As the season of gift-giving nears, everyone runs into the rut of what to get. Admit it, you’ve spent hours scouring the internet or stores trying to decide on the perfect gift while being frustrated with yourself for not listening to those subtle cues throughout the entire year of what gifts the person would like. I too fall into this trap. Being the perfectionist that I am, it’s hard for me to find the ‘perfect’ gift; functional, cost efficient and valued. I’ve compiled a list of gifts for both him and her within a broad range of budgets in hopes of making everyone’s shopping this year a little easier. Hopefully my suggestions will help you find the perfect gift, or give you ideas as to what to shop for. Each week as a countdown to Christmas, I’ll release a short list of about 5 items for both genders going from $500+ down to $50+. I aim to hit all categories such as fashion, beauty, technology and home, but if you find that I’m missing anything, don’t hesitate to leave me a suggestion or comment! I’d love to know what everyone else has on their wishlists for this year!
I’ll admit it, although the items on today’s wishlist may not be completely budget friendly for the 20 something year old working student like myself, every girl can dream right? I’ve included some quintessential items on this list that would be fantastic to recieve as a Christmas gift and can be worn to the following week’s New Year’s parties or any festivities that come up. Classic and simple, everything is black so as to match with whatever else is found in your wardrobe.
1. The 5050 Boot – Stuart Weitzman | $660.00
Living in Canada teaches you to dress warmly but fashionably for any occasion. If you are wearing a dress to a party this season, these sleek and simple boots will keep your attire within occasion while keeping your spindles warm. They also double after the parties are over as a chic way to liven up a simple jeans and t-shirt look. Simply slip these on and you can elevate any outfit to sophistication. They also help when you’re walking through 2 feet of snow and those booties aren’t cutting it anymore.
2. Cluster Earrings – Tiffany’s | $6,5050.00
As the saying goes, diamonds are a girl’s best friend. The main theme of this list seems to be simple and timeless silhouettes. Studs can be used to dress up any formal outfit, or pull together a simple one. This pair is small and not over the top extravagant, so you can easily wear these without making others jealous, unless that’s what you’re aiming for.
3. Kay-F3 Black Down Coat with Fur Trimmed Hood – Mackage | $690.00
A plush down coat is a must if you’re going to brave the winter up here in the North. We get the rap for having snow year round, and I’ve heard stories of those coming from down South expecting to go skiing in the middle of July. Spoiler: we have 4 seasons in a year. Winter lasts a meager 2-3, before the snow melts and becomes slush. Even then, our winters can be harsh and very dry. As a student, I slave for the OC Transpo schedule each morning as I walk out to the bus stop, and sometimes the snow storms can cause buses to be 45 minutes to an hour behind schedule. Sometimes they don’t even come altogether! Therefore a good coat that can cover past your buttocks is essential to block out that icy wind that gives your cheeks a winter blush (you don’t want your other cheeks to be cherry red though). The added effect of the fur hood can block out any incoming snow to your face, but hey, wanting a nice snuggle doesn’t hurt either.
4. Small Antigona – Givenchy | $2,280.00
The perfect structural bag that is casual yet sleek. This bag is large enough to fit those pair of mittens, beanie and head warmer you’ve brought along to keep yourself warm while you shop. I also love being able to throw in a water bottle and snack when I’m out and about in order to prevent unnecessary spending (I need to save money for clothes right?). This bag has an understated glam to it that lets the rest of your outfit shine through without completely disappearing into the background.
5. So Kate – Christian Louboutin | $625.00 (this color for the holidays)
Mr. Louboutin has done it again, this elegant and simple silhouette shows off the delicateness of the wearer’s foot. Does that sound wierd? I don’t think so. Not that I have a foot fetish, but I’ve always found that the higher the heel, the more beautiful the arch. Not only is the heel at the perfect height (not too high to be misinterpreted as a street walker, but not to look to appear modest), the pointed toe lends to an elegance. Simple switch out from your ‘outdoor shoes’ and into these at any occasion and you will be the envy of the room.
Looking at this entire list, I think you could literally build any wardrobe around this. Or even wear everything together, just one shoe at a time. The only thing left to do now is to find that perfect dress to ring in the New Year!