The Good Life: Squeaky-Clean Stocking Stuffers

Duross & Langel, Philly's original soap stop, has something for everyone

Back when you were little, chances are the “fancy” soap in your home was Dove and the “guest” soaps were waxy pastel numbers shaped like hearts or stars or seashells. But gone are the days of grabbing

Back when you were little, chances are the “fancy” soap in your home was Dove and the “guest” soaps were waxy pastel numbers shaped like hearts or stars or seashells. But gone are the days of grabbing for only Dial or Ivory or that frat-tastic Irish Spring; today, as anyone with a shower knows, the soap biz is a multi-kazillion-dollar industry offering something for everyone — from pungent floral gels for girlie-girls to invigorating herb-flecked bars for those of us looking for a morning boost.

That's why, to fill the stockings (and office-party grab-bags) on our list, we're heading to Duross & Langel, where the soaps — and candles and shampoos and more — have always been made naturally and locally. New on D&L's menu this season are whipped foaming facial soaps, TSA-approved travel kits for him and her, and new soap “flavors” like “Clarifying Coal,” “Citrus Fresh,” and “Café Au Lait.” Bonus: Not only will your friends feel forever spoiled by your indulgent gifts, but you'll love sniffing and sampling and playing around at D&L's shop — the scene is just as chic and calming as the gifts it sells.

Duross & Langel, 1218 Locust Street, 215-735-7075; durossandlangel.com.