The Industrie Africa Gift Guide for Every Budget

Whatever the depth of your pockets, we’ve got everything you need to tick off those names on your holiday list.

By Lindsay Samson

Nov 15, 2021

Last year, our holiday celebrations looked vastly different from previous years. Shopping? That was all done online. Reunions with friends and family? Well, those took place by way of FaceTimes and Zoom calls. And while finally being able to hug your mom or best friend again are gifts enough this 2021, a thoughtfully chosen memento is also the perfect way to show them just how much you care.

Finding the perfect holiday gift may seem daunting, but rest assured: your sartorial Santa is here, with plenty of gift ideas for all. And, as it turns out, price-conscious gifts don’t have to be lackluster at all. Read on as we break down some of our favorite items to give to someone special—at any budget.

UNDER $200

We all know that December can deliver quite the hit to our credit cards, but you don’t have to be flush with cash to show you care this holiday season. Besides, an expensive price tag doesn’t always equate to a better gift, as these affordable choices will quickly prove. Practical, chic, and in-season, a scarf makes for classic holiday gift material: Diarrablu’s resort wear-inspired styles ($45-$55) are artisanally crafted with longevity in mind and look sensational when paired with the modestly priced trinkets of Sidai Designs. From the brand’s beaded Beige & Coral Jongoo Earrings ($85) to their wrap bracelets strung with 24 karat gold-plated glass beads ($50), these handcrafted pieces are just the ticket for your favorite fashion-forward friend. Looking for something other than a piece of jewelry but not sure if you’ve got the budget to stray too far out the box? Let the unorthodox accessories of South African leather goods company Okapi guide your end-of-year gift-giving. Whether it’s a deck of classic playing or bridge cards (albeit with a bit of an opulent spin), a sumptuous ostrich skin Pill Box, or a springbok horn charm finished with 18-karat gold-plated hardware, these out-of-the-ordinary yet super sophisticated choices are sure to surprise in the best way possible.

shop under $200

UNDER $500

When it comes to holiday shopping, $500 is that fiscal sweet spot! The options are manifold, with everything from designer shoes and purses to custom-made garments on the table. But we’re willing to bet everyone on your holiday shopping list would be smitten with the gift of jewelry this season. Whether they’re one for subtle accents or total showstoppers, it’s difficult to miss the mark when diamonds, gemstones, or precious metals are involved. Yes, jewelry can be pricey, but hey, ’tis the season, right? With its polished brass and aventurine accents, and almost regal placement on the collar, Ami Doshi Shah’s Torque Necklaces ($375) and Adele Dejak’s Fapiyo Neckpiece ($400) are the perfect picks for the friend that loves to make a statement, while Patrick Mavros’ Wire Cuffs ($390) with either Pearl or Blue Topaz offer the recipient a slightly more understated interpretation of glamour via the keep-forever style. On the hunt for something more practical than pretty, but still pretty? New Tangier’s Karima Totes ($461) and ZAAF’s Weekenders ($410-$450) are ideal for the pal that’s always on the go, their spacious forms, durable construction, and quality fabrics setting them apart from your basic holiday travel ware.

shop under $500

UNDER $1000

Perhaps those on your Christmas list have super expensive taste, or maybe you’re just in the mood for a little splurging. Whatever the case, if $1000 is your gifting budget, the sky’s the limit. So if you’re looking for a classic designer piece that they’ve been lusting after since forever, consider this the nudge you needed to invest. But when it comes to dropping major bucks on a gift, you’re going to want to make sure it’s something that can go the distance, and that won’t be relegated to the back of the closet in mere months. And if there were ever a wardrobe piece worth investing in, it would be a coat. Particularly Christie Brown’s handwoven cotton and silk Kente Coat ($600). Another great choice? Why a classic leather handbag, of course. Available in vivid colors including pink, red, and black, these ethically sourced ostrich skin clutch purses ($670-$700) by Okapi are the epitome of artisanal elegance and quickly smarten up even the most casual of outfits. Then there’s the Maxi Maxi Tote ($860) by Nigerian accessories brand Femi Handbags: a rather literal interpretation of its name, its considerably sizable form lends it a heft dose of practicality. Available in two colorways—one a deep blue hue, the other a fusion of pinks, greens, and yellows—there’s little they won’t be able to fit in this bad boy. The brand’s Ameena Midi ($560) and Aliyah ($595) styles are equally captivating, their vibrant Aso Oke and leather forms rendering them the ultimate statement accessories, their whip-stitched sides, hand-stitched, rolled handles, and touches of nickel hardware illustrating the brand’s meticulous attention to detail.