The season of giving is upon us, and this year, plenty of brands are giving back to causes that seek to make the world a better place. So it’s easier than ever to be a change-maker, and support the causes you believe in (even if you are just shopping per se). Here are some of the best charitable gifts of the season for every kind of personality, from the activist to the makeup maven.
For the Activist
Know someone who isn’t afraid to speak up? Everlane’s 100% Human collection is full of limited-edition tees, tanks, sweatshirts and hoodies that do just that. With messages that promote equality, a portion of proceeds go to civil rights organizations like Human Rights Campaign and American Civil Liberties Union. However, for every pink product including this sweatshirt, Everlane will donate $5 to Equality Now, an organization promoting equal rights for women. 29Secrets Pick: Everlane The Human Woman Unisex French Terry Sweatshirt in Large Print, $50
For the Skincare Fanatic
This line of turmeric skincare will soon be on every beauty fanatic’s top shelf. YLLO is a skincare company on a mission to help end child marriage across the world. They donate 10 percent of all profits to Girls Not Brides member organizations, which empower girls and raise awareness in countries like India, Nepal and Uganda. Before YLLO is available at Urban Outfitters (which is soon), gift this kit to the friend who’s on top of everything beauty—she’ll thank you for this one. 29Secrets Pick: YLLO Turmeric Skincare Kit, $79.95
For the Relaxation Guru
There’s nothing quite like lighting a scented candle during the holiday season—or receiving one as a gift. What makes this one even better is that Origins will plant a tree for every one you buy. This earth-friendly, 100 percent soy wax candle comes in three festive scents that are sure to make you feel good; Neroli and Lemongrass (above); Pine, Spruce, and Orange; and Ginger, Bergamot and Clove. 29Secrets Pick: Origins Feel Good Candle ($34)
For the Artisan-Made Collector
If you know someone who refuses to buy anything non-artisanal (aka mass-produced), Noonday Collection is a great fashion brand that sells jewellery and accessories made by artisans around the globe. This statement necklace is the perfect mix of modern and traditional style, and was hand-made in India by local female entrepreneurs. 29Secrets Pick: Noonday Collection Resinwork Necklace ($44)
For the Makeup Maven
This palette of four lust-worthy shimmer eye shadows was inspired by a lush forest in the Congo and Rwanda; home to the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. To protect beautiful forests and wildlife around the world, a portion of proceeds from every purchase will be donated to the Rainforest Alliance
29Secrets Pick: Chantecaille Save the Forest Eye Palette ($113.95)
For the Busy Woman
This reusable canvas tote is the perfect gift for any woman who’s hustling hard (and carrying a load of weight along the way). With every statement bag purchase Feed will provide 10 school meals to children around the world in countries like Syria, Kenya, Haiti and Guatemala. 29Secrets Pick: Feed Woman On A Mission Tote ($25)
For the Trend Setter
These shades offer the best of three worlds: a feline frame, a tortoise print, and gradient green-tinted lenses—which in one word translates into: trendy. Not only will the person you gift these to be on trend, so will someone else around the world. Warby Parker will send someone in need the exact same pair you order. 29Secrets Pick: Warby Parker Tilley Sunglasses (from $150)
For The Fun One
Lush Sea Monster is a fun lime and lavender oil-based bathing formula that can be moulded into anything. For anyone seeking a dose of fun or a creative way to relieve stress, look no further. A portion of sales from Lush’s Fun products are donated to charities in Japan dedicated to creating safe and fun outdoor spaces for children following the tsunami and nuclear disasters in 2011. 29Secrets Pick: Lush Sea Monster ($9.95/200g)
