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The quintessential gift shop — despite a major surge in online purchasing — is here to stay. Timeless and intriguing, nowhere else can you pick up such original home accents, artsy prints and adorable knick-knacks. Whether last minute or spontaneous, here are unique gift shops in Edinburgh.

Caoba

Courtesy Of Caoba
Stockbridge is renowned for its cluster of top-notch gift shops. Overflowing with color and expertly curated, Caoba is one that stands out from the crowd. This family run business has an extensive range of Mexican handcrafts, each as magnificent as the next. Sourced from a handpicked selection of producers and artisans in Mexico, items include candles, chili decorations, Guatemalan gifts, folk art, Mexican blankets, Mexican Clay pieces, Talavera pottery, Day of The Dead items and wrestling masks. Foodies will go crazy over the Mexican food and kitchen accessory selection, whereas those with an eye for interior design will insist on stocking up on the myriad of Mexican tiles.

The Dragonfly

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Courtesy Of Dragonfly
Beautiful and fascinating, you can’t help but look when a dragonfly buzzes by — the same goes for the shop. Since 2011, The Dragonfly has been a one-stop spot for unique gifts. This is the place to find that retro piece for the home or stationary that’s too pretty to ignore. Getting it is easy — the hard part is gifting it or writing on it, due to the overall loveliness. A place worth raving about, goodies range from works made by local artists to unusual finds from afar.

Dead Head Comics

School

Who says gift shops have to be all cards and no comics? Nestled away on Nicolson Street, Dead Head Comics is dangerously appealing. It’s amazing how time can fly while sifting through the impressive comic selection. From local picks and indie numbers to mainstream and independent picks, a comic may sound old school and but it happens to be a cracking gift idea. This wee reading sanctuary champions local and Scottish artists, so don’t be surprised to find works by John G. Miller and Jim Stewart.

Paper Tiger

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Courtesy Of Paper Tiger
Steer clear from Paper Tiger when time is of the essence; an age can be spent taking in this prolific cabinet of curiosity. Then again, perhaps it’s a good place for those in a rush because each item inside makes for a perfect gift. A sister shop to Studio One and Studio One Furniture, Paper Tiger has two locations in town. The wrapping paper selection is exceptional, the stationary addictive, the cards priceless and the gifts ingenious. It also happens to be a dream place for Tin Tin fans, with an extensive range of memorabilia.

Curiouser And Curiouser

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A gift wonderland, Curiouser And Curiouser is a brilliant little independent shop bursting with ideas. Imagine a range of impeccable illustrative prints so inviting that you won’t be happy until each and every one adorns the walls of your home. This is a place where punchy bright colors reign free and designs epitomize perfection. With two locations to choose from (Broughton Street and Bruntsfield Place), the fun never ends. Those interested in framing any printed masterpieces (most of which are works by local British artists) can do so at the Broughton Street location.

Mr. Wood’s Fossils

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Fossil | Courtesy Of Tori Chalmers
Courtesy Of Tori Chalmers
Although Mr. Wood’s Fossils may not be pinned as a gift shop, there’s no denying that it’s off the charts in the unique factor. Besides, fossils make the most surprising and innovative presents. The kind of place akin to a mystery novel, this fossil shop is as fascinating as it is educational. From fossils and meteorites to minerals and jewelry, it’s a win-win kind of place.

Present

Courtesy Of Present
Appropriately named and straight to the point, exploring Present is a gift in itself. This little treasure trove is inviting and exciting. A fine spot for personalized helium balloons, gift items range from kitschy to clever. Separating it from the rest is the smashing selection of witty and endearing cards. Oh, and the staff is the sweetest, which makes stocking up on cool wrapping paper all the more tempting.

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