Gift List

Ten ways to avoid the malls this holiday season

Photo: Susan Ogan

very year, it seems, the shopping malls and big box stores have less and less we want to buy. And to be honest, fighting the holiday crowd is a tough task. But why do it when you can buy from online stores? I mean, if you are looking for unique gift items like a silver wrist watch or trendy name necklaces, you can check out web shops that provide discounts and offers. And yes, if you are from Boston, then you can visit independent stores that are quite popular in the locality. Truth be told, Boston is blessed with great independent shops that sell original products that your relatives and friends have not already seen at America’s last remaining department store. You can check out these places, off the beaten track, to buy unique gifts, toys, cards, and clothes.

A family-owned, high-quality nut shop in Watertown
 

Where to finally find one-of-a-kind gifts
 

An ultimate game and puzzle shop
 

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A stylish clothing store where guys can dress for less.
 

Where to find a holiday card that won’t look like you got it at the mall
 

A home design store inspired by an art gallery
 

American-made duds for manly men
 

Local designers in a friendly, personal boutique
 

An unexpected motherlode of South American silver
 

A source for hand-blown glass and handmade gifts