Caribbean POSH 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

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Welcome to our ultimate Caribbean-owned holiday shopping guide! Get ready to embark on a shopping adventure filled with vibrant colors, exquisite craftsmanship, and unique products that highlight the rich culture and talent of the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for a stylish fashion statement, handcrafted home decor, or delicious culinary delights, this guide is your one-stop destination for supporting local Caribbean plus Caribbean-American businesses while giving unforgettable gifts this holiday season. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of the Caribbean and discover the hidden treasures waiting to be found. Let’s dive in and make this holiday season truly special!

BEAUTY 

Shop our beauty choices for that beauty enthusiast in your life! Whether they are skin-obsessed, need the perfect lip gloss, or are looking for a deliciously scented body product, give them the gift of cheer and beauty with any of our picks below. 

Sweet July Skin- The Essentials Set ($120.00 USD)

For the skincare lover or novice in your life, The Essentials Set from Sweet July Skin is the perfect gift! Sweet July Skin is Ayesha Curry’s quality skincare brand, using natural ingredients that celebrate her Jamaican roots. The Essentials Set is the perfect starting point for any skincare routine and comes with full-size versions of the Pava Exfoliating Cleanser, Pava Toner, and Irie Power Face Cleanser. The products contain powerhouse ingredients like papaya and guava extracts, turmeric root, omega-3 fatty acids, and more to nourish and refresh the skin!

Cay Skin- Happy Holi-Cays! Set ($55.00 USD)

Cay Skin was launched by model Winnie Harlow to promote products that leave skin gorgeous and dewy while protecting it from the sun. Winnie made sure to use a blend of ingredients that celebrated her Jamaican culture and referenced her treasured time on the island.  The Happy Holi-Cays set features the Isle Glow Face Lotion SPF 45, Isle Glow Body Lotion SPF 45, and Isle Lip Balm in Irie Rose SPF 30. Containing nutrient-filled sea moss, hydrating cocoa butter, and more, these products are perfect for that jet-setting friend or family member in your life who needs dewy skin and SPF in their life!

Cultured Naturals Body Care- Toasted Coconut and Ylang Body Wash ($15.00 USD)

Hailing from the island of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, Cultured Naturals Body Care was first started by Registered Nurse Ramone Reid during a journey to health after a cancer diagnosis. Cultured Naturals Body Care boasts vegan products lovingly made with fresh ingredients, such as peppermint, lavender, papaya, and aloe vera, sourced from local farmers. The body care products come in a multitude of delicious scents, and the Toasted Coconut and Ylang body wash is no exception. Give the gift of pampering natural body care to that special someone in your life who loves to treat themselves often with a home spa day!

Jenna-Monet Beauty- Glossed Up LipGloss ($14.00 USD)

Give the gift of a flawless lip gloss! Jenna-Monet Beauty is a cruelty-free makeup brand created by model Jenna-Monet Queeley, who hails from St.Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. This lip gloss packs a serious punch, using vegan soluble collage, mica, and other powerhouse ingredients to give off a shiny and luxurious pout. Choose from three beautiful shades for the beauty guru in your life! We love these for stocking stuffers as well. 

Asevida- Skin Wellness Trio ($99.00 USD)

This is another gift for the skincare enthusiast in your life who is looking for a little pampering and relaxation to unwind after a busy holiday season. The Skin Wellness Trio by Asevida consists of a cruelty-free Vitamin A Adaptogen Serum, Daily Zen Radiance Cream, and a delicious Matcha Glow Latte. This trio is packed with skin-loving ingredients, such as vitamin C, plant peptides, green tea, organic matcha, and organic acerola cherry. Asevida was created by lawyer and herbalist Shannon Cann, whose upbringing on the island of Bermuda allowed her to develop an appreciation for nature, clean ingredients, and sustainability. Shop this trio and more products for the skincare and/or matcha lovers in your circle!

Sacha Cosmetics- Kamaflage Foundation Palette ($50.00 USD)

Nothing is more important in a beauty enthusiast’s arsenal than a foundation palette that blends like a dream and can be buildable for maximum coverage! The Kamaflage Foundation Palette from Sacha Cosmetics contains 10 shades, and is lightweight and suitable for all skin types, with a formula that is water-resistant and smudge-proof! Sacha Cosmetics was founded by Kama Maharaj from Trinidad and Tobago. Sacha Cosmetics is a valued Black-owned brand with consistent products, so you can’t go wrong with shopping this brand when it comes to finding a few gifts or stocking stuffers for the beauty-obsessed!

LIQUOR and CHOCOLATE

The holidays are meant for good cheer, and a boozy delicious drink or two. For the liquor connoisseurs in your life, we’ve gathered a few Caribbean liquor brands to shop. Because you can’t beat a holly jolly holiday with a delicious cocktail! Get into the holiday spirit with these spirits.

Mutiny Island Vodka- Original Mutiny Island Vodka ($26.99 USD)

For the liquor connoisseur of your life, the Original Mutiny Island Vodka is a clear and distinctive vodka that carries notes of citrus and green banana with a surprisingly tasty floral finish. Mutiny Island Vodka was developed on the island of St. Croix, and this company’s spirits promise to take drinkers back home to the island with its distinctive and clean taste. A vodka aficionado in your life will appreciate this refreshing bottle of spirits!

Ten to One- Ten to One Dark Rum ($44.99 USD)

Give the rum-lover of your life a bottle of dark rum with delicious notes of baking spice, nut loaf, banana peel, and yellow apple. Founder Marc-Kwesi Farrell was born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago and has been on a mission to channel the tastes of his native land. In fact, the company of Ten to One blends rums from all over the Caribbean. This includes Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados, and the Dominican Republic. Shop this delicious rum to give the gift of flavorful and rich island tastes to that one special person on your nice list! 

Equiano Rum- Equiano Original ($59.99 USD)

An award-winning rum is never a bad idea when it comes to shopping for that special holiday gift. Equiano Rum is an African and Caribbean blend rum with taste notes of toffee, butterscotch, orange peel, and vanilla. Give the gift of a smooth and refreshing rum to your loved ones who enjoy a luxurious and smooth drink of rum every once in a while. This naturally sweet rum will be a hit with rum novices and experts alike!

Trinitario – Almond Butter Crunch ($20.65 USD)

Gift a friend a taste of Trinidad! Your choice of almond butter crunch, chocolate-coated goldenberries, medallions, or rochers in a miniature steelpan are sure to delight.

Agapey Chocolate Factory – Rum Caramel ($7.49 USD)

A local favorite in Barbados, the Rum Caramel Dark Chocolate is made with Mount Gay Extra Old Rum (7-12 years). Chocolate is made fresh daily at Agapey Chocolate Factory in Barbados. If in Barbados, a tour of the factory is a must for any chocolate enthusiast.

Caribshopper – Likkle More Chocolate ($13.97USD)

Associated with joy and indulgence, chocolate makes a great gift. The chocolate lover on your list would certainly appreciate the packaging of this Jamaican brand. Experience pure cocoa pleasure with Likkle More Chocolate’s 70% Signature Terroir Dark Cocoa Bar or any of their other delightful choices.

JEWELRY

Give your loved ones the gift of a little bling this holiday season. Below you will find our top picks when it comes to beautiful jewelry items from Caribbean brands. The influences of the island will be evident in the gorgeous designs. Spoil your favorite people (including yourself, as a little treat for getting through all your holiday shopping)!

Nikkibiedes- Solana Love Bracelet ($85 USD)

Give a little piece of your heart to that special someone with this beautiful oval 18k gold paperclip link bracelet. Featuring a heart screw clasp, this delicate jewelry item is a statement piece of its own. Nikkibiedes is owned by founder and lead jewelry designer Nicole de Gale McIntosh, who was raised between St. Lucia and Grenada. Living on the island allowed Nicole to further develop her own creative genes bestowed on her by her mother, and her jewelry designs are vibrant and nostalgic for the beauty of her homelands. So if you’re still trying to decide on something special for that one friend or family member who loves jewelry, consider this gorgeous bracelet or another Nikkibiedes item!

Mateo New York- The little things pearl and diamond necklace ($390 USD)

As the saying goes, it’s the little things that really count. This beautiful pearl and diamond necklace is perfect for your jewelry-loving friend who lets their jewelry do the talking. The necklace features 14kt yellow gold, cultured pearls, and diamonds. We love this lavish necklace from designer Matthew Harris, who was born and raised in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Give the gift of sparkle and fine jewelry this holiday season with this delicate little necklace!

   

Josanne Mark- GE06 Men’s Eternity Ring (TBD)

Finding elegant jewelry for the man in your life doesn’t have to be difficult. Josanne Mark’s newest men’s ring seeks to capture the simple beauty of geometry, along with highlighting architectural grace. Josanne herself was born and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, and you can find some of her beautiful designs being sold along Trinidad’s capital as well. Shop men’s jewelry pieces such as the eternity ring to give a timeless and elegant jewelry item to your man this holiday season!

ib Designs- Genesis Bracelet and Anklet ($180 USD)

If the man who loves jewelry in your life has a big enough ring collection, you can’t go wrong with a simple yet luxurious bracelet/anklet. Available in sterling silver or 14kt yellow gold, this jewelry item makes the perfect gift for that special someone on your nice list! The large links on the bracelet are meant to represent beginnings, roots, and growth, so it’s a perfect gift to receive before the new year. Ib Designs is based in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, and was founded by Whealan Massicott, who is from the Commonwealth of Dominica. His jewelry designs aim to capture the spirit of the Caribbean, including its history and people. Shop this beautiful brand for gifts reminiscent of the unmatched island culture

.

Cocoa Vintage Jewellry- Fallen Banana Leaf Studs ($50 USD)

These hand-formed porcelain banana leaf studs give off the perfect island vibes. Gift these to a jet-setting friend who loves to remember the island with a jewelry piece! Crystal Antoine, the founder of Cocoa Vintage Jewelry, sets out to recreate pieces that remind her of the island she calls home, Trinidad and Tobago. Cocoa Vintage Jewellry’s pieces are novelty art jewelry items that are inspired by the island aesthetic with a classic timelessness. Shop these beautiful banana leaf studs and more for all the jewelry lovers on your gift list!

Aya Styler- Layered Banana Leaf Earrings ($195 USD)

For the jewelry fiend in your life who has a love for banana leaves, these layered banana leaf earrings are the perfect statement jewelry! The earrings feature a half arch made of gold stainless steel and engraved clear plexiglass. With a pair of earrings like these, nothing else is needed! The Aya Styler boutique is based in Trinidad and Tobago, with countless more island-esque designs for the jewelry lover you know!

Paper Papayas- Micaela Statement Studs in Papaya ($60 USD)

Give the gift of a colorful pair of statement earrings to a loved one who loves adding a bit of color to their outfit! These gorgeous studs are handmade of polymer clay, completely shaped and sanded by hand. Give these earrings as a holiday treat to that special someone who adds a pop of color to your life! Paper Papayas is owned by Shae, who is Trinidian-American and looking to offer Caribbean-inspired jewelry and accessories!

Lapo Lounge- Gaia Hair Clip ($16 USD)

For that one friend or family member who has to do their hair every day, gift them a beautiful hair clip to add to their arsenal! The Gaia hair clip is a geometric hair clip that provides a long-lasting hold to any hairstyle. Opal Stewart, one of Lapo Lounge’s founders, was born in Jamaica! Shop more elevated jewelry and accessories for your jewelry-loving or fashionista friends and family.

Udall Caribbean- Caret Earrings + Necklace Set ($53.00-$1,182 USD)

Our last jewelry pick for a jewelry-obsessed person in your life has a special meaning. This necklace and earrings set consists of the caret (upside-down v symbol), which is used in proofreading and typography to indicate that more information will be inserted at a point in the text. The caret set is meant to symbolize how we have the power, at any point in life, to change and add to our own lives. Shop this beautiful set for a friend or family member to remind them that they are in charge of their own destiny. Udall Caribbean is a woman-owned business with origins in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, so you will be supporting a Caribbean brand while giving a very meaningful gift for the holidays!

FASHION

It would not be a complete gift guide without a little bit of fashion. Shop our picks for all the fashionistas on your gift list, or maybe you can find something for that special holiday get-together!

Soka the Label (TBD)

Soka the Label was created by designer Karen De Fritas and explores the island girl aesthetic through timeless hourglass silhouettes. A native of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, De Fritas creates designs that are reminiscent of another era, while still maintaining those unmatched island vibes. Shop Soka the Label for a statement piece for the fashion-forward person in your life (including yourself)!

Joile Duzon – Multi-Color Citrus Print Long Sleeve Crop Top ($125 USD)

A Caribbean chic brand designed and handmade in St.Maarten using digitized hand-painted prints. The multi-color citrus print crop top makes a great gift for that outgoing fashion lover on your list. The Joile Duzon brand is especially known for its feel-good prints.

Fe Noel- Prism Bella Slip Dress ($548 USD)

For that one person who appreciates luxury and fine-detailed clothing, gift them a gorgeous clothing item that will last them for years to come. Fe Noel is Felisha Noel’s one-of-a-kind clothing brand, filled with luxurious statement pieces and timeless silhouettes. Noel is heavily influenced by her Grenadian heritage, and browsing the clothing brand’s site will allow you to explore refined clothing pieces reminiscent of the island’s colors and aesthetic.

Designer Jangelique – Hera Dress ($210 USD)

This dress showcases a unique and elegant design that is sure to make the recipient feel special and stylish. A classic silhouette by Trinidadian designer Jin Forde-Codrington, this dress is versatile. Suitable for various occasions during the holiday season and beyond.

Chen Burkett NYC – Thompson Sequin Trousers ($248 USD)

A polished wide-leg silhouette lends languid grace to the figure-flattering Thompson Trousers tailored from a luxurious sequin fabric. Sparkle and shine in Antiguian designer Chen Burkett’s holiday favorite.

Sammy B Designs – Kita Dress ($108 USD)

Designer Samantha Black continues to pay tribute to her Jamaican heritage. A knitted dress in an elaborate open pattern, woven in a white and black yarn. This dress has just enough stretch to highlight all of your curves and is perfect for that loved one with a bit of sexy edge to their style. Shop this dress by November 27 and enjoy 50% off using code: KITA

Chen Burkett NYC – Palm Beach Swimsuit ($158 USD)

Planning for your 2024 vacation, the Palm Beach Swimsuit might very well be a gift for yourself. A fun and fashionable gift indeed.

Brandon Blackwood- Medium Nia Bag ($295 USD)

Because no one can ever have too many bags. If you have a fashion-forward loved one to shop for this holiday season, give them the gift of a refined well-made bag. This gorgeous Medium Nia Bag comes in different colorways, but we had to focus on the beautiful multi-brown shearling option with gold hardware. This bag is perfect for the season, and will be sure to get many uses! Brandon Blackwood is a renowned designer of Jamaican descent. This bag is perfect for anyone on your gift list, including yourself!

Los Tejedores- Forastera 2 ($85 USD)

Give your loved one a purse paying homage to one of the staples of the Caribbean islands, the plantain. This purse is handwoven of plantain fiber, and it would be perfect for that special someone who is always on the go, perhaps someone who is going to be taking a much-needed vacation this holiday season. Los Tejedores is a brand created by Dominican designers Natalia Ortega Gomez and Ricardo Ariel Torbo. The designers looked to fuse traditional weaving with modern designs, and the brand works closely with Dominican and Haitian artisans. We love the clean and traditional aesthetic behind these purses, hats, and additional accessories, and the fashionista on your nice list will, too!

This holiday season won’t be stressful for you, because you now have a pick of Caribbean brands to shop from. All the items listed are perfect for the person in your life who loves jewelry, fashion, liquor, and beauty. You can even treat yourself to something once your holiday shopping is completed, you deserve it! With these beautiful and top-quality products, you will make it on everyone’s nice list! Who are you shopping for this season? What products will you be adding to your cart ASAP?

Looking for great accessories to complement your wardrobe?

These Caribbean designers have made the case for must-have accessories

worthy of your collection!

From the white sand beaches to the lush rainforests, the Caribbean’s rich tapestry of traditions, colors, and influences have found their way to the four corners of the earth. The Caribbean is bursting with creativity and interesting cultures, and the fashion there has resonated with people far and wide who are enamored by the talented designers from the region. The accessories made across the island nations are more than just fashion statements; they are a celebration of the Caribbean’s history, heritage, and its ongoing evolution in the world of design. Here, we offer a glimpse into the diaspora’s distinctive creative spirit and showcase some brands that are creating must-have accessories that are fashion-forward and worthy of any collection.

Brandon Blackwood NYC – Nia Bags ($435 USD)

A stylish and trendy accessory that can elevate any outfit. The bag’s sleek design, high-quality materials, and attention to detail make it a fashion influencer’s choice. It is a present that combines fashion, functionality, and social impact, making it a memorable and cherished gift for anyone lucky enough to receive it.

Trèfle Designs – iPhone case – Neoprene Tote Bag ($65-$150 USD)

To call Trèfle merely a clothing brand would be an understatement. Based in the British Virgin Islands, through the efforts of founder Kristin Frazer, the label has evolved as a lifestyle brand, offering not only luxury apparel and accessories but also home goods to their international consumers. Known for their gorgeous prints and innovative designs, Trèfle recently released a must-have from their new collection that serves as a basis for fans of their colorful line of accessories. The Agglomeration includes a distinctive iPhone case, leather passport cover, journal, and a neoprene tote bag to carry it all in. The stunning set is the perfect complement for a casual day at the beach or on the go!

Mateo Black Elizabeth Bag – ($350 USD)

Created by Matthew Harris, Mateo is a label that has made its mark in the industry crafting only the finest in accessories, and has a reputation for crafting singular jewelry and intricate leatherwork. The Jamaican-born designer understands the needs of his core audience and with the belief that every woman needs a black bag as part of her collection, the ‘Elizabeth Bag’ answers the call in fine fashion. Made from pebbled leather and featuring a suede interior, it is a signature look made for any occasion from day wear to black tie occasions. For a study in understated elegance, this bag offers a minimalist aesthetic yet timeless design.

Double X Silver Ring by Auvere ($1,100 USD)

In only a few years, Gina Feldman Love and her Auvere brand have become accustomed to the accolades that have come their way as a celebrated crafter of fine gold and silver jewelry. The Jamaican-Canadian designs spectacular pieces for men and women, each piece a distinctive blend of sophistication and elegance. Frequently seen on the wrists, ears, and necks of international celebrities, Auvere has become a label synonymous with luxury and precision down to the finest details.

One illustrious piece from their latest ‘Arignote Collection’ is their Double X ring in Sterling silver. Designed with an eye-catching X on the front and back, it is edgy enough to be noticed, yet classic enough to be worn as everyday jewelry. With this ring, Auvere has yet again proven why they are a brand at the forefront of fine jewelry design.

 

Fabrics by Yaël & Valérie ($87 per sq ft)

Haiti is a country with a rich history that spans several centuries, and through the brilliantly crafted wallpaper made at Yaël & Valérie, it is possible to celebrate the country’s cultural heritage. The exotic fabrics are printed exclusively on natural fibers and showcase the traditions and elegance of the Caribbean as well as the beauty of Haiti itself. Choose from several distinctive collections that are each intricate, expertly made, and recount the stories of Black people across the diaspora.

Coleen Yvonne Designs Breadfruit Cushion Cover ($33.97 USD)

Celebrate iconic Jamaican culture and enjoy this beautiful cushion cover made of cotton canvas. This vibrant printed cushion cover makes the perfect gift for that friend who appreciates a clean decor aesthetic.

Scarves by Bien Abyé ($110 USD)

Founded by Dayanne Danier, Bien Abyé is more than a fashion brand, but is a movement birthed by women and is now recognized globally. The brand features accessories that include headbands, face masks, handbags, scrunchies, and more. Items of note are their scarves which are handcrafted and stitched by local Haitian women. Inspired by the rich history permeating throughout the country, they are available in an assortment of colors and exude the luxury and elegance synonymous with the brand.

Kendrick Trunk by Brandon Blackwood ($325 USD)

Since making a splash in the fashion world a few years ago, the Brooklyn-bred Jamaican-Chinese designer has taken his eponymous brand to the highest heights of the industry. Untethered to the typical standards of fashion, his bold approach speaks to the masses and is well-regarded for its versatility and eco-conscious design.

Going against the grain is where the Brandon Blackwood label thrives, and nowhere is this more present than the Kendrick Trunk from his handbag line. Available in a multitude of colors and patterns, it is made from 100% cowhide leather and microsuede inside for a look and feel that is chic and designed for the streets. Women interested in entering the Blackwood leagues can enter it here and be at the forefront of progressive fashion.

Which of these brands resonates with you? Check out these designers and more in other posts from Caribbean Posh celebrating designers and designs of the diaspora!

BOOKS

Alecia McKenzie – A Million Aunties ($26.17 USD)

An emotional, feel-good novel about friendship, community, and family by Jamaican writer and journalist Alecia McKenzie. A great gift for that book lover on your list.

Tiphanie Yanique – Monster in the Middle ($4.95 USD)

We recently discovered this amazing Virgin Island-born writer. ‘Monster in the Middle’ is a novel and a short story collection. It explores intimacy through a generational, historical, and societal lens. It provides a rare look into colonialism in America, as well as the experience of being Black in America and the Caribbean over the past 50 years.

VP Records – Miss Pat – My Reggae Music Journey Book ($49.98 USD)

A perfect gift for that book lover who is also a reggae enthusiast. This book is a memoir of the life and work of reggae icon Patricia “Miss Pat” Chin. It features quotes and remembrances from luminaries including former Jamaican Prime Minister, the late Edward Seaga, Chris Blackwell, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Marcia Griffiths, and the late producer Bunny “Striker” Lee among others. Also includes many never seen, artist and family photos and original illustrations by the late Michael Thompson and Maria Papaefstathiou, the book’s designer.