Christmas is a time of gathering with loved ones, sharing joy and laughter. But when we consider how bad Christmas can really be on the environment, it can be hard to completely enjoy Christmas. Overconsumption, convenience shopping (aka Amazon) and non-recyclable wrapping are capitalist traits that Christmas potentially promotes.
Rather than gorging in excess, we would like to promote an alternative and more mindful approach to gift giving. From independent designers to subscriptions, we have curated a list of 10 gift ideas for your friends, family and even yourselves this Christmas.
Image Courtesy of NIKO JUNE.
Niko June – Magical Lake Incense Burner
Who doesn’t love a piece of handmade glassware, or a quirky ceramic? NIKO JUNE is a Copenhagen-based creative workshop whose simple yet intriguing designs are made with sustainability in mind. Their eclectic collection is composed of one-off pieces made in collaboration with artists, along with a semi-permanent collection of studiowear. Their Good Objects (“those that are made to keep”) line challenges established notions of design, while giving “power to an attitude that treats sustainability no as science, but as an emotion.”
SLEEK’s favourite piece from NIKO JUNE is the Magical Lake Incense Burner.
Image Courtesy of Tekla.
Tekla – Hopper Stripes Pajamas
There’s a reason why Tekla, the Danish lifestyle brand, is gathering names such as Jacquemus and architect John Pawson in their list of collaborators. Combining functionality with tranquillity, Tekla is transforming design within the domestic realm through their timeless and ethically considered pieces.
Established in 2017 by Charlie Hedin, Tekla believes in creating “a selection of products that compliment any home with a desire for functional and linear living.” From sleepwear to kitchen cloths to linen bedspreads, Tekla is truly the ultimate destination for all the essential lifestyle needs. Drawing upon architectural references, functionality is at the heart of each Tekla design in order to have a meaningful impact on their consumers to whom they are completely transparent. Tekla recognises their place within the design industry, taking responsibility to make a positive contribution to Tekla’s consumers and beyond. From tracing back their primary fabrics (such as organic cotton, pure wool and merino wool) to their origins, to working with Global Organic Textile Standardised suppliers, Tekla are actively working to reduce their impact on the environment.
It goes without saying that Tekla Hopper Stripes Pajamas are a must have for the Christmas season.
do you read me?!: Surprise Subscription
Located in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte district, do you read me?! is an independent bookstore home to a number of books and magazines under the subjects of art, architecture, interior design, photography, fashion, graphic design, food and drink, philosophy, literature, business, sports, music, film, typography and digital culture.
What makes do you read me?! especially interesting in comparison to other bookstores, is their Surprise Subscription service. Every month, the store handpicks an outstanding publication – witty, inspiring, provocative or simply beautiful – and sends it directly to your doorstep. With the expertise of the team, and their international community of the most exciting publishers, do you read me?!’s Surprise Subscription is the perfect gift for book enthusiasts and novices alike.
Voo Store Ceramic Installation
Throughout December, Voo Store presents a spectacular in-store ceramic installation that brings together the work of more than 30 Berlin-based artists. This initiative supports local talent, while encouraging a more mindful and meaningful approach to Christmas gifting.
The installation features work from Aneta Lipiec, Anna Calabrese, Almi Ceramic, Catrin Roher, Danielle Magee, Dotznn, Toni Feiten, James Beatham, Jeremy Bellina, Juliana Maurer, Latika Nehra, Maia Berouti, Marina Witt, Mercedes Mejia, Mona Osterkamp, Neuza Rodrigues, Nhú Hu`ynh, Tanja Neubert Ceramics, Satoko Kako, Studio Cuze, TRD Intra, Veronika Janovec, Wendy Taylor, Woohyun Kim, 22_22 Studio.
With such an impressive rotation of local talent, you’ll be sure to find something special. Find in-store at Voo Store.
Maria Black – Tornado Earring
Maria Black is a Copenhagen-based label exploring self expression through jewellery. Using a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques, the sculptural shapes of our their designs are inspired by sources as diverse as everyday objects, people, subcultures and life moments.
Throughout the production process, Maria Black remains transparent. The brand believes it is “their responsibility to set an example of how to implement and scale responsible and ethical sourcing when producing jewellery.” Exploring undiscovered terrain in the realm of jewellery, Maria Black is experimenting with alternative ways of how we think of jewellery. To do this, Maria Black use lab-grown diamonds. By doing this, the brand is refraining from land displacement, unfair labour practices and human rights violations.
Our favourite Maria Black piece is the Tornado Earring.
Want to give someone the gift of an experience, rather than something materialistic? Then Loam Studio is your answer.
Located in Berlin’s Moabit district, Loam Studio is a ceramic studio founded by a collective of ceramic artists. Alongside open studio sessions, Loam Studio also offers classes, workshops and bespoke experiences for those interested in clay – no matter what skill level.
We recommend the Candle Holder Workshop; a 2.5 hour workshop suitable for all levels that teaches you the techniques to build and decorate your very own unique candle holder.
MUBI Subscription
A champion of independent cinema, MUBI is a platform that celebrates cinema at its finest. With thousands of titles, often ones that will never be found in a mainstream cinema, MUBI is the place to create your very own film library.
With a choice between two subscriptions, MUBI is the perfect gift for film-lovers and amateurs alike – especially during the winter months.
Find out more here.
This Belongs To – Christmas Panties
This Belongs To is a playful and delicate underwear brand that aims to give women the power to reclaim their sexuality. Founded by Alia Mehtha, who was born in New York but raised in London to British and Indian parents, This Belongs To fuses a number of influences together in an exploration of sensuality.
All handmade in London, without compromising on quality or its environmental impact. You’ll find comfy pants, bras made from Indian dyed fabrics.
In time for Christmas, This Belongs To have released a seasonal capsule collection. Find it here.
equality. fragrances – equality. candle
Based in Berlin, equality. fragrances is a modern perfume house that believes in the power of a scent and the force of people. With a belief in community, they have a selection of fragrances along with a newly released equality. candle, which makes for the perfect Christmas gift.
Of course, this Christmas list wouldn’t be complete without including ourselves!
Aside from our quarterly magazines, we also offer the SLEEK Membership. With three plans to choose from, you can have access to copies of the magazines, exclusive SLEEK events and launch parties, along with discounts for SLEEK Art Editions.
Find out more here.