Publications
It's so much easier than fighting your way through the Christmas crowds – you can find exactly what you’re looking for by simply typing it into a search bar, then have it delivered to your door with the click of a mouse. Here some online shopping veterans give us their top sites for festive gifts.
Entertainment
Natalie Cavernelis, TV series junkie and bookworm and entertainment blogger recommends:
Their prices are reasonable and they have a huge, huge range of books and free shipping – it’s usually the shipping that kills you when you use overseas sites.
2. Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk
These are for Blu-rays I can’t find locally or for ones that haven’t been released here yet. The postage is hefty but worth it for something special. Delivery time depends on the option you choose. The cheapest option usually takes about two weeks from Amazon.co.uk. From my most recent experience I gather Amazon.com no longer offers standard shipping to SA so it usually gets here within seven days – at a price.
I love geeky presents – T-shirts with branding of popular shows such as The Big Bang Theory or movies such as Batman, and novelty items and
gadgets – and this site has the most amazing selection. It uses only courier services which can be costly but your items get here within about five working days.
Kitchenware
Sarah Graham, blogger at A Foodie Lives Here, cookbook author and cooking show host recommends:
This site is clever and quirky and sells everything from kitchen kit to niche ingredients. I’ve found it to have quick delivery and amazing customer service.
2. Nomu.co.za
Nomu is a great site for amateur and expert foodies alike. It stocks everything from rubs to unique and foolproof baking kits. It’s family owned so you can expect the great quality and care a dedicated family business delivers. I was also impressed by the speedy delivery and customer service.
This site is great for bargains and has a big product range, and not just for your kitchen so it’s a great one-stop household shop. Keep an eye out for lots of special offers. I’ve found delivery very quick too.
For the girls
Wagheeba January, fashion blogger with her own site, inspirationalmeblog.wordpress.com recommends:
This site is a home for local designers and entrepreneurs to sell their wares and offers trinkets including pretty brooches, décor items and funky jewellery. It also has a stationery section where you can find all sorts of cute craft things – perfect for making your own Christmas cards and decorations. Delivery costs vary depending on how any items you buy and where they’re sent to.
2. Spree.co.za
If you’re looking for designer clothing online, look no further. Spree is also great at putting looks together and telling you which accessories or shoes would work well with the item you’ve chosen. It recently also launched décor, baby and gift sections, which makes it a great place to browse this time of the year. Delivery is free in South Africa.
You can sign up at R119 a month to receive a box of samples of hot new products every month. It also has a huge beauty shop, so it’s one of the sites I go to often for gifts.
For the guys
Owen Wiese, Guy about Town blogger, recommends:
1. Mrporter.com
Whether you’re looking for a unique tie or a designer pen, this site sets the global standard in luxury online shopping. Even though it’s an international site, delivery can be expected within four to five working days. I also love the gift-finder option with price-range categories for travel essentials, audio and visual, grooming and my two favourites: stocking fillers and gifts for the man who has everything.
Mantality has a great range of products covering lots of categories including personal care, gaming, outdoor experiences and even accessories for man’s best friend. The simple design of the site makes navigation a breeze. It’s local so prices are indicated in rands. Don’t expect exclusive designs (as with Mr Porter) but it’s definitely worth having a look. Delivery to major centres offered within a day.
3. Zando.co.za
This local site stocks an impressive range of men’s clothing in various categories. You can make a selection on brand, colour and size – the site is fresh, current and has competitive prices. It also has an interesting “trend” section which shows the current and happening global trends, offering the confused shopper a helping hand with what to buy.
