The Savvy Shopper's Luxury Holiday Gift Guide

 

It's Christmas in New York and the holiday spirit is BACK! 5th Avenue is a madhouse with wall-to-wall shoppers out seeing the sights.  This year, 65% of people say they will be shopping IN PERSON and not online.  This bears out what we're seeing with record crowds.  Whether you order online or decide to face the hoards, these are some top-level Christmas gifts everyone wants:

Luxury Cosmetics that Double as Skincare

OGEE Tinted Skin Serums offer a beautiful finish with skin-loving botanicals. Lots of shades to choose from but since these are skin tints, they are quite forgiving to accommodate a wide range of complexions.  Pair with a set of their Complexion Sticks and Foundation Brush for a complete presentation.

Visit www.ogee.com

DefenAge Dermatologist and Ophthalmologist Tested Skincare

These luxe products are also available in a professional line, at your cosmetic surgeon's or dermatologist's office.  I've tested both collections and they are excellent products even for my hyper-sensitive skin due to a prescription Retin-A regimen.  The OTC products are effective and gentle, especially the 2 Minute Reveal which is similar to IL Makiage's Power Polish exfoliating treatment.  High points also for their 8 in 1 Bioserum and 24/7 Barrier Balance Creams. 

Top Shopping Tip: Order one of the large DefenAge sets and break it down into smaller sets or gifts.  Their 100% Pure Silk Pillowcase is also a beautiful gift on its own.

Visit www.defenage.com

Silky Luxe Lounge and Sleepwear

Forever French Baby natural bamboo pajamas for the whole family. Made from renewable, natural bamboo fiber (vicose), these beautiful pj's feel almost like silk next to the skin.  I've topped them with a pure mulberry silk cream kimono. Since they are made of bamboo, the material is highly breathable while keeping your body at a comfortable temperature. No sweating. An added feature is this design print, "The Charli", was made by a child on the autistic spectrum.

Visit www.foreverfrenchbaby.com

Matching Luggage

Biaggi - Luggage that folds is such a welcome gift for anyone who travels or takes frequent trips.  This beautiful set of zippered tote and onboard folding spinner cabin bag can hold a week's worth of clothes and essentials.  No bag checking needed.  I keep the tote with me in my seat and the cabin bag goes in the overhead compartment. Easy!  Your recipient will travel in comfort and style while the luggage itself folds flat for easy storage when not in use.

See all available sizes and colors at www.biaggi.com

Gift Jewelry

Now hear me out.  Yes, jewelry can be a bit tricky, but it is hard to go wrong with a pair of delicate earrings or a fine gold/silver necklace. Chanel makes costume jewelry, but stylists such as Lauren Conrad, Rachel Zoe, and Kendra Scott also have some lovely, quality pieces that are extremely inexpensive.  I have Tiffany & Co. jewelry, but Conrad's and Zoe's pieces are gorgeous even when placed next to Vancleef & Arpels's Alhambra collection.

So, this just goes to show that you need not spend a lot to give a lot.  Presentation is also important so take the time to wow them with the trappings of wrappings.

Wishing a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours!