Holiday Gift Ideas: Part Two

How is your holiday shopping going? I’m actually fairly on top of things for a change, but have found some new goodies, most from women-founded brands and friends of Flair. I would take them all.

Journey by Oliver Gustav scented candle, $120

The scented candle above is available on handbag and jewelry designer Kendall Conrad’s site, as well as a scented lava rock holder and essential oil. If you aren’t familiar with Oliver Gustav, he has an uber chic interior design studio based in Copenhagen. I can’t decide which of the three scents sounds best; I also like that you can use the container after. Of course, Kendall makes plenty of gift-worthy designs herself. I’ve had my eye on a mini Khadija bag for a long time, and I’m super into her new wood bangles.

Then, you will have to stay tuned to learn more about this brand, but Tess Albrecht, the founder of Poetica Botanicals, has created a line of botanical-based products to use for everyday rituals, such as hand-washing, scent, even garment care. Her line of mists can be sprayed on your sweaters, your pillow…in your room. I can’t tell how good the Grandiflor smells. It is a very sophisticated floral, with dark notes. Really up my alley. She also makes a wash for your delicates (I immediately knew I had to introduce her to Frances de Lourdes designer Alejandra; they are now collaborating).

Speaking of Frances de Lourdes, you already know I’m a big fan. I also know that a cashmere silk tee is a splurge, which means one makes a perfect gift. Or a cami and tee set. My recent favorite is the Romy tee in sheer creme, to wear with a Keaton cami. (Note: You cannot wash the silk/cashmere pieces in the Poetica delicates wash, but you can use it on other FDL pieces.)

If you’re up for ordering something from Paris (I’m always game), and you haven’t tried a Del-Ep leather case for your phone, keys or reading glasses, now might be the time. The founder, Sigrid de L’Epine, just launched an elegant holiday collection with gold and silver accents. (I ran a story on Sigrid here.) I have all three cases in the Fauve (light brown) and use the phone one–a medium with a pocket for my bank card, driver’s license and $20, almost every weekend. (When I bought pieces, I had to pay for shipping, but no tax, which Sigrid was surprised about but I think the product cost is low enough they don’t charge it.)

I have to admit I gift myself a bit during the holidays (sometimes you just have to get those things no one else will find for you). I found this personalized tote in a little store in Litchfield, CT called Milton Market that has great home goods. The small size (mine) seems to be sold out, but they have others; maybe call, more could be coming in. The monogramming in two colors is $30. How could I resist?

The perfect wool, not scratchy Aran knit comes from my friend Heidi Wynne (whom I’m doing a book signing event at her new atelier tomorrow–see this post for details). I have the grey cardigan below and it is the perfect weekend sweater. Plus it’s $195 and everything on her site everything is currently 20% off. (She also has some fun Fair Isles, which are very classic and off-the-moment.)

Speaking of Heidi and the book signing tomorrow, it is with Susan Kaufman and for any NYC fans, her book Walk With Me New York is a fun look at the charm and history of our hometown, all taken on her (somewhat old and she won’t give it up) iPhone (which obviously worked since her book is in its 3rd printing!)

My friend Nikki Kule makes the Jackie O-ish balaclava for all you who are ski bound or just live somewhere cold. This year I just might need one. Pair with oversized sunglasses.

And if you’re really stumped about what to get someone, I highly suggest a Knockout Beauty digital gift card. I am a big fan, and founder Cayli Cavaco Reck’s skincare recommendations have vastly improved my skin. Plus, she has a lot of fun, indulgent beauty products as well.