Ultimate Edinburgh Christmas Shopping Guide
Welcome to my ultimate guide to Christmas Shopping in Edinburgh, from independent retailers!
Theres been a quote floating around the web lately that I adore:
"When you buy from a small business an actual person does a little happy dance!"
I'm so passionate about shopping local that I've attempted to get most of my Christmas shopping done from independent brands this year, and I think you should too. Many people, including myself in previous years, just stick to Princes Street and the likes, but don't consider the small fries, that often depend on the festive period to tide them over for the slower spring. Not only are you contributing to a more circular economy and closed loop, but your gifts will be more individual, special and unique too!
For clothing and accessories, there is a plethora of indie shops popping up around Edinburgh. If it's a gal pal you're buying for, I recommend Ladyboss Collective, an eclectic little nail salon that also stocks designs from emerging Scottish fashion brands like Yellow Bubble and Dreamland, as well as cool cosmetics and gifts.
One of my regular shopping stops is Godiva Boutique, and at the moment they have a fabulous selection of products from independent designers (and vintage gems) that are perfect for Christmas, like gorgeous Karen Mabon scarves and hand-knitted mittens for big kids and little kids by Eka.
Picture from www.facebook.com/shoplittlelies
If art and other goodies are more your thing, definitely check out Flamingosaurus Rex, a quirky gallery, studio and store stocking local design-led products, and The Scottish Design Exchange
for over 120 Scotland-based artists and makers across fashion, fine art, interiors, product design, jewellery, books and music.
Got a Secret Santa you don't know too well? I find that chocolate is always a good go-to. This year, avoid the big confectionary brands and head to artisan chocolatier Coco for ethically produced, fair-trade, organic chocolate treats.
The Chocolate Tree is another great little shop producing authentically delicious handmade chocolates .
Picture from http://www.mythirtyone.com/
More of an online shopping kinda elf? I don't blame you, what with the huge Christmas crowds in the city this month. There are tonnes of independent Scottish online stores too that have a great selection of gifts! For guys, head to Ryan James Studio, a beautifully curated collection of contemporary menswear, or Catherine Aitken, who creates quality gent's accessories from bags to scarves.
For girls, my ultimate fave is Little Lies, a mecca of boho fashion and rock n roll chic, also stocking a huge range of adorable homewares and gifts. I'm also loving the new collection from Nu Blvck designed by Hannah Louise Baxter, which is now available on their website http://nublvck.com
So, what are you waiting for? #ShopLocal this Christmas!