The holiday season is officially around the corner, which means shoppers will head off to the races this Black Friday. But, instead of beating the crowds at the mall, may we suggest hunting down some more unique gifts with a Caribbean twist? For the dedicated fashionista in your life, we’ve rounded up some stunning Caribbean designer items. From shiny baubles to breezy head-dresses, these items would make the perfect Caribbean design gift for style-savvy ladies.
Handbag: Twig & Pearl
This Belizean leather goods brand has become our go-to for workhorse handbags that prove equally beautiful and functional. Designed by Belizean designer Rebecca Stirm, Twig & Pearl handbags are handcrafted by local artisans using all sustainable materials. Even the buttery leather used in Stirm’s designs remains exclusively sourced as bi-products leather.
Shoes: Stella Hues
With unique leather finishes and killer high heels, Stella Hues shoes prove the ultimate style statement for any Caribbean fashionista. A British Virgin Islands native, the brand’s founder and designer Stella Maze brings a distinctive island sensibility to her Italian handcrafted shoes. Born to a family of fisherman, Maze’s life by the seaside gave her a sharp eye for color, especially the vivid shade of blue that lines the soles of all her shoes.
Jewelry: Marcia Budet
if you want to get something really special for the fashionable lady in your life this year, one cannot go wrong with a bauble from Marcia Budet. The Puerto Rican jewelry designer creates bold statement jewelry with asymmetrical cuts and geometric settings. She also favors juicy gems in tropical hues like citrine, amethyst, and lemon quartz. Or you can go with her dramatic black-and-white designs featuring onyx and moonstone. If you’re looking for other jewelry options, check out our special round-up of Caribbean jewelry designers here.
Swimsuit: Marie Colette
So yes, it may not be quite swimsuit season where you live, but it’s never too early to start the vacation swimsuit hunt. And your stylish lady will love the fun patterns and sexy silhouettes of this Trinidadian swimsuit brand Marie Colette. Designer Keisha Collette Thomas has made a name for herself with her ultra-feminine cuts, which has also become a popular option for carnival masqueraders too. Talk about fashionable double-duty.
Headgear: Fanm Djanm
These beautiful head wraps from Fanm Djanm (Kreyol for “strong woman”) are the crowning glory of any fashion-conscious Caribbean gal. Created by Haitian designer Paola Mathé, the vibrant prints feature bold colors and modern patterns for a contemporary twist on traditional head wraps. All pieces are handmade in Harlem, New York, using fabrics and dyes from small entrepreneurs in Africa.
For more gift ideas this holiday season, check out our gift-guide for stylish Caribbean gents.