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50 Original Philly Gift Ideas
For every person on the holiday gift list who just so happens to have everything, Philadelphia offers loads of presents guaranteed to be thoroughly thoughtful and completely unique. Here are 50 ideas perfect for the hard-to-buy-for brother, boyfriend, wife, grandmom, boss or best friend. They’re all reasonably priced between $10 to $100 so as not to break the holiday budget. And, beginning Thanksgiving weekend, anybody can enter to win all 50 gifts (valued at approximately $2,400) at gophila.com/holidays, where you can also book hotel accommodations.
Clothing:
- Cropped Glitter Knit Jacket – The season’s hottest new wardrobe item comes with two self-covered buttons and a subtle touch of sparkle for day or evening. $54. South Moon Under, 1731 Chestnut Street, (215) 563-2298, www.southmoonunder.com
- Philly Tank Top – Although the message is always “Philly,” the design and colors vary by season, making each all-cotton ribbed T-shirt a limited-edition fashion statement. $40. Kimberly Boutique, 123 S. 16th Street, (215) 564-1066, www.kimberlyboutique.com
- Signature Holiday Tunic Top – These you’ll-only-find-it-here red and white tops are detailed with cap-sleeves, a ruffle neck, V-neck back and heart buttons. $98. Smak Parlour, 219 Market Street, (215) 625-4551, www.smakparlour.com
- Scoreboard Fleece Sweatshirt – Make a sporty fashion statement with these zip-up, hooded fleece sweatshirts with the all-important Mitchell & Ness logo on the front. $75. Mitchell & Ness, 1318 Chestnut Street, (267) 765-0613, www.mitchellandness.com
Jewelry & Accessories:
- Eva Necklace – Inspired by modern works of art, this necklace is comprised of brilliantly colored imported Italian resin beads strung over multiple loops to form an elegantly entwined pattern. $42. Philadelphia Museum of Art, 26th Street & the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 684-7960, www.philamuseum.org
- Cozy Scarf and Hat Sets – Cheerful bright stripes and an extra long scarf make this set from River Up, a fashionable favorite. $32. Omoi, 1608 Pine Street, (215) 545-0963, www.omoionline.com
- Prep and Pauper Neckties – For guys who have to dress up but want a little edge to their look, the skull and crossbones, sheep or duck patterns on these 100% silk ties should do the trick. $65. Sugarcube, 124 N. 3rd Street, (215) 238-0825, www.sugarcube.us, www.prepandpauper.com
- All-weather Messenger Bags – Track+Field’s brightly colored round bags are made with Sunbrella fabric, which keeps the water and UV rays out. $80. Deep Sleep, 54 N. 3rd Street, (215) 351-1924
- Silver and Stone Necklaces – A sterling silver necklace with natural stone, created by local Philadelphia jewelry designer KC DZines, is the perfect addition to any accessory maven’s collection. $54. Tony, 47 N. 3rd Street, (215) 592-TONY, www.tonyonthird.com
- Custom-made Handbags – Pick the colors, shape, handle and style from more than 150 fabrics for a one-of-a-kind handbag. $50 and up. Viv Pickle, 21 N. 3rd Street, (215) 922-5904, www.vivpickle.com
- Roman Laurel Leaf Neckties – Modeled after ancient Roman artifacts, the laurel leaves on these imported silk neckties are said to ward off evil spirits and inspire prophetic visions. Available in navy or wine. $42. University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, 3260 South Street, (215) 898-4000, www.museum.upenn.edu
- Custom Acrylic Necklaces – Colorful acrylic necklaces by designers Brookadelphia can be shaped into any motif that comes to mind. $35. Conspiracy Showroom, 910 N. 2nd Street, (215) 925-2153, www.conspiracyshowroom.com
- Handmade Cycling Caps – Even non-bikers can fend off the cold with these stylish hand-crafted wool caps in houndstooth, plaid or solid colors. $25-$35. Trophy Bikes, 3131 Walnut Street, (215) 222-2020, www.trophybikes.com
- Lucky Penny Necklaces – The signature collection showcases designer John Wind’s flair for combining flea market finds with modern materials to create collectible, fashion-forward art to wear. $90. Joan Shepp, 1616 Walnut Street, (215) 735-2666, www.joanshepp.com
- Nicole Miller Belts – Accent any outfit with trendy high-waisted belts in leather, suede and other materials. $90 and up. Nicole Miller, 200 S. Broad Street, (215) 546-5007, www.nicolemillerphiladelphia.com
- Wooden Jewelry – Exotic woods make exotic jewelry—earrings, bracelets, brooches, and necklaces, created by U.S. and French artists. $35 and up. Wood Turning Center, 501 Vine Street, (215) 923-8000, www.woodturningcenter.org
Home & Gift Ideas:
- Mexican Bank – This handmade and hand-painted Mexican bank is perfect for spendthrifts. If the saver wants the money, they have to break the bank—literally. $24. Eye’s Gallery, 402 South Street, (215) 925-0193, www.eyesgallery.com
- Tattooed Pint Glasses – Four pint glasses, imprinted with traditional or nautical tattoo designs, make drinking beer—or any other beverage—more fun. $45 and up. Sailor Jerry, 116 S. 13th Street, (215) 531-6380, www.sailorjerry.com
- Tea & Cedar Gift Box – This deluxe gift basket full of all-natural Italian beauty products includes an assortment of L’Erbolario favorites, including Tea & Cedar Body Elixir, Tea & Cedar Bath Foam and Refreshing Feet and Leg Cream. $90. L’Erbolario, 1001 N. 2nd Street, Unit 9, (215) 922-0906, www.lerbolariousa.com
- Porcelain Stackable Bowls – Made by pottery artist Kaete Brittin Shaw, a gorgeous sculpture is formed with three stackable bowls. $35. Linu Boutique, 1036 Pine Street, (215) 238-0747, www.linuboutique.com
- Hand-blown Ornaments – Hand-blown glass ornaments made by local artisans at Philadelphia’s premier public-access glass studio and gallery transform dull trees into works of art. $25 or two for $40. Hot Soup Glass Studio, 26 S. Strawberry Street, (215) 922-2332, www.hotsoupstudio.com
- Saint and Sinner Cork Stoppers – These whimsical bottle stoppers add an angelic and devilish touch to any bottle of wine. $20. Pinot, 227 Market Street, (215) 627-WINE, www.pinotboutique.com
- Coffee and Cups – Illy Coffee, the world’s finest espresso, and two white porcelain cups make the perfect gift for picky java drinkers. $25. Caviar, 1625 Chestnut Street, (215) 972-1616, www.icaviar.com
- TSOP CD – Assemble your own collection of Gamble & Huff’s Sound of Philly music. $10 and up. Philadelphia International Records, 309 S. Broad Street, (215) 985-0900, ext. 219, www.gamble-huffmusic.com
- Eagles Sports Snack Pack – A basket of game day local favorite munchies include Tastykakes, Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews, Society Hill Toffee Peanuts, a nine-variety pretzel mix and other treats. $50. Pennsylvania General Store, Reading Terminal Market, 12th & Arch Streets, (215) 508-1881, www.pageneralstore.com
- Champagne Flutes – Colorful yet classy opalescent champagne flutes make a New Year’s toast a little more memorable—and the scented candle adds a special touch. $50. Scarlett Alley, 241 Race Street, (2115) 592-7898, scarlettalley.com
- Author-Autographed Books – The ultimate gift for a bibliophile is a signed edition of one of their favorite tomes. Pick up signed editions by Walter Isaacson, Alexander McCall Smith, Jane Smiley and other authors. $25 and up. Joseph Fox Bookshop, 1704 Sansom Street, (215) 563-4184, foxbookshop.booksense.com
- Silk Sleep Masks – Drift off to sleep any hour of the day or night in soft, cozy comfort. $24. Kellijane, 1721 Spruce Street, (215) 790-0233, www.kellijane.com
- Cigar Travel Case – Cigar aficionados can keep up to three cigars fresh and secure in this sleek mini travel case. $80. Holt’s Cigar Company, 1522 Walnut Street, (215) 732-8500, www.holts.com
- Areaware Throw Pillows – These organic cotton throw pillows bare the faces of various breeds of pups. $46 and up. Matthew Izzo, 1109 Walnut Street; 117 S. 13th Street, (215) 829-0606, www.matthewizzo.com
- Naked Chocolates – This large assortment contains 25 pieces of chocolate heaven, handmade on site and filled with butter creams, cherry cordial, marzipan and all kinds of other heavenly delicious delights that are worth every calorie. $20. Naked Chocolate, 1317 Walnut Street, (215) 735-7310, www.nakedchocolate.com
- Eclectic Ornaments – Colorful and quirky ornaments guarantee the best decorated tree on the block. $5 and up. AIA Bookstore & Design Center, 117 S. 17th Street, (215) 569-3188, www.aiabookstore.com
- Olive Oil and Dish – Food lovers will fawn over a basket with organic olive oil and an Italian pinzimonio dipping dish. $50. Grocery, 105 S. 13th Street, (215) 922-5252
- Forklore: Recipes and Tales from an American Bistro – Ellen Yin, renowned owner of neighborhood favorite Fork, imparts her culinary expertise in this new book—perfect for both kitchen masters and novices. $35. Fork:etc., 308 Market Street, (215) 625-9425, www.forkrestaurant.com/forketc.htm
For the Kids:
- Giant Where the Wild Things Are Puzzles – Giant puzzle pieces—some as large as five inches—turn into room-sized scenes from Maurice Sendak classic children’s book. $15. Rosenbach Museum & Library, 2008-2010 Delancey Place, (215) 732-1600, www.rosenbach.org
- Hipster Tees and Onesies – Edgy, hand-screened designs by local artists on 100% cotton tee-shirts and onesies make a great gift for the tot who has it all. $24. Art Star Gallery, 1030 N. 2nd Street, (215) 238-1557, www.artstarphilly.com
- Ugly Dolls – Quirky personalities and unusual characteristics make these plush toys stand apart from the doll crowd. $20. Fosters Homeware, 399 Market Street, (215) 925-0950, www.shopfosters.com
- My First Chemistry Kit – Kids can make a rainbow disk, perform microscopic investigations and dissolve crystals with this hands-on science lab for children ages 4 and up. $22. The Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th Street, (215) 448-1200, www.fi.edu
- Karito Kids – International dolls clad in modern attire come with books about their country. A portion of the price supports various projects in those countries, and kids can go online to determine which project they want to support. $100. Happily Ever After, 1010 Pine Street, (215) 627-5790, www.happily.com
- Booties – The most fashionable babies on the block will be donning these cool and oh-so-cute booties to keep their feet toasty this winter. $38. Open House, 107 S. 13th Street, (215) 922-1415, www.openhouseliving.com
- Pirate Chest – Stashed inside this pint-sized pirate chest are gold coins, a loot bag, eye patch and bandana for pirate-wannabes. There’s even a secret compartment where kids can hide their treasures. $30. Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 128 N. Broad Street, www.pafa.org
Eco-friendly Gifts:
- Panda Snack Shirts – These soft, luxury-knit shirts are made of eco-friendly bamboo and come in solids, prints or blinged-out with sequins. $45-$99. Arcadia Boutique, 819 N. 2nd Street, (215) 667-8099, www.arcadiaboutique.com
- The Tie Wallet by Parvenu Leisure – Recycled vintage neckties are re-fashioned into wallets (for men and women) with the slots for credit cards, cash and everything else you need to carry. $18. Mew Gallery, 906 Christian Street, (215) 625-2424, www.mewgallery.org
- Jewel-colored Handmade Journals – Handcrafted by local women in the Himalaya mountains using traditional methods, these fair-trade, tree-free journals are made from the Lokta bush. $12-$52. Details, 103 S. 18th Street, (215) 977-9559, www.detailsphiladelphia.com
- Eco-tote – Blades Construction Company’s Sustainably Chic Bags are one-of-a-kind string tote bags, hand-embellished with vintage pieces, handmade artisan buttons and trims from all over the world. Not only do the totes have looks—they have brawn as well, carting up to 40 pounds. $30. Black Cat, 3424 Sansom Street, (215) 386-6664, www.blackcatshop.com
Experiential Gifts:
- Make-Up Makeover – Get beautiful with a custom make-up lesson and application. $90. Ursula’s About PHace, 1700 Sansom Street, Suite 201, (267) 546-6617, www.aboutphace.biz
- Lakota Indian Raindrop Massage – Raindrops of aromatic oils and lymphatic massage help align the body’s energy centers, elevate mood, reduce tension and lighten the spirit. $90. Terme di Aroma Spa, 32 N. 3rd Street, (215) 829-9769, www.termediaroma.com
- Cutting-edge Workout – The Lithe Method’s innovative and highly addictive fitness regime transforms the body by burning fat and carving muscle. $55. Lithe Method, 255 S. 17th Street, 4th floor, (215) 928-1662, www.lithemethod.com
- Shop with the Chef – Guests enjoy a deluxe continental breakfast at Lacroix, followed by a guided tasting of some famous specialty shops. Afterwards, Chef Matthew Levin and his team demonstrate how to prepare a delicious meal. At the end, everyone indulges in a three-course lunch with a sommelier-selected flight of wine. $75. Lacroix, 210 W. Rittenhouse Square, (215) 790-2533, www.lacroixrestaurant.com
- Morimoto Sushi School for Kids – Head sushi chef Takeo Soejima teaches children about sushi and more through fun, interactive classes. Adult classes are available as well. $100. Morimoto, 723 Chestnut Street, (215) 413-9070, www.morimotorestaurant.com
The Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC) makes Philadelphia and The Countryside® a premier destination through marketing and image building that increases business and promotes the region’s vitality. For more information about travel to Philadelphia, visit www.gophila.com or call the Independence Visitor Center, located in Independence National Historical Park, at (800) 537-7676.
Contact(s):
- Cara Schneider, (215) 599-0789
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Holiday Shopping Philly Style
The following itinerary is available on gophila.com/holidays.
LOCATION: Center City, Manayunk and King of Prussia
TRANSPORTATION: Foot, taxi and car
DURATION: Two nights and two days
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