Happy December! I’m so looking forward to the holidays this year, and relaxing with my boyfriend, family, and friends. In what has been quite an eventful year, this month brings an opportunity to slow down and celebrate with close ones. To complement that, I’ve been thoughtfully selecting presents for everyone, and for the men in my life, ethical menswear and gifts from Brothers We Stand.
If you’re unfamiliar, Brothers We Stand is an online ethical men’s clothing store stocking their own designs alongside likeminded designers such as Ecoalf, Elvis & Kresse, Jollie’s, and MUD Jeans. I’ve been a fan and customer of theirs for a number of years now, having purchased gifts for my boyfriend and my brother from them in previous years. This year, I’m excited to be working with them to bring you the ultimate guide to ethical gifts for him (although many of the designs are unisex and wearable by any gender!)
Give The Gift Of A Good Story
The main reason I started Curiously Conscious was to document kinder ways to live and dress. With Brothers We Stand, they transparently display the positive stories of their brands and pieces, and it’s this gratitude and joy that adds something a little extra special when choosing ethical gifts from their site.
I’ve curated three collections for ethical menswear and gifts this year – stocking-fillers and budget items, mid-range pieces, and extra special presents. Take a scroll down to discover my selects and the stories behind them too…
(P.S. If you’re shopping for someone who has particular preferences, I also encourage you to take a look at Brothers We Stand’s essentials and vegan collections).
Ethical Menswear Gifts On A Budget
L to R: Silverstick Summit Organic Beanie £26, Elvis & Kresse Upcycled Cardholder £35, Brothers We Stand Premium Weight T-Shirt £20, Idioma Organic Cotton “Meraki” T-Shirt in Sofós Green £36, Silverstick Air Organic Socks £12, Jollie’s Organic Loop Socks £12, Brothers We Stand Gift Voucher from £10
Let’s start with the best ethical menswear gifts on a budget. My go-to will always be a printed t-shirt, because they’re so versatile and easy to wear. This Idioma t-shirt is extra special, because it was made with the power of the planet! Each of the organic tees in Brothers We Stand’s Solar Selection were manufactured by Continental Clothing at their solar and wind-powered factory in Tamil Nadu, India.
I also want to share a special note on Jollie’s Socks – I’ve been making their socks-in-a-can an annual stocking-filler for my brother and male relatives. Not only do their designs add a pop of bright colour amongst a muted masculine wardrobe, but they support homeless charities – one pair is donated for every pair purchased!
Alongside these budget items, you may also like to source a few natural beauty products for men, or consider some sustainable stationery.
Mid-Range Ethical Menswear Gifts
L to R: Knowledge Cotton Organic Henley Top £45, Knowledge Cotton Organic Ribbed Scarf £45, Knowledge Cotton Organic Light Corduroy Shirt £80, Brava Fabrics Organic Workwear Trousers in Petrol £85, Elvis & Kresse Upcycled Washbag £66, Knowledge Cotton Organic Boxers 3-Pack £40
Onto mid-range gifts, and I have to say I’m a real fan of Knowledge Cotton and their well-made shirts, tops, and accessories. These are a great investment piece for a special someone (even if that someone is yourself!)
In addition to Knowledge Cotton, I really like Idioma, a unisex brand that I’ve previously purchased from. Last year I got Ash the grey sweatshirt of theirs (which I often steal and slump around the house in). It’s lasted a year of working from home, so I can vouch for their garments’ longevity too!
And finally, a note on Elvis & Kresse. E&K are one of those one-of-a-kind brands that once you’ve discovered, stay firmly lodged in your mind. Their circular fashion collections revolve around bag making using upcycled fire hose. It’s both a hardy material, and a heart-warming, regenerative story.
Special Sustainable Gifts For Him
L to R: Yarmouth Oilskins Drivers Jacket in Navy £160, Ecoalf Recycled Jacket £155, MUD Jeans Organic Cotton Jeans £130, Knowledge Cotton Organic Rib Knit £155, Knowledge Cotton Jacquard Knit £140, Elvis & Kresse Upcycled Weekend Bag £310
For special gifts, look no further than Yarmouth Oilskins timeless collection. Here I selected their Drivers Jacket for Ash to wear, as its boxy shape and solid construction mean it’ll be a piece he can wear daily. Style over jumpers, shirts, and t-shirts alike… It’s gorgeous!
Alongside my top pick, I also have to recommend MUD Jeans and their mens styles. I had the pleasure of meeting MUD Jeans’ small team a few years ago, and enjoyed discovering their innovative work in denim recycling. I’ve kept a trusty pair of my own MUD Jeans in my wardrobe since then, and it’s great to see how popular their men’s range has become.
And finally, Ecoalf. If you’re looking for sustainable outerwear for men, Ecoalf is the brand for you. Their collection on Brothers We Stand ranges from light waterproofs to 100% recycled puffer jackets. Both practical and stylish!
Looking for more gift inspiration? Check out Brothers We Stand’s full website →
