Luxury has different meanings for different people. For some, luxury is slipping into a piping-hot bubble bath on a Friday night, while for others, it’s jetting off to a far-flung destination for some R&R.
To us, luxury has many faces - and they go by the names of Prada, Gucci and Loewe to name a few.
Shopping luxury is of course a privilege, but it also champions the ethos of shopping less and buying better. Christmas is the ultimate time to embrace this philosophy, especially when selecting a gift for friends and family. Unlike children, adults typically demand less ‘stuff,’ leaving space for their loved ones to source cherishable presents to last the years.
The luxury sphere is no doubt a tough nut to crack. The trend-led industry is constantly oscillating between new styles, meaning knowing where to start can be overwhelming.
One thing we know for sure is that quiet luxury is out for Christmas. A sartorial modus operandi adored by Sofia Richie Grainge, Hailey Bieber and Rosie Huntington-Whitely, ‘quiet luxury’ is defined by monochrome hues, streamlined silhouettes and understated accessories.
We are firm believers that winter is a time to toy with colour. No period is more in need of dopamine dressing than the chilly Christmas period. It is, after all, meant to be holly and jolly to the extreme.
This means knits, scarves and gloves galore. Layering is one of winter’s greatest joys, and luxury pieces offer both comfort and opulence wrapped up in one sumptuous garment. Brands such as Gucci, Molly Goddard and Casablanca are go-to names in this department.
Jewellery is another surefire hit when it comes to gift-giving. With New Year’s Eve on the horizon, the most dazzling pieces in our wardrobes gear up for their annual outing. Opt for a fabulous statement piece that they wouldn’t usually treat themselves to, from avant-garde earcuffs to decorative costume necklaces.
For those who prefer to exercise their luxury knowledge outside of fashion, look to homeware. Fashion houses such as Hermes, Christopher Kane and Versace have all dabbled in interiors, in turn producing covetable soft furnishings spanning cushions, bath towels and bedding.
In short: minimalism out, maximalism in. Having already endured a dreary English summer and an inevitably drizzly winter we are all in need of fun pieces before the new year. If you’re stuck, just look to Emma Corrin, John Boeyga and Dua Lipa for lessons in loud luxury.
Without further ado, read on to discover the best luxury buys for loved ones this Christmas.
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16Arlington Kikka Small Leather Shoulder Bag
One at the top of our wishlists, 16Arlington’s Kikka bag is a true It-girl status piece. The chocolate leather is a suave alternative to classic black and the accessory comes with a pair of distinctive angular flap pockets for extra functionality.
Buy now £895.00, Matches
Hamilton American Classic
One of the most iconic watch brands of our time, you’d be hard-pushed to find a timepiece fan who’s not heard of Hamilton. Fusing Swiss-made precision with its American roots, the brand marries the best of both worlds for designs that are packed with both character and quality. If you’re in the market for a collegiate style à la Dead Poets Society (and, I mean, who isn’t?), this is the watch for you.
Buy now £675.00, Hamilton
Loewe Bunny Leather Coin Purse
Some-bunny will love this Loewe’s adorable coin purse. Crafted from mustard-hued leather and complete with a pom pom tail, this detachable key ring will elevate any everyday handbag.
Buy now £325.00, Net-A-Porter
Baccarat Rouge 540 Scented Candle
One look at this beautiful side board statement centrepiece and you can tell it’s a luxury item. Too opulent to burn, it comes from Baccarat, the legendary French fine crystal manufacturer and was created to honour its 250th anniversary.
The diamond cut design offers an eye-catching effect if you do decide to light it, while also reflecting the flicker around the room to create a magical yet warming atmosphere. The candle itself is enriched with notes of blood orange, saffron and white oak moss. It offers a burning time of 45 hours - if you can bare to.
Buy now £480.00, Harrods
Derek Rose Arran striped cotton pyjamas
Founded in 1926, Derek Rose remains a family-run business nearly 100 years after its foundation and boasts a wealth of experience in men’s sleepwear. In a classic blue and white Arran stripe, this is a relaxed set that will keep you comfy in style for any lazy days at home.
Buy now £235.00, MatchesFashion
Tom Ford Neroli Portofino Eau De Parfum 50ml
It doesn’t get more refined than the Italian Riviera - so it’s no wonder that Tom Ford’s summery fragrance is named after the gorgeous fishing village located in the heart of the region. Cool, floral and citrussy, it’s a fragrance that will waft with you throughout the day, imparting a light, breezy elegance - now, all you need is the louche, flowy shirt to match.
Buy now £210.00, Harvey Nichols
Soho Home White City Towel
Infuse your poolside aesthetic with some Seventies nostalgia courtesy of this cabana-striped towel used at Soho House White City. Displaying a burnt orange and monochrome striped print and a fluffy Turkish cotton construction, the towel is an excellent choice for all.
Buy now £65.00, Soho Home
Rimowa
Designed for the discerning traveller, Rimowa is one of the first names to spring to mind when you think of suitcases. No wonder, it’s been ‘redefining travel’ for more than 120 years, established back in 1898 - making it five years older than the invention of flying.
If you think that makes Rimowa’s offering old fashioned - think again. The iconic original design, launched in the 50s, forms the base of the collection, but there’s more to explore: Essential is all about function, Essential Lite and Essential Sleeve (ideal for business trips). Then there’s the heritage-look Classic, and Hybrid models which marry aluminium and feather-light polycarbonate. All the German-engineered options come in a range of colours and sizes: cabin, check-in and trunk. If you fancy playing suitcase designer, you can build your own from scratch too.
Rimowa is also known for sellout collabs with the likes of Dior, Supreme (which sold out in 16 seconds flat), and Chaos which sports an edgy drip pattern.
Pick it up: the OG is still the best in our eyes. For big trips, opt for the Original Check-In L (79 x 51 x 27.5cm) which has enough room for a fortnight away. Fitted with TSA-approved locks, a collapsible telescopic handle, high-quality wheels and a flex divider inside, it’s a thing of real beauty.
Buy now £1070.00, Rimowa
Montegrappa Mia Fountain Pen
Luxury pen company Montegrappa has been creating its signature style of pen for over 100 years – all handcrafted in Italy’s Bassano del Grappa. Let your thoughts flow onto paper using the label’s Mia fountain pen that has been designed with environmentally-responsible resin and finished in a wacky meteor shower colour burst. The writing instrument is chunky with marbled textures to create a vintage look, but its nib is fine for clear and elegant writing.
Buy now £300.03, Amazon
Collina Strada Water Bottle
Extra is always on the agenda with Collina Strada in tow. The sustainable brand’s diamante-clad water bottle is sure to turn heads and spark envy amongst friends and family. Complete with a floral motif, disco-ready rhinestone embellishment and a lobster claw fastening, the hydration essential promises the most dazzling of drinks.
Buy now £112.00, Farfetch
Miu Miu Matelassé Quilted Leather Card Holder
The sheer practicality of the cardholder cannot be understated and this rose pink Miu Miu rendition is ideal for girlfriends, mothers and siblings who have fallen prey to Barbie’s pretty in pink impact.
Buy now £300.00, Selfridges
Tissot Savonette Full Hunter Pocketwatch 48.5mm
From the Roman numerals to the understated design, Tissot’s stainless steel design is traditional through and through. Powered by a Swiss quartz movement, it’s a reliable piece that will keep you punctual for years to come.
Buy now £290.00, Mapin & Webb
JW Anderson Bunny Button Shirt
JW Anderson’s Bunny Button Shirt is a contemporary take on classic workwear. Suitable for all genders, the crisp cotton garment has a relaxed silhouette complete with whimsical white bunny buttons adorned on the front closure.
Buy now £295.00, Liberty
Bode Off-White Beaded Gloves
If you’re not yet familiar, Bode is a brand to have firmly on your radar. The menswear label has released a limited edition supply of womenswear accessories, and these beaded cream gloves are not to be slept on. Be sure to check out the label’s collection of Western-inspired men’s shirts and embroidered jackets too.
Buy now £405.00, SSENSE
Vivienne Westwood Annalisa Hairclip
Jazz up an unfussy dress or suit with Vivienne Westwood’s timeless logo hair clip. A glittering yet punkish option for those tempted by some shimmer, shine and sparkle.
Buy now £125.00, Selfridges
Marni Leather-trimmed Shearling and Vinyl Tote
Texture fiends rejoice as Marni has supplied the perfect pan-fabric bag. This zesty number features a hot pink hue and swathes of vinyl-encased fuzzy shearling – the ultimate OTT purchase that proves that more is always more.
Buy now £735.00, Net-A-Porter
Liberty Melantha Silk Twill Scarf
A more traditional pick, Liberty’s decadent silk scarf doubles up as a top and bag when styled correctly. A sprawling botanical print is elevated by a durable silk twill material and an arrangement of flowers spanning Bleeding Hearts to Venus Fly Traps.
Buy now £235.00, Liberty
Chopova Lowena Bow-embellished Mohair-blend Cardigan
Layer up with Chopova Lowena’s charming bow-clad cardigan. The sumptuous knit features a snug mohair blend, tartan bows and silver buttons for those looking for a kitsch kick.
Buy now £595.00, Matches
Charles Jeffrey Chunky Ear Beanie
Establish your style status with Charles Jeffrey’s chunky ear beanie - an instantly recognisable hat complete with quirky critter features. Available in a range of colourways, the accessory is essential for the cooler months ahead.
Buy now £115.00, END.
Molly Goddard Jen Fairisle Wool Tank Top
One for layering or wearing as it is, Molly Goddard’s Fairisle sweater vest is the most luxurious take on a Christmas knit. Featuring a retro wool blend and a sleeveless silhouette that can be paired with a crisp white shirt, the garment will punctuate your wardrobe with warm pigments.
Buy now £420.00, Matches
Casablanca Cactus Intarsia Crew Knit
French-Moroccan brand Casablanca has earned a cult following and for good reason. Stocking vibrant designs for all genders, the luxury label effortlessly conjures up summer nostalgia. This crew neck features striped trims, a large logo and a cactus print for bringing the sunshine in woeful winter.
Buy now £693.00, END.
Acne Studios Vally Striped Felted Scarf
Acne has aced the scarf game, this much we know to be true. This genderless green and cream striped scarf is bound to keep chills at bay thanks to its alpaca wool and mohair blend.
Buy now £240.00, Matches
Bibi Van Der Velden Alligator Diamond Ear Cuff
Up your loved one’s earring game with this exquisite alligator ear cuff that has been crafted in Amsterdam. The statement piece is composed of 18-carat gold, brown diamonds and white tsavorites. Snap it up ASAP.
Buy now £1760.00, Matches
Christopher Kane More Joy Cushion
Infuse your home with positivity thanks to Christopher Kane’s More Joy cushion. The simple black-and-white item will blend into any interior aesthetic. Don’t forget the matching mugs and phone cases featuring the same cheery motif.
Buy now £99.00, MyTheresa
Prada High-heeled Satin Slides with Crystals
Firstly if you know your significant other’s shoe size, we commend you. Secondly, if you do, you have no excuse not to treat them to a pair of Prada heels. These wildly popular Prada pumps come in a range of colours from mint to pineapple and showcase glittering crystal detailing, an open-toe and a thick heel for dancing the night away.
Buy now £1350.00, Prada
Diptyque Do Son Eau De Parfum
Perfume is a highly personal gift and Diptique’s soft, sophisticated scents are beloved by all. The Do Son spritz harmoniously marries musky tones with tuberose floral notes, making for a natural olfactory experience. A unisex scent available in an elegantly adorned bottle, Diptyque Do Son Eau De Parfum is a failsafe present.
Buy now £148.00, Space NK
F. Hammann Moustache Grooming Set F. Hammann Moustache Grooming Set
Heritage German leather goods label F. Hammann has given the classic moustache kit a sophisticated makeover with its thoughtfully designed handcrafted pouch that houses a moustache comb, a brush, scissors and a nail file. One for the discerning well-groomed gent.
Buy now £90.00, Fortnum & Mason
Timeless Pearly Circus-charm 24kt Gold-plated Necklace
Allow your imagination to run away with you with Timeless Pearly’s beautiful circus-themed gold necklace. A hand-cast statement piece, the necklace features a peppering of child-like motifs such as clowns, stars and elephants that exude fairytale fantasy.
Buy now £445.00, Matches
Gucci Cotton Wool Intarsia Knit
Brighten everyone’s day with Gucci’s colour-block knit. Showcasing the words ‘Gucci I Love You’ set against primary shades of red, yellow and navy and made from a soft cotton-wool blend, the throw-on is luxury personified.
Buy now £1000.00, Gucci
Retrosuperfuture Ancora Classic Havana
A timeless frame, the Ancora sunglasses by Retrosuperfuture are one of their more understated designs. The bottle green lens and havana acetate offer great versatility.
Buy now £145.00, Retrosuperfuture
Bang & Olufsen Beolab 8.
Tech nerds and music buffs assemble! Bang & Olufsen has just announced the release of the Beolab. 8, a speaker that provides the ultimate sound system for the home. It may be small, but the exterior is aesthetically pleasing and sure to ignite questions from intrigued house guests. The compact casing shields the powerful stereo and an intense bass inside that provide an elevated musical experience.
Not only does it boast a sleek Scandi design, but there are features such as beam width control that allows users to switch between two listening experiences or narrow down with precise audio as well as the choice to change modes to diffuse sound across the room. Regardless of what mode you opt for, crystal-clear audio is always guaranteed.
Available to buy from October 29.
Buy now £5398.00, Bang & Olufsen
