GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING
How the home could provide the clues to finding the perfect Christmas present
Father 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.
PICTURE THIS
Picture frames are a fabulously versatile gift. They come in all shapes, sizes, colours and styles; ensuring there is a frame to suit every home.
And when it comes to the content, don’t leave it blank. Before wrapping, insert a picture of you and your friend. Or, for a more arty approach, buy a print showcasing the work of their favourite artist or even a special holiday destination.
SNUGGLE UP
Perfect for the Scandi fan in your life, choose a thick, warm blanket that just begs to be snuggled in. When it’s not keeping your friend toasty warm throughout the dark, winter months, it can double as a homeware essential – adding texture and layers.
And don’t worry too much about the wrapping either. Forget the paper and buy some gorgeous thick ribbon. Wrap the ribbon in a traditional parcel style before finishing off with a huge bow on top.
GET ORGANISED
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.