Hi shoppers!
Mixing it up this issue from things I’ve been buying to a gift guide — and yes, I know Valentine’s Day is just around the corner but if you’re like me and it’s one of your favorite holidays, you celebrate all month long. So I’ve compiled a list of bobbles and pretty things and indulgences and other items that make perfect gifts for the woman in your life, for your mom, your sister, your best friend, or most importantly — yourself, obviously.
And remember my cardinal rule of gifting — it should be something that they wouldn’t necessarily get themselves, but that they would want if they saw it — whether it’s something they think is too frivolous, or too expensive, the idea is to unwrap something that genuinely makes them excited to use it, wear it, or see it everyday. And whether you want to spend under $20 or thousands, I’ve got you covered.
Djerf Go Slow Slip: The perfectly feminine piece of sleep and loungewear; opaque enough to wear around the house all day but soft and comfy enough to sleep in.
Vaisselle for Anthropologie Coupe Glasses: If you’re a longtime reader of MG, you know I’m a huge Vaisselle stan and I’m so thrilled about this new collaboration with Anthropologie — these coupe glasses make the perfect addition to any home bar.
Ginori Trinket Box: An exquisite piece for any vanity, dresser, or nightstand — this beauty comes in a variety of colors and if you order direct from Ginori, it comes gift wrapped in the most beautiful box.
Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Pillows: SC has a wonderful variety of the most feminine, frilly, delicate, lacy, floral — you name it — pillows for that perfect cottage-y undone look.
Swarovski Characters: My parents gifted my sister and I each one of these for Xmas and they are the sweetest, most sparkly little things in the world. There are so many to pick from but one of the two lovebird options are obviously perfect for Valentine’s as is the Frog Prince.
Vuitton Speedy 25: As someone with a real designer bag problem (too many) I come back to my Speedy 25 time and again; it’s durable, fits everything and anything you would need, and is completely timeless.
Alice in Wonderland Playing Cards: Anna + Nina is one of my favorite places to shop for gifts, they have a wonderful selection of whimsical and unique pieces at all sorts of price points, including these for under $20!
Rosebud Picture Frame: A super affordable gift — I love the retro design of this and you can make it extra special by using it to frame a picture of you and the special person receiving it or something near and dear to your relationship.
Chanel Hand Cream: This is a truly great formula in such chic and luxurious packaging; the price tag means its something someone might not splurge on for themselves which makes it a perfect gift.
Laetitia Rouget Tableware: I adore how silly and feminine these plates are — there are ones with naked ladies on them and little quips and they make the perfect gift if you want to give someone something lighthearted that they’ll actually use.
Hermes Nail Polish & Top Coat: Perfect for the DIY manicure girl; this formula nail polish is super long lasting, easy to use, and comfortable on the nails. Up the gift ante by adding in the Top Coat — of course.
Cece Jewellery Necklace: If you really want to splurge, these enamel pendants are so girly and still substantial — something she will wear and cherish forever. There are a bunch of romantic options available on her website, but you can also customize the enamel design with a special emblem etc.
Her favorite piece of artwork, or first edition of a book she loves: Obviously not a gift I can link to here but I personally would swoon over a one of my favorite Wyeth paintings framed, or a rare or first edition of Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. It’s thoughtful and meaningful and something the person you love will cherish.
Marimekko Bathrobe: I adore anything Marimekko and I feel like their bathrobes are the height of lazy Sunday attire.
John Derian Decoupage: JD has such an extensive selection of these magnificent dishes, paperweights, mirrors and more — there is truly a motif for everyone and they plates can even be hung on the wall as mini pieces of artwork.
Amara Candleholder: ABC Carpet is another instant go to for me when I’m shopping for gifts and as someone who always has taper candles out, these stunning candle holders instantly caught my eye — I love that they look like something out of Alice in Wonderland, like molded gilded lily pads. So, so unique and artsy without looking too crafty.
Brent Neale… anything: A complete and total splurge but if you’re really looking to make a statement with your gift, Brent Neale makes some of the most unique, artistic, and meaningful jewelry out there. It has whimsy and refinement all in one and her studio also does incredible custom work.
Apilco Teacups & Saucers: Ok I know these look simple but hear me out — for anyone who likes to entertain, drink tea or coffee, and just likes simple clean drinkware, these are such incredible little mugs. Apilco is known for its durability, I’ve had mine for a decade easily, throw them in the dishwasher almost everyday and they don’t show a single sign of wear. For the minimalist refined girl in your life.
Louis Sherry Chocolates: If you know the person you’re buying for doesn’t have any food allergies, this is the perfect traditional but not traditional romantic gift; it’s like, the ultimate luxurious artisan version of a box of chocolates. The chocolates themselves are exquisite quality and when they’re all eaten you get a beautiful box to use for jewelry, trinkets, love notes etc. Available in four sizes and a variety of designs and colors.
Summer Fridays or Rhode Lip Balm: I own both of these in virtually every flavor, color, scent available and they’re pretty much all I use. Add one of these or a gift set onto an existing gift, or gift them as a little thought to your friends or sister or coworkers.
Mrs. Alice Rattan Tray: I love trays for bedside tables, entryways, pretty much anywhere in a home where items collect — it’s the perfect way to make a catchall look chic. Rattan always gives off such a Tennessee Williams vibe for me so I think this one is perfect for the price.