Last minute Christmas shopping might not be what you want to do right now, but it’s unavoidable for most of us — the gift-giving time approaches, and it approaches quickly.
Fortunately, there is a little thing called the internet.
Some of the best Christmas gifts can be found in locally operated online stores, and the best part is, no one needs to brave Manila’s traffic to get them. Here’s a list of vendors whose wares are worth checking out.
ShoeElite.ph
We all have that loved one who only has one thing on their mind: shoes. There are tons of hyped-up pairs that sneaker fans want, but those can be incredibly hard to get, especially during the holiday season.
But, online stores are here to save the day, like Facebook page ShoeElite.ph, which has rare pairs and classic sneakers from brands like Adidas, Nike, and Puma.
They can deliver orders on the same day it was purchased if the customer is within Metro Manila.
For those in the province, the online shop also delivers via LBC courier with a delivery period of one to two days. Prices start at PHP3,000 (US$56.54).
El Marikeño
El Marikeño is the online shoe store for the dapper guy. They have casual leather shoes handcrafted in Marikina, the shoe capital of the Philippines.
Each pair has EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) rubber soles which provide a soft cushion for feet, perfect for everyday casual wear. They also use genuine cow leather for the upper half of the shoe.
The shop offers loafers, brogues, Chelsea boots, and longwing brogues, which look like a hybrid of formal and casual wear — perfect for who like to mix and match.
Prices start at PHP3,499 (US$65.95).
Skoop Kommunity
Skoop Kommunity is a local store influenced by Japanese lifestyle brands. It sells tees, bucket hats, caps, and hoodies with street style vibin’ designs.
It’s casual wear for people who want to stay trendy, but not get too mainstream.
Prices start at PHP699 (US$13.18).
Support Your Friends
Support Your Friends mostly sells casual hoodies, jackets, and sweatshirts with the brand’s minimalist logo.
It also has a line of athletic wear-inspired ’90s fashion that’s been making a comeback. This includes jersey tracksuits, sweatpants, and striped tees that all have a retro feel.
Prices start at PHP1,000 (US$18.85).
Pasadya Manila
Cuban-style shirts are so popular in the Philippines, they’re worn all year round.
Those with friends who can’t stop wearing them can turn to Pasadya Manila, which offers printed and plain Cuban shirts in unisex.
Some of the fabrics they use are crepe, rayon, and linen cotton. They have a size guide on the website to make buying easy peasy for gifters.
Prices start at PHP899 (US$16.94).
Pink Sheep MNL
Pink Sheep MNL gives Filipinas an affordable alternative for those trendy leather bucket bags seen all over Instagram.
They also have tote bags, handbags, and wallets in pastel hues and classic colors like black, gray, and brown.
Prices start at PHP600 (US$11.31).
Here’s a shopping guide for more information on how to order.
StyleGenie
Here’s something for extra special people on your Christmas list.
Stylegenie offers all-in-one surprise boxes for both men and women that contain outfits expertly pick out by stylists.
All a customer has to do is to create a profile on its website and answer questions regarding sizes and personal taste. Customers can then have it delivered right to their doorstep.
They have over 50 partner brands including Maldita, Coco&Co, Retrospect, Sebastian & Savannah.
Prices start at PHP1,499 (US$28.25).
At Unit 216
At Unit 216 is for that foodie friend who’d like something edible and comforting this Christmas season.
Their cookies are big, chewy, and full of flavor — everything a cookie should be.
Aside from classic cookies, they also have crinkles, alcapone cookies, double chocolate cookies, and white chocolate among others.
Tip: Order in advance and message the shop owner first to check if their products are available.
Prices start at PHP180 (US$3.39/box of 10).
Sip Steel Straw
Give a loved one a steel straw set that’ll help ’em help the environment.
A basic Sip Steel Straw set includes one milk tea slanted straw, one straw cleaner, one cleaning guide, and one container pouch. There are other sets to choose from, and customers can also order wooden spoons and forks on its website.
Prices start at PHP150 (US$2.83).
Got something weird, different, alternative, or out-of-the-box on your wishlist this Christmas? We’re curious to hear what it is — leave a comment below or tweet us @CoconutsManila.
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