Move over kidsthis gift guide's for grown ups!
the good life
What’s Inside The Nice..................................3 The Naughty.............................4 The Fashionista..........................5 The Gentle Man........................6 The Companions.......................7 The Foodie..............................9 The Connoisseur.......................10
New Age LUXE The Jet Setters........................13 The Savant.............................14 The Maven.............................15 The Sophisticate......................16 The Provocateur......................17 The Nostalgic.........................18 Piece de Resistance...................19
Welcome to the 2012 Ayurvega Holiday Gift Guide. We've rounded up a plethora of gift ideas that are eco-friendly, sustainable and plant-based, so that you can do your gift giving without guilt. Everything included in the guide is designed with sustainability in mind. Nothing listed is tested on animals or contains animal products. Many of the products are organic, made from recycled materials, and/or are recyclable. It doesn't get much greener than that. Part of the Ayurvega sensibility is creating an earth-friendly life with style. To that end, we've included gifts in every price point, with a special section dedicated to luxury items. Even if you're not interested in purchasing such an item, it's great to see the range of products and services available for our community. I hope you enjoy the publication we've created and that you find the perfect gift for someone special in your life...maybe even you. Have a look at what we've found-no doubt you'll enjoy the list as much as we do. Happy Holidays!
Ilena
10 19 06
Creator, Ayurvega.com (Facebook | Twitter)
The Nice A LUSH GIFT Lush gift sets are always a hit with the squeaky clean! The company offers a wide range of body care products made from natural, primarily organic ingredients. The bulk of the product line is vegan,and items that are not will be clearly marked, making it easy to shop for the veg in your life. Gift sets come in every price range from stocking stuffer to luxury. We suggest springing for one that includes Dream Cream. It's sure to be a winner—it's the company's top selling product worldwide. Pictured: You're a Star gift set, $74.95 $13.95 and up | Lushusa.com SPONSOR AN ANIMAL PAWS- Pet Animal Welfare Society There are lots of animals in need year-round. PAWS does its part to give shelter and medical attention to injured, abused and homeless animals. A great gift for the animal-loving giftee is an animal sponsorship in his or her name. The donations fund the care or rehabilitation necessary for each creature's survival. At any given time, there are all sorts of animals to choose, from the domestic to the exotic. $35 and up | PAWS.org
THE VEGAN BOX Conscious Box Give the gift that keeps coming for months! Sign your sweet vegan up for a three or six-month subscription to the Conscious Box service. Each month, she'll receive an assortment of different plant-based products to try. Each box is a surprise and includes products from great companies like Vega, Glee Gum & AuraCacia essential oils. Each package arrives in a recycled box that is 100% earthfriendly- the ink is vegetable based and the box is created in a wind-powered plant. $57 for 3 months, $112 for 6 months including shipping | ConsciousBox
The V List • Holiday 2012
CRAZY RUMORS LIP BALM Stuff their stockings with something sweet. They'll love you for it! $13.50 and up per 4pk | Crazy Rumors
The Naughty SIR RICHARD'S CONDOMS AVA certified. PETA approved. With a tagline like “Doing good never felt better,” what's not to like? These condoms are cruelty-free, free of common irritants (for the ladies), and exceed FDA regs. for effectiveness. What makes them even better? For every condom you purchase, the company donates one to a developing country. There are four different style to choose from (Ultra Thin, Classic Ribbed, Pleasure Dots, & Extra Large), and the classic plaid packaging is a bit more appealing than some other brands.
LEAF Personal Luxury Massager
$13.99 per 12pk, or sign up for their subscription service (for the more active among us) | Sir Richard's Available at your local health food store.
Eco-friendly, natural pleasure. The Leaf is enjoying a huge buzz in the plant-based and eco communities right now. The seamless designs are made of body-safe silicone and fully submersible- if you're interested in underwater use. Each comes housed in reusable, recycled packaging for discreet and conscientious delivery. There are six options in the Leaf collection. Life (pictured) is the original, and is designed to fit the palm of your hand. Other styles are the Bloom --shaped like a flower bud, Vitality, Fresh, Spirit and Touch. $120-$140 per unit, depending on model of choice. Available direct through the Leaf website or at drugstore.com.
Did You Know? Most condoms are not vegan. Nearly all traditional brands contain casein, a milk derivative.
BLOSSOM ORGANICS All-Natural Lubricant 100% free of harsh chemicals, Blossom is an organic, waterbased personal lubricant. The product is glycerin-free and latex-friendly (see Sir Richard's above). $12,may vary locally | Amazon Available in-store at Walgreen's.
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The Fashionista
1 THE DAMON The Damon is a great utilitarian satchel, large enough to be functional and without appearing gaudy. Carry it on the go for work and move into dinner and drinks while remaining stylish.
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The bag is 100% cruelty free, and the inner lining is made of recycled nylon. Give this to the girl who wants to make being environmentally conscious look effortless. $135 | Matt&Nat, or check their store locator
2 ZINC RING HOLDER Think outside the (jewelry) box. This Zinc holder from CB2 is the perfect place for those who tend to slip rings off and misplace them. The chrome finish adds just the right amount of bling to be put on display.
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$7.95 | In store or at CB2.com
3 THE UMA BOOTIE We rarely see vegan shoes and instantly fall in love. This time it's for real. Cri de Coeur's Uma captures everything we love about a great shoe: it's sleek, stylish, and made from great materials. The ultra-suede and faux leather are excellent, and the au courant ethical woman is sure to love the overall styling. Pair them with with The Abigail for a combination she'll adore. $150 | Cri de Coeur's online boutique
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4 THE ABIGAIL Vegan style, with an edge. This vegan leather biker jacket pairs well with boots and jeans on a brisk fall evening. It's stylish enough for the trendiest among us,and compassionate enough for all. Though the company's based in Australia, they ship free worldwide. How tasteful...and considerate. $149 | JamesandCo.com
5 PALISADES PONCHO This long-sleeve beauty by Threads4Thought is a great versatile wrap for layering over winter tops. Made from 60% organic cotton & 40% modal, the piece is both stylish and sustainable. $60 | Threads4Thought Check the Store Locator
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6 GREY FAUX CHINCHILLA SCARF:See below
The Gentle Man 1 JAAN J. LUXURY TIES
3 VEGAN BODYBUILDING & FITNESS
There's little dispute among women that a man in a suit & tie is sexy. Even so, few of us give much thought to the materials used to create this staple of the male wardrobe. Most high-quality men's ties are made of silk, which isn't a vegan/sustainable material. Enter Jaan J.
Never again will anyone ask, “But, where do you get your protein?”
The company offers timeless neck pieces in an array of colors. Though they're designed to flow and feel like silk, the ties are actually satin, and animal product free. Choose from the traditional cut or skinny, depending on your gentleman's taste. Be sure to check out the customization options for tipping color. In addition to ties, the company offers a variety of men's accessories including ascots and cuff links for the dapper fellow.
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Robert Cheeke created an excellent resource for fitness enthusiasts with his book. He details his own experience of going from 90-lb. weakling (prevegetarian) to hunk of burning love and awardwinning bodybuilder. The tips he gives are backed up by sound nutritional information and clear anecdotal evidence. In addition to nutrition info, he includes training schedules that will steer those just starting out in the right direction. The best defense against naysayers is a good offense, and Robert advocates the “living proof” model. So do we. Highly recommended. $14 | Robert Cheeke via Amazon
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$33.50 and up | Jaan J. online store
2 ORGANIC GROOMING BODY CARE COLLECTION A man's skin needs love, too! With the personal care industry full of synthetic chemicals and additives, giving your favorite guy a healthier alternative may be the best thing your ever do for him (gift-wise, of course). Made from all-natural ingredients, Herban Cowboy products are growing in popularity across the board. All Organic Grooming products are synthetic-free, and come in recyclable packaging. The company has nationwide distribution, so when he runs out of his new favorite, he can pick up more from his local store. A man who looks & smells great while caring for the environment? Now that's sexy. $37.99 for the four piece gift set | ShopOrganic Price may vary locally.
4 BLUE MOON BEER SOAP Domestic Love Want to give the gents on your list a gift that will make them feel manly without harming themselves or others? Beer soap is perfect. Preservative and synthetic-free, the inclusion of beer makes this a moisturizing option for even the roughest of ethical men. $5 per bar | Domestic Love on Etsy.com
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The V List • Holiday 2012
The Companions
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3 1 1 V-DOG FOOD There's still some controversy surrounding the subject of a vegan diet for pets. For those who embrace the idea, VDog food is a popular alternative. It is soy, gluten, corn & GMO-free, a welcome thought for those whode pets have sensitivities. The formulation is veterinarian approved, and meets and exceeds AAFCO requirements for an adult dog food.
4 3 RECYCLEBONE CHEW TOY PlanetDog RecycleBones are made from excess production material that would otherwise go to waste in a landfill. Durable and safe, we recommend these for medium-sized dogs. $9.50 | Planet Dog
4 ECO-FISH TOY (cats) Filled with 100% organic catnip, this toy is completely safe for your favorite kitten. $8.00 | West Paw Design
$39 for a 20-lb bag | V-Dog
2 PETFUSION CAT SCRATCHER LOUNGE Finally, a cat scratcher the recipient won't be embarrassed about when friends come over. The PetFusion Cat Scratcher Deluxe sports a simple, modern design that will easily fit with most decor. It's reversible, and made of corrugated cardboard,making it both eco-friendly and economical. $49.95 | PetFusion via Amazon
6 GREY CHINCHILLA FAUX FUR SCARF Everyone from Sarah Jessica Parker to Angie Harmon has sported and supported Imposter designs. The founder's creations are inspired by animals and intended for their protection. 10% of all online sales are donated to the charity of the purchaser's choice (PAWS, featured in this publication, is included). Given the divisive nature of faux fur among the plantbased/animal rights communities, this is one gift we suggest confirming with the recipient prior to purchase. $139.95 | Imposter4Animals
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Share your holiday cheer with someone in need of our most vital resource. 100% of what you give goes directly toward providing people clean water. Sign up to give now: http://CharityWater.org
The Foodie “It's not a blender; it's a VITA-MIX.” This machine is beyond a hit in the healthy/vegan/raw communities-it's the standard. If someone you know is in the market for a highpowered, long-lasting blender, the Vita-Mix tops the list. Consider it an investment. $379 and up | Amazon CHLOE'S KITCHEN She's vegan. She won Cupcake Warsas a vegan. What more do you need to know? Seriously though, we love Chloe for making vegan food more accessible to the home cook who isn'i interested in searching the world over for 40 ingredients just to make dinner. DIY MUSHROOM KIT Even if your giftee isn't a green thumb, he can grow his own oyster mushrooms with this kit!
VEGAN TRUFFLE GIFT BOX “If you can't find the words, say it with chocolate.” Lovers of the dark elixir find themselves deprived when first becoming vegan due to one ingredient that is nearly ubiquitous in American chocolate: milk. The second worst offender? Egg whites . Imagine the pleasure that a gift of gourmet, vegan truffles will give the chocolate lover on your list. If she's gluten-free, not to worry...Chocolate Decadence has you covered. We recommend the classic Vegan Truffle Collection, 12 assorted chocolates selected for your recipient. If allergies aren't a concern, the Nuts & Caramels Collection is another fine choice. $24.95 and up | Chocolate Decadence via Amazon
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The soil is recycled coffee grounds, & the whole process takes less than 2 weeks from crop to harvest. $19.95 | Backtotheroots.com
Check out her website for some free recipes, and give a copy of her debut cookbook to someone you love (maybe even yourself). $12 | Amazon
The Connoisseur
HENNESSY V.S LIMITED EDITION by Futura
CAVI-ART Plant Based Foods It is now officially true that anything can be veganized. Cavi-Art is a plant-based substitute for caviar created in Denmark. Apparently, the discovery was a happy accident by Jens Moller during an experiment to show his children how seaweed catches enzymes. There are five flavors suitable for vegans and vegetarians: Black, Red and Yellow Lumpfish, Wasabi and Ginger. A glass of Prosecco or Cava with this on a toast point could lead to high times. We suggest this gift for a foodie with an adventurous palate, as those who never had caviar as omnivores might not see its appeal.
Hennessy, the world’s number one selling cognac, needs little to no introduction. For the gentlemen among us, and the ladies that enjoy a good French Connection, this spirit is likely already a staple. This year the company partnered with legendary graffiti/street artist Futura to design a limited-edition bottle that honors the classic while adding an aesthetic twist for the modern fan. According to Barnivore, Hennessy is verified vegan-friendly. Pick up a limited edition bottle from your local retailer, and help your favorite vegan make a night of it. Price varies according to location. Available worldwide at local spirits retailers
$8.99 per 3.5 oz jar | Amazon $20 for 3-jar gift set | VeganCuts
DIVINE DUO OLIVE OIL GIFT SET Every kitchen needs a good extra virgin. Grab two for a friend with the Divine Duo. It offers classic EVOO and a heavenly lemon infused oil that's fabulous for making vinaigrette. The producers use the 'agrumato' method to make their infused creation – the lemons are pressed together with the olives. The set comes housed in a cardboard package, and each container is made of 57% recycled material. Tasty and Earth-friendly? Yes, please! $19.95 | Nudo-Italia.com
ORGANIC MASALA CHAI TEA For a different type of connoisseur. Good, artisan crafted chai tea is an experience to behold. Because of the heavy spice content, the best blends come whole to maintain freshness. With a touch of almond milk, a warm cup is the ideal defense on a gray evening. $9.95 for four ounces | MightyLeaf.com
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Stocking STUFFERS SPIRIT BEAUTY LOUNGE E-Gift Certificate Still not sure what to get the ethical lady on your list? Gift cards (almost) always work. One from a well-know retailer that carries high-end, eco-friendly products? So much the better. She'll have the flexibility to choose her own gift, and the comfort of knowing that the company offers only the best in sustainability. $10 and up | SpiritBeautyLounge.com ECOTEX Hanging Jewelry Organizer Made out of recycled water bottles, this hanging jewelry organizer is great for carrying all the little things that seem to get misplaced during travel (chargers, anyone?). With 23 compartments, there's plenty of space for the essentials-lots of accessoriesand a few extras. Grab one in black for your ecofriendly traveler. $34.95 | Heys.ca online shop
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THE VEGAN VINE Clos LaChance Winery Based in California (naturally), and part owned by former NBA player and well-known vegan advocate John Salley, The Vegan Vine crafts 100% animal-free libations in three different varietals and one blend. According to a recent write-up in Wine Spectator, the wine is fined and filtered with clay, thereby avoiding the use of animal products such as isinglass. The vineyard reintroduces their grape skins and water back into the soil, providing nutrients from compostable materials and reducing waste. Consider the Cabernet Sauvignon a gift perfect for the season. With a price tag under $20, you can share a few bottle with your hosts as you make the holiday rounds. $14-$18 per bottle, depending on varietal | The Vegan Vine shop Check your state's wine shipping laws.
NEW AGE LUXE A new era has begun. We have entered a time where style and social responsibility are no longer at odds. In fact, it's become expected that the most stylish among us are also the most environmentally conscious and socially aware. This is quite the departure from decades past. In the olden days, mentioning you were a “vegan” or an “environmentalist” conjured visions of brown mush and shapeless hemp clothing in mainstream minds. Today, a bevy of fashion forward designers and tastemaking consumers are redefining what it means to be environmentally aware. From clothing to travel and home goods, we are now the leaders of the new school--on the cutting edge of sustainability and conscious luxury. Conventional brands are running to catch up. In honor of the dawning age, we present the very best in luxury goods for 2012. Every piece is high-quality, sustainable, and crafted with the utmost care. More importantly, these are pieces you can give, wear and share while proudly declaring your commitment to wellness-for yourself and planet. Join us, as we usher in the new age.
New Age LUXE PARIS TRAVEL BAG GUNAS the Brand For our money, nothing beats a GUNAS bag for sustainable luxury. Beautifully designed and crafted, their pieces have the look and feel of heirloom bags that will be carried for many years to come. From sleek exterior materials to custom hardware, GUNAS bags are equally as luxurious as their less environmentally conscious counterparts. We recommend the Paris in gunmetal for your highflying vegan. It's the classic duffel style and perfectly sized for carry-on. The universally stylish design makes it a great gift for the lady or gent of your choice. $450 | GUNAS online boutique
THE
Jet Setters
FELIX WEEKENDER Deux Lux Commissioned by Oprah after O readers flipped for the original, this duffel is perfect for the girl that sparkles inside & out. It's the classic duffel, making it ideal for that spur of the moment weekend away. The bag comes in a gorgeous peach, with an easy-clean satin polyester lining, so a little blush won't hurt it. Oh, what about the leather, you ask? No worries-it's totally faux. In fact, the company's designs are all animal-free! $137 | Deux Lux online boutique
The V List • Holiday 2012
New Age LUXE
THE
Savant
THE PHOENIX BROGUE
based on classic styles, updated for a sleek contemporary look and hand-crafted from socially responsible materials, these dress shoes top our list for the fashionable gentle man.
NOHARM
“At first look, NOHARM's collection of vegan men's shoes made me smile.”
From product to packaging, on word comes to mind when thinking of NOHARM: detail. They've sourced great material for everything, all the way down to biodegradable boxes and eco-friendly ink.
-Ilena
We love the Brogues, but the wingtips and slip on loafers are equally as elegant.
Vegan footwear is often hit or miss. Men's styles $299.50 and up | NoHarm.com even moreso. From the looks of it, NoHarm certainly has a hit on their hands. With designs
The V List • Holiday 2012
New Age LUXE
THE
SOHO OVERSIZED CARRYALL Jill Milan
Maven
Be sure to inquire about gift wrapping at the time of purchase. A portion of Jill Milan proceeds are donated to organizations that rescue and retrain former racehorses.
For the compassionate woman who has everything, the Soho is a superb choice. Its modern, sophisticated design is comparable to $1,400 | JillMilan.com designer bags from traditional couture houses. The Italian vegan leather and patent are top quality and virtually indistinguishable from their conventional counterparts. Such a piece is an investment, to be sure. The company does offer repair services for clients who purchase directly from their website or through an authorized dealer.
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New Age LUXE
THE DRAPED MATT JERSEY DRESS Stella McCartney
Sophisticate
Created by acclaimed designer Stella McCartney, this dress harkens to vintage glamour. Cut in a style similar to the famous “wiggle dress” of the 1950's, the piece gives a sense of high drama perfect for a cocktail party. New Year's Eve, perhaps? It's sure to remain a staple in her wardrobe for years to come. $1,175 709 | StellaMcCartney.com
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New Age LUXE
THE
Provocateur DISTEND JACKET VPL by Victoria Bartlett
unnecessary exposure to chemicals) is an added plus. $595 | VPLnyc.com
“This vegan leather and faux fur piece conjures visions of stylish vegans in postapocalyptic Manhattan.” Crafted in classic black, the Distend will pair well with the sleek lines of skinny jeans and the Cri de Coeur Uma booties feature above. Its draped front collar supplies delicious contrast to the more geometrically tailed back hem. The fact that its hand washable (avoiding
The V List • Holiday 2012
New Age LUXE
THE
THE WHITMAN Vaute Couture
Nostalgic
The coat's buttons are the first prominent use of Tagua nut—also known as vegetable ivory—in a US line that we've noticed. After a thorough search for great earthconscious coats for men, the Whitman is the distinct favorite for its timeless styling and verifiable provenance.
The ladies of Ayurvega do love a dapper man. Social responsible guys are the best of all, as evidenced by their interest in conscientious style. This guide to luxury gifts would hardly be complete without a nod to Vaute Couture, the $500 375 | VauteCouture.com home of the vegan winter dress coat. The line's FW12 standout for the gentleman is the Whitman. It combines classic shape with a modern length and sustainable materials.
The V List • Holiday 2012
KAMALAYA LUXURY SPA VACATION Koh Samui, Thailand
plant-based dining, with fish and poultry offered as alternatives for non-vegetarians. Have breakfast or dinner at Soma overlooking the valley, and grab lunch at Amrita. Slip into the Tea Lounge in the evening for an alchemical herbal elixir as a nightcap.
Relaxation should be a beautiful, transcendent This is not what many envision when they think “vegan experience. Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary was designed vacation.” Everything about Kamalaya is designed to to offer just that. The resort is a private oasis, full of meet the highest standards of luxury and comfort. Select tranquility and the perfect place to retreat on holiday. between rooms and villas with hillside, pool or sea views. Kamalaya offers wellness programs that can be All options offer simple, stylish decor that will enhance integrated into the resort experience of you so choose. the ability to focus on the sanctuary experience. Yoga and meditation programs are among a host of If there's someone special in your life who needs a holistic therapies offered. Should you prefer to simply get peaceful getaway, consider Koh Samui your next away and enjoy the resort without the healing work, destination. It's an extraordinary luxury gift. vacationing guests are always welcome. You'll be surrounded by magnificent views, and the From $250 per night | Kamalaya.com facilities dazzle. The saunas and steam cavern available should relax away any lingering tension, preparing you to fully experience the location's splendor. One of the highlights of Kamalaya is the dining experience. The sanctuary's culinary philosophy stems from ancient systems, including Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. Food is regarded as medicine, and the primary modality for healing. Its team of chefs specializes in
The V List • Holiday 2012
Thank you for reading the 2012 Holiday Gift Guide. We hope you found something for all the most important people on your list- including yourself. If you have questions, tips or suggestions on how our upcoming publications could be even better, please feel free to email us at hello@ayurvega.com To keep up with the latest, including website launch news, events and more, scan the QR code below to join us on Facebook. For more about us, check out our blog here.