Here at Marie Claire UK, we are counting down the days until International Women's Day, as we love nothing more than celebrating all the special ladies in our life. Whether it's our mum, sister, friend, girlfriend, manager or whoever else, we believe that being a woman is something to shout about. Go us!
That's why we've put together our edit of the best IWD gifts. Not only have we chosen items from some of our favourite woman-owned brands, but we've also included lots of brands that are giving back this IWD, alongside sentimental gifts that we think celebrate what it means to be a woman. Have a scroll and treat yourself or your loved one to something special to let them know just how amazing they are.
If you're looking to educate yourself further on feminism, why not check out our round ups of the 100 most inspiring women over the last 100 years, the 15 greatest speeches of all time by 15 inspirational women and the best books about women's rights? We've included work from Simone de Beauvoir and Gloria Steinem to Charly Cox and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, so there’s no shortage of inspiration. As said by human rights activist Claire Fagin, "Knowledge will bring you the opportunity to make a difference." If that doesn't inspire you, we don't know what will.
We've also put together a guide to the best feminist t-shirts with empowering slogans and fun designs. We'll be styling ours with jeans and trainers this IWD, letting our tee do all the talking. What better way to show your support than through a fabulous outfit?
Without further ado, check out our guide to the best International Women's Day gifts. From cards and jewellery to perfume and clothing, there is something for everyone. We will definitely be treating ourselves to some of these special gifts, because we deserve to celebrate ourselves, too.
27 best International Women's Day gifts to buy now:
Founded by Elizabeth Scarlett herself, this brand doesn’t just make the most stunning (and genuinely useful) velvet embroidered accessories, it has also donated over £470,000 to charities and projects that support keystone species. We can’t think of a better reason to buy this beautiful make-up bag - naturally, it would make a great gift (and yes, you absolutely count as a suitable giftee).
Female-founded jewellery brand, Carrie Elizabeth is launching four bracelets in support of The Prince’s Trust #ChangeAGirlsLife campaign. The bracelets feature solid gold charms, entwined with the fabric, which each symbolises a personal affirmation. I am strong; I am loved; I am strong and I am enough. We can’t think of a more perfect display of femininity and strength.
Victoria’s Secret has come together with Future Dreams - a brilliant charity which offers in-person and virtual support to those with breast cancer, like personalised bra fittings at their Bra Lounge which help women reconnect with their bodies and embrace their confidence.
5p from every sale of a Victoria’s Secret bra will go to supporting the brilliant things Future Dreams do - along with the £100,000 the brand has pledged to donate to the charity for IWD. We can’t think of a better time to invest in the VS’s Body bras, which are timeless, thoughtfully made and super supportive.
Damson Madder has teamed up with their long-term partner Women For Refugee Women to create a T-shirt in support of the charity's ‘Welcome Every Woman’ campaign. 100% of profits from the T-shirt sales will go towards supporting the charity's brilliant work to change the UK's asylum policies to provide safety, a fair hearing and opportunity for all women.
Sarah Ross is Co-Founder and Brand Director at Addison Ross. this family-run business makes, in our opinion, some of the chicest homeware around - we’re talking scallop-edged lacquered trays, beautiful photo frames and the most stylish salt and pepper grinders you ever did see. Our top pick for International Women’s Day? These placemats from their stunning new Chinoiserie collection
Cult Beauty Has teamed up with Hertility, supporting Hertility’s Black Women’s Health initiative. Their Wo(man)-Made Make Up Edit is full of sought-after make-up from female-founded brands and a fraction of the price you’d pay for each product individually. Needless to say, it’s the perfect gift to give this International Women’s Day.
Bestselling author and leading UK voice in spirituality, Kirsty Gallagher has just released her newest book, The Goddess Path. Helping you on your journey to becoming your 'most intuitive, authentic and powerful self', it's the perfect IWD treat for yourself or a loved one to.
CJW has launched the Great Women Artists collection in celebration of International Women's Day, highlighting 12 of founder Christina's favourite female artists.
20% of proceeds from the collection (along with all sales from the CJW website in March) will go to the Malala Fund, so we can't think of a better reason to shop these beautiful PJs this IWD.
Founded by supermodel Elle Macpherson, WelleCo’s main focus is on our wellness and simplicity. Our Senior Beauty Editor Katie is a huge fan of the brand’s antioxidant-rich Evening Elixir, plus you can take 15% off site-wide to celebrate IWD with the code SUPERWELLE15! From 8th to 9th March. Bonus.
Dr. Maryam Zamani is the Founder and CEO of MZ Skin, a brand renowned for its science-backed formulations and sensory experience. Each product reflects Dr. Zamani’s expertise in aesthetic medicine and skincare, but none better than the Lift & Lustre Golden Elixir serum - another of Katie’s favourite skincare picks. Yes, it’s pricey, but if you’re after deep hydration and an unreal glow, you can’t beat it.
Sometimes there is no better gift than a card filled with a heartfelt message. We love this design from Callisto Design Co, a female-owned business available on Etsy.
With a long-standing partnership with Women for Women International, Monica Vinader is a brilliant brand to support this International Women’s Day. With classic-yet-on-trend pieces, it’s one of our favourite jewellery brands ever. If she’s a fan of chunky silver jewellery, the brand’s Signature Link bangle is sure to please.
Heelena Yang founded Sol de Janeiro in 2015 with an aim to empower women to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. Known for its colourful packaging and iconic scents, the brand’s new Cheriosa 59 perfume mist is no exception, making the ideal gift.
As part of their IWD campaign, John Lewis is donating £5 from every online sale of a John Lewis dress to The Prince’s Trust in support of their #ChangeAGirlsLife campaign. Plus you can take £25 off all rentals over £45 with the code 25IWD. We think it’s the perfect time to invest in this crinkle-textured column dress.
Whistles has also partnered with The Prince's Trust for International Women's Day to help empower and uplift vulnerable young women. Whistles will donate 10% of all sales from the bestselling Bibi bag from 1st to 31st March, so together with its iconic, timeless design, it makes the perfect gift for IWD.
Ethical practices, innovative design and a deep commitment to social impact define this jewellery brand. Having previously launched two successful collections with Choose Love, Rachel Jackson raised £160,000, with 100% of the profits from both collections being donated. Our top pick? The Token of Love pendant.
From 8th to 10th March, Boux Avenue are donating 10% of sales from the Heart Satin PJs to their charity partners CoppaFeel and Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust. We can’t think of a better time to snap up a set of sleek pyjamas, TBH.
Pandora has just launched the Powerful Women Opalescent Charm in partnership with UNICEF, with an aim to support children and young people around the world (especially girls) with educational programmes that aim to champion empowerment. She can add the charm to her favourite chain or bracelet.
A Townhouse gift card is one of Senior Beauty Editor Katie’s go-to presents. She shares: "I have been a fan of this nail salon when it was just that: a single boutique. I have watched as it's grown into this incredible nail empire that I continue to stay loyal to, because the manicures and pedicures are the best I've ever had. I've lost count of the number of people I have recommended Townhouse to - from pre-wedding appointments to regular gel top-ups, and not one person has been disappointed. It's a truly spoiling experience that would make the perfect gift."
Award-winning hairstylist and owner of The Hair Lounge in Notting Hill, Charlotte is also the creator of the iconic Charlotte Mensah Manketti Hair Oil. This conditioning oil leaves afro, mixed and curly hair types nourished, hydrated, repaired and protected.
Vivere will be raising funds for UK charity Refuge this International Women’s Day, providing services for survivors and their children as they rebuild their lives free from fear. Between the 8th to 10th of March, the brand will donate 25% of the total retail price on all purchases made from ‘The Tailoring Edit’. Our Junior Shopping Editor Valeza is a huge fan of the brand’s new-in pieces, and her top pick is this elongated waistcoat that would pair perfectly with wide leg trousers this spring/summer.
Started from founder Connie Nam’s kitchen table in Notting Hill in 2012, Astrid & Miyu has grown to become one of our go-to jewellery brands for trend-led, unique and surprisingly affordable jewellery. “We are not just a jewellery brand. We are a movement, empowering individuals and using our platform to make a positive difference to the world” says Connie, “this is one step towards making a wider positive impact”.
Our top gifting pick from the brand has to be the stunning new Infinite ring - the perfect delicate piece to add to your stack. For a solid gold piece, you really can't beat the price.
Trailblazing entrepreneur Marcia Kilgore has founded a string of companies including Beauty Pie, Soap & Glory and FitFlop. Lightweight and cushioned, you won't want to ever take these FitFlop SHUV clogs off.
Founded by Sherrille Riley, Beauty Edit Mayfair is a beauty concept store offering a curated range of clean skincare, haircare, cosmetics and more - designed to suit all skin and hair types. We love this brow kit that includes 6 essential styling tools.
Founded by sisters Dima and Tania, L’Atelier Nawbar has the most beautiful fine jewellery pieces that hero colour and intricate design. This 18k gold heart pendant would make a truly luxurious gift.
We’re huge fans of this Baobab bandeau bikini for the warmer months ahead. The Colombian resort wear brand, founded by Isabella Espinosa, has a big focus on sustainability through its efforts to restore the San Andres Coral Reef.
Dear Curves - founded by Ojoma Idegwu - makes dresses, kimonos and more tailored to the plus-size silhouette. We’re obsessed with this green velvet maxi dress. Available in UK sizes 18-28, it’s the perfect special occasion piece (IWD dinner, anybody?).
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