The Great British Gift Guide: 2016

We are loud and proud about being made in Britain here at Mackenzie & George, and we love to champion other British brands.  

I can't quite believe it, but as the weather is turning colder its time to start thinking about *whispers* Christmas...

What better time to highlight some of our top made in Britain picks (and a few recommendations from our own collection too) that will be on our gift lists this year.

1. Windsor Clutch by Mackenzie & George (online soon!)

We couldn't very well kick things off without inclusion of one of our most popular products this year. The clutch is the perfect size for all of life's necessities, and can be attached inside a bag, worn on the wrist or round the loop on your jeans. Don't forget to personalise it with initials to make it extra special. 

2. Made of Stern Stuff Mug by Doris & Co

Since spying this mug on instagram I've been a bit obsessed with Doris & Co.  Gorgeous creamware pottery, with designs they describe as "heartfelt, honest & enduring" and that is exactly what I love about this cute mug with inspiring message. 

3. Capability Brown Scarf by Age of Reason

If you haven't heard of Age of Reason, then you must have been living under a rock.  Designer Ali Taylor Mapletoft has been combining punk, pop culture, literature and history in her pen and ink designs, all printed in the UK.  "Celebrate the amazing influence of one of the Britain’s greatest landscape gardeners. This beautiful silk scarf has been made to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in 1716. A fitting tribute to the man that transformed over 250 sites in the 18th century." This 100% silk scarf will brighten any outfit - and would look gorgeous with on of our scarf rings too.

4. Fur Collar Poncho by Liberty Kelly

Full confession - I'm a bit of a Liberty Kelly addict.  I do already have this style in the green, but I adore the slate grey! The faux fur used on these is so realistic, and so soft, i love the way it moves in the breeze, and feels gorgeous against the skin.  The fact this collar can be worn in two ways means I've found this style to be great in all seasons, and the dropped back is so effortlessly flattering. 

5. The Loveable Labrador Apron by Bottle Green Homes

The Dashing Daschund, Captivating Cocker, Precious Pug, Ravenous Retriever... it is so difficult to pick just one of these fun designs from Bottle Green Homes. I had to pick the labrador one as we have one of those ourselves so it would be rude not too.  100% cotton and also available in tea towel designs, these are sure to put a smile on anyone dog lovers face this christmas.

6. Badminton Belt by Mackenzie & George

Versatile width, 360 degree design and available in 3 colours, this is sure to be a winner under the tree this year.  The solid brass fittings and vegetable tanned saddle hide mean this is a piece that will be well loved for many years to come. 

7. Polar Bear Boxer Shorts by Beaufort & Blake

No Christmas for most men is complete without the obligatory boxer short gift! We adore these funky designs from Beaufort & Blake. Each design is hand drawn and designed in London (although I'm guessing made elsewhere as can't find any info on this), and the embroidered draw string bag is a nice touch on the packaging.

8. Wycombe Shotgun Cartridge Belt by Mackenzie & George

Simple, clean lines with just that touch of interest to make it stand out. Our Wycombe with upcycled shotgun cartridge loop detail has been one of our customer favourites for years. It is easy to see why! This makes such a great present, especially if you choose to emboss the tip with initials (see examples on our instagram page).

9. Oak Bark Chester Belt by Mackenzie & George

For a more classic look, you can't go wrong with our Chester belt - especially in this English oak bark bridle leather.  Produced in the same traditional way for over 150 years, this leather has a durability to last for generations, even the pickiest of people will be impressed with the history and craftsmanship encompassed in this leather.

10. Tower Bridge Wash Bag by Emma Cornes

Emma has been designing some of the most gorgeous tweeds for her bag collection, all of which are inspired by different parts of the UK. Her bag collection recently expanded into some small accessories, and this wash bag has particularly caught my eye.  All of the bags and accessories are made in England, using Scottish woven custom tweeds and high quality fittings.  Although pictured here with a shaving kit, I think this would be well received by men or women - but do have a look at the other tweeds available too, as it was hard to choose just one!

So there you have it, hopefully that has given you some inspiration for this years shopping. What is your favourite piece, or have you got your eye on any other British products for this year?