GIFTSTHAT KEEP ON GIVING F
ather Christmas has it easy. When it comes to finding Christmas gifts, children around the world are not shy about sending him their letters detailing exactly what they want. And he gets mince pies and brandy for his trouble.
We don’t have it as simple when it comes to buying for our grown-up friends. And if you don’t know what perfume your pal prefers, are unsure of their clothing size or struggle to remember their favourite band, buying them a Christmas present can be somewhat challenging.
Which is why a gift for the home is always a good idea. Homeware can be practical, or simply aesthetically pleasing, but if you use their home as your inspiration, you won’t go far wrong. Struggling for the perfect present? Why not choose something for the home… A luxurious blanket or throw will double as a decorative accessory when not used for snuggling Chances are you will have shared a glass or two of your favourite tipple with your tough-to-buy-for friend. So why not buy them a new set of glasses – wine glasses, stylish champagne flutes or modern tumblers for their preferred spirit, plus a bottle of their drink of choice. Cocktails are very popular right now, especially anything involving gin. If you know your friend is partial to the odd G ‘n’ T, surprise them with a beautiful gin and tonic tea set – not only will it be a practical addition but it will look stunning in the home too.
If your pal steers clear, of alcohol, a monogrammed mug or new set of coffee cups could be the way forward. Not sure about you, but my life seems to be getting busier and busier and each year I make the same New Year’s Resolution: to get organised.
A diary or calendar is an essential; something most people could not do without. And fortunately, the market is flooded with gorgeous ones; everything from beautifully crafted hardbacks complete with pen and card holders to inspirational notepads with Instagram-worthy quotes for every day of the week.
As for calendars, you can get everything from expansive family planners through to sophisticated midcentury modern-esque desk calendars.
And the golden rule when gifting something this functional: choose something a little more luxurious than the recipient would usually pick for themselves.
Lesley Taylor is the author of 10 interior design books and has appeared on a range of network TV shows, including This Morning, giving inspirational advice on home styling. She lives in Wales where she is the founder and design director of luxury interiors lifestyle store Taylors Etc.