Gifting is, and should always, a highly personal endeavor. One that renders generic gift guides a useless piece of junk mail (written as I cast my hat in the ring).
When done properly, it takes time that almost no one has. As the season passes in a blur of celebrations, the surmounting pressure to gift thoughtfully and spend wisely turns the magic into a chore.
My personal approach is different for each person in my life and I spend the Fall season mentally cataloguing items as I come across them. For the women in my life I find that the best gift, from me, is one that is entirely impractical. For the men, I have a more pragmatic approach, think functional items with a bit of pizzazz. The goal is to either fill a need for the New Year or to spark nonsensical joy.
At this point there are gifts I know will land season after season and places I always pop into to find success (maybe a running list of my last-minute stores to shop in NYC will be my next stack?)
Per your request, below you’ll find bits + bobs to inspire gifts for your people. These items are either currently in my shopping cart, purchases I’ve made for my brothers, boyfriend, and beyond, or ideas for the hard-to-please, have-it-all-ers.
The Creative Pragmatist, an off-the-beaten-path selection for the coffee table curator. Every year I ask for a new title to add to my collection, chosen for interesting art, inspiring photography, unique titling or brain-scratching word play. Often, my selection serves as a memento of memories made that year.
Vivienne Westwood Brooch, add interest to winter layers with this beaded pin. Purchased and love, but be warned of the SSENSE sale shipping.
Chanel Lip Balm, a little luxury for every day. My favorite lip balm. An excellent formula and absolute joy to have in purse or on my desk.
Swarovski crystal ring + bracelet, the perfect amount of ridiculous. Pairs fabulously with chunky knits and clunky winter jackets.
Maria la Rosa Socks, I love a fancy sock and Maria la Rosa’s are such a treat. This gradient pair feels holiday without being overtly so, I wear my lamination pair the most, and this crystallization feels Miu Miu adjacent.
YSE Skin Glow, the all-you-need hero product that actually makes a difference. I’m not one to recommend makeup/skincare lightly, but W O W. I’ve repurchased twice. To be worn under your make-up for that extra oomph or alone for a lasting, even glow.
Officine Universelle Buly hand cream, delightfully decadent. Must be bought with the accompanying spin top. Trust.
Loewe Tomato Leaves Lotion, the best tomato scent on the market. My friends steal a bit every time they come over.
H&M Fur Slippers, a fun addition to holiday lounging. Purchased but not received yet so I can’t speak to the quality. The crystal strap was a key selling factor and I intend on wearing them out of the house. (Note: I only like them in brown.)
Liberty London Sleep mask, a darling upgrade for the travel-lover. On my wishlist!
Bode Heart Clip, the craftsmanship in this clip renders it a forever piece. Have and saving for the right moment.
Lisa Corti Tiger Mug, an unexpected luxury for the every day. I came across these on a recent tour of London’s best home shops and added to my cart immediately. They are so much better in person. I adore the hidden flower inside.
Bialetti Moka pot, for the at-home barista. I use mine every day!
Trask Toothbrushes, once you go Trask, you don’t go back.
Smythson Agenda and Kaweco Fountain Pen, an obscenely expensive (but unfortunately great) agenda for the New Year, because if you can’t justify it for Christmas you never can. Make it a show stopper with a Kaweco Fountain Pen (a great gift on its own! Don’t forget to buy ink!)
An anti-capsule guide… weird, wacky, whimsical, and wonderful.
This one isn’t for the faint of heart.
Bode Baseball Mitt Clutch, I don’t think this one needs an explanation… a cheeky gift for a baseball lover or boy Mom.
Rick Owens Neckband, because I think they stopped making my beloved JW Anderson one. Love the grommets and fur on this one, but DAMN$$$. Sigh. Sorry.
Jeffery Campbell Pay Me Heels, a knockoff of beloved Pushbutton Coin Purse heels. I’ve always loved a Jeffery Campbell shoe.
Dries Van Noten Mirror, if you’re looking for an extravagant stocking stuffer.
Swedish Stocking x Leandra Medine, I swear by Swedish Stocking- they never rip and they never slip. Check out the Leandra Medine collab, I bought every pair except for the tiger and I’m regretting not grabbing them too. To be styled under jeans.
By Malene Birger Fur Collar, add to any jacket or sweater for an entirely new look. I own it in brown and black! The fringe bib is also not to be missed, but seems to be making the rounds on a mainstream level which we know irks me.
A Vintage or New cigarette case, to be used as a wallet. I snagged an antique cigarette case from my Mom’s closet last year and have been using it as a card holder since, it makes for great conversation when the check comes. Chic.
Ann Demeulemeester Fringe Cuffs, fabulous. But please, for the love of God, don’t buy these at this price. Letting these serve as inspiration for an Etsy hunt.
Vivienne Westwood Granny Frame Purse, there are so many good options out there on sale, but this color-way is a good one. On my list *cough cough* Mom!
Hebert Levine PVC Mules, hated them, now love them - a tale as old as time. I think I might need these for my very damp new digs. Rain-safe! Thoughts?
Toga Pulla Case Necklace, high on the Christmas list- no explanation needed.
Tibi Re-imagined Boat Tote, any fashion-lover would be psyched to unwrap this. If you like this look but are interested in another style, try this.
Corsi Design Vase, a showstopper and tactical pleasure. It’s made of jelly! I suggest shopping around for different sizes, prices, and colors but I’ve wanted one of these for a while.
Loser pin but Undercover, cheeky :)
A Men’s Guide following the same format will be published tomorrow, and gifts for the hard-to-gifters, have-it-allers will be published on Sunday.
These lists are meant to inspire. Do your own research, find the best price, and ENJOY this season.
Have a specific gifting need? Drop a comment.
As always,
If you’re not going to be nice, at least be funny,
MARGE