One-of-a-kind gifts

MY SPECIAL EDIT TO CELEBRATE STRONG WOMEN

What makes a strong woman? Is it how she acknowledges her vulnerabilities? Is it that she strives to learn and grow? Is it her confidence in who she is and the value she brings? If so, all the women I know are strong and when they have moments when they aren’t, we rally around and make sure they rediscover their power. You see, strength isn’t about how much you are able to withstand, it’s about how you stay true to yourself. From a beret emblazoned with a motivating message or egg cups of feminist icons, to wall art that champions their skills and talents, these creative small businesses know how to celebrate those females in your life who deserve celebrating.

Limited edition: Mary x Gem beret, from Mary Benson: These upcycled berets sporting glittery phrases are my headwear dreams come true. They’re by queen of vintage Mary Benson and television and radio presenter Gemma Cairney, plus £5 from each sale goes to Women’s Aid. You can make a statement and look suitably stylish while you do so.

Bespoke embroidered rebel jumper, by Fund Jumpers: Fund jumpers are like a woollen hug. They’re made of lambswool, can be embroidered with a bespoke message in an array of colours, and a hundred school meals are donated to children living in poverty for every one purchased. Strong women make the world a better place.

‘This is a female founded business’ window sticker, by Holly & Co: Female founders, keep being loud and proud — your customers need to know who they are supporting. I know it can be tiring sometimes, but stick at it (see what I did there?) and pop one of our exclusive stickers in your window to encourage others to champion female entrepreneurship.

Feminist egg cups, by Katch Ceramic: How do you like your eggs in the morning? I like mine served in exquisite hand painted egg cups of female icons like Frida Kahlo and Emmeline Pankhurst. Well, you can still champion strong women over a spot of breakfast.

Smashing stereotypes necklace, by Tatty Devine: The glass ceiling stands no chance against this mighty laser-cut acrylic hammer necklace from effortlessly cool East London founders, Harriet and Rosie. £3 from every piece sold supports the brilliant work of the Fawcett Society, so you’ll be helping create seismic change for women by shopping.

Feminist print, by Ceal Warnants: Artist Ceal Warnants’ work always makes you think, and this striking print ‘The Little Feminist’ is no exception. This vintage lady with her bold sign reminds me of all the women who blazed a trail before us. Who do you know who’s proudly carrying on their progress?

Female founder black t-shirt, by Holly & Co: What I love about fashion is that you can inspire people without even having to open your mouth. Our exclusive t-shirt will keep female entrepreneurship in the minds of all who read it — a wonderful gift for a founder you know.

‘Well behaved women’ mug — vintage font, by Emma Puddick Pottery: What’s better than a large mug of tea? One emblazoned with a kick-ass slogan in Suffragette colours of course. Emma handmakes each one on her potters’ wheel and, cool fact alert, one of her sources of creative inspiration is tattoo art.

‘Mini feminist’ kids t-shirt, by Equality Now: Here’s to all the mums, dads, guardians and teachers raising the next generation of feminists. Equality Now are doing brilliant work protecting the rights of women and girls across the world, and their cleverly emblazoned organic t-shirt is a wardrobe staple for your mini activists.

‘Daring greatly’ Roosevelt revised, by Lucky Budgie Print Studio: How utterly brilliant is this? The words of Roosevelt reimagined for women, printed by Lucky Budgie. After all, women are most certainly mighty, powerful and triumphant (and we’ve seen a fair bit of dust, sweat and blood in our time, too).

‘Strong girls club’ patch, by Mutha.hood, from Holly & Co: This is a club you have to join. It represents women’s strength and self-value and is the brainchild of founder Gemma, an Independent Award Runner Up. Decorate a denim jacket or pop a badge on a bag ​​as an empowering reminder of female strength. Who do you know who needs one of these?

Wall flag ‘far more than beautiful’, by Boss Babs: Of all the women I know, their looks are the least interesting thing about them. It’s their creativity, kindness and story that makes them one of a kind. Jenny and Mart’s 100% cotton wall flag is a great reminder for any young females in your life that it’s who we are that counts.

Strong is the new pretty, by Kate T. Parker, from Holly & Co: This might just be my favourite picture book. Photographer Kate shows girls being all the things we are — powerful, headstrong and determined. My niece Olive loves looking through it to see all the inspiration she needs for the future. I’d highly recommend it if you’re looking for a gift.

Boss lady t-shirt, by Nicola Rowlands, from Holly & Co: Nicola really does know how to make a powerful statement. Screen printed in the UK, her distinctive fonts make for a standout tee that lets everyone know who’s in charge (and that you’re absolutely acing it).

Tiny feminist patch, by RiotMthrrr: You’re never too young to be a feminist. In fact, even mini voices can travel far and wide. These little patches are perfect for jackets and school bags and let’s face it, they’re really quite cool as well.

Venus fingerless gloves in French Rose, by Black & Beech: Created in Scotland from Yorkshire merino lambswool these mittens are totally luxurious. However, it’s Stacey’s use of her Feminist Fair Isle patterning incorporating Venus’ iconic symbol that makes them my go-to pair in chilly weather. You’ll have the finest feminist fingers in town.

Women supporting women enamel pin, by Milk & Moon: Founder Katy’s enamel pins have a meaningful symbolic message. Her brand evolved out of her work facilitating circles supporting women in her local community and the circle represents our eternal support. What a lovely way of showing a friend you’ll be there through all of life’s ups and downs.

Need more inspiration? Try my gift guides for mothers, birthdays or those who love sending letters. What would the strong women in your life love? Do let me know in the comments below.