Holiday seasons are approaching, and for a large part of the world, it’s soon time to celebrate Christmas. For some, these holidays might stir up painful memories or bring stress, loneliness, or difficult family dynamics. Others may simply not have friends or family to spend the days with. With this in mind, I’d like to gently remind all of us that this season is not joyful for everyone.

That being said, this article takes a more joyful turn.

As a founder, I have to admit that I truly love Christmas, not because my childhood memories were perfect, but because I love traditions, culture, and that unmistakable sense of magic. For me, Christmas has nothing to do with shopping or excess; it’s about time and moments together. Cooking, baking, visiting markets, seeing exhibitions, lighting candles, taking long winter walks… these are the rituals that shape my December. The season feels holy to me, and most years my husband and I host Christmas so we can share our thoughtful, cosy, and slightly unconventional way of celebrating: vegan food, a trip to the gym, a sauna session, and even an ice bath.

Gifts are part of my love language, and even as a sustainability professional, I still appreciate beautiful material things, just not in a mindless way. I want gifts to be conscious: rooted in need and joy, thoughtfully produced, designed to last, and supportive of businesses that are trying to do things better.

So I’m sharing a wishlist, not because I expect or usually receive this many presents, but to offer inspiration and highlight some of the wonderful brands creating products with care and intention.

May this season, in whatever form it takes for you, bring a sense of warmth, gentleness, and connection. And may you find small moments of magic woven into the darkest days of the year.

Sewing Machine

This has been on my wish list for years. There are so many beautiful second-hand pieces I could wear if only I had the skills to adjust or repair them at home. Learning to sew is something I truly want to develop, both as a creative skill and as a way to give more garments a second life.

Vegan Bag

I have to confess that I have a thing for handbags, even though I mostly end up using the same one again and again. I prefer vegan options, and they also need to be sustainable, which makes the market limited, even when buying pre-loved. My biggest challenge has been finding a bag that can hold my laptop, something smaller and more chic than a rucksack but still more convenient and functional than a textile tote, which is what I normally use. Through my work here, I have come across some brands that truly know how to design while also taking vegan and environmental considerations seriously. A bag from these brands would be my dream gift: Sans Beast, Matt & Nat, Greenlaces and Canussa.

Upcycled Unique Items

There is no moment quite like when someone compliments your outfit, and you get to tell them it is pre-loved or upcycled. Old textiles turned into new creations are my absolute favourites in my closet. I love how an old blanket can become a new pair of trousers. It is a piece no one else has, and such a contrast to our mass consumption society. Check out these favourite brands and be inspired: Considered Objects, Amaud, JoJo Linqvist, Jess Meany and Remake.

Active Sportswear

I love nature, I love the outdoors, and I love to hike. Every summer, my husband and I go on a longer hike in nature. Often, there is no need for fancy outdoor clothes, but in some weather conditions, functionality becomes important. My hiking clothes have been with me for five years now, and they are priceless. There are still a few things I miss, such as in-between hiking shoes for shorter day hikes and a warmer jacket for winter hiking. If I cannot find what I am looking for second hand, these are my go-to brands: Houdini, Patagonia, Ecoalf and Fjällräven.

Ethical Jewellery

What a big change it was for me when I stopped buying jewellery that was not made from good quality materials like gold and silver. Not only did I save money, but I also saved the planet from all the pieces I would have thrown away after a while because of poor quality. I often feel that many people buy based on brands, and even pay good money, yet it is shocking how low the quality can be. At the same time, gold, silver and diamonds can come with huge environmental and social costs, so choosing second-hand or recycled materials is always preferable. There are also some brands working with communities and ethically sourced materials. You can find inspiration through the White Label Project.

Winter Dresses & Costumes

As you probably know by now, most of my clothes come from second-hand, but nothing beats a well-made piece for special events. Finding dresses in your own size can be difficult, and when I am looking for a more luxurious touch or feel, these are my go-to brands: The Reformation, Sézane and King Louie.

Comfortable Basics

A circular closet often requires good basics to pair with your second-hand blazers, jeans and jackets. Comfortable tops and trousers are essential, and I have noticed that when I have better basics, I also wear more of my second-hand pieces. T-shirts, linen tops, underwear and comfortable trousers all come from these brands: Mate The Label, Colourful Standard, Girlfriend Collective and Residus.

Candles

I love candles, and I hate how hard it can be to find ones made from 100 per cent stearin and environmentally friendly materials. I am not a big fan of the electric versions, except for safety reasons. I love it when my home smells nice with incense and warm scents. A vegan and organic candle with a beautiful fragrance is all I want for Christmas.

Organic and Vegan Makeup

Beauty is growing when it comes to vegan and ethical choices, but make-up is still lagging behind, and it can be hard to find good products. Make-up is also something I prefer to try on, and I am not a big fan of buying online in general. I would love to use more lipstick, eye shadow, and bring more colour into my face. My go-to shops for make-up are Naturligt Snyggt and Jordklok. A red lipstick for the winter season would be a perfect gift for me.

I hope you enjoyed this material guide, and do not forget to check out our other Christmas guides and inspiration. Remember, it is not all about gifts, and we also have articles on non-material gifting. Take care of yourself, and with some good planning, clear boundaries and open communication, this season can be more joyful and less stressful.

Happy holidays, Sophie

Our Founder’s Christmas Wishlist 2025