The self-care movement has become more intentional in recent years, and it has manifested not only in our routines, but also in the design of our living spaces and how we dress. We’ve seen the minimalist aesthetic rise, but there’s also the cute and pastel aesthetic for those who prefer a slight pop of colour.
These endearing items are comforting — perfect for creating a gentle environment, or an outfit that feels like a hug. While there are myriad ways to shop for these items, why not start from small local businesses? They’re made by people who love the same cute things as you do, and you get to support them in making MORE happy things!
1. Bead Classic
Bead Classic hand-makes classic accessories that’ll jazz up your outfits! They mean serious bead-ness with the saying, “Classic never goes out of style!” This woman-owned small business takes custom orders, but let us warn you that even the ready-stock items are irresistibly cute. Take your pick of necklaces, mask chains, rings, earrings, and phone charms. Be right back, we’re going shopping!
2. Self Supply
Their candles, concrete trays, and tiled décor pieces are to die for. We’re in love with the pastel-coloured goodies that Self Supply creates. These 100% handmade items are a sight for sore eyes, and will be great additions when styling your personal space. Of course, they also make for awesome presents!
3. Moray
While their aesthetic isn’t exactly pastel, Moray’s tiled décor can be customised to your liking. The colour variations are gorgeous and each piece will certainly elevate your living space. Check out their versatile tables, monitor desk, coasters, and mirrors. If you’re out of inspiration, peep at their Instagram highlights!
4. Nobana
Nobana means wildflower in Japanese, and this small business aspires to embody its free spirit and rebellious soul. Pieces created at Nobana are handmade with love and one-of-a-kind. Released designs may not be repeated in the future, making each air-dry clay product unique. Slow made and consciously packaged, they’re perfect for slow-paced, conscious-living folks.
5. Knitsy Daisy
Speaking of slow living, Knitsy-Daisy is all about slow and sustainable fashion. Their bucket hats are super cute; and the reviews on their Instagram highlights can vouch. Besides their pastel hats, they also have a black-and-white cow bucket hat AND a frog cat hat that we know the paw-rents won’t be able to resist.
6. Cloudy Reverie
A girl can never have too many accessories, because we know each piece is unique when worn. It’s time to rejoice, because Cloudy Reverie handmakes dreamy trinkets for us fairies. The name of this small business is personified well in the products — delicate and dreamy.
7. Jujumakes
Yes, we’re not quite done with accessories because we think you’ve got to listen to this one. Jujumakes creates fun things for your ears! We’re talking earrings that are colourful, quirky, and cute! Did we mention that every pair of earrings are made from scratch by hand?
8. That Messy Gal
Anis is That Messy Gal behind The Messy Club. She makes colourful beaded, clay, and artsy goods that are worth the mess. Most of their launches and product drops are offline at pop-up markets, so do follow them on Instagram for updates.
