I’ll admit, I’m a confessed lover of Christmas. With December less than a month away, my nearest and dearest have already been subject to one or two Christmas renditions on my behalf. And while it may seem premature to some, it is that time of the year when whispers of the festive season are in the ether (Word has it that Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé tunes are on the agenda of many). It's also the time of year when gifting ideas are beginning to flood our inboxes, people are drawing names for Secret Santa and echoes of "When is an appropriate time to erect the Christmas tree?” are heard far and wide. Whilst I know the festive period divides opinion and I strongly believe that the objective isn't gifting, I also enjoy commemorating the people in my life that matter most to me.
Although the mass market booms during the festive period, I prefer to turn my attention to small, independent brands, or even hunt down the really unique treasures from some of the slightly more well-known ones. With small brands, you’ll likely discover artisanal products, inimitable services and bespoke pieces, making the gift-giving experience sweeter. And finding a unique gift that is sure to put a smile on the faces of your loved one (yes, even the fussiest ones!), is always a such a joy and a triumph.
So, if you're looking for a special and unique gift to give this festive period, continue reading for a considered edit. You’ll find something for everyone from the keen cook in your life to the beauty lover, and of course fashion lover.
Shop the Best Unique Christmas Gifts to Give This Festive Period:
AMIE
Amie Organic Rosé
Not only are the tipples delicious, Amie has one of the most aesthetic bottles around so they're always appreciated as gifts. After sharing the bottles with loved ones, they can be upcycled into vases or ornamental pieces.
JIA JIA
Onyx Jewelry Box
This onyx jewellery box doubles up as an ornamental piece.
TOAST
Hand Stitched Organic Velvet Quilt
Cosy season is nigh and a handstitched velvet quilt is something I will forever endorse. Especially in this blush colourway.
CELUI
Nourishing Hair Oil & Silk Hair Cap Bundle
The idea for Celui was conceived by hair expert Anisa Sojka and it's now recognised as a hero hair oil for all hair types. With a blend of Jojoba and Marula oil (and laced with Rose Geranium and Lavender), it's a luxe gift many people will appreciate. This year Celui released a silk hair cap with plentiful hair health benefits, particularly for curly and afro hair types.
Flabelus
Laurance Brown
This Spanish brand craft mary-janes in an array of unique colourways.
For the Creators
Nappy Caddy
The store to note for the expectant mothers in your life.
Alighieri
The Shell of Clarity Dish
I bookmarked this cutlery set at the beginning of the year. It is breathtakingly beautiful and will add a healthy dose of dopamine to every mealtime.
Navygrey
The Oversize
When you opt for Navy Grey knitwear, be assured that it's a gift for a lifetime
Studio Bust
Legacy Collection
Studio Bust offer a unique concept that will make the most thoughtful keepsake with bespoke bust ornaments in myriad finishes. It's a celebration of the form and a beautiful way to say "I love everything about you". Prices vary.
Otiumberg
The Otiumberg Jewellery Box
I've included this jewellery Box by Otiumberg in my gift guides two years in a row. I adore the playful juxtaposition between this candied velvet fabrication as compared to Otiumberg's typically refined designs.
It's difficult to narrow down Soho Home's many beautiful offerings, but this tea light holder is particularly special.
Missoma
Square Pearl Statement Stud Earrings
Statement pearls with an art deco lilt, courtesy of Missoma.
Little Liffner
Belted Bucket Bag Large Dark Brown Suede
Little Liffner produce some of my favourite handbags and its suede offerings are particularly special.
Phlur
Missing Person 50ml and Travel Set
Phlur's scents every bit as delectable as you'd imagine and this travel set makes for a wonderful gift.
Desmond and Dempsey
402 Long Pyjama Set Cream
Inspired by boxy silhouettes, Desmond and Dempsey's new pyjamas tick the boxy on style and comfort.
MERIT Beauty
The Autumn Set
Merit transformed me into a beauty loving girl. I use their makeup daily!
La Bonne Brosse
N.02 the Terracotta Essential Petite Brush
Bring some joy to the mundane with the use of this exceptional hairbrush. The terracotta hue and twisted handle are such special details. As the owner of a La Bonne Brosse brush, I can attest to the look, feel and result. This particular brush adds volume to your tresses!
LIHA Beauty
Luxury Layers Set
Liha rose to prominence in 2020 and the brand continues to have our hearts years on. Their arsenal consists of candles, and shea butter-based cosmetics. This set will make the sweetest gift for any beauty lover.
ANISSA KERMICHE
Titty Committee Set of Two Mini Earthenware Jugs
Tablescapping 101, invest in a standout piece of art that doubles up as a functional piece. These jugs will be a table centrepiece you never knew you needed.
Kitty Joyas
Hand Forged Paperclip Earrings
There's something so special about Kitty Joyas' pieces that I think every jewellery lover will appreciate. The designs meld classic elements with organic shapes. I'm not usually endeared to silver but there's something unique about these earrings that's coaxing me to the add-to basket button.
Dear Frances
Balla Mesh Strap
A contemporary iteration of the mesh mary-jane. I'd expect no less than excellence from Dear Frances.
Black Lines
Oatnog
There's no shortage of creamy liqueurs on the market during the festive period but unfortunately, the opinions are sparse for dairy-free alternatives. Thankfully, Black Lines has swooped in to save the day with a creamy, dairy-free tipple.
Carrie Elizabeth
Mother of Pearl Small Bauble
A unique keepsake you'll bring out year after year.
The Slow Label
Mittens Ecru
The cutest mittens you did ever see.
Margaux Studios
Cecelia Earrings
I foresee these drop pearl earrings with a frothy, whimsical organza frock.
Bed Threads
Oatmeal 100% French Flax Linen Duvet Cover
Bed Threads offers an array of sumptuous linen bedding in myriad colourways but I'm drawn to its neutral offerings. The bedding gets softer with each wash, which will leave you wanting to spend extended hours in slumber.
Heavenly
The Gold Sophia Sapphire Earrings
A sparkly jewel you can wear every day.
Stripe & Stare
Ribbed Vest
Make a beeline for Stripe & Stare for supple undergarments comprising biodegradable fibres.
Les Filles en Rouje
Beach Waves Hair Set
The perfect gift for someone looking to upgrade their beauty regime.
Nere
Nere Stori Medium Suitcase
For the frequent traveller in your life, I can't recommend Nere enough.
Astrid & Miyu
Lucky Studs Cracker Gift Set in Gold
Astrid and Miyu's adorable crackers are bound to put a smile on your recipient's face, not to mention, uplevel their ear stack!
Frances Costelloe
Garden Like You Will Live Forever Print
Frances Costelloe's work has been a firm favourite of mine for some years now. I adore her handwritten prints.
TBCo
Lambswool Oversized Scarf in Chocolate
My best friend gifted me a blanket from Tartan Blanket Company and since then I've been hooked. Between the much-adored triangle scarf, to cosy blankets, you'll spot so many covetable pieces.
Wanderlust Paper Company
Wanderlust Paper Company + Figures 'I Love You'
For lovers of sentimentality (myself included) the best part of receiving gifts is the heartfelt card that comes with. This sweet card doubles up as a keepsake.
LAETITIA ROUGET
Take Me Dirty Dancing Dessert Plate
I'm always at odds with beautiful ceramics. Granted, they're crafted to be well used but I'm always tempted to use them to display trinkets. One thing's for certain, Laetitia Rouget's creations are wonderfully joyous and tongue-in-cheek.
TOMS
Valerie Slipper
TOMS donates a third of all profits to grassroots Good, which is incentive enough to invest in their offerings. This year the Valerie slippers are a firm favourite of mine.
Our Place
Wonder Oven
I've been harping on about this multipurpose kitchen gadget since its release earlier in the year. It's a 6-in-1 air fryer, toaster, and stainless-steel oven that people with small kitchen spaces will particularly appreciate (something I completely understand living in Paris).
Sage Flowers
Complement Vol 7
Brighten little and large living spaces with Sage's blooms.
Toast
Rebecca Williams Butter Dish
The cutest addition to any tablescape situation.
Wool and the Gang
Oh So Quiet Blanket
Give your loved one the gift of creativity with a pattern, yarn and a plush blanket outcome.
Mashu
Irene Sage
Irene is Mashu's foray into supple mini bags. Awash with an olive hue and featuring Mashu's signature gold adornments, it's perfectly suited to the fashion lovers in your life.
Hello Klean
Hello Klean Shower Head
Allow me to introduce you to Hello Klean, a water filtering system to ensure purified water when showering and washing your tresses. It's genius.
Dora Larsen
Eartha Floral Embroidery Knicker
Dora Larsen creates the ultimate "feel good" underwear that every woman will appreciate. Who wouldn't want to receive this gorgeous bra knicker set?
Wild Source
Body Revival Scrub
An invigorating body scrub from beauty editor favourite, Wild Source.
Steamery
Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer - Rose
One of the most premium hand held steamers on the market!
Strathberry
Frame Clutch
I don't know a single person who wouldn't be happy opening up a Strathberry treasure on Christmas day!
J&M Davidson
Dash Bag
Expert craftsmanship and a swoon-worthy design. What more could you want in an accessory?
Sézane
Feu De Vie Candle
Between the French-inspired apparel and home furnishings, Sézane is a one stop shop for gifts.
arkitaip
Gratitude Linen Napkins
Have you seen anything cuter?
Grape and Fig
DIY Cheese Wreath Kit
Though we may be a fashion publication, we certainly endorse edible gifts. Grape & Fig is leading the way for grazing boxes in the UK.
Hotel Chocolat
The Velvetiser
Trust me, your hot chocolate game will never be the same.
Wanderlust Paper Co.
Blue Nude Long Matchbox
My heart skipped a beat when I first witnessed this matchbox. I'm tempted to treat myself!
Anisa Sojka
Gold Mini Metal Hair Tie
The perfect addition to a sleek ponytail.
Aarke
Carbonator 3 Sand Starter Kit
Fellow sparkling water fans, allow me to quench your thirst with Aarke's sleek designs.
Monos
Metro Weekender
The Metro Weekender will be appreciated for frequent travellers, the base allows enough room for a pair of shoes!
CULT GAIA
Noor Eau De Parfum
Beloved for its handbags, shoes and dresses, Cult Gaia has garnered quite a fanbase. Earlier this year they released a trio scents in decorative scents spanning sweet to spiced.
V By Laura Vann
Lyla Fine Bezel Bracelet
V By Laura Vann is one of my favourite jewellery brand finds of 2024.
Gifts by Pasta Evangelists
Intermediate Pasta Making Kit
With this pasta making set you're gifting tools and a joyous shared experience.
Heaven Mayhem
Book Box Vol 1
Whilst Heaven Mayhem is best known for fabulously bold jewels (case in point), I've turned my attention to its high-spirited jewellery box designs. As stated in the website copy, the jewellery storage options are concieved with an expanding jewellery collection in mind.
Papier
Our Travels
I'm a firm believer that photo books make the most sentimental gift.
Damson Madder
Hand Painted Bow Handle Mug
Damson Madder's holiday collection comprises a host of bow adorned hot water bottles, mugs (with matching coasters, no less) serving plates and more!
Sitre
Night Touch Massage Candle
Why not opt for Sitre's sensual-inspired massage candles as a gift for you and your partner.
Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities.She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist.