Happy festive and gift-giving season to those who celebrate! Let these vetted recs be your guide to buying for the discerning woman in your life.
The Slowdown
Starting strong with my favorite present under $100: Topdrawer’s Washi Watercolor set featuring richly pigmented handmade Japanese paints. This is for the gal who could use a reason to slow down. It’s a great grounding gift for those of us who spend way too much time in front of screens and would like to tap into a creative hobby.
The Little Luxury
The Dries Van Noten Refillable Lipstick is an impressive stocking stuffer. It’s a fun accessory as much as a beauty staple, and the cases are designed with gorgeous contrasting prints. Plus it’s refillable, so new shades can be added to the tube each season.
The Set
A matching set from LESET is the cozy gift that keeps on giving. It’s the perfect travel uniform, work-from-home outfit, on-the-go throw-on or loungewear ensemble. My personal favorites are the soft 100% cotton Pointelle Slim Fit Tee and Boxer Pant. Gifting clothing is hard — I get it — but these timeless pieces will always be a winning choice. (Bonus: The brand is now available in the Twin Cities at Grethen House.)
Photography provided by Topdrawer, Dries van Noten, LESET, Aperture, Izabo, J.Mclaughlin and T3
The Pour
Niche estate wines make wonderful host gifts, and Sonoma, California–based Aperture Cellars is sure to delight. Founder/winemaker Jesse Katz’s limited-production fall releases range from chenin blanc to cabernet sauvignon, all from the volcanic hillsides of Alexander Valley. A bottle is sure to impress your in-laws, boss or best friend.
The Bauble
Dress them up or dress them down: Antwerp, Belgium–based IZABO is an up-and-coming jewelry brand known for its sculptural, luminous pieces. Resembling falling water droplets, the Ear Drops are super niche and perfect with a cashmere sweater or a little black dress.
The Tote
Rooted in J.McLaughlin’s cool New York City heritage, the Lex Suede tote in rich, nearly black hunter green features contrasting black-and-white stitching details and quiet hardware. This bag is perfect for the elevated everyday look.
The Multitasker
The T3 Aire 360 Styler is hands down the best hair tool; this workhorse replaces a blow dryer, round brush and curling iron. Lightweight and equipped with dual voltage, it travels with ease. This will land as an amazing upgrade that she may not have thought of for herself. The limited-edition Rouge red color is both festive and chic.
My very best,
Emma Cutler Velez, Publisher
