It’s our annual The Local Artisan Guide Father’s Day Gift Guide and we have had such a great time researching, shopping and following recommendations for gifts that will thrill your father and show him how exceptional you think he is with an equally exceptional gift.
We have gift recommendations for multiple categories and a variety of price points from very affordable gifts to extremely aspirational gifts. The brands are small, artisanal and have a story. There is something for every dad here that values craftsmanship, design, unique products, beauty and knowing you went the extra yard to show them how much you love, honor and care for your dad or dad figure. This is for you dad for being there and being the best dad you could be.
We have ten gift recommendations in no particular order. You can find the info by clicking onto the link in the captions. Although all are found at brick and mortal stores they can be purchased online.
OILOGY—a New York based fragrance brand founded by two immigrants, one Columbian, one Egyptian, created a brand inspired by the rich scents of the Middle East. We discovered a scent we know your dad would love, King Tut, one of their most popular scents for the fresh and clean aroma. The scents are long-lasting and alcohol-free made from high-quality essential oils. King Tut is a combination of sea notes, grapefruit, mandarin, orange, bay leaf, jasmine, ambergris, guaiac, wood, oakmoss and patchouli. This artisan fragrance brand is also very affordable for such a unique signature scent.
RECOLLECTIONS: THREE DECADES OF PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN SEXTON
If your father loves nature and appreciates fine art photography may we recommend Recollections: Three Decades of Photography by John Sexton. John Sexton is an acclaimed fine art photographer who specializes in nature photography. He studied photography with legendary American photographer Ansel Adams and shares the same aesthetic of capturing spectacular landscapes around the world. With Recollections we see stunning images of American national parks and vistas from Yosemite to the enigmatic rock forms of the Colorado Plateau. Your father will love going through these images and it also might inspire a trip to these incredible landmarks. You can even give the gift as a precursor to a road trip together for memories that will last forever.
This gift is the perfect gift for the dad who loves to make cocktails, the Rattan Cocktail Shaker from Feste, a brand that specializes in making entertainment beautiful and special. The cocktail shaker was “Designed in Canada and handcrafted by a network of global craftsmen, Artisan 85 serving utensils and accessories bring a unique flair to any gathering. The cocktail shaker brings a relaxed, coastal vibe to your next cocktail party with the Rattan bar accessories. The woven natural fibre adds texture and visual interest to bar essentials. The decorative natural rattan can be easily removed when cleaning. Handcrafted. Material: Stainless steel, natural rattan. So whether it’s a good old fashion Old Fashion or your dad likes to experiment in mixology, this cocktail shaker is not only a great gift but incredibly affordable too.
OFFICINE CREATIVE - JULES 006 BROWN LEATHER TRAVEL BAG
Officine Creative is a brand we love and have been following since they opened in Nolita, NYC. It was founded in the 90’s in Italy with a team “combining peerless craftsmanship with a distinctive creative flair to create something truly unique” which is one of the reasons we think this travel bag is an exceptional Father's Day gift. Officine Creative successfully mixes modernity and traditional artisan craftsmanship. Although this travel bag is definitely aspirational we feel it is one of those pieces that can be past down from generation to generation as a family heirloom. It resembles a traditional doctor’s satchel bag. The Jules 006 is handcrafted from beautiful Italian airbrushed brown leather. It’s a classic travel bag with top handles, removable shoulder strap and functional zip pockets inside and out. The dimensions are 48W x 30H x 22D Cm - (31,5 L). It also comes in the color black. Dad would definitely treasure this gift forever, he can use it visiting Yosemite on that road trip that the two of you have been talking about.
Is your dear old dad getting up there in age? Do you want to help his memory and coordination skills but can’t seem to get him to try new activities? Well then this is the game for your dad! Sweary Bingo is a cheeky gift that dad should love no matter the sharpness of his thinking skills. The tag line is “A Party Game for the Potty Mouthed” There is a selection 64 insulting and creative swear words to shout out, in this potty-mouthed version of the classic game. You can have up to 12 players, there is a master board, 64 tiles, 100 counters, and a glossary is included to explain some more unusual terms, lists the geographic origin, highlight creative variations and generally raise your swearing game. This is the most fun your dad will have while sharpening his memory skills. I would especially recommend this gift if your dad is not the swearing type as think how liberating it can be for him (and you!). Bookshop.org is where you can find Sweary Bingo, it’s an amazing site to buy books and games that donates money for local independent bookstores ($48,163,771.39 so far) to help them thrive. So win/win!
Men’s grooming products are always a good gift for dad, however we are particularly excited about Jackfir grooming products and the story of their creation. Jackfir’s founder, Charlie Razook, first created the brand in the midst of 3.5 years of leukemia treatment. After researching about the environment and the toxins we are exposed to in our wellness products, Charlie decided to come up with a certified-clean men's skincare brand offering trustworthy and effective personal care solutions inspired by nature. Jackfir offers clean grooming essentials, including facial cleansers, moisturizers, and shaving creams formulated with predominantly organic ingredients. The brand is vegan certified, GMO free, gluten free, contains natural ingredients is plastic neutral and is a member of ONE TREE PLANTED. They offer on their site a a bundle called The Facekit which includes their Classic Shave Cream, the Classic Daily Moisturizer, and the Classic Daily Cleanser. Combined these three products will help your dad’s dry skin, face wrinkles, redness and irritation and dark spots all while knowing your dad will not have any exposure to toxic chemicals and irritating ingredients. This can even become one of those great father/son gifts as it is a brand that any man in your life would be grateful to have. The brand is also available at Credo beauty boutiques.
One of the reasons there is The Local Artisan Guide is to help our audience find amazing heritage brands that can easily be overlooked if you don’t live in the area the product is created or the marketing is not overblown. Viberg is one such brand. Viberg is a Canadian heritage men’s footwear brand founded by Edwin Viberg in 1931. The brand is renowned for its high quality timeless shoes and boots. The brand can trace its shoemaking lineage back to the 1890’s in Sweden where the family learned how to make scrabble boots for farmers and workers. The brand has stayed in the family with Edwin’s grandson Brett Viberg at the helm now. Brett has continued on the family business and has added some more contemporary silhouettes to the collection which is why we recommend the Slip on - Bison Janus Calf Suede Shoe as we felt it was very “DAD”. Although this gift is on the more pricier of our gift guide, between the quality, the craftsmanship and the aesthetics of the brand, it is a gift that will be greatly appreciated and cherished. “Janus is a calf suede with a fine, even nap and a soft, open surface. It remains relaxed in structure while gaining depth with wear. Bison offers a cooler, lighter brown with a quiet, understated depth. Built on the 1005 last, a round-toe sneaker last with a minimal heel drop and flat removable footbed. Made on a full leather insole with solid leather toe and heel stiffeners, creating a stable internal structure that maintains shape and improves over time. Finished with a natural edge, maintaining a lighter contrast.” Handmade in Canada! If you want to go all out, this is the gift for dad.
FLYING SOLO NYC - AURJA - BLUE AUM CARDAMOM HINOKI MOSS CANDLE
We always like to have a candle in our Father’s Day Gift Guide and this year especially as we just came upon the brand AURJA. Aurja not only has a candle scent that dad will love, when it burns out there is a beautiful object left behind for dad to enjoy and be part of his decor. We found this candle brand at Flying Solo NYC, a boutique that sells and promotes independent, small brands. The candle comes in a beautiful blue ceramic vessel designed to stay on your dad’s shelf long after the wax is gone. “Aum” is named for the Sanskrit sound of universal alignment, the vibration beneath everything. The scent notes on the candle are Cardamom, Hinoki, and Wild Moss. It was custom-developed with French perfumers sourcing the finest ingredients from across the world. If you want your father to have a scent that will calm the mind this is the gift. Peace of mind is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and others.
If your dad has exceptional sartorial style we have the polo for him! Malbon is a luxury golf sportswear brand founded in Los Angeles in 2017. Malbon’s mission is to make a product that is bold and unique in a world where there is too much conformity and they do this while also being elegant. That is why we love the Habana Polo, it is an updated classic. Crafted from a soft cotton blend with a refined v-neckline and ribbed trim for structure, it's finished with Malbon’s signature sugarcane stalk print—a motif woven throughout the season. They motto is “Malbon style from first tee to clubhouse.” however your dad does not even have to like golf to enjoy this refreshed polo look. With 92% cotton 8% nylon and relaxed fit, it is sure to become his favorite casual item to pull out of his closet.
ROWING BLAZERS - WINNIE-THE-POOH HUNNY POT DAD HAT
And last but certainly not least is the gift to get for the dad who is nearly impossible to get a gift for because he has everything already (including YOU!!), it’s a baseball cap! How can a dad not have enough baseball caps. It’s a fun, useful and affordable gift for dad on Father’s Day. We picked the brand Rowing Blazers, a brand created in 2017 by Renaissance man Jack Carlson who has been having fun with the look, traditions and quirks that come with being preppy. That is why we picked the Winnie-the-Pooh Hunny Pot Dad Hat which features the an embroidered Winnie-the-Pooh motif made out of 100% cotton-twill. The baseball cap is one size and adjustable and is the ultimate “dad” hat. It’s classic, it’s preppy, it’s funny, it’s love, just like Winnie. It’s perfect for dad.
That is our gift guide recommendations. Like we said, we included all different categories, all different price points and all made by small local brands made with craftsmanship for the father figure in your life. So show dad how unique he is just like the gift choices and that you have been thoughtful in finding a gift to express your love to him. Happy Father’s Day for all the great fathers and father figures in the world that showed up and did their best to love their children.
Welcome to The Local Artisan Guide’s annual holiday shopping recommendations!
We are publishing four blogs for the holiday season this year divided in the following categories; For Him, For Her, For All, and For Kids/Pets. This week our gift recommendations are FOR MEN and we have five selections that we think the men in your life will find unique, special and for you, affordable. They are all from small, independent brands and the links are in the captions as they are all available online, some are available at brick and mortar stores.
INPHORM NYC - MEN’S SPIN PERFORMANCE JACKET IN INK
We are so excited that the sustainable luxury atleisure brand INPHORM NYC has added men’s and children wear to their label. INPHORM NYC has been providing luxury tennis, golf and activewear for women for years so for men and children to now have access to the stylish, well made and sustainable brand. Those who know about the brand know they will show up with a unique piece and not a uniform. We recommend this elegant men’s spin performance jacket which your man will want to wear for many occasions. Their copy reads “Gear up for your next match or elevate your everyday look with the Spin Performance Jacket. This relaxed-fit jacket boasts a UPF 50+ rating, providing exceptional protection against harmful ultraviolet rays, whether you're crushing aces on the court or lounging around in style.-Relaxed fit for optimal comfort-UPF 50+ rating for sun protection-Four-way stretch for unrestricted movement-Soft, luxurious performance fabric-Machine washable and easy care-Sustainable blend of recycled materials - 67% recycled rayon, 28% nylon, and 5% spandex. -This blend offers the perfect combination of softness, breathability, and long-lasting durability.”
We have recommended bags for men in the past but this year we are recommending a USA based company that specializes on bags made especially for motorcycles! Viking Bags are created to not only look stylish but to be as well designed and practical for your motorcycle journeys. We recommend the Trident Large Motorcycle Backpack as it’s not only a great traveling companion for your motorcycle but is also backpack you can use as luggage sans a motorcycle. Viking Bag states, “The Trident large motorcycle backpack is constructed out of cordura. The backpack has a total storage capacity of 1952 cubic inches with adjustable sternum clip and waist straps. Useful means of storage for both short and long commutes, it is ergonomically designed with hook and loop ties to make it more comfortable when carrying. When off the bike, you can carry this Trident backpack by slipping on the padded shoulder straps. If you need to secure the backpack to the motorcycle, you can simply put away the straps in the back. Features a top zippered pocket with its interior lined with fleece, perfect for storing more fragile items such as sunglasses. On either side of the bag, there are zippered pockets perfect for transporting smaller belongings and mesh pockets where you can insert water bottles up to 17 Oz. The Trident backpack for motorcycles includes a separate zippered compartment for shoes separate from your clothes and other essentials. And the three additional pockets in the front is best for organizing smaller items like snacks, phone, keys, wallet and electronics chords.” This is guarantee to be an exciting gift for the biker in your life.
Established in 1790, Dr. Harris & Co. has been a family run business that developed natural toiletries that eventually were served the gentry and royalty. Today they offer fine selection of soaps, shaving creams and soaps, aftershaves and colognes, skincare products and much more, continue to appeal to all those who appreciate quality and distinction the world over. We love this Winter Skin Set with Almond Oil Bath Soap, this white, triple-milled soap is recommended for the most delicate of skin and has a rose, geranium, cinnamon and clove fragrance. Almond Oil, it is 100% pure with nothing added to it, making it hypoallergenic and ideal for improving the health of the hair and skin. And Almond Oil Skinfood, for normal to exceptionally dry and chapped skin. Your man will be very grateful for this trio for his winter skin dilemmas.
WOLF & BADGER - BUGATTI VINTAGE RACING CAR CUFFLINKS
Wolf & Badger, one of our favorite shopping destinations that specialize in independent brands is featuring this wonderful holiday gift, a set of Bugatti Vintage Racing Car Cufflinks Eighteen Carat Gold On Silver Cufflinks from the jeweler, Simon Kemp who describes them as, “These fabulous cufflinks are faithful reproductions of the famous Bugatti Racing Car. Cast in sterling silver , Simon silver solders a high grade pair of cufflink swivels to the backs. After an intensive polishing process he then adds a rich layer of 18 ct Gold to the wheels and the driver. This creates a stunning contrast with the rest of the design; the light is drawn to the silver with the gold highlights completing the effect. As you will see the cufflinks sit beautifully racing across the cuffs! An excellent gift for all motoring enthusiasts. Our silver is made from recycled materials.” He will treasure these cufflinks that will one day turn into a family heirloom.
An affordable but memorable gift is a fragrance that he will love. The iconic Fragrance Shop in the East Village neighborhood of NYC has a wide selection of fragrances for both men and women (plus you can make a custom fragrance for you or yours). We love their special edition blend, “Chaka”. It’s a tabacco, bourbon, lime and musk mix. This fragrance is inspired by the courtly and multi-dimensional gentleman, who is laid back and humble but direct and to the point. He can be found surfing at the local beach or leading business meetings in a suit and tie. If that sums up your man, this is his essence in a bottle.
We hope this list provides gift suggestions that will bring happiness to the men of your life.. They all come from unique small brands, they are affordable and we hope they inspire you to shop local this holiday season.
It’s our third holiday gift guide and this post is about special, unique artisanal gifts for HIM. There are so many considerate, distinctive and unique gifts to give that he will love. He will be flattered that you sought out such noteworthy gifts that not only will he cherish but will help out small local brands. We picked ten different gift suggestions in all categories and price ranges. Click onto the captions for the link to the online store (all suggestions also have an online store with shipping).
Textile designer John Robshaw has a shop in Falls Village, CT that has a curated selection of John’s products plus his finds from his world travels. John had some extra Ralli blankets from India and had men’s jackets made of them with some beautiful embroidery on top. They are fun, colorful and unique. If you have an over the top man in your life who loves to be the life of the party, may we recommend the Ralli Jacket. Please email theshop@johnrobshaw.com or call 917-781-0130 to inquire about the jackets.
Ultra exclusive men’s atelier Michael Andrews not only offers bespoke suits and men’s accessories they also have great curated finds. We love the “Lucky You” silver cufflinks. The crossed fingers are a great gift to give good luck to any man on an important day. The silver makes it extra elegant. It’s a great accessory and a thoughtful gift for the special man in your life.
Hive & Colony, a men’s bespoke brand has a unique collection of men’s accessories. We selected a scent that was made for Hive & Colony and is simply sumptuous. It is guaranteed to be admired by the wearer and anyone in their vicinity. Made in Italy the scent connotes: “Experience the essence of craftsmanship with a captivating blend of spiced sandalwood, iris, and violet. Indulge in the luxurious heart of pure elegance, enhanced by rich notes of precious woods and musk for a seductive, powerful allure”.
RIZZOLI BOOKSTORE - THE COCKTAIL CABINET: TEQUILA: THE ESSENTIAL DRINKS EVERY TEQUILA & MEZCAL LOVER SHOULD KNOW
We love recommending books as gifts, especially when they come from independent bookstores or art book stores. Here not only are we recommending a book from Rizzoli with a subject that is near and dear to many, the joy of tequila and mezcal. After learning more about mezcal in Mexico earlier this year we fell in love with this book and its expertise on the subject. “The Cocktail Cabinet: Tequila distills the best of the spirits with 50 cards that feature recipes for any mood, whether you'd like to get smoky with a Oaxaca old fashioned or enjoy a lazy afternoon with a punchy siesta.”
With mid-century-inspired illustrations, easy-to-follow recipes, and guides to garnishes, glassware, ice, and syrups, this deck is the ideal pick for budding mixologists and bartending experts. So if you know a man that is starting a bar area in a corner of his home or has transformed his man’s cave into a sleek 20’s inspired speakeasy bar, this is the perfect gift.
Duncan Quinn is a men’s bespoke boutique in Nolita, NYC that has been iconic for offering men bespoke outfits with an international twist. We feel every man needs a special carry on bag to match his adventurous spirit and desire for travel. This Sailing Bag is handmade in “Palma, Majorca by a small artisanal shop that specializes in bespoke fitted luggage for superyacht nooks and crannies. Made from carbon fiber sails used on racing yachts, then cut by hand and painted by hand using the same paint as used for markings on racing sails. Featuring the Duncan Quinn signature Smoking Skull and number print on opposite side (number may vary.) Shoulder strap and red hand carries on both ends. Complies with hand luggage carry-on sizing for once you get back into the air”.
Meermin is a family owned & operated business based in the beautiful island of Mallorca in Spain. The brand is dedicated to produce & sell well made, quality Goodyear Welted shoes at a radical affordable price point. One of their newest styles is Snuff Waxy Kudu Boot. This boots is so special and well made that any fashion conscious man who still values comfort would love to own. The copy is long but does describe how special and well made this boot is. “The Waxy Kudu leather is a special one—waxed antelope leather from Southern regions of Africa. A striking & very unique leather which features all the natural blemishes, marks and scratches of a wild antelope that lived in the bushes. Blemishes & cuts are part of the interest of this leather and will be used on the production of the uppers. Please note that this leather does not look like smooth French calfskin at all, is a very rugged, mellow & very unique Antelope leather which accepts scars & marks as part of the uniqueness—which make every single pair truly unique. These boots feature our newest NEGON last, specifically designed to enhance the overall fit and comfort. The wider and flatter toe shape allows for ample room, preventing any discomfort or pinching. The supporting back area provides excellent stability and ensures a secure fit for all-day wear. The interior of the boots is where luxury meets functionality. The shaft is fully unlined and the vamp is lined with horsehide leather, offering a smooth and breathable environment for your feet. This natural material provides superior moisture management and enhances the overall comfort. To further enhance the fit and ease of wearing, the boots come with an extended bellows tongue, allowing for easy entry and a snug fit. These boots are Flex Goodyear Welted to ensure durability and flexibility, aside from being fully resoleable when the time comes. The thick veg-tan flat welts, leather insoles and midsoles provide exceptional support and adaptability, making every step comfortable and fatigue-free. Equipped with a convenient double city lug outsole, this boot is built to handle whatever comes your way”.
Italian luxury artisanal fashion brand is world renowned for their spectacular cashmere. Their secret is a magical combination of the finest natural fibers, Italian artisan skills and innovative production systems from the pastures of Mongolia to the special artisan craftsmanship in Italy. This sweater is so lovely, stylish and soft that any man would love to live in it. It comes in other colors besides Dark Green (also available in blue, natural and alabaster beige). Made from 100% cashmere: “A refined cable-knit motif characterizes this turtleneck sweater made of fine Ultrasoft Cashmere. The wrap-around effect and Nordic-inspired design are combined with a regular fit, making the piece ideal for all-day wear”.
Boys and their toys! Well this isn’t a sports car but this game is a popular fun way to spend an evening and looks great in your home, like a Piet Mondrian sculpture. The MoMA De Stijl Tumbling Tower was designed by Monica Albornoz through MoMA's collaboration with the MFA Products of Design program at the School of Visual Arts. “MoMA Exclusive: This take on the classic game brings the aesthetics of the De Stijl movement—with its bright primary colors and geometric shapes—to life in 3D form. Think of it as an interactive Mondrian painting. To play, build a tower by stacking three side by side blocks in each row, alternating 90 degrees with each layer. Players take turns removing a block from the tower and placing it on top. The composition evolves as each player makes their mark. The last player to successfully remove and stack a block without the tower falling wins the game. The game ends when the tower falls. Made of sustainably harvested rubberwood. For two or more players. Measures 12”h x 3”w x 3”d.”
ORNAMENTS FOR ORPHANS - FELT WOOL GOLF BAG ORNAMENT
We found this sweet gift that is perfect for a host or office colleague that loves golf. Or any of your male friends that love golf. Your favorite golfer will love this golf bag filled with clubs. These ornaments are handmade by artisans in Nepal, Asia using colorful sheep wool. Best thing is that Ornament 4 Orphans is a fair trade, social business. They sell handmade products made by artisans in Kenya, Uganda, Peru and Nepal. All proceeds are invested back into the communities where they work to provide jobs, fight poverty, encourage sustainability, keep vulnerable children with their families and prevent them from becoming orphans. So when you buy this as a gift so many people around the world are winning.
A candle is always a good gift and we love BOY SMELLS candle company from Los Angeles. The company is dedicated to scents that go beyond the gender binary. Cowboy Kush is a spell-binding, masculine scent that would elevate any area of smells of well-worn leather of spiced patchouli with puffs of pot.. “Just like enjoying a joint at the rodeo, this tumbleweed of a scent is a rustic accumulation of soft suede and spiced saffron with puffs of pot leaf and patchouli floating through. Earthy, grounded, it is warm and well-worn like a saddle with notes of tonka bean and patchouli. A best seller and for good reason, enjoy riding off into your own olfactive sunset.”
We tried for the first time hosting an evening with men from all backgrounds to give us their opinions of the gift suggestions we had and these were the gifts that were 100% approved based on their uniqueness, craftsmanship and price points. Plus the added benefit that all the brands are small and specialize in artisanal products. A good feedback we received when presenting our picks were, “I would be so happy to receive these gifts and would appreciate the thought that went into getting me a gift that I would appreciate”. So if that is the feeling you want the man in your life to have we recommend our gift choices or as a suggestion so you can shop locally in your neighborhood for something as special. There is always a small, local artisanal brand near you hoping you will see beyond the Amazons of this world and large scale department stores to relish the specialness of beautifully crafted gift.
If you are still looking for last minute holiday gift ideas may we recommend BAGS! Handbags, camera bags, cosmetic bags, garment bags, cell phone bags, totes, cross body bags, all types of bags! We have chosen from small independent artisanal and heritage brands that make some of our favorite bags for everyone. Best of all is that the brands below are eco friendly, sustainable who believe in giving back to society and the earth. Please click onto the captions for more info.
Strathberry is an English heritage brand designs elegant handbags made from the finest materials with creative hardware. We recommend the Strathberry Nano Mini Tote that can also work as a crossbody with a long chain. It comes in a array of colors but we chose this pretty Bandana style pattern that will stand out for the right reasons in any crowd.
KEMPTON & CO. , METALLIC CAMO LARGE CANVAS CROSSBODY
Kempton & Co. is a handbag and accessory brand founded by Fiona Kempton, an English designer who is based in New York City. As a designer and world traveler, Kempton started designing handbags that are not only convenient and stylish but held all your devices safely. We love Kempton & Co.’s signature camo and multi stripe large canvas crossbody. It will fit your devices and belongings with plenty of space yet still look fashionable and not clunky.
PATENT OF HEART, GRACE PHONE BAG
Patent of Heart is a handbags and small leather goods accessories brand founded by Elif Akaydin, a New York based designer of Turkish decent who creates chic handbag and accessories made by artisans, mostly women artisan from around the world. Patent of Heart works to keep centuries old skills passed down generation by generation in their product all the while giving back their proceeds to help girls achieve their educational goals. It’s a win/win holiday gift to give! We love the Grace Phone Bag as it has enough room to just carry your bare essentials (cell phone, credit cards, etc.) in a small cross body. It also comes in beautiful bold colors that stand out as a lovely accessory.
Polène is a relatively new handbag brand, founded in Paris in 2016 by three siblings who had a vision of creating elegant handbags in a multitude of silhouettes, many in petite sizes. Using the best leathers from Italian and Spanish tanneries, all production is entrusted to the craftsmen of Ubrique, a Spanish town specialized in luxury leather goods. One of our favorite bags is “Numéro Dix”. With its rounded shape, foam padding, and hand-stitching, the “Numéro Dix” is a nod to the equestrian codes of saddlery. Its half-moon design highlights juxtaposing curves. It’s a handbag sure to be cherished and treasured for its workmanship and beauty.
One of our favorite new handbag brands is MOI&ASS, a Madrid based brand created by Moira Laporta, and Alessandra de Osma.MOI&ASS focus on delivering long lasting investment pieces, briging minimalism with functionality. Inspired by exceptional materials, the brand is marked by traditional craftsmanship, and its timeless designs made from sustainable leather. We love the signature Bubble Bag. Made of timeless calfskin leather with a cotton canvas interior, tastefully enhanced by its handcrafted handles and leather loops. Its flexible side panels feature leather cords that can be tightened or loosened to customize the bag's shape. Boasting multiple uses, this compact bag can be carried as a shoulder bag, crossbody, or top handle.
Another brand created from feeling an absence of stylish bags for your computer and devices, French journalist turned handbag designer Clare V. decided to create a handbag brand that makes stylish handbags for your devices but with the stylish French twist. We love the quirkiness of the brand plus their fun sense of humor and color. One of our favorite bags is the MAMAN JE T'AIME, translation: I love you Mom, this is a canvas bag made in collaboration Every Mother Counts. 30% of the purchase price will be donated to Every Mother Counts so you get a fun beautiful canvas tote and give back to a worthy cause.
AMPERSAND AS APOSTROPHE,MICRO-TOTE / NEON PINK PYTHON
AMPERSAND AS APOSTROPHE was founded by Detroit native and now New York City-based designer, Jessica Park, a former architect whose preferred method of solving design challenges is to refine what's there instead of focusing on what's not. One of their best sellers which we recommend is their Micro Tote. The style is the mini key for a hands-free, sophisticated fun bag with pops of color to jump start your wardrobe yet it fits your keys, wallet, cell, etc. It’s fashionable yet fully functional.
BAGGU, CAMERA CROSSBODY
BAGGU, CAMERA CROSSBODY, $48
BAGGU is an eco-friendly bag and accessory brand known for colorful patterns, brings their playful energy onto their social media channels. This fun yet affordable brand has a fun unisex camera bag that we just love (although it can be more than a camera bag). It comes in a multitude of colors and a silhouette that is sporty and made from a slightly structured recycled heavyweight nylon, recycled ripstop nylon lining with an adjustable strap. Also machine washable so great for kids too!
BAG-ALL, MEN'S SUIT GARMENT BAG WITH POCKET, CREAM
Bag-all is a New York City based brand founded by Swedish stylist Jennifer Wesslau who embarked on a mission to make a positive impact on the environment. Fueled by an unwavering passion for design, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, she aimed to raise awareness about the vital concept of reuse, marrying enduring quality with timeless aesthetics. A perfect gift for the man in your life is the Men's Suits garment bag! Protect your suit from dust or other closet debris with their cotton Garment bag which will keep your suit clean while letting it breathe, which is good for both cotton and wool fabrics. This travel organizing bag has two handles, one at the top and one at the bottom, which makes it easy to carry. The bag is closed with a durable metal zipper and comes with a zipper pocket in the back to store ties, accessories, and other items. It has a fun, sleek print, making it both stylish and functional. The perfect gift any groom or man for any occasion. You can also personalize your garment bag by adding a monogram of your name or initials! They will LOVE this gift!
Paravel is one of our most recent favorite travel brand we have come upon for its beautiful, colorful and elegant designs. However you could have knocked us over with a feather when we learned how sustainable and eco friendly the brand is. They use post-consumer plastic water bottles by recycling them into longer-lasting products–like their Negative Nylon® and Ecocraft Canvas® styles. An excellent and creative way to reduce plastic pollution. Paravel uses upcycled and recycled materials in 100% of their products. Not many brands can say that. WE picked from their collection of travel bags the Cabana See-All Set. Their signature-striped Cabana Vanity Case Set is spacious enough to pack all your toiletries, lightweight enough to never weigh you down, and strong enough to take on any in-transit messes (it can easily be wiped down). Stow it in your carry-on, set it out in your hotel room, or use it as your vanity case right at home. Individually sized to hold it all and see it all. It comes with a mini version to make traveling even easier or for shorter trips. We love the transparent aspect of the design so you can actually see what you have and don’t have in your set (Yikes! Where is the deodorant??). We expect to hear more from this brand in the future and know when you give it as a gift (even to yourself) the bearer of the gift will be just as impressed with the sustainability of the brand as we are.
So that is our holiday gift suggestions for bags. We have bags for all and behind every brand here is supporting local, small independent brands that use artisan skills and eco friendly practices that give back to the earth.
