All That Glitters: 2018 SO Luxury Gift Guide
Nobody knows better than Style Observer (SO) how exasperating gift-buying can be! There are those with everything… who said Eroleen, Cecile and Pauline? And those people who want everything. Something luxe would appease a person in either camp and there’s just something about Christmas that oozes luxury. SO has compiled a list of 21 luxury items that is sure to please even the most pernickety. Might we suggest that you perfect those gift-wrapping skills!
For Him
Balenciaga Triple S Logo-Embroidered Leather Sneaker
The dad sneaker trend has been embraced by celebrities such as Pharrell and Mr Alicia Keys’ Swizz Beatz. Don’t call them ugly, they are a look! These sneakers need confidence more than style to pull them off.
Braun Series 9 Premium Electric Razor
This German shaving system is especially great for darker skin that is prone to razor bumps and can be used both wet and dry. Wunderbar! With nine settings and a rechargable base this could be the last electric razor that he needs.
KEF Porsche Design GRAVITY ONE Bluetooth Speaker
Renowned British loudspeaker manufacturer KEF teamed up with Porsche to create this sleek, beautiful and highly functional bluetooth speaker which has excellent sound and is easily portable.
The Dalmore 45-year-old whisky
Reason: It’s classified as one of life’s privileges. With only 500 bottles created, this Scotch would make the ultimate Christmas gift. With notes of red berries, hazelnuts and Manuka honey, this rare 80-proof tipple from The Dalmore comes in a Baccarat crystal decanter and is, in a word, indulgent.
Mark Anthony Silk Ties
A yummy box of silk ties each selected by you in association with designer to the global cognoscenti Mark Anthony. Nothing more to say really, save Merry Christmas xoxo!
For Her
Tom Ford Samantha Sunglasses
It’s Tom Ford, so no need to wax on about it.
Gucci Princetown Leopard Calf Hair Slipper
Introduced by Alessandro Michele in his debut collection, these slippers are for a daring woman who loves to pattern clash, layer her jewellery and is fond of maximalism.
Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer
“Engineered to protect hair from extreme heat damage, with fast drying and controlled styling,” the Supersonic is a lightweight, futuristic hair dryer that gently dries hair with mercurial speed.
Pat McGrath Labs Mothership Totale
Leave it to Jamaican-blooded cosmetics mogul Pat McGrath to create 30 eye-catching (see what we did there) eyeshadows. Each Mothership (there are three) is presented in “luxe, lacquered cases with the elegance of jewels” and screams holiday.
Chanel No.5 L’Eau Limited Edition
For the first time, the iconic scent meets Coco Chanel’s favourite colour ruby red. The limited-edition “ephemeral red bottle” is just around for the holidays.
John Hardy Jewellery
Every woman deserves to shine! John Hardy jewellery available in Kingston at Bijoux is the perfect intersection between eye-catching bling and timelessness. The well-crafted pieces are tools “for self-expression and self-empowerment” and let’s face it, she (whoever she is) is worth it.
For The Traveller
Ebby Rane Quartermaster
Designed by Jamaican-Canadian Sonja Salmon, this Italian leather carry-on suitcase is a fave of Duchess Meghan and due to its thoughtful design can fit quite a lot. It’s the ideal carry-on for the avid traveller.
Michael Kors Malmo Shearling Duffel Bag
This is for the traveller who is not afraid of attention. This duffel richly combines plush shearling and leather and is spacious and perfect for weekend jaunts.
Sleepy Jones Durham Travel Slippers
They say men’s SO says unisex; these slippers are made from Napa leather and come with a zip-around leather case. Light on the feet and in one’s carry-on, these supple slippers will make the overnight first class cabin feel a bit cosier.
Stow First Class Tech Case
Another fave of the Duchess of Sussex, this travel pouch has a soft leather zipped case that comprises a plug bundle, rechargeable battery, executive-style USB, leather loops for headphones and a pen, plus a folder for travel documents. With airport security sucking the glamour out of commercial travel, Stow allows one to be orderly and stylish.
For The Table
Hermès H Deco Presentation Plate
Add French elecange to the dining table with these rouge porcelain chargers from Hermès.
Joanna Buchanan Napkin Rings
Elevate your napkin game with these brass and glass napkin rings that are both opulent and fun. Buchanan’s use of bold and dynamic colours have made her designs a celebrity fave and your guests will rave about these napkin rings forever.
Tom Dixon Bump Teapot
Art meets function with this striking teapot from the celebrated British designer. Minimalist in approach and daring in actuality, this hand-made teapot will make a ritual of tea time.
For The Home
Louis Vuitton Fragrance Candles
Dubbed by Elle as the “handbag candle”, Louis Vuitton created a collection of four perfumed candles with coloured wicks that will have your home smelling like the rose garden at Versailles or if you prefer, warm island sun. Each candle comes with a gold lid that doubles as a coaster and the leather handles, too, are scented.
Tiffany Clothespin
C’mon it’s Tiffany!
Porsche Panamera
Who wouldn’t love a sports car made for everyday use? With a range of options that include engine choices, interiors and tech, the Panamera’s capabilities are dynamic and almost matchless.