Province of Canada – Toronto

Province of Canada, made in Canada – Brant Cushion Cover 20 x 20

Various colours and patterns. Even a condo-size sofa can benefit from a well-made throw pillow. These chic pillowcases are neutral enough to fit into any decor, yet timeless enough that they will look fresh in every season. Province of Canada also sells 20 x 20 pillow inserts to pair with their covers. Though if you already have the right-sized pillow, buying a cover is a great way to minimize storage clutter and reduce waste while still refreshing your decor style.

FORGO – Sweden

FORGO, made in Canada and Portugal – Refillable Zero-Waste Foaming Hand Soap Kit

FORGO makes some very chic sustainable gifts for the home. Their vision is a low waste, low emissions, low toxin skin/body/hair care routine in plastic-free paper refills. For their skincare products, they focus on nature-sourced ingredients which are vegan, cruelty free, sulfate-free, and no to low toxicity.

Uber-chic, thoughtfully designed, and well-engineered, the Foaming Hand Soap dispenser by FORGO is sure to get lots of compliments. I have two in my home and prefer their design to other models that I’ve tried, like Blueland. The glass bottles are ethically made in Portugal, contain 40% recycled glass, and have a 5-year warranty.

The starter pack comes with three zero-waste powder soap refills, which are made in Canada. And the packets are fully biodegradable. Additional refills are shipped in a paper envelope with zero plastic.

Chic & Basta – Montreal

Pierre Chayer, artisan handmade in Montreal – Spalted Maple Wood Spices & Pepper Mill

These wooden mills are easily my most recommended item from Montreal-based Chic & Basta. After living in tiny apartments for over a decade, the concept of owning a sophisticated salt and pepper mill really made me feel like “ah yes, I’m an adult now.” Two years ago, I added these to my wishlist. I finally have these hand-carved beauties proudly sitting in my kitchen. They are gorgeous in person! And I think they are neutral enough to fit in with many decor themes.

Handmade in Montérégie, Quebec, and sold as single mills. (You get to pick which two you want.) PS: Including peppercorns and salt crystals with these mills is a nice touch too.

MadeTrade – USA

Coyuchi, fair trade made in India – Waffle Kitchen Towel Set

Various colours. Coyuchi is women-owned, fair trade, and these absorbent kitchen towels are made with organic cotton.

The first time you wash these towels, something magical happens: the smooth basket weave puckers into a waffle texture that offers more surface area per square inch, drinking in water like no flat-woven towel can. Loomed from yarn-dyed organic cotton crossed with white, they have soft colour that endures through hard work and frequent laundering. There is a slight color variation with each dye lot, but rest assured it is GOTS certified finishing so there’s no change in product performance.

HopePodz – Toronto

HopePodz, zero-waste – Foaming Hand Soap

Need some additional foaming soap refills? Or are you looking for a less wasteful chemical cleaner option? HopePodz is a startup founded by a dedicated group of youth here in Toronto on a mission to make single-use plastic bottles a thing of the past.

I’ve been using their shower cleaner, general cleanser, and disinfectant for a few years now. So I can assure you that they work really well! The “podz” are made of a cellulose material that melts/disintegrates in water. They are lightweight and shipped in a standard-sized mail envelope with zero plastic. They also make for cost-effective sustainable gifts compared to other refillable options.

HopePodz Foaming Hand Soap produces a thick, luxurious lather. Just drop one Pod into your foaming hand soap dispenser, add water, and shake gently. The hand soap pod works with ALL foaming hand soap dispensers.

Chic & Basta – Montreal

Meipel, artisan handmade in Montreal – Muskoka N°1 – Handmade Cutting Board in Birch

A lovely wooden cutting board serves so many purposes. Leaned against a wall, they are decorative and add warmth to any kitchen. But they can also be used for transporting and serving snacks, drinks, and other small items.

This unique, asymmetrical board is handmade in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Socco Annex – Toronto

Fair trade partnership, made in India – HELLO BLOCK DOORMAT – 17″ X 29″

Imagine being greeted by this friendly mat every day? Socco stocks loads of chic, handmade and fair trade home goods. They have a cute selection of doormats that any home/condo/apartment owner would love. Various styles and sizes available.

Made Trade – USA

Ettitude, made with sustainable materials in third-party certified factory – Bamboo Sateen Pillowcase Set

Various colours and patterns. Anything related to luxury sleeping would make excellent sustainable gifts. Upgrade their (or your!) sleep with these silk-alternative Bamboo pillowcases. Or keep scrolling for more ways to reach ultimate zen before bedtime.

Socco Annex – Toronto

Yield Design, made in Florida – 6 OZ CASTILLO DOUBLE-WALL CANDLE

It was a happy coincidence that I stumbled upon Socco soon after I became obsessed with Yield Design. Based out of Florida (!), Yield Design focused on sustainably-sourced scents and thoughtful consumption. All their candles and incense are made onsite at their Saint Augustine location.

Castillo has a lovely natural yet cozy scent that I really enjoy throughout the winter months. Notes of Cypress, Salt + Smoke.

Alltrueist – Montreal

457 ANEW, made in Montreal – ANSEL Men’s Jacket in Econyl

The ultimate winter coat for men. And it’s ethically made in Montreal, uses locally made hardware, recycled fibers, and is 100% vegan.

457 Anew is a new ethical and vegan brand that makes coats and accessories for men and women. Find the collection on Alltrueist for shipping across Canada and the US.

ECONYL® is an innovative luxury Italian nylon made from waste (such as fishnets and carpet fiber) that uses no new resources and is infinitely recyclable.

DETAILS
ECONYL® twill fabric made from discarded fishnets and carpet fiber waste
ISOSOFT® premium insulation made in Belgium
Faux suede lining in pockets and collars
Fleece-lined storm cuffs
Sturdy YKK® Zippers made in Canada
Signature hardware detail made from Quebec aluminum
Signature rubber patch detail (interior)
Belt detail upcycled from the automotive and aviation industries in Canada
100% VEGAN

Alltrueist – Montreal

EcoAlf, B-Corp Certified – Eliot Knit Sneaker

The Eliot Sneaker is easily my husband’s most worn shoe ever to date. He has three pairs at this point because they are that great.

I also own the Eliot sneaker. (It’s a unisex shoe design.) And in addition to Dusan’s three pairs, he bought this sneaker for his dad and brother. Yes, we are obsessed. The Eliot sneaker comes in multiple colour options, is great for men and women, features a recycled plastic knit material that stretches like a firm sock, and has an elevated sole that grips like a winter tire. The recycled plastic fibre also means they are dead-easy to clean. I spray mine with a garden hose and they are good after that.

EcoAlf makes apparel and footwear for men and women. Find the EcoAlf footwear and apparel collection on Alltrueist for shipping across Canada and the US. Keep your eye on Alltrueist’s EcoAlf collection, because they will be getting more colour variations of the Eliot shoe this winter.

Province of Canada – Toronto

Province of Canada, made in Canada – Wide Ribbed Cotton Toque

Various colours. Province of Canada makes easy to wear clothes and accessories that are meant to last. And these highly wearable toques make no-brainer sustainable gifts. Pretty much anyone living up north has a need for one of these cozy hats when the weather dips below freezing. And they are made right here in Ontario!

Walton Wood Farm – Ontario

Walton Wood Farm, made in Ontario – The Candian Men’s Hand Rescue

Various scents. Perfect for those who are rough on their hands, arms, legs, and feet. My sister introduced me to this brand and I’m obsessed! This is one of the few hand lotions that are truly Canadian-wildness proof. Use this on callouses, wind-chapped skin, and even keratosis pilaris (those tiny little hard skin-coloured bumps that many people get on their upper arms.)

Good For Sunday

Good For Sunday, made in Canada – Essential French Terry Sweatpants

Various colours. Sweatpants are made for cool autumn nights and cottage mornings. Made with our premium french terry organic cotton material, these sweatpants are cozy, moisture-wicking, and feature the Good for Sunday moniker in tone-on-tone embroidery.

Details: French terry interior, elastic waistband with drawstring, deep front pockets, and tone-on-tone embroidery. Pre-shrunk.
Fit: Gender-neutral sizing in a mid-rise relaxed fit. Women may prefer to size down.
Material: 100% GOTS certified organic cotton.
Origin: Fabric milled locally and made in Toronto, Canada.

Alltrueist – Montreal

457 ANEW, made in Montreal – CHRISTIANA Women’s Mid-length Coat in Econyl

The ultimate winter coat for men. And it’s ethically made in Montreal, uses locally made hardware, recycled fibers, and is 100% vegan.

457 Anew is a new ethical and vegan brand that makes coats and accessories for men and women. Find the collection on Alltrueist for shipping across Canada and the US.

ECONYL® is an innovative luxury Italian nylon made from waste (such as fishnets and carpet fiber) that uses no new resources and is infinitely recyclable.

DETAILS
ECONYL® twill fabric made from discarded fishnets and carpet fiber waste
ISOSOFT® premium insulation made in Belgium
Faux suede lining in pockets and collars
Fleece-lined storm cuffs
Sturdy YKK® Zippers made in Canada
Signature hardware detail made from Quebec aluminum
Signature rubber patch detail (interior)
Belt detail upcycled from the automotive and aviation industries in Canada
100% VEGAN

Alltrueist – Montreal

ALEXANDRA K., ethically made in Poland – BOOM Snow Boots

Two colour options. I’d categorize anything by the Polish brand Alexandra K as luxury sustainable gifts. These vegan snow boots are a sleek option for both après ski and snowy days in the city. Set on textured soles for good grip, they’re made from water-resistant and durable grape leather.

The Boom Boots are designed to keep feet toasty with their 100% cotton faux fur lining. The Italian thick sole textured guarantees warmth and walking comfort plus good grip. And the outer waterproof layer is made of innovative fabric eco-PU, which provides protection against snow and rain.

Province of Canada – Toronto

Province of Canada, made in Canada – Half Zip Fleece Sweatshirt Cream – Unisex

Various colours. A half-zip fleece sweatshirt pairs perfectly with thick leggings, sweatpants or even shorts in the warmer months. I wear mine pretty regularly through the fall and winter!

Province of Canada – Toronto

Province of Canada, made in Canada – Everyday Leggings

Various colours. I have these leggings in Olive and have been wearing them constantly since they arrived. As you may have noticed if you follow me on Instagram, since they make a frequent appearance there! They are thick, high-rise, and create a flattering shape to the body. As a 5’2″ gal, I also appreciate the 26″ inseam.

These are perfect for adventuring (or just lounging) in autumn, winter, and early spring.

Walton Wood Farm – Ontario

Walton Wood Farm, made in Ontario – Northern Girl Hand Rescue

Various scents (with some very sassy names!). Perfect for those who are rough on their hands, arms, legs, and feet. My sister introduced me to this brand and I’m obsessed! This is one of the few hand lotions that are truly Canadian-wildness proof. Use this on callouses, wind-chapped skin, and even keratosis pilaris (those tiny little hard skin-coloured bumps that many people get on their upper arms.)

BarChef – Toronto

BarChef, made in Toronto – Vanilla & Hickory Smoked Manhattan Candle

Based on their infamous and much-photographed manhattan cocktail that is presented on a bed of smoking wood chips and infused using a bell jar lid. (If you follow me on instagram, I’ve posted this dramatic cocktail unveiling a few times. Who could resist??)

This candle and aroma was designed in celebration of their signature cocktail, so that you can enjoy the essence of BarChef at home.

Expect notes of spiced vanilla bean, anise, candied smoked hickory and floral notes of palo santo.

BarChef – Toronto

BarChef, formulated in Toronto – Best of BarChef, Vol. I

The Volume 1 collection includes bourbon, gin, and brandy infusions. Though there are several other infusion collections and they can be purchased individually too.

BACKWOODS BOULEVARDIER
Backwoods infused bourbon, sweet vermouth, Campari. An adaptation of the classic cocktail developed in 1927 at Harry’s New York bar in Paris. Notes of cigar; balanced, smooth and full-bodied.

SYMPHONY NO. 5
Gin, vanilla brandy, Green Chartreuse, rosemary syrup, dill bitters, orange blossom water. Five harmonious flavours offering complexity, depth and sweetness. Undertones of juniper and pepper with aromatics of orange blossom.

OLD WORLD
Vanilla infused brandy, cacao bitters, patchouli syrup, caraway maraschino, Madeira, Islay Scotch. Aromatics of antique wood, soft smoke and untouched attic. The palate offers beautiful depth with lingering oak and
roasted vanilla.

Made Trade – USA

Sertodo Copper, handcrafted in Mexico with recycled material – Recycled Copper Moscow Mule Gift Set

If you’re looking for eye-catching sustainable gifts, Sertodo Copper is a wonderful option. They have been creating gorgeous handcrafted hammered copper goods with master copper artisans in Mexico since 1997. Sertodo Copper is an international artisan cooperative with workshops in Austin, Texas and in Santa Clara del Cobre, Michoacan in Mexico. The tradition of their heritage craft harkens back over 1000 years in Santa Clara del Cobre.

Made Trade – USA

Slash Objects, Handmade in Brooklyn using recycled materials – Hex Recycled Rubber Trivet Set

Slash Objects works with recycled rubber and makes various sustainable gifts for the home.

Various colours. These trivets are heat resistant and waterproof, these trivets are perfect for placing under hot dishes, creating tablescapes, organizing countertop, and much more.

BarChef – Toronto

BarChef, formulated in Toronto – The Complete Toasted Old Fashioned Set

Recreate BarChef’s Old Fashion, or other evocative cocktails, at home with these kits. They even include spherical ice molds, which are much safer than trying to carve your own by hand (which the BarChef bartenders are know to do.)

1 Bottle of BarChef Project The Toasted Old Fashioned
2 Etched Double Old Fashioned Glasses
1 Jigger
1 Stir Spoon
2 Spherical Ice Molds
1 Aromatic Garnish of Orange

FourSigmatic – USA

FourSigmatic – Cacao and Reishi Mushroom Mix; save 10% with discount code THEPURISTLIFE

And now for something a little different. For those seeking a more chill vibe, having adaptogen mushrooms on the menu is a unique and effective offering. My absolute favourite way to consume adaptogen mushrooms? Mixed into hot cocoa with cinnamon of course!

Try this healthy take on the winter-time beverage with FourSigmatic’s Cacao and Reishi Mushroom blend. Four Sigmatic offers various adaptogen blends, from pure mushroom mixes to coffee. This cacao mix with cinnamon and cardamon comes in individual packets that are super convenient to just mix with hot water. (I personally like to stir in a little oat milk and maple syrup for a more decadent taste.)

Do adaptogens work? For me, the right brands (AKA quality) and the right mushrooms have been a lifesaver. I’ve spoken about how I use adaptogens quite a bit already.

Alltrueist – Montreal

Alexandra K, made in Poland – Shopper Tote in vegan “leather” and corn “leather”

Reminiscent of the Neverfull model by Louis Vuitton, this ethically-made vegan alternative can fit everything from baby essentials to a 13″ laptop. Alexandra K is a luxury vegan line that is known for its sustainable use of plant-based fibres and other biodegradable leather alternatives. I love the sturdy materials that she chose for this design because they seem like they could take a beating and still look pristine! I personally have a few of her corn “leather” bags and get compliments and inquiries all the time.

I may have even added this model to my Christmas wish list 😉 That is if it doesn’t sell out first.

Alltrueist – Montreal

457 ANEW, made in Montreal – WATSON Sling in Desserto (Cactus “leather”)

Both my husband and brother-in-law sport this sling-style pouch design when they are running from airports to conferences. Or when they want to walk around hands-free but also need to have some essentials on hand. For those who need to carry more than a wallet, this is a great hands-free option that looks on-point worn cross-body or over the shoulder. Sling pouches like this eliminate bulky pant pockets and also keep things organized.

Plus, storing a cellphone in pants pockets for hours isn’t a great idea, given that all phone manufacturers recommend keeping their devices at least serval centimeters away from the body.

Alltrueist – Montreal

HÉBERT, made in Canada – Victor Eau De Parfum

Various sizes, including a travel spray. Are you shopping for someone who covets scents? Or perhaps their signature cologne needs an upgrade? HÉBERT is a new vegan, sustainable, fine perfume line based out of Montreal. Alltrueist was kind enough to send me samples of both the Victor and Victoria scents. And let me tell you: I’ve been collecting perfumes since I was 18 … and I was absolutely floored. HÉBERT is on-par with perfume heavy-hitters like Killian, Hermes, and Tom Ford. It’s nice to finally have a vegan, sustainable alternative to those luxury brands!

Victor is a masculine, chic, modern blend of aromatic and woody scents. Sweet Orange and Lavender mingle with Cedarwood, Patchouli, and Milkweed in a very refreshing and captivating way. Victor reminds me of classic, old-worldly rugged colognes but with an urban, sophisticated upgrade. (I even wear it myself sometimes when I want to feel more ‘powerful’, though I wouldn’t label it unisex.) I’m planning on getting this one for my husband. PS: I imagine this is what David Beckman might smell like.

Alltrueist – Montreal

HÉBERT, made in Canada – Victoria Eau De Parfum

Various sizes, including a travel spray. As mentioned above, HÉBERT is a new vegan, sustainable, fine perfume line based out of Montreal. HÉBERT is on-par with luxury perfumers like Killian, Hermes, and Tom Ford.

Victoria is an elegant yet unabashedly coy scent that is feminine, fresh, and confident. Sweet Berry and Bergamot mix with Jasmine, Cedar, and Vanilla to create a satisfying layer of elevated florals with a hint of sugary. But this perfume is also bursting with a bouquet of sophisticated and surprising scents that make it more “womanly” than “girly.” Victoria is a scent that I can wear from morning till night. And it also lingers on my skin for hours.

This particular scent blend reminds me of perfumes that I’ve smelled from the Aerin line by Estee Lauder. (Maybe Lilac Path, but more complex and sugary?) Though this would of course be a vegan, sustainable alternative with staying power. If you’re familiar with enfleurage, this smells like a fresh lavender and sugar enfleurage that you’d find in the countrysides of France. (At least on my skin!)

FourSigmatic – USA

FourSigmatic – Coffee Mix with Lion’s Mane Mushroom; Save 10% with discount code THEPURISTLIFE

What do you buy the person who’s perpetually stressed out with an endless agenda of things to do? I would suggest Lion’s Mane. Lion’s Mane is a natural mushroom categorized as an adaptogen. I’ve taken Lion’s mane for years and have even recommended it to my super-stressed-out coworkers.

FourSigmatic’s Coffee and Lion’s Mane mix was my first introduction to adaptogens. And they were a game-changer for me! You can find various adaptogen blends from FourSigmatic, but I do enjoy the convenience of this coffee + Lion’s Mane mix. Just add hot water, a bit of almond milk, and you’re on with your day. There is also a pure Lion’s Mane blend for those who prefer tea in the morning.

Do adaptogens work? For me, the right brands (AKA quality) and the right mushrooms have been a lifesaver. I’ve spoken about how I use adaptogens quite a bit already.

Alltrueist – Montreal

Solios, ‘green’ technology – Designer Solar Watches

Various design choices: silver, rose gold, or matte black metal, black or white watch face, various strap options, plus the choice between two different sizes (36mm or 40mm).

Solios is the first watch company to become B Corp Certified. They marry the concept of clean design with clean energy. A cleverly integrated solar cell allows the watch to recharge by itself and offers a 6-month energy reserve. In addition to promoting slow fashion with style, you’ll never have to change your battery.

Choose from a mesh or vegan leather strap. (The mesh metal strap features a magnet attachment on the band to perfectly fit any type of wrist.) Solios also commits to restoring one acre of rainforest for every watch sold. Engraving is offered by Alltrueist if you’d like to personalize your watch.

The Detox Market – Toronto

Province Apothecary, made in Toronto – Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer in Lavender & Mint

Plant-powered protection. Featuring 70% alcohol to nix bacteria, plus aloe juice and glycerine to soften and hydrate, this effective yet gentle formula keeps germs at bay without stripping skin. Uplifting lavender and peppermint essential oils further condition skin for a chap-free finish.

The Detox Market – Toronto

Bathorium, made in Canada – Après Bath Sleepy Time Pyramid Bagged Tea: Garden Mint & Rose

The finest quality tea to help unwind a restless mind and prepare for sleep. This tea is a refreshing and soothing minty blend designed to promote restoration, relaxation, and calm.

The Detox Market – Toronto

Bathorium, made in Canada – Snooze Bomb bath soak

Perfect for relaxing the body and mind. This bath bomb turns the water an enchanting light shade of violet due to the finely ground Hibiscus Flowers that release a soft floral fragrance in the water. Bergamot and Patchouli Oils relax the mind while quality salts and plant butters moisturize the skin. The subtle scents of the essential oils will linger long after you’re finished soaking.