The Joy of Second-Hand Shopping

Some people play pickleball, but my version of a good time involves poking around junk shops, thrift stores, and consignment boutiques. I’m the person that plans entire vacations around second-hand stores and flea markets.

I second-hand shop because I am kinda, sorta obsessed with creating soulful homes. I’m less obsessed with saving the planet if I’m honest, but sustainability is a noble byproduct of thrifting, so I’m here for it.

Why Second-Hand Shopping Matters

I could bore you to death with studies that prove furniture arrangement, acoustics, organization, comfort, lighting, and how surrounding yourself with meaningful items can help reduce stress, improve focus, foster positive relationships, and improve our emotional state. But I won’t because no one would keep reading to find out that last summer I bought for $3.99 a brand new, silver Tiffany frame that is currently sold for $1,000. Or that I picked up a tissue box holder for $4.99 which is $1,400 in the shop (Shut up ~ I know! Who even knew you could spend that much on a tissue box cover!?)

The Story Behind Every Find

I am charmed by people and things with depth and a story to tell. I have an aversion to perfection. I can’t quite get comfortable around people and things with no imperfections, with no story to tell.

An intentional and collected room with signs of age and wisdom tells a story and invites us to also evolve intentionally over time. What is the rush or reason to fill our homes (or our lives) with easy, same, or meaningless things? We can do better.

So I shop second-hand like it feeds me, because, truth be told, it feels that way sometimes. It feeds my soul.

How to Find the Best Second-Hand Decor

If you are new to the game, I suggest you look for items that could be stalwart workhorses, such as a beautifully shaped serving bowl or useful basket. Look for items that make you smile. One of my most talked-about thrift store finds is a collection of Duck Pond carnival duckies, each with a number written in Sharpie on the bottom; everyone is charmed by them.

If you’re ready to jump on the second-hand bandwagon (you’ll thank me later), here are eight must-have items I ALWAYS encourage you to buy used. Trust me, your home and those who gather in it will thank you:

1. Frames

Frames that feel substantial when held in a hand are like the secret sauce of home decor. They’re usually cheap and cheerful, but they also make every photo, piece of art, or weird drawing your kid did in school look elevated and special.

2. Tablewares

I use my Grandmother’s fancy china every day. I put it in the dishwasher. Same with ‘the good silver.’ Nothing is too precious. Vintage plates, drinking glasses, and mismatched silver add character to your home.

3. Candle Holders

No one can possess too many candle holders. Second-hand stores have a stash of candle holders waiting for a new home. I once bought a massive metal Scandinavian candelabra that frustratingly didn’t fit anywhere in my home—so now it makes a statement outside.

4. Lamps

Second-hand lamps are a vibe. I almost always replace the shade with something fun, and replacing an old electric cord is (usually) an easy fix. A lovely used lamp with a fab new shade is a statement piece.

5. Linens

Linens are a goldmine in second-hand stores. Tablecloths, cloth napkins, and even vintage quilts are in abundance. Vintage linen wears like iron, and I get tactile satisfaction when handling weighty, vintage cloth.

6. Art

Mass-produced art lacks soul. There, I said it. Your home is sacred. Treat it as such. I prefer a blank wall over an uninspired mass-produced wall hanging any day. Trust yourself enough to wait for the perfect piece.

7. Storage

You can keep your home organized while adding texture, charm, and a bit of history. Silver bowls, ceramic planters, baskets, trays, and boxes in all shapes and sizes are waiting to be useful again.

8. Books

I may be biased because, you know, books are my love language, but second-hand books are the best. They’re affordable, they add character to your shelves, and they add height when styling a coffee table or console.

The Takeaway

Create a home that feels as unique as you are. Curate a home with soul. Be kind to your wallet. Honor Mother Earth. Second-hand shopping ticks all the boxes, and maybe, if you are lucky, you’ll develop a new habit! Your space will be full of character, your budget will thank you, and the planet might even throw you a little high-five for keeping things sustainable.