I love shopping for original schwag, but dammit, I hate all the work it entails. Nothing makes me hate life more than heavy traffic, parking lots, and bumping elbows with teeny boppers and tool boxes.
Plus, malls (with their plethora of Abercrombies, Aeropostales, and America Eagles) don’t exactly promote creativity or independent thinking.
I started working on an Internet start-up called web100 (the site’s currently under HUGE overhaul – when it finishes, it’ll be banging) and since then, I’ve hit some fantastically awesome, but most importantly, inspired shopping sites. Four of my favorites:
A site edited by four collaborators, Cool Hunting features a collection of rad clothing lines (like above by Denim and Thread) art, photography, fashion, and pretty much anything else. Some of the best things I’ve found? How about designer swim shorts, unique luggage tags, Patagonia apparel, and environmentally safe doggie doo bags?
These Aussies make sweet jewelry. The designs at Polli range from various deciduous leaves, Koi fish, fans, and other intricate designs. A lot of it comes in sets, too, in case you’re looking to splurge.
These artists believed a handmade gift means much more to a mother than anything store-bought. The difference between them and you is the stuff they make doesn’t suck. And their mothers still love them. Independent artists and designers can sell their wares at Elsewares. Vintage record bowls, coke bottle rings, and rad t-shirts all rock out here.
My personal favorite – Etsy. It’s as much about social change as shopping for stuff you (literally) won’t find anywhere else. Build real relationships with the designers. Learn how you can create your own schwag. And jump in the Time Machine for the most innovative way to shop since ebay.
Posted by Ming 
