Luxury Christmas Gift Guide

Gift giving for women is, fortunately, varied—there’s something for every special woman in your life from mothers to granddaughters. Think of something that she would love but perhaps wouldn’t buy for herself. Those extra special luxuries will be gratefully received and will make her feel valued.

We love a beautifully woven cashmere throw for a grandmother; a classic frame, complete with a photo of a sweet memory, as a Christmas gift for mum or mother-in-law; or a special Christmas tree decoration for a daughter.

If you’re looking for Christmas present ideas for a female friend how about an always-fresh faux floral arrangement or pretty vase? And should you find yourself shopping for a Christmas present for your wife, a beautiful watch box, a special set of candlesticks or a unique sculpture for her office make excellent wife-approved options.

If you’re shopping for a man, stick to the most popular categories: leather, entertainment and drinkware. A stylish leather accessory, a perfectly designed coffee table game or a flawless whisky decanter are all smart Christmas gift choices.

Backgammon sets and chess sets are a favourite Christmas present for dad and, for a husband, a sharp catch-all tray will keep pocket contents neatly in one place. For friends, a photo frame in caramel-hued leather or a stylish set of coasters work well. And, if you’re looking for an extra special gift, a leather and rich walnut wood valet will score you lots of brownie points this December 25th.

Couples can be a little harder to buy for—after all, they might have completely different interests or tastes—so it’s best to narrow your search on the one area that always works: homeware. It’s something they can both enjoy. If you feel comfortable that you know their home style, feel free to gift them something which suits it; if not, choose something neutral.

A photo frame with a recent family photo is the perennial Christmas gift for mum and dad but, if you’re looking for something a little different, a unique canvas or sculpture makes for a beautiful addition to their art collection. Shopping for a sibling and his or her spouse, think centrepiece or cheeseboard; and for those close friends who have recently moved into a new home, a lovely new home fragrance.

Usually, if you’re entertaining guests at Christmas, it’s nice to send them away with a little memento from their time spent in your home. Of course, this year is going to be a little different with fewer or no guests. That's not to say say you can't still gift give from afar. You might want to start by subtly quizzing your close friends on what’s on their Christmas wish list to learn of what they might appreciate.

Easy picks which delight most are a pretty vase, an interesting art book, a stationery set or their very own Christmas stocking which you can fill with all sorts of goodies. Have the gift in their room for when they arrive and it'll double duty as a Christmas present and a welcome gift.

Remember, choose something small or easy to transport, especially if they’ll be flying out.