirPods Max or Bang & Olufsen Beoplay Headphones
Second-hand doesn’t mean second-rate when it comes to premium sound quality. Both options will elevate her playlist game.
For the Caffeine Companion:
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A Handmade Mug
Unique and charming, a handmade mug adds a personal touch to her daily coffee or tea ritual.
For the Cozy Lounger:
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Velour Lounge Set
Soft, comfortable, and stylish. A preloved velour set makes staying in look like an event.
For the Aspiring Chef:
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Pinch of Nom, Nadiya's Family Favourites, Jamie Oliver, or Fitwaffle's No Bake Baking
Encourage her inner chef with second-hand cookbooks. Bonus if you make a meal from it together!
For the Techie on the Go:
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iPad Mini
A second-hand iPad Mini is the perfect blend of portability and functionality.
For the Retro-Inspired Fashionista:
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Joanie Clothing
Vintage-inspired pieces from Joanie Clothing bring personality and charm to her wardrobe.
For the Fashion-Forward Adventurer:
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Women’s Timberland Puffer
Stylish and warm, a preloved Timberland puffer jacket will keep her cozy all winter long.
For the Beauty Enthusiast:
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Light-Up Mirror
A second-hand light-up mirror ensures perfect makeup application every time.
For the Timeless Stylist:
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The White Company or Skims Clothing
Soft, minimalist, and luxurious, preloved finds from these brands are wardrobe staples.
The beauty of second-hand gifting is the thought and effort that go into finding something unique. It shows you’ve listened, you care, and you’re saving the planet while you’re at it. So, go forth, embrace the thrill of the thrift, and make her Christmas one to remember. Because this year, the gift card just isn’t going to cut it.
PS: If you’re a woman reading this, there’s absolutely no shame in sending this to your partner to give them a helping hand. Sometimes, subtle hints just don’t cut it—let’s make this the year of "exactly what I wanted!" gifts.
If you like this blog, you'll love our second-hand Christmas gift guides, with over 2,000 curated ideas for everyone on your list. Let’s make this Christmas one to remember, with gifts that come from the heart and help the planet too!