A Holiday Gift Guide: A Collection of Stories and Thoughtful Finds

This gift guide was a labor of love, taking hours (and days!) to pull together a selection of items that feel personal, unique, and a bit extraordinary. If you’re reading this, know that I have combed through countless sources to bring you a list that truly feels special. I have also been inundated with questions about some of these pieces already-yes, the Fortuny scarves are as luxurious as they look, and yes, you absolutely need one.

These gifts are for the modern romantic, the vintage enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates beauty in everyday objects. From the tactile appeal of buttery leather gloves to the quiet elegance of a sculptural lamp or a classic Cartier watch, each piece here is meant to tell a story.

As a tailor, I can’t help but be inspired by the tools of my trade. My “Objects of desire” post from two weeks ago included a few of my personal favourites-like the measurement tape I now consider a symbol of artistry and precision after having these for over 12 years. Whether you are a craftsperson or simply someone who cherishes the details, I have woven that same sense of thoughtfulness into this guide.

1. A beautiful handmade leather measure tape

2. Vintage Silver plated clamshell caviar or butter dish

3. Handmade Lacquer Decorative Box, very pretty!

4. A very artsy and unique mirror

5. Charvet slippers – so chic and comfy. I need to pick one up the next time I’m in Paris, Charvet is just to die for!

6. Imagine these paired with a maxi cream silk dress or wool coat– a match made in heaven

7. A Japanese piece from the 1970s

8. Vintage Hermès soaps – how effortlessly chic can self-care get?

9. Loewe candle – smells divine and doubles as a stylish décor element

10. Anything fish-themed - absolutely obsessed!

Take the Fortuny scarves - their intricate textures and rich, earthy tones instantly elevate any outfit. Or the Art Deco tea set, which feels more like an heirloom than a gift, perfect for someone who sees their morning ritual as a sacred act.

1. My absolute favourite silk scarves - I already own them in cream, black, and brown. Timeless and versatile!

2. A black shell amulet-such a stunning gift, and the price point is more than fair

3. How gorgeous is this shell lighter case? I need one in my life!

4. A true luxury treasure

5. Opera-length gloves-I own a few pairs from this brand, and I’m completely obsessed

For those who love tiny, thoughtful details, treasures like the fishbone brooch-my current obsession, or any other animal-inspired brooch bring a touch of whimsy. The opera-length leather gloves exude undeniable allure. These are the kinds of items that aren’t just gifts-they’re keepsakes, with the potential to become part of someone’s story.

1. A very good scarf - one you can wear multiple times and always feel chic

2. Pillbox hats - an obsession of mine. Somehow, I enjoy them more on others than myself!

3. Rimowa luggage, a true classic that never goes out of style

4. These gloves, love the intricate detailing

5. A great read!

6. Everything in silver tableware, please!

7. A lovely Pablo Picasso poster

8. A gorgeous lamp - absolute statement piece for the home

9. Lovely canvas tote bag!

10. Another amazing Fortuny piece - on my wishlist too!

Lastly, If you’re shopping for someone whose taste leans toward the unexpected, the Hermès notebook or the sculptural perfume bottle by Bottega might be the way to go. These are pieces that feel curated, intimate, and far from generic.

1. The Dyson, a household essential

2. Hermès dreamy necklace..maybe this will be my next splurge?

3. Hermès notebook for when you want to feel effortlessly chic while jotting down your thoughts

4. How pretty are these?

5. Little mother-of-pearl antique dish

6. Art Deco heaven!

7. More fish brooches… because you can never have too many!

8. The new Bottega scent, I’ll admit, I’m more obsessed with how the flacon looks than the scent itself

9. Cartier cardholder, such a special and thoughtful gift idea

As always, I hope this guide inspires you to give (or treat yourself!) with intention. Let me know if you love it-and if you have a personal favourite from the list, I would love to hear.

Love,

Carrie x