An ALTERNATIVE Christmas gift guide for women: Sustainable GIFTING INSPIRATION
MY GUIDE TO unique and eco-CONSCIOUS Christmas gifts for women. give thoughtful, alternative PRESENTS that stand out this CHRISTMAS
Looking to find the perfect alternative Christmas gift for the woman in your life? If she’s not a lover of pink fluffy gifts and high-street jewellery then this guide is here to help you find something that might just hit the spot. I’ve curated a list of unique, thoughtful, and sustainable gifts for women that are perfect for those who appreciate something a bit different.
Christmas gifting can feel like a very overwhelming task on the ever expanding to-do list, with the not-so-welcome added bonus of emptying your bank account. With this in mind, I’ve created this alternative Christmas gift guide for women based on my own less mainstream wish list. I’ve REALLY enjoyed doing this and I hope it helps you find something that gets you brownie points on the big day…
A PIECE OF ART FROM AN INDEPENDENT CREATOR
Mood: Graphic prints, inky aesthetics, mystical illustrations
Choose an original or limited-edition artwork for a thoughtful Christmas gift that feels more intentional and considered. From illustrated prints to a piece of digital art, you’re choosing something really personal. It’s not something I often indulge in for myself which always makes it a welcome treat, and an absolute bonus is that you’ll be lining the pockets of someone grafting for their love of art rather than a big retailer.
Try UK-based artists on sites like Hollie & Co., Wolf & Badger or Etsy, or do some research into local illustrators or tattoo artists (who will often have a side-line in art prints).
TOP TIP: If you find the artist you like on a bigger platform, always check to see if they have their own website before you buy. You may find it saves you a few quid & you can be sure it’ll save the artist on selling fees too.
On My List:
Rosie McClay – Sister
Curio Frames - Viper Skeleton
Where to look:
A VINTAGE FIND
Perfect for: Maximalist interiors, retro lovers, sustainability enthusiasts
Something second-hand or vintage is ideal for someone who avoids mass-produced decor & buying new. From coloured glass candlesticks to mid-century curios or a new record for the vinyl collection - it’s a bit more effort on the shopping front but you might enjoy it more than you think. You’ll be giving a unique Christmas gift that supports a good cause and reduces waste – what’s not to love?!
TOP TIP: Keep the recipient in mind, if they see vintage treasures as dusting and clutter, maybe stick to something more practical.
Ideas:
A vintage frame with a favourite photo
A retro boardgame
A new (old) Christmas jumper
Where to look:
Local Charity Shops, bookshops & record stores
CONSUMABLE GIFTS
Perfect For: People that are hard to buy for
Need an idea for a Christmas gift for a loved one that’s hard to buy for? Consumables are always my go-to for the trickier recipients. Whether it’s a high-grade bottle of their favourite tipple, something delicious to scoff or a fancy soap – if it disappears after a few weeks I’m absolutely here for it. One of the things I love least about Christmas is finding a home for all the new ‘stuff’, so a consumable gift of any type is always a hit with me.
From a high-grade tomato juice for the Bloody/Virgin Mary lovers, a gin gift from a local distillery, to a mineral bath soak or handmade soap, consumable Christmas gifts are hard to get really wrong.
Look Locally:
Coffee from your local independent coffee shop
Check out your nearest brewery/distillery for Christmas offers
A handmade treat from your local zero waste shop
DECENT SOCKS
Perfect For: Lovers of cosy, haters of cold
In my opinion socks as a gift are underrated. Whether a practical pair of Nordic toasties or something fancy to accessorise your DM’s, it’s a gift I get more excited about than I should. Socks are something that everyone needs, and having enough pairs of favourites in your sock drawer so that you’re not always waiting on the washing is basic self-care. Socks are a great choice for a varied budget, whether it’s a hand-knitted pair from an independent brand or a bargain purchase from TK Maxx, there’s something for everyone.
TOP TIP: If the consumerism of Christmas gets you down, consider a sock gift from places like Stand4Socks who donate a pair of socks to the homeless for every pair purchased.
Inspiration:
Where to look:
Glassworks London
Stand4Socks
TK Maxx
Your local skate shop
A STATIONARY GIFT
Perfect for: People that still like to use a pen
Although so much planning has moved online now, I like to think that quite a few of us still find value in actual physical stationary. Whether it’s a sketchbook for someone creative, a planner for those who like to be organised or a simple notepad for anyone that works at a desk- a stationary Christmas gift is an obvious choice that won’t break the bank.
Think about the recipient and their needs and go for good quality- there’s a direct correlation between the look and feel of my stationary and how quickly it’s likely to get lost at the back of a drawer. Consider eco-conscious gift options like recycled paper or sustainably made pens, and search for brands with a sustainability or charitable mission.
TOP TIP: Why not include a hand-written note with your stationary gift- it’s very on theme and adds a personal touch to your Christmas gift that most people would appreciate.
Ideas:
Wall planners
Bound sketchbooks
Productivity Planners
Desktop weekly planners
Novelty sticky notes
Where to Look:
Your local Waterstones or independent stationers
SOMETHING TO DO
Perfect For: A gift that stretches beyond Christmas
Whether it’s a reason to spend a day out together, a way to spark a new hobby or just less stressful than guessing sizes, an experience gift is always a win. Even better, because you can tailor it to their tastes - from a cozy workshop to a boozy lunch or an outdoor adventure - it always feels thoughtful and unique. If the thing you choose is just an email or a piece of paper, you can always make it feel extra special with a customised gift voucher.
TOP TIP: Rather than the usual BuyAGift.com, why not search for local art spaces or makers (like Lighthaus Arts in Leamington Spa) to find unique workshops lead by local artists & makers.
Some Ideas (Beyond the Usual Spa Day):
Everyman cinema vouchers for film lovers
Tickets to an upcoming gig/comedy tour– search your local arts venues to find what’s on
Local arts workshops for cosy adult evenings or family fun days
SOMETHING TO WEAR
Perfect For: The brave Christmas gifter, or barer of gift receipt
Something to wear is always both top and bottom of my Christmas list…why? Because when it’s right there’s nothing that makes me happier than some lovely new swag, but it’s SO easy to get it wrong and I don’t wear a fake smile well. A safe bet is to stick with a shop or brand you know they like – that way even a rejected present will be warmly received as money to spend on something more to their choosing.
TOP TIP: If you think you’re loved one is someone that cares more about what they get than how much you sweated choosing, there’s no shame in asking for a steer. Don’t guess on sizing, have a look through their wardrobe if you can and always get a gift receipt.
On My List:
I’ve been loving everything from Adidas originals this year- I’m not sure if it’s the 90’s revival, the leopard print or the Oasis collab but I’m here for it.
SOME HANDMADE JEWELLERY
FROM YOUR FAVOURITE SUSTAINABLE JEWELLERY BRAND
Perfect For: The ultimate personal Christmas gift
Last but never least, why not think about treating your loved one to a handmade jewellery gift this Christmas, sustainably made with 100% recycled metals. From Gold Vermeil pendants to Sterling Silver earrings or even playing it safe with a jewellery gift voucher, there’s something to suit every budget. If you don’t know where to start, why not read my Jewellery Gift Guide to help you make the right choice.
If Black Octopus Jewellery doesn’t fit the bill, why not explore other handmade jewellers in the UK to see what else you can find outside of highstreet brands…
YOUR ALTERNATIVE CHRISTMAS GIFT RECAP
Hopefully this has helped you with some alternative Christmas gift ideas that can be a bit more meaningful than the usual high-street finds. From sustainable and eco-conscious gifts to unique experiences and luxury handmade jewellery, there are plenty of ways to surprise the women in your life with something special. By shopping thoughtfully and choosing gifts with purpose, you’ll not only make her Christmas brighter but also support more mindful, sustainable living.
If you enjoyed this guide, why not share it or save it for later—because everyone deserves a bit of help when it comes to finding the perfect alternative Christmas gifts!
