It’s the 3rd December, and the countdown has officially begun until Christmas (aka the BEST time of the year). I am super festive at the moment, and totally lapping up the freezing cold weather, morning frost, festive food and christmas shopping. I tend to do a lot of my Christmas shopping online (the one thing I don’t love about this time of year, is the hectic shops!), and have already been rounding up my fair of share of presents for family and friends over the net. If you haven’t already started buying your pressies yet, or you’re still in need of some more gift ideas for your loved ones – I’ve collated all my go-to buys; from the ultimate gift sets, favourite perfumes and scented candles, jewellery, quirky interior additions, and other must-have fashion and beauty buys – for this year’s annual Christmas 2016 Gift Guide.
Aevi Wellness Winter Beauty Box
I am going to start with my favourite first, with this beauty box from Aevi Wellness. But this isn’t just any kind of beauty box; it´s been curated and hand picked using only seasonal products (a box is released four times a year at the beginning of every season), using only the finest and natural ingredients, focused on providing products for a less stressful, more natural and simply beautiful life. The Winter collection is all about finding balance between the spirit of self and selflessness during the darkest months of the year: with Zenbunni’s Biodynamic Chocolate Rainbow Box, the herbal Skin Stick by Earth Tu Face, Mauli Rituals Healing Himalayan Salts, a Mantra Candle by Ria Ray and two silk and 18K gold bracelets from Moksha for you to share a blessing with someone you hold dear. Simply beautiful – the perfect gift for anyone truly special in your life (oh, and for the first time, they now also do a Wellness Box for Him).
Urban Outfitters Moroccan Coin Cushion Pouf
A versatile pouf with a touch of boho – perfect for a bedroom or lounge. The ideal gift for someone who either loves their interior, or has no clue (but equally, you know they’ll really appreciate it). Either ways – this pouffe from Urban Outfitters is a great buy and addition to any home.
Molton Brown Limited Edition Ylang-Ylang Comforting Body Gift Set
You just can´t go wrong with Molton Brown, and with this classic gift set, featuring the super moisturising Ylang-Ylang range, which includes a shower gel, light body lotion, body polisher and eau de toilette – you’ve got yourself a true safe bet; be it for your sister, mum or bestie.
Elemis Frangipani Gift Set
The Frangipani Collection from Elemis is one of their bestselling ranges; for good reason. For ultra nourished, smooth and supple skin, beautifully scented from the Frangipani Monoi Oil – this is an ultra luxurious gift (which won´t break the bank).
Decleor Calm Headspace Gift Set
This Christmas gift box from Decleor, is the ultimate pampering session, with some of the brand´s greatest soothing and moisturising products – to leave you feeling silky and smooth, head to toe – with a Body Milk, Serum & Cream.
Origins Gift Box
Origins always have the most incredible gift sets and ideas for Christmas, and now with their Gift Finder section on the site, it´s even easier to navigate than before. I am personally obsessed with Ginger, and I know a certain someone else in the family is too, so I picked out these bits for her – with the Feel Good Candle, Ginger Souffle Whipped Body Cream and Ginger Essence Purse Spray.
Urban Veda Radiance Body Rituals Collection
With a Body Wash, Body Scrub and Body Lotion – this gift box from Urban Veda is a great buy for a natural skincare junkie. Using only skin conditioning plant extracts to cleanse, without stripping skin of its natural oils, with pure bio-oils and regenerative essential oils to help to retain moisture, organic extracts and flower waters to restore suppleness, ease imbalances and promote skin repair.
Aveda Gifts of Care Box
Every year and throughout any gifting period, Aveda source their handmade wrapping paper and gift boxes from Nepal, supporting mothers, daughters and families to create income for nearly 5000 papermakers, creating jobs and homes. So this isn’t just any Christmas gift box… For every purchase, you are indirectly supporting the communities who really need it. I went for the Smooth Infusion Style-prep Smoother, Beautifying Radiance Polish and their classic Wooden Paddle Brush in my gift box.
Cowshed Festive Handcare Caddy
This is a classic buy, from iconic British Brand Cowshed – with their Handcare Caddy Duo, which includes a hand wash and hand lotion in this festive, limited edition packaging.
Glamglow Gift Sexy Treatment Set
A great value gift set from Glamglow, with four mud masks for every skin concern: clearing, exfoliate, firming and hydrating. What more do you want?
Jo Malone Christmas Cracker
I love a beauty cracker; and this one from Jo Malone is the perfect gift to just about anyone. With the classic Basil & Neroli Cologne, Blackberry & Bay Body & Hand Wash, and addictive Mimosa & Cardamom Body Crème… It´s a no brainer.
Caudalie Vinosource Face Cracker
Another great cracker; containing some of Caudalie´s best-loved hydration products, with their Vinosource S.O.S Thirst-Quenching Serum, Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet & Moisturizing Mask.
Topshop Nail Polish
Topshop´s nail polishes are so on-point this season; the colour choice is endless and they’re super reasonable; the ideal stocking filler, in other words.
Revlon ColourStay Gel Nail Polish
The new and improved ColorStay Gel Polish from Revlon is the their toughest top coat yet! Available in 38 shades – there is something for everyone here.
Byredo Saints Rose Water Scented Candle
Everyone says I am the hardest person to get presents for; but my nearest and dearest know that the key to my heart is a scented candle. One of my all-time favourite brands, Byredo, has just launched this exclusive votive candle for Christmas 2016, inspired by prayer and seven day candles. With notes of Bulgarian rose, geranium and rose petals – it´s another winner from the brand.
Malin+Goetz Otto Mini Scented Candle
Mini candles are great gifts and the perfect buy for frequent travellers and people on-the-go (when you might want that comforting and lightweight scent with you at all times) – Malin+Goetz do the best mini candles, and of my personal faves is their Otto scent.
London Tea Club Membership
Know someone that love their tea? London Tea Club source and select teas to match your flavour profile if you’re signed up to their club. You´ll get full access to a wide range of rare and special teas, or get sent samples of whatever tickles your fancy that month. So why not gift a membership to a tea fan? Such a great, and unique gift.
Urban Outfitters Tall Planter
This super chic brass planter from Urban Outfitters would be a great addition to most houses (although I am pretty biased, with my love of inside wildlife).
DKNY Be Delicious Perfume
This classic and iconic perfume from DKNY, is a pretty safe scent for anyone, in my opinion. A refreshing perfume, with a blend of apples, exotic flowers and woods.
Urban Outfitters Heat-Changing Panda Mug
A cute novelty gift from Urban Outfitters; this heat sensitive panda mug, only goes and changes colour when you pour hot liquid in, so your sleeping panda suddenly wakes up! Just hold onto his ears and enjoy.
Urban Outfitters Soy Candle
Because boys love candles too. This Teakwood & Tobacco scent from Urban Outfitters is a delicious, dark and woody scent.
Urban Outfitters Soup-To-Go Mug
Cook, serve and store all in one with this soup mug from Urban Outfitters. Complete with a steam vent and microwave, dishwasher and oven safe up to 375 degrees – I mean, what´s not to love.
HEMA Candles & Candle Coasters
With a large large selection of reasonable candles and coasters – you can easily fill your basket at HEMA. I opted for pastel coloured candles, but they’ve got all sorts and styles to suit your liking on their website.
Happy + Co Bunny
This wooden ´Happy Bunny` from Happy + Co is the cutest gift – be it to decorate a children´s bedroom, or a fun loving gift to an adult.
Lonely Planet The Ultimate Travel List
Never again question if a location is worth visiting thanks to this all-be-all of travel locations compiled by The Lonely Planet.
Byredo Tree House Scented Candle
Fill your home with the luxurious candle, with scents of Japanese woods from Byredo… Dreamy.
Byredo Fleur Fantôme Scented Candle
Inspired by a lush botanical garden, with top notes of Lemon Petitgrain Leaves and Rhubarb, Tulip Extract and Violet Leaves – this pink hand-painted glass candle from Byredo, serves as the perfect, luxurious gift and home decoration.
Yotam Ottolenghi: PLENTY & NOPI Cookbook
Cookbooks by one of my all-time favourite chefs, Yotam Ottolenghi – filled to the brim with wholesome, healthy and delicious recipes. Both PLENTY & NOPI are popular classics and were gifts given to me a few years back – so needless to say, I´ll be sharing the Ottolenghi love to my nearest and dearest too.
Happy + Co Printed Cushions
I am always on the lookout for new, independent and quirky interior brands, with a difference. Happy + Co is a truly beautiful and sustainable brand (+ 10% of their profits gets re-invested into their Happy + Co Farm in Cambodia). Not to mention, the quality and styles of the cushions, are stunning. With neutral colour palettes and soft prints – this is a great addition to any home.
L´Artisan Parfumer Interieur Figuier Candle
One word. Divine. This scented candle from L´Artisan, looks good, smells good, and lasts for ages. Worth every penny, in my opinion.
L´Artisan Parfumer Mirablis Perfume
Inspired by the fragrant notes of the Orient – this perfume from L´Artisan pays tribute to the woody plains of the forest. A dreamy affair… Not to mention, the bottle design (spot the bee!), is to-die-for.
Malin+Goetz Sage Scented Candle
My husband´s favourite scent (he is just as obsessed with scented candles as I am) – with Sage by Malin+Goetz.
Penhaligons Portraits Perfume Collection
With a tribute to the English spirit; between establishment, humour and provocation – this one-of-a-kind perfume collection from Penhaligons, and an absolute must-buy for any perfume collector out there.
Leonor Silk Scarf
The most beautiful scarf I ever did see – courtesy of British brand, Leonor. A one of a kind handmade piece, in the most incredible, vivid colours. A statement piece in it´s own right, and trans-seasonal from day-to-night – in other words, the perfect luxe presents. Oh, and they’ve got a special Christmas promotion on right now.
L’Oréal Beauty
Looking for stocking fillers, or don´t want to break the bank this Christmas? L’Oréal´s a safe bet any day. You know the quality is excellent, and with so many new colours, styles and ranges – you have something for everyone. Current favourites include: Pure Clay Detox Mask, True Match Liquid Highlight, True Match Powder Glow Illuminator, Gold Obsession Lipsticks & Volume Million Mascara.
Pop.See.Cul Jumper
Who doesn’t love a cute statement jumper? This pink knit from PSC is the cutest gift… And I know exactly which one of my friends will be getting it!
Shore Projects Gift Box
This gift box set from Shore Projects is a great Christmas pressie; select any style of watch, with any three interchangeable strap – choosing from a wide array of metals, and watch straps (be it canvas, leather, felt). For him or her. I mean, it doesn’t get much better than this.
The White Company
One of my personal go-to´s every Christmas is The White Company. You just can´t go wrong buying from here; be it their classics Seychelles Gift Set or Mini Diffusers Collection; Furry Slippers, Bathroom & Toiletry Accessories or even jewellery. They´ve got it covered.
Hill & Friends Leopard Tote Bag
Want to go all out? This stunning leopard printed oversized tote bag (perfect for travelling) – is the ultimate statement bag. And you just can´t go wrong with leopard print; it´s a forever classic. With gold hardware details, pockets for days, and a zip puller with tail attachment for instant access to the bag – it´s both practical, and stylish.
PORTER Magazine Subscription
Why not give a magazine subscription? And if there is one fashion mag to subscribe to, it´s PORTER. The go-to destination for the best curation of fashion, beauty and lifestyle news.
DAFNI Go Hair Straightening Brush
An ingenious hair straightening device from DAFNI, and the perfect portable hair-styling brush for women with a fast-paced, on-the-go lifestyle (who wants a sleek and smooth hairstyle at all times). With an added thermal cover and thermal bag, simply pack it back immediately after use. LOVE!
L.K.Bennett X Boyarde Personalised Bag
Why not get real personal with L.K.Bennett´s classic Saffiano cross-body bag, monogrammed with Boyarde´s pop-art inspired, leather alphabet stickers? It doesn’t get much better than this.
Goldfaden MD Brightening Transformation Kit
Zelens Instant Renewal Mask
The ultimate face mask from Zelens to renew your skin, increase skin cell turnover, restore vitality and radiance, tighten and intensely moisturise. The receiver will be forever grateful for this one.
Perricone MD Multi Action-Overnight Treatment
Perricone MD is one of my all-time favourite skincare brands, and this multi-benefit cream fights fine lines and wrinkles at night to firm, tone and tighten skin’s appearance. Wake up to a deeply hydrated complexion that looks refreshed, radiant and revitalised. The perfect beauty product to kickstart 2017 with.
Perricone MD No Highlighter Highlighter
Know someone who´s a fan of contouring? This illuminating liquid highlighter from Perricone MD, helps restore radiance for a fresh, youthful glow – whilst brightening and defining.
ASOS Party Dresses
ASOS are killing it this season with their party wear (don´t miss their 30% sale on right now!). And if giving clothes is your thing – be it to your sister, mum or bestie – here are three very different styles, which are all wardrobe winners in my eyes, and suitable for any party occasion: Red Dress, Black Lace Dress & Embroidered Black Dress.
Lulu & Nat Bed Linen
Another thing I LOVE to receive (and give) is super soft and crisp bed linen. I have my personal go-to favourites, and now I have another brand to add to the list, with British brand Lulu & Nat. I particularly love this classic white style, with it´s contemporary embroidered border, all in 100% pure percale Indian cotton. What dreams are made of.
Laura Mercier Face Illuminator
Winter is a time when you want your skin to give that extra bit of glow, warmth and shine – and one of my favourite products to do that with, is this Laura Mercier´s Face Illuminator. With light-reflecting pearls for a colour-true, multidimensional, luminous finish, complementing all skin tones. In other words, the perfect beauty gift.
Laura Mercier Silk Creme Oil Free Photo Edition Foundation
Another one of Laura Mercier´s popular and iconic products – and if there ever was a foundation that created that photoshoot ready skin – this is the ONE.
Tom Ford Waterproof Foundation/Concealer
Another brilliant foundation and concealer, this time from Tom Ford – creating that soft, velvety finish, which helps to neutralise the skin tone. Oh, and it´s waterproof – so the ideal gift for a frequent traveller/water bunny.
Pandora Vintage Fascination Ring
This geometric sterling silver band ring by Pandora – a bezel-set, princess-cut and bead-set clear cubic zirconia stones – is too pretty not to give away. And who wouldn’t love it?
Old Harry Breton Knit
I love me a good knit, and came across Old Harry, a British knitwear brand who do great quality Breton knits, in super soft cotton and the perfect fit. Oh, and they’re unisex, so why not get a matching his & hers?
Adore Stud Earrings & Hoop Earrings
Timeless and classic jewellery from Adore, with a unique edge (which also doesn’t break the bank) – a match made in heaven. The trouble is, I kind of want both these studs and hoops for myself!
Say Yes To Coconut Shampoo & Conditioner
Say Yes To, an award-winning, natural beauty brand – only utilising the goodness of fruit and veggies, as well as being paraben free, cruelty free and at least 95% natural. Their Coconut shampoo and conditioner is so scrumptious, infused with softening Argan oil, Sunflower, Aloe and Avocado to help sooth and hydrate. And it´s super cheap too! Perfect.
Urban Outfitters Weekly Dry Erase Board
This Weekly Dry Erase Board from Urban Outfitters is the perfect gift for someone who likes to be organised! Separated into sections for each day to help you stay on top of it.
Skagen Connected Watch
This hybrid smartwatch from Skagen combines innovative technology with a classic design. Featuring automatic time and date adjustment, activity and goal tracking, sleep tracking, filtered email and text notifications, dual-time function, alarm and link technology – allowing the wearer to snap a photo, control their music and more, all with the push of a button. Compatible with Android and iPhones, syncing wirelessly to the SKAGEN app, where you can view your data and manage settings. A unisex style – and the ideal gift for someone who likes to be organised on-the-go (and look stylish whilst at it).
NARS Make-Up
I am such a big fan of NARS, and I´m pretty sure there are a lot of fellow “Narsists” out there too! It´s one of my go-to make-up brands, and my personal favourites (and the ones I am planning of gifting this year), are… Sheer Glow Foundation, Semi Matte Lipstick, Velvet Lip Glide (lipgloss) and their classic Blusher. Cult classics which you can´t go wrong with.
Aveda Tulasara Range
A new range from Aveda, which is 97% naturally derived – promoting radiant and glowing skin. My personal faves from the collection? Radiant Oleation Oil and Firm Concentrate.
Jewlr Customised Necklace
Give something personal by customising a necklace with Jewlr… Choose from gold, silver, in various fonts and styles – and make it real special, for that extra someone special.
kikki.K Mindfullness Journal
The most thoughtful gift to a fellow soul sister, or to someone who might need some help slowing down… Mindfulness improves productivity and focus, increases self-awareness and helps you change unhealthy habits. This kikki.K Journal features useful information on mindfulness, like benefits and techniques; meditation exercises and monthly reflection pages.
Marie Kondo: “The Life-changing Magic of Tidying” & “Spark Joy“
These books by Marie Kondo demonstrate how to declutter your life, tidy and organise. Both “The Life-changing Magic of Tidying” and “Spark Joy” personally changed the way I have live and treat my home, working space and wardrobe. I know who I´m giving them to next (who also won´t be offended, or take it as a massive hint!).
Darphin Lumiere Essentielle Collection
Treat your favourite lady to Darphin´s latest product release (Lumiere Essentielle Collection); with their radiance enhancing Cream and Serum – both dedicated to soften, hydrate and rejuvenate dull complexions.
Anything from AESOP
Another thing I always love given (and receiving) is basically anything from AESOP – not only does the packaging look good on your bathroom shelf, their products are always top notch. As gifts, I love their Rose Hair & Scalp Moisturising Masque, and Ginger Flight Therapy.
…and there you have it. Really hope you enjoyed the gift guide, and that I managed to give you some ideas!
