Finding the perfect gift for the holidays can be challenging. However, Alaskan native goods offer a wide variety of garments that you can’t find at large retail chains or stores, making them an impressive option as gifts. Featuring tribal patterns and stitched by hand, these garments are unique and one-of-a-kind. So, if you’re struggling with finding the right gift for someone, here is a holiday gift guide to help you with your search. 

Your Holiday Gift Guide

1. Scarves & Stoles

Many Alaskan native goods feature cultural patterns and unique stitching woven into the soft downy substance from musk ox wool called qiviut. Scarves and stoles both make ideal gifts for someone who enjoys native culture yet is looking to stay warm in the harsh winter. 

Scarves can be worn whenever you venture outdoors. They can either be wrapped around the neck in a decorative knot or wrapped around the head for more coverage and protection from the wind.

Stoles tend to be more formal and are traditionally used as a shawl. You can protect your shoulders from the bitter cold as you step out for that holiday party or drape it around your arms for extra warmth in the office or at home. 

2. Hats 

Keep your loved ones protected and warm with a unique and hand-made native hat. While not all of these will feature tribal patterns, you should still look for a hat that’s made from qiviut to ensure that you’re getting a quality product. Qiviut is lightweight, but it’s eight times warmer than traditional wool, making it the perfect gift for anyone this holiday season. 

Hats and caps are also ideal for someone who tends to work outside, including fishermen, snowplow drivers, or anyone else who works out in the elements. Hats and caps can be worn year-round as well, making them a versatile gift to put under the tree. 

3. Tunics

If you’re looking to give someone a garment that they can wear all day, check out native-made tunics. As a common Alaskan native good, tunics provide full-body coverage and are made from the qiviut material, which means their lightweight yet cozy and warm. They make perfect gifts for a woman in your life who works in an office and wants to stay warm all day. It can be dressed it up or down depending on the type of pants and accessories you add. 

If you’re looking for quality Alaskan native goods that feature unique tribal patterns and designs, then try a garment from Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers Co-Operative in Anchorage, AK. Since 1969, this collective of Native Alaskan women has been producing beautiful scarves, stoles, tunics, hats, and other unique pieces. If you’re interested in purchasing gifts from them, call (907) 272-9225 or visit them online for a complete list of products and gifts.