The Cool Drop: Support Emerging Brands
Small businesses. Big taste. A gift guide with heart.
You know what’s sexier than a label? Supporting a small business founded by someone you actually want to root for.
Lately, I’ve found myself falling in love with a growing list of emerging brands and creative founders and, inadvertently, curating a pretty incredible list of holiday gifting ideas.
Picture this: someone you love unwraps a gift, and instead of saying “thanks,” they lean in to hear the story behind it — the founder, the craft, the care that went into its creation. That’s the kind of gift I live to give.
Of course, no one said you can’t shop for yourself too.
Unplain
Founded by Alice Sung Kim, Unplain is a clean beauty brand that marries simplicity with Korean efficacy. Formulated with probiotics and prebiotics for balanced, healthy skin, each product feels like skincare for people who read ingredient lists for fun. I’ll admit I was initially drawn in by the brand’s impeccable packaging. But once you look closer, it’s even more beautiful on the inside. Definitely one to bookmark for the holidays.
EleniPal Ceramics
Before she was shaping clay, Eleni Palaiologou was studying physics at the University of Athens. A hobby pottery class changed everything. Two years of study and a stint in a ceramic studio later, she opened her own workshop in Athens. Every piece is handmade — functional ceramics with a minimalist aesthetic and maximal charm. Think everyday art for your kitchen.
Bags by Uma
I was SO excited when I discovered this 20-year-old Zimbabwe-based creator. Uma makes every bag and accessory by hand, sourcing materials from across Africa ethically and intentionally. Her designs are fresh, her craftsmanship refined, and her evolution constant with every new drop feeling like watching a young visionary in real time.
Maison Magdalena
Born in a small village in Moldova, Magdalena moved to France to study art and design after falling in love with her mother’s vintage wardrobe. Two years after graduation, she launched Maison Magdalena, a label she describes as bohemian minimalism. Each made-to-order piece is timeless, wearable art to keep for decades.
Aest Studios
Architect-turned-founder Vanessa describes Aest Studios best: “It’s a celebration of the delicate art of living, the strength and vitality of women, and the ongoing pursuit of balance—where aesthetics and function coexist beautifully in every detail.” Her bags embody that duality: sculptural yet soft, luxurious yet lived-in. The perfect gift for yourself or the favorite cool girl in your life. (Also this campaign? Perfect.)
Julietta
Founded in 2021 in Dumbo, Brooklyn, Julietta crafts jewelry “infused with the spirit of the city.” Each design feels one-of-a-kind — modern heirlooms that marry grit and grace. I just discovered the brand, and my jaw dropped more than once. Consider this your sign to spread the word.
I don’t always mean to spotlight exclusively female-founded companies… but sometimes, the girls are just out there building beautiful things.
To supporting beauty, finding beauty, and creating beauty in all forms.
All my love,
Kelly