12 Days of Gifting, Day 12: Stuff Those Stockings!

If your family is one that goes all out to celebrate Christmas, no doubt you’re familiar with the tradition of filling Christmas stockings, in addition to presents under the tree. (It’s a European tradition, but a fun one, nevertheless). In fact, I’d guess that my parents are currently shopping for items to fill the personalized stockings hanging on their mantel, in anticipation of our family’s return home in the coming weeks. (Matter of fact, that’s all we grown kids will likely get—because, grown.)

But stocking stuffers don’t have to be reserved for stockings. Sometimes, the best (and most luxurious) things come in small packages—and we’ve got a few to make your gift recipients’ season bright.

Cards for All People

C’mon, you haven’t played Black Card Revoked yet? This irreverent game draws on black culture and history and now comes in several versions. As your family gathers this holiday, you can put a hilarious spin on game night by seeing whose black card will be pulled before the night is out.

Effie’s Paper

Got a black girl magician in your life? Effie’s Paper will help her express herself with adequate sparkle. Their collection of stationery, mugs, pins, and even pencils offer treats for girls and grown women alike!

Armstrong & Wilson

If he’s a classic man, a set of pocket squares from Armstrong & Wilson will help him stay perpetually polished. ... but truly, these elegant items are great for any dapper darling in your life.

KaAn’s Designs 

We fell in love with KaAn’s Designs family-friendly goods years ago, and they’re still going strong. Show your generational bond with a set of tees that makes everyone in the family feel special!

Afrohemien

It’s all in the details, and Afrohemien has the diasporic-influenced touches that will make anyone feel special. Their online store has a full range of beautiful jewelry, apparel, and even items for home, but we’re loving their collection of loc charms, which is bound to be a hit with the loc’d lovely in your life.

Mented Cosmetics

Fun fact: Growing up, I could depend on finding a trio of flavored lip balms in my stocking every Christmas morning. Now that I’m grown, a holiday gift set from Mented Cosmetics would be a welcome way to keep that tradition alive. (Hint: I love a red lip.)

Phillip Ashley Chocolates

Your favorite gourmand or chocoholic will love a couture sampling by Phillip Ashley Chocolates. With unique but delicious flavors like sweet potato, smoked rum pecan and champagne, their Signature Collection puts an elegant spin on every sweet tooth’s favorite treat. (Hint: This makes a great gift for your boss, too!)

44th Legacy

Most of us are counting the days until the 2020 elections, but if it’s our last president they’re still pining for, 44th Legacy has the commemorative goods. For an elegant yet subtle nod to Obama’s legacy, gift a pendant or set of cufflinks, available in three finishes.

Ikiré Jones

Luxury label Ikiré Jones made its film debut this year in the final scene of Black Panther, and if you’ve got a pop-culture obsessed fashion lover in your life, one of their Renaissance art-inspired scarves may be worth the splurge.

Marjani Beauty

Who says a gift card isn’t special? For beauty lovers, it doesn’t get any better than Marjani Beauty, the black and brown girl beauty mecca that recently opened its first retail location in D.C.’s Dupont Circle. But if you’re not in the DMV, never fear: Their online shop is full of the best black-owned beauty brands.

Urban Heirlooms

If you’ve gifted a tablet this season, gift them something to carry it in! Leather goods boutique Urban Heirlooms has the perfectly-sized gift to keep it safe and protected. Let them know they have the key to your heart with one of their skeleton key-adorned pieces.

Valerie Madison Jewelry

‘Tis the season for engagements, and if you’re suddenly ready to make that move, Seattle-based Valerie Madison Jewelry has the conscience options for you. Using certified conflict-free and recycled diamonds and 100% recycled metals whenever possible, you can show your enduring love without any concerns on your conscience. But aside from their gorgeous array of rings (which include men’s bands), there are earrings and necklaces, too.

Pear Nova

No ring should be worn without a manicure, and cruelty-free, vegan nail polish brand Pear Nova has the up-to-the-moment shades to show off that new bling in style. For a real impact, gift one of their curated four-color collections—or create your own!

Blended Designs

Who says stocking stuffers have to go in a stocking? Bag brand Blended Designs is on a mission to empower students of color by producing school supplies that reflect our range of melanin and rich history—and they contribute to under-served schools and kids, too!

But these goods aren’t just for kids; you can treat everyone in the family to a bag with their array of backpacks, duffles, travel bags, totes, and accessories! How will those look, hanging from the mantel?

That’s it! We’ve arrived at the last of our 12 Days of Gifting—and whew, are my eyes tired! Searching for the best black-owned gifts to charm and delight will do that to you, I guess. But I hope we’ve helped you find some incredible options for your family and friends this season... Happy Shopping Holidays!