A style bloggers' guide to Belfast Christmas shopping

There's a certain quality to handmade goods that some would argue you don't get with mass-produced wares, and if you fall into the pro-small business camp, then Gemma has just the ticket for you with her independent shop recommendations.

She name-drops Una Rodden on Arthur Street, and adds that it boasts, "One of Belfast's best designers. You can get something off the rack or get measured up for a piece of couture," while toy shop Utopia is essential for those looking to take something home for the kids.

Gemma says that shoppers would do well to add trips to hand-crafted chocolate store Co Couture on Chichester Street, fashion shop Liberty Blue on Lombard Street and Please Don't Tell on the Lisburn Road, which she calls, "an amazing high end store that stocks brands such as Helmut Lang and Isabel Marant."

Katrina agrees that Una Rodden, Liberty Blue and Co Couture are essential, and adds, "Fresh Garbage is a Belfast institution at 24 Rosemary Street; it's one of my earliest fashion moments as I wafted through the veil of incense to indulge the hippie-goth style of my teens. It hasn't changed much over the years. If you're looking for the perfect party dress or something fabulous to wear to a big occasion then Blush boutique at 166a Lisburn Road in a must."

Lastly, Inga names her top indies starting with Sawers, which she says, "has always prided itself on stocking an extensive range of fine foods and offering a level of customer service synonymous with the olden days."

"It has a well-known Belfast history of supplying game, poultry, seafood, cheese and other fine foods for the R.M.S Titanic Drawing offices for functions and special royal visits. Sawers has served through two World Wars and the Troubles and there is an old Belfast saying "If you can't get it in Sawers, you can't get it anywhere."

"Wicker Man," Inga adds, "is one of the leading Irish craft shops, stocking the work of more than 150 craft-workers from all over Ireland; including potters, jewellers, artists, knitters and clock-makers. Local souvenir items range from a postcard to musical instruments and Irish records.

"Featuring the work of painters, photographers, designers, sculptors and jewellers from all over Ireland, the shop offers pottery, prints, soaps, perfumes, candles, jigsaw puzzles, books, jewellery and sun-catchers, as well as knitwear, pure Irish wool and many other unique and fascinating products."

We close our shopping tour of Belfast with a quick look at the city's festive markets – which runs from mid-November to December 21, and ask each blogger for their thoughts on this hub of craft, mulled wine and piping hot food.

Katrina advises, "The Christmas Market at City Hall is such fun. The atmosphere is buzzing and the smell of fresh waffles and mulled wine is a delight. The German beer tent and the Lavery's bar are both great craic and even better if you manage to get a seat."

"The giant pick-and-mix and the Italian chocolate stalls are my personal favourites. It can get super busy so be prepared. Also, don't forget about the regular weekend market at St. George's which is a fab option on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays."

Katrina adds that visitors should look out for particular market stalls at St. George's; including the Lily Pink Bakery, Norma Jean Vintage, Tee and Toast, and Flax Fox for Belfast-themed t-shirts, cushions and bags.