With the holidays coming right up, it can be hard to shop ethically in such a frenzy. Here are just a few cruelty-free and/or eco-friendly brands to explore as you shop for all your loved ones this season. All of these brands have great products to offer — from stocking-stuffers to thoughtful presents — and they are all Leaping Bunny certified, or are endorsed by PETA! These are my top five picks so collegiates everywhere can be conscious shoppers for the holidays.
1. LUSH Cosmetics
LUSH is a brand most popular for their unique bath bombs, bubble bars, and sugar scrubs. Their products are handmade and are cruelty-free certified! That means no animals were harmed in the making of the products that they offer.
Their prices range anywhere between $5 and $50, offering single items or packaged goods. They even have a line of 100% vegan items! The brand’s smaller products like their face masks and bath bombs make for nice additions to gifts, or as stocking-stuffers.
2. The Body Shop
The Body Shop is a brand that has pledged to always remain cruelty-free, which is fantastic! If you aren’t familiar, their shops offer a variety of lotions and soaps which range in price and offers. Products from The Body Shop can be great gifts if you have someone who loves different lotions and scents!
3. Alex & Ani
It wasn’t long before collegiates everywhere were getting their hands on Alex & Ani bangles and bracelets. One of their most popular products are their bangles which feature college emblems and birthstones. Their products can make for touching gifts, perfect for anyone newly admitted to a university, or just because! This is a popular brand devoted to making their jewelry out of eco-friendly and recycled materials, offering feel-good gifts for the holiday season.
4. Corature
This one may be a brand many have not heard of, but they are still a great choice! Corature is a company that works to make products, specifically wallets, out of 100% cork. Their wallets are made from “vegan leather”, with the material being waterproof and sturdy, all while being 100% sustainable. Talk about feel-good shopping! If you’re looking for a gift for a specific guy in your life, a shiny new wallet is always a good option; this time- try something cruelty-free and sustainable!
5. Urban Decay
Who doesn’t love Urban Decay? From the Naked Palettes to their killer eyeliners, this cosmetic company is known to be devoted to making cruelty-free products. No animal testing, no animal products, just great color payoff and fabulous foundation! Their holiday offers on their website look amazing, and would surely make for great higher-end gifts.
Photo credit: Nancy Nyamaa, LUSH, The Body Shop, Michelson-Jewelers, Shopify, Urban Decay