The pre-loved picks you’ll treasure long after Christmas
Why stop at Christmas? Our Fashion Editors have curated a wishlist of stunning pre-loved finds that you’ll cherish long after the festive season. From vintage designer pieces to one-of-a-kind accessories, pre-loved isn’t just a more sustainable option—it’s also more thoughtful and just as stylish. Perfect for gifting or treating yourself, this edit is proof that second-hand is anything but second-best.
We’re not the only ones embracing pre-loved gifting this year. “Second-hand gifting is having its moment and it’s here to stay, with 63% of Gen Z saying they’d love to receive a second-hand gift this Christmas,” confirms Amy Bannerman, eBay’s Pre-Loved Style Director. “At Christmas, there’s nothing more exciting than unwrapping a truly unique, one-of-a-kind gift—which is why I love the challenge of finding something special for others… From a vintage cashmere coat to a covetable designer handbag."
And if that doesn’t convince you, look to the endless A-list talent embracing vintage throughout 2024, both on and off the red carpet. Vintage Cavalli has been a go-to following the designer’s passing in April. Tyla wore an archive tiger-print Roberto Cavalli dress to this year's MTV EMAs, mirroring an outfit Aaliyah wore to the MTV VMAs in the 2000s. Bella Hadid has also been spotted several times styling up a vintage Roberto Cavalli spring/summer 2002 brown corset. And of course, Rihanna, whose enviable archive of vintage fashion and accessories has set the standard for red carpet style. Her recent appearance at the Fashion Awards in a vintage Christian Lacroix masterpiece cemented her reign as the ultimate style icon for vintage pieces, leaving us all— in true Rihanna fashion —gasping for more.
Londie's Picks
Anyone who knows me knows I’m a pre-loved-first kind of girl, so naturally, it’s my first stop for gifting—myself included. Instead of getting distracted by single-wear pieces at this time of year, I focus on clothing that has lasting value. Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or yourself, revisit wishlist items you can’t get out of your mind and hunt them down on pre-loved sites like eBay, Vinted, or HEWI, at a fraction of the price. I’m currently after vintage Chanel pumps to pair with cargo trousers or noughties denim, a hint of leopard to add to looks, and anything 90s Prada, which has never ever let me down.
Follow Londiwe Ncube on Instagram @londisgoods.
Rosie's Picks
Pre-loved is a great way to splurge on that high-ticket designer item at a fraction of the price. There are some brands I always search on Vinted or eBay for gems, like Bottega Veneta and Loewe. I don't tend to buy shoes as the conditions vary too much, and prefer to buy bags, coats or accessories as they hold up better even if they've been worn a few times. I've been eyeing a Prada puffer for a long time and am crossing my fingers and toes that this might be the year I get one! Hope Santa got the hint (*wink wink*)."
Follow Rosie Lai on Instagram @rosielai.
Georgia's Picks
Owning a capsule wardrobe has always been my ultimate goal, but working in fashion makes that a hard dream to attain; how can I preach about the latest trends unless I'm wearing them? That said, there are ways around it, and buying pre-loved is one of them. Not only does it tick the box of being more sustainable in a fast-fashion age, but it also allows me to shop brands that previously might not have been as attainable. A Chanel brooch, a Carrie Bradshaw-approved Fendi bag, my most wish-listed pair of shoes - brand new with tags, FYI - all for a fraction of their usual price? Sign me up.
