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People always tell me I’m “hard to buy for,” which isn’t entirely untrue. It’s not because I have everything (I do love shopping though…) it’s mostly that I’m very particular about everything. I like practical but beautiful things. Thoughtful stuff but not clutter. Goth things that are macabre, not kitsch. It’s a very narrow remit.
I’m grateful for every gift I get, of course - but will I actually use it? Chances are… maybe not. A big part of that is living in a tiny flat where everything has its place. Space is precious and anything extra has to earn its keep by being genuinely useful or something I love so much I’d never part with it.
So, with that in mind, I’ve created a list of the gifts I genuinely rate, would happily receive and may or may not already own for this very reason. Basically if you’re stuck for gift ideas, have a tricky person to buy for or need some self-gifting inspiration - then this is your list.
Screenshot, circulate, leave this “accidentally open” in someone’s browser….;)
If in doubt a simple book is an excellent festive gift. Hardbacks in particular feel luxurious, are easy to wrap and give us something we all need; an excuse to just sit down and do something without tech.
On my list is:
Signs by Dr Tara Swart – one of the few “synchronicity” books that feel grounded in the perfect blend of science (Dr Tara is a neuroscientist) and unconventional thinking.
Mudlarking – I own this already, it was a gift and it’s gorgeous. A love letter to London, history, and all things found-object. A beautiful book on something your giftee is geeky about always wins.
Cindy Sherman Anti Fashion - I love CS, and this book accompanied her exhibition in Belgium earlier this year. If there’s an artist your friend likes, a nice book on their work is a real treasure.
PS: If you want a better relationship with how you look, you might like my book Ugly too. Hint. HINT.
We’re grown adults - the freebie makeup bag from a gift-with-purchase is no longer cutting it. It’s something we might use daily, so having one that’s practical and chic makes a great and useful gift. These are the two I rate:
Elizabeth Scarlett Sun Goddess Flat Lay Bag – this one opens completely flat so it’s easy to rummage in, it comes in pretty witchy designs and can be personalised.
Smythson - If you’ve got a substantial budget, then Smythson is the way forward. They’re classic, forever, quietly expensive and beautiful quality. I’ve got the plain black one and love it - but there’s a leopard print version that is such a vibe. They’re gender neutral too and last forever.
I love a practical gift - so very Capricorn of me - but it also has to have a bit of personality too. Here’s a few ideas.
Stanley cups - get one for your pal in their favourite colour and style. There’s various add ons and ways to personalise. It’s one of those things you’d like but can feel a bit unnecessary, which makes it a great gift.
Ottoto Garlic Peeler - this brand is so fun. This garlic peeler was gifted to me and is so useful, and I’ve gifted others stuff from this brand too.
Labour and Wait - anything from this store that deals in beautiful hipster homewares. I love this candle holder, which would pair well with a coloured candle.
Speaking of candles - IMHO a scented candle is a great festive treat but MUST check these three boxes:
Beautiful vessel you can reuse.
A cool vibes (ie be a bit aspirational) and feel like a joy to use.
Have a strong scent - it should smells beauts, even if you only light it for five minutes. What are you paying for otherwise?!
My faves are Jo Malone Pine and Eucalyptus - it smells like a Nordic forest in the very best way, any Neom candle - the scent lingers for days and Wildsmith’s Bothy Candle which is so relaxing I have to keep it for those evenings I need to physically destress.
Is it just me or has 2025 been unequivocally rubbish? The antidote? I’m making comfort boxes for my pals this year filled with lovely things. Just save any nice boxes you’re given and fill them with stuff you think they’d find comforting. It’s like an adult stocking TBH. Here’s a few ideas of bits to add in:
Kungyokudo incense - this Japanese incense crisp is elegant and utterly transportive. In London/Japan you can get it at Nakagawa 1716 (in shoreditch) or online here.
The softest socks you can find - White Company does some great ones. Cashmere is lovely, but any nice socks will do.
A beautiful notebook + pen. More on that shortly, but whatever is their vibe.
Some chai - nothing is more comforting than proper milky chai with warming spices. My fave is by Chai by Mira.
Next is one of my coolest discoveries - music and art fans will be very interested in this….
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