It is more important than ever to shop small this holiday season. While it is recommended to purchase from local stores in your area, if you want to expand your gift options a bit further there are many small boutiques and artists with online stores who would love to have your business. Not only does shopping small directly support a deserving individual, but selfishly you can give the most unique and niche gifts that are bound to make the recipient extremely happy. Here is a list of 13 items and stores that SHEESH! recommends.
1. Ralphie and Alice
A line of simplistic, vegan, and cruelty-free face products is exactly what any skincare lover needs. Ralphie and Alice offers four sticks: the Sol Stix, Pop Stix, Lip Stix, and Fix Stix, which are a sunscreen, tinted balm, moisturizing balm, and scrub, respectively. With a focus on products that are both good for your bodies and safe for the environment at affordable price points, they’re the perfect beauty product to get your friend hooked on. Follow their Instagram and shop their products.
2. Hey Moon Designs
Neutral-toned hair clips are bold yet minimal, and make a great gift for just about anyone in your life. The Los Angeles-based shop has an excellent selection of accessories and jewelry, and we highly recommend mixing and matching the beautiful color options. Browse their Instagram and take a peek at what they offer on their website.
3. Nata Store
Perhaps most famous for their highly sought-after Yin Yang candles, this London-based online store has way more to offer. While we do recommend one of their candles or checkerboard trays to any of your Instagram-obsessed friends, their site is totally worth a browse to see what else you can find. Check out their Instagram to stay up to date on releases.
4. Marida Jewelry
This trendy yet timeless jewelry brand is sure to have something you love. Marida is the perfect mix of quality and an accessible price point, so be sure to give their website a look and their Instagram a follow—you might just find your next favorite piece of jewelry.
5. Very Ugly Plates
Sometimes people are difficult to shop for, and you need to go the funny route. In that case, Very Ugly Plates, an online shop based in Berlin, is your new go-to. Much more than your average dinnerware, these plates are pretty, humorous, and need a place on your wall. Their Instagram is worth a follow and check out their website when you’re in need of a unique gift.
6. Coming Soon NY
You know that person who just seems to have everything and you wonder what you could possibly ever get them? Coming Soon is full of options for them. We’re loving their funky cocktail straws and beautiful playing cards. They offer plenty more, so make sure to follow their Instagram and stop by their website.
7. Vahz Studio
Everyone’s interior space could use a little more fun, so a Blob from Brooklyn-based Vahz studio is the perfect choice. If a Blob is a bit too out there, however, Vahz also sells the coolest 2D flower-filled vases. Give their Instagram a follow to see when new products are released.
8. To The Nile
A fashionable friend will always love a trendy gift, and for them we suggest a pair of pretty pastel-colored pearl earrings from To The Nile. Also, be sure to check out the brand’s tote bags and art prints before checking out on their site.
9. Dauphinette
You may not know you need it, but trust us: you do. The croissant lamp from NYC brand Dauphinette is a must-have for anyone who enjoys superfluous decor. Not to mention, this lamp is made from real bread, and then coated in an antifungal and anti-bacterial eco-friendly resin to preserve it. Stay up to date by following their Instagram.
10. Hypnotic Dog Co.
Here is the perfect gift for your furry friend. A collar that looks like an elegant pearl necklace, but made out of durable materials. These collars are made to order and hand-crafted, so your pet can look their best when they hit the town. Place an order on their website, and follow their Instagram.
11. Myae Made
This is the brand of the season, and has been seen on trendsetters like SZA, Jordyn Woods, and Sydney Carlson. A fashionable friend would absolutely love a unique mesh top from Myae Made, so make sure to follow their Instagram to know when new drops are released on the site.
12. Numbskull
Everyone loves a good puffer, and one with a fun pattern is a great twist on the usual boring blacks and grays of winter wear. This purple puffer from Numbskull is a great way to make every outfit look fresh and interesting. Buy it online now!
13. Maison Balzac
Normally incense holders are simple, small, and underwhelming; however, this snail version is anything but boring. Made of solid marble, the otherwise quirky snail is also luxurious, and would look perfect in a cool, modern home. Give this as a gift and you’ll surely take the recipient’s breath away! Follow Maison Balzac on Instagram, and purchase the snail here.
For more of Sheesh Magazine’s favorite small brands, check out 10 Trendy Small Businesses We’re Obsessed With and 3 Small Streetwear Brands To Look Out For.