The season of giving is here, and if you need a little help finding just the right gift for everyone on your “nice” list, you’re not alone. And although plenty of companies are publishing gift guides focused on the holidays, the reality is that we can all use good gift ideas throughout the year — especially for the people with birthdays that sneak up on us shortly after the holiday season is over.
In the maelstrom of shopping lists, catalogs, and sales, luxury consignment stores are a valuable yet often-overlooked resource for finding the perfect item for the special people in your life. These stores often hold a surprising array of pre-loved high-quality goods that not only exude elegance and style, but (if you know where to shop) can also represent much more.
Whether you're looking for timeless fashion pieces, unique décor or furniture, or one-of-a-kind jewelry for someone who appreciates the finer things in life, luxury resale shops offer a real treasure trove of options. Here, you can find gifts that are more than just high-end finds.
Why Luxury Consignment Gifts Stand Out
Luxury consignment stores can help your gift go the extra mile in the following ways:
- Sustainability. Opting for pre-loved items is an eco-friendly choice, as it prevents valuable goods — many of which are built to last, unlike fast fashion and mass-produced low-quality goods — from ending up in a landfill.
- Uniqueness. These stores often feature rare and one-of-a-kind items, ensuring your gift is as individual as its recipient. The special person in your life is unlikely to see the same item elsewhere, which means they can enjoy your present with extra pride.
- Quality. Pre-owned luxury items are known for their craftsmanship and durability, and they offer lasting value. This means your gift will be both usable and appreciated for years to come.
- Support for small businesses. It’s difficult for small businesses to compete with corporate ones even under normal circumstances, but currently, many are still struggling to recover from the pandemic. By shopping small, you’re also giving a gift to employers and employees in your community — and keeping more revenue in the local economy.
- Timeliness. Unique, carefully curated and crafted goods have replaced mass-produced items from large corporate chains as the most on-trend choice. This means you can do the right thing and be fashionable at the same time, which is always an all-around win.
Pre-Loved Luxury Gift Ideas for Every Budget
If you could use some holiday gift ideas that work equally well as thoughtful birthday gifts, Mother’s and Father’s Day gifts, anniversaries, and more throughout the year, here’s the perfect gift guide for everything — in a variety of price ranges. If a specific item isn’t in stock, keep in mind that there’s likely to be a similar item at a comparable price point.
Under $200: Affordable Elegance
Some of the most affordable Christmas gift ideas include:
- Jewelry. 14K Gold Stud Earrings with Freshwater Pearl Drop ($165), 14K Gold Necklace ($195), Tiffany & Co. Vintage Two-tone Circle Hook Bracelet ($165)
- Fashion accessories. Fendi Zucchino Zip Around Wallet ($195), Mario Valentino Crossbody ($125), Coach Handle Bags ($165–$175), Burberry Plaid Scarf ($165)
- Home accessories. Crate and Barrel Set of 3 Animalia Vases ($85), Waterford Decanter with Dimpled Stopper ($115), Pair of Christofle Fermiers Generaux Vintage Coasters ($145)
$200 - $500: Mid-Range Marvels
If you’re looking for something in a slightly higher range, consider these:
- Jewelry. Gucci Sterling Silver Rectangular Link Bracelet ($295), 14K Gold Earrings with Rubies ($395), Na Hoku Necklace ($345)
- Fashion accessories. Gucci GG Logo Belt ($395), Hermès Vintage Leather H Belt Kit ($495), Hermès scarves ($295–$345)
- Handbags. Coach Tote ($333.75), Prada Beaded Logo Tessuto Tassel Handle Bag ($445), Burberry Haymarket Check Hobo with Leather Strap ($395)
$500 - $995: High-End Treasures
If you’re going all out for your friend, partner, or loved one, you’ll have plenty of showstopping options:
- Jewelry. Michele Deco Chronograph Watch ($995), 14K Ring with Blue Topaz ($995)
- Fashion accessories. Fendi Crossbody ($845), Prada Bluette Saffiano Twin Tote ($695), Valentino Rock Stud Shoulder Bag ($675)
- Luxury furniture and home goods. Blue & White Upholstered Bench ($695), Arteriors Santana Bench ($795), Arhaus Woodland Scene Photo with Silver Leaf Background ($745), A. Raynaud et co. 50 Pcs: 4 7Pc Place Settings Vieux Nyon Nyon China + Extra Dishes & 2 Serving Pieces ($985)
How to Get the Gift That Gives Back (To a Charitable Cause)
When you choose a gift from a luxury consignment store that also has one or more philanthropy programs, like North Shore Exchange in Chicago, you're not just giving a present; you're also contributing to a noble cause. This store is more than a retail space; it's a charitable nonprofit that has donated over $3,700,000 to charities supporting children and families in poverty. Each purchase you make helps fund essential services and programs, making your gift a beacon of hope and support for the community.
From chic fashion items to unique home décor, gifts from luxury consignment stores are not just items; they are stories, statements, and steps towards a more sustainable and caring world. So, the next time you're on the hunt for that perfect gift, remember that a high-end resale shop near you might not only have just the treasure you're looking for, but the one that comes with the best background story.
Give the Gift of Luxury Consignment This Holiday Season
North Shore Exchange is a nonprofit luxury consignment shop that offers pre-owned and pre-loved designer furniture, clothing, vintage jewelry, and accessories. Our expert Merchandising team carefully inspects all products to ensure authenticity, so you can shop for discount luxury items with complete confidence. Explore high-quality, timeless handbags, jewelry, clothing, or home accessories and decorative objects!
By shopping at North Shore Exchange, you can truly give a gift that gives back. Our philanthropic efforts support Chicagoland charities serving children and families living in poverty. We also offer grants to Chicagoland organizations that address the critical needs of hunger, homelessness, and abuse. Your gift won’t just be a one-of-a-kind item, but one with a story that any recipient will appreciate all the more.