White Elephant Gift Ideas I collect unique, vintage home furnishings, accessories and furniture. I also love to give original, fun, creative gifts. Lamps are a favorite decor element and gift. I chose lamps for their unique design: if it looks like something everyone and his brother would have, I give it a miss. Lamps are a great way to express individuality. Lamps reflect architectural style and historical period. Here are great places to look for artsy lamps. I love to explore second hand shops for unique lamp shades and bases, looking for tall, pillar lamps and small table lamps. I never buy two matching lamps. When people redecorate, many of the original design elements end up in secondhand stores. This provides a harvest for a bargain hunter and giver of eclectic "white elephant" gifts. Read on...