The Australian compiles a list of high-end Christmas gifts with the help of David Jones.
Comedy Christmas sweaters (artfully modelled here by Colin Firth in Bridget Jones's Diary) may be having a comeback, but as a gift they won't inspire awe - or repeat use Source: Supplied
Want Les Essentiels De La Vie bag Picture: Supplied Image Source: Supplied
Something from Tiffany & Co. is always appreciated. Source: News Limited
Elsa Schiaparelli for Tiffany & Co Bone cuff. Source: Supplied
Rado watch. Source: Supplied
CHANEL 2.55 bag. Source: Supplied
Tiffany & Co. Metropolis Cufflinks. Source: Supplied
Prada Cinema sunglasses. Source: Supplied
Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. Source: Supplied
One More Slip by Marion Von Adlerstein. Source: Supplied
A WALKLEY-award-winning colleague at the Oz HQ recently celebrated his 30th wedding anniversary. With much pride, he told us of his purchase of a beautiful Georg Jensen cuff for his beloved. Those assembled were duly impressed with his choice of celebratory gift. Until, that is, he mentioned, in an offhand manner, that his beloved actually had her eye on a ring from the same establishment. Three of us looked at him in abject horror. "What?" we uttered in unison. "You know she loves the ring, and you bought her the cuff?"
"It's a really nice cuff," he countered, showing us said cuff online.
"Yes, it is," we concurred. "But she likes THE RING."
Anyway, the fallout of the situation was that she loved the cuff, so we all stood corrected and our colleague was both relieved and understandably smug. Which is my way of saying, when deciding upon a gift for a loved one this Christmas, go with your gut, and feel free to ignore any advice herein. If, however, you have no idea what to buy for said person, but you think that they have an appreciation of long-lasting style versus fleeting trends, here are some tips to point you in the right direction. Remember, just like puppies, gifts are not just for Christmas, they should be for life. If you get it right.
Merry Christmas!
BAGS OF STYLE
If you know that your partner is a dedicated fashionista for whom only the latest incarnation of the McQueen knuckleduster clutch is of interest (and then only until the next one comes along), you'll know where to go.
If you'd like to find something that will outlast trends and be her go-everywhere reminder of your generosity, then look for a classic item that will work with the rest of her wardrobe.
A simple black leather bag is a versatile option, but if colour is her thing, then opt for a simple shape in her favourite shade.
An enduring favourite is the Chanel 2.55, which has stayed in style for 58 years and counting.
If you're buying for a man the same rules apply, but look for a large tote or a messenger bag in leather, something that won't date and can be used for work or weekends.
For her: The Chanel 2.55, $6760; 1300 242 635
For him: Want Les Essentials de la Vie O'Hare Leather Tote Bag, $987; mrporter.com[1]
BOOK WORMS
In my humble opinion, the best accessory for your person is a book. Nothing says confidence or smarts like someone carrying a book, be it the latest bestseller or a classic crime novel. And while you should never judge a book by its dust cover, a stylish one will look all the better when it is being seen in the park or on the train.
One More Slip by Marion Von Adlerstein, $29.99 (Hachette Australia)
JEWELLERY
This is dangerous territory. It can also be expensive territory, especially if you head into fine jewellery. First, know her metal preferences (silver, gold or rose gold?) and then work out whether she's more into understated pieces to be worn every day or oversized baubles for special occasions. Something from Tiffany & Co is always appreciated - those little blue boxes are a present in themselves - from simple diamond stud earrings that can be worn every day to a simple silver necklace from Elsa Schiaparelli.
And don't think those blue boxes are just for the ladies: they can also be filled with cufflinks, money clips and other gentlemanly accoutrements.
For her: Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co Bone Cuff in sterling silver, $1550
For him: Tiffany & Co Metropolis Cufflinks in sterling silver, $410; 1800 731 131
WATCH IT
A beautiful timepiece is possibly the best option if you want someone to think of you often. Be sure about what sort of watch would be appropriate - if it's for a man, is he sporty (dive watch), hi-tech (look for something with the latest whizbangery) or more of a vintage Rolex guy?
For a woman, would she prefer something small and jewellery-like, possibly trimmed in diamonds, or is she a straight-shooter who would like something clean and simple? As per jewellery, be sure about preferences, before making a choice. Also, as with jewellery, this is one area where your budget will dictate. Watches can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
WHAT LIES BENEATH
Proceed with extreme caution. Bulk-buy socks and jocks for gents and tawdry red lace for the ladies are both no-go zones if you want to keep face with your other half. If you really think lingerie and underwear will be well received on Christmas Day, then think chic, not tacky, and certainly not flammable fibres in odious shades. The best thing is to do some snooping - check their style preferences and sizes, then look for the best you can afford in that realm.
COVER UP
Something for your own Bogart or Hepburn, the trench coat is such a style perennial that it will be a go-to for years, even decades, to come. While this may seem an odd choice in the Australian summer, remember that it won't be long before the weather cools down.
Burberry has the best examples (see Buzz, left), having built a brand on the item, and has great choices for men and women, in black or beige. Go for the classic style in black, navy or beige rather than its seasonal updates if you want it to go the distance.
ALWAYS THE SUN
Sunglasses are a summer must-have, not to mention a year-round finish to every ensemble. When choosing for the man in your life, the more classic the better - Ray-Ban Wayfarers are a no-brainer and suit most men. For the style-conscious woman, a mix of classic and current is de rigueur - Prada Cinema is a great example, not too showy, but sleek and refined. They're also a useful gift to have handy for New Year's Day, providing the perfect cover-up for a hangover.
For him: Ray-Ban Wayfarers, $259.95; 1300 655 612
For her: Prada Cinema, $430; at Sunglass Hut, 1800 556 926
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