LUXURY ACCESSORIES such as jewellery and premium leather goods are the classic ‘investment’ gift. There’s just something achingly sentimental about giving your beloved a precious item you can watch them grow old with. Now excuse me while I sob over my keyboard to this for a minute…
We recommend the Watermelon Pip Ring by Lucy Folk for her (RRP from $154); for him try the Ted Baker Harlemm satchel (RRP $519), stockists at 1300 786 896.
UNDERWEAR might seem like a Valentine’s Day cliché but a gorgeous set of smalls is a genuine treat for those of us who can’t afford to splash out on ‘special occasion’ gear when these boobs aren’t going to restrain themselves 365 days of the year. Nice underwear can be really expensive, but luckily there are ample racy, lacy options for gifters with slightly shorter pockets.
We recommend TOPSHOP Bra (RRP $36) and Briefs (RRP $16); Nasty Gal Lonely Sabel Cutout Lace Bra (RRP $98) & High Waist Lace Panty (RRP $72); Kiki de Montparnasse Le Soleil underwired crochet-lace body at TheOutnet.com (now £146.25).
CANDLES are a terrific inter-generational – and unisex! – gift for the home. They look good on the shelf, neutralise smells, and provide warm light in times of electrical failure. Practical and luxe.
We recommend Circa Home Along the Shore candle (260g Classic Candle RRP $32.95); ELLERY Un Été Dans Le Luberon Candle (RRP $88); and for the neon lover in your life the Double Happiness candle from Glasshouse Fragrances‘ ‘Hong Kong’ range (350g Candle RRP $42.95).
WINE is great. Ply your love with an extra special bottle of something French – like a bottle of Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Champagne (RRP approx $220 per bottle). Otherwise, if you’d prefer to get more for your money and simultaneously support your local independent winemakers, opt for the 3 Pack Whites by Cake Wines ($48 online). Cake Wines also feature the work of Australian artists on their labels so they look good too.
TEA for the teetotaler. Tea Forte a global luxury tea brand that just launched in Australia and makes a delicious gift for the girl or guy who prefers kicking back with a booze-free beverage. The Tea Forte Ribbon Box comes with a sampler of black, green and herbal tea infusers (RRP $28).
FOOTWEAR is one of the most lusted over genre of luxury item across both genders. Gone are the days when shoe-love was a specifically female affliction: now dudes are just as likely to be hoarding expensive footwear purchases in the back of their closet out of First World guilt or denial. Sleuth out the foot size of your favourite man and get him the gift of wheels.
We recommend Comme des Garcons play x converse sneakers from Harrolds (RRP $125); FEIT Burgundy Low (RRP $480); Vanishing Elephant Classic Derby shoe (RRP $240).
Don’t have a crush or love? Then send a friend this ‘Anti Valentines’ Mix by Derrick Gee, host of hip hop/soul podcast Finetooth Radio.
