As the holidays get closer and closer, you’re probably looking to check some people off your gift list as quickly as possible. Maybe you’re shopping for a friend who always knows what to say or a parent who’s supported you in every endeavor. Either way — you want to get them something special.
We’re here to help you do just that. We’re also considering how (and where) you want to spend your hard-earned money. It’s time to rethink your shopping habits and direct your attention to some women-owned businesses. Because why not support those brands who are sticking it to the glass ceiling?
Want more holiday gifting ideas? Check out The Sleigh List — our guide to the perfect gifts for everyone on your A-list.
A customizable candle to help them get their hygge on…
Give their desk a glow-up — quite literally. This candle, made in small batches by women who resettled as refugees in the United States, comes in your choice of 32 scents. Go seasonal with honey and spice, or opt for a perennially-pleasing chamomile. Then make it entirely theirs by adding their name or initials to the label. ($50, The Little Market)
Eye makeup for your friend who’s always on the go…
This bundle of best-sellers can keep up. It’s got highly pigmented, waterproof eyeliner. Plus a shimmery cream-to-powder highlighter stick that’ll give ‘em an instant, effortless glow. Aaaand award-winning mascara that adds extreme length — sans flaking, clumping, or smudging. Oh, and the best part? The set also comes with a free mini mascara for those suuuuuper last-minute touch-ups. (Which usually costs $13.) So make like your giftee and go, go, go. ($70, Thrive Causemetics).*
A trio of polishes to help them nail the at-home mani…
For those who aren’t quite ready to return to the salon or just love to DIY at home. This trio of polishes includes a choice of three nontoxic, highly pigmented polishes. With over 50 available shades, you’ll have no trouble selecting something that’s just right for them. ($55, Dear Sundays)
Something special for the hostess who really does the mostest…
Say ‘tysm’ with these vases. Each one is hand-cut from old wine bottles to add the perfect, cottagecore touch to any space. And curated by a woman-founded brand that’s all about supporting skilled artisans from around the world. Pro tip: Peep Goldman Sachs’ #MakeSmallBig Holiday Market for even more one-of-a-kind gift ideas from small businesses. ($22.52, AnanTaya)*
An all-in-one loungewear set to help them catch some major Zzz’s…
Like a wearable snooze button, but make it fashion. This cozy lounge kit comes with everything your giftee needs to rest up. And look good doing it. Think: an adorable button-down PJ shirt, matching PJ pants, a printed scrunchie, and a silky sleep mask for double the shut-eye. Oh, and did we mention you can choose from three different colors? Or snag all three. For...the other people on your list. Wink. ($125, Lively)*
A little black dress that looks good one everyone…
She can call off her search. This mini A-line dress is designed to deliver on both style and comfort — no matter the size on the label. Thanks to the ruched bust, expandable back, and thick, supportive shoulder straps, she won’t have to wear a bra. Plus…it has pockets. Need we say more? ($128, Frankly Apparel)
An embroidery kit to fuel a crafting obsession…
Even beginners can tackle this fun hands-on project. It comes with a hoop, two needles, thread and, yes, detailed instructions to guide them along the way. Once they’re finished, they’ll have a pretty piece of art to proudly display. ($17.09+, The Cherry Blossom US on Etsy)
Canned wines from Bev to get everyone in the celebration mood...
Fizzy wine, but make it portable. This woman-founded company knows what's up. Bonus: There's no added sugar in any of their vinos. Oh, and did we mention that theSkimm teamed up with Bev to create a sampler pack (typically $120) featuring sparkling rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir? Aka something for everyone, so whether they prefer white or red — or something bubbly — they'll be covered. Pour it up. ($99, Bev)
A sweatshirt honoring her heroines…
Wear it loud and proud. This pullover showcases some of history’s finest: Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Harriet Tubman, Amelia Earhart, Dolores Huerta, and Frida Kahlo (among others). It’s everything: cozy, cute, and oh-so cool. ($58, Joseph and Sue on Etsy)
Comfortable pants for the woman in your life who’d really rather wear none…
Unfortunately, sometimes that’s not an option. These silky soft and roomy wide-leg pants are the next best thing. Errands or housework — they do the trick for both. The pants are also specially designed for breast cancer patients and survivors. They have pockets for drains that double as a spot for everyday essentials. ($68, AnaOno)
Something fun and very, very sexy that isn’t lingerie…
Whoever said you could only buy sexy gifts for your partner was seriously disturbed. Because these waterproof vibrators will leave any friend on your list feeling very merry. It’s not only discreet (and actually really cute). But it also uses pressure-wave tech to create rhythmic pulses in...all the right places. And it’s got five different patterns and intensities. So they can adjust to their liking (read: loving) as they go. We’re not saying you’ll want one for yourself. But we’re also not not saying that. PS: Skimm’rs get 15% off. ($95, Dame)*
A set of stackable rings to add to their shine…
This duo of handmade copper rings is fully adjustable so you won’t have to worry about what size fits their fingers. And they can wear the set separately or together, on their thumb or ring finger. We love nothing more than giving them options. ($52, The Pink Locket on Etsy)
A goes-with-anything colorful graphic T-shirt…
They’ll turn heads in this bright tee printed with one of their most cherished titles: independent woman. They can pair it with a casual pair of jeans for an Instagrammable moment. Psst...for every T-shirt purchased, the company donates 10% of proceeds to the Malala Fund. Give back while gifting. ($22, Mure + Grand)
An essential addition to their (possibly overflowing) jewelry collection…
Literally. The word “essential” hangs from an adjustable chain. The whole thing is made of sterling silver encased in a thick layer of brilliant 18-karat gold. As if there was any dulling her shine. We highly rec this gift for any healthcare workers in your circle of friends or family. ($88, V Coterie)
A six-month journal for the uber-focused goal digger…
This hardcover notebook houses 100 pages to help her live her best life one day at a time. Spreads include affirmations, inspirational quotes, progress markers, room for musings, and much more. Satin ribbon bookmarks (they’re included) and pink vegan leather ensures it’s something she’ll reach for over and over. Let’s get to work. ($35.95, The Pop Journals on Etsy)
A digital gift card for the modern art collector…
Finding the right piece doesn’t have to be so hard. Help the art lover in your life build the collection of their dreams this holiday season. Spacey Studios offers museum-quality art at a reasonable price point. Plus the benefits go both ways, since every purchase helps emerging contemporary women artists get the recognition they deserve. ($100+/gift card, Spacey Studios)
Dark chocolate truffles for someone with a really big sweet tooth…
A vibrant purple gift box houses 16 expertly crafted chocolate truffles. They’ll snack their way through Vosges’ Exotic, Italian, Groove, and Aztec collections, which include dark chocolate ranging from 62% to 75% cacao. They look yummy, but trust us, they taste even better. ($49, Vosges Chocolates)
A feel-good notebook to help them tap into their reflective side…
Think of it as a premade bullet journal of sorts. It includes prompts and questions to help them reflect on the previous 365 days and set new goals for the year ahead. They’ll be able to tap into how past events made them feel, while considering what they wanna focus on in 2022. And it’s smaller than a standard piece of paper, so they can toss it right in their bag without it taking up much room. ($10, Free Period Press)
A build-your-own spice pack for the aspiring at-home chef…
Upgrade their pantry staples with a custom set. The entire selection is ethically sourced from fresh heirloom and single-origin spices from Sri Lanka and India to give food more flavor and fragrance. Farm partners are paid fairly so that long-lasting relationships can be built. It’s time to spice up their life. ($36+/3 jars, Diaspora Co.)
A set of bath salts to enhance self-care Sunday…
And Monday. And Tuesday...you get the idea. Help them unwind with a trio of vegan bath salts. Made with detoxifying Dead Sea salt, essential oils, and botanicals, these are meant to relieve tension, lower stress, and restore a calm mindset. Alone time will never be the same. ($56, Amazon)
A roomy tote that new moms will adore…
No black-hole effect here. This waxed canvas (aka easy-to-clean) tote has eight pockets to keep everything nice and organized. It even has an extra padded pocket for laptops. An included diaper clutch is, well, pretty clutch for parents. It also features a luggage sleeve, wipeable lining, and a changing pad. Since everyone loves options, the straps can be worn as a backpack or messenger style. A tote-al must have. ($115, Mom Kindness)
A catchall with an important message…
Girls can do anything. Yes, they can. And this small canvas pouch — perfect for pens, makeup, or money — is the sweet daily reminder they need. They’ll toss it in their purse and use it all the time. ($11.95, Seltzer Goods)
*This denotes a sponsored post.
If you buy anything from this article, theSkimm may get something in return. Oh, and if something’s out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) when we published. Thanks.
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