Gift Guide: Gifts that Give Back

Completing this year’s gift guides, I decided to pull together items from companies that are thoughtful in their design, sourcing, and the ethics behind their products. Each selection on this guide are gifts that give back, making the world a better place. When in college my roommate and I began to learn about many of the injustices in the world. Everything from coffee, manicures, chocolate, and clothing choices contribute to these global issues. While cycles of poverty, environmental change, and slavery are huge issues, we knew we could begin to bring change by thoughtful daily purchases. At Christmas time we chose to give thoughtfully to one another. Since then, I’ve tried to source my closet, wardrobe, and home with as many timeless and thoughtfully sourced pieces I can afford. Forget the boho items of the past, this gift guide is smart, chic, and makes the fair trade movement stunningly beautiful.

Keep reading for my full list after the jump! 

Sunglasses from Warby Parker: For every pair of glasses purchased, Warby Parker distributes a pair to those in need. Last year they shifted from solely molded plastic frames to higher quality options including metal frames with spring temple design. At an affordable price, their glasses are available with prescription or as sunglasses. My favorite feature with Warby Parker? They offer an at-home try-on service. At no cost, they will send five frames for five days.

Didi scarf from Anchal Project: Working with women in Nepal, the Anchal Project is based out of my hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. Using modern textile and natural dyeing techniques, they’re pushing what is possible with handcrafted fashions and merchandizing. It has been phenomenal to watch this company grow, educate, and continue to innovate over the course of time.

Tote bag from Everlane: If you’ve visited the blog recently, you know I absolutely love the company Everlane. I purchased this tote as a gift for a friend a few years ago and she still loves and uses it on a daily basis. It’s the perfect tote to hold all of your daily essentials and has smart editorial details of reverse denim and black leather trim.

Minimalist set from 31Bits: I received my first necklace from 31 Bits a few years ago. Working to develop micro commerce in Uganda, they work with women and design fashionable jewelry. Featuring statement and minimalist pieces, they combine paper beads with mixed metals. If you’re looking for a special piece to complete any look, start here.

Causebox: Have you grown to love the subscription box trend? This subscription service is mailed out quarterly and focuses on products and companies that make a difference. Whether it’s stationery, scarves, hats, or jewelry, they curate great products and are a bit of happy mail to look forward to.

Cashmere Joggers from Grana: I received these joggers in the mail from Grana last week. They’re an absolute game changer. If you’re looking to jump onto the athleisure trend or for the best loungewear possible, go grab these pants as quickly as possible. I’ve been living in these pants since I’ve received them. I thought cashmere sweaters were amazing, just wait until you wear them as joggers. Grana is a fashion company focused on transparent pricing, ethical sourcing, and high-quality fabrics.

Leather Tote from FashionABLE: Leather totes are a basic I can’t have enough of. I carry one everyday on my commute. This bag is handcrafted in Ethiopia, creating sustainable change working with women. Recently, they have expanded their lines, bringing fantastic basics and accessories to the forefront.

Wooden Salad Bowl from Ten Thousand Villages: For the foodie and cook, bring a moment of curated beauty to the table. These salad bowls are handcrafted in Kenya from fallen acacia wood. Ten Thousand Villages is a fair-trade company that has existed for years. It was one of the first fair-trade companies I discovered while in college. They have held the test of time, bringing fantastic home goods of artisan quality, sourced from around the world.

Are you looking for more gift ideas? 

Gift Guide: My Favorite Things
Gift Guide: For the Guy in Your Life
Glisten and Grace Holiday Magazine