The Fashion Memo

7 Gift Ideas From Team NET-A-PORTER’s Festive Wish List

In need of gifting inspiration for your nearest and dearest? Discover the items our fashion experts are hoping to give and receive this holiday season, including cozy knits, chic accessories, investment bags and wear-forever jewelry

Fashion

Cozy knitwear: Marquessa Whyte, senior fashion editor

“Both personal and practical, a luxurious knit makes the most thoughtful gift for a loved one. Whether you are looking for something bold and beautiful, like Brunello Cuccinelli’s Jacquard-knit sweater, or something chic and understated, like Toteme’s soft gray cardigan, there’s a style out there to suit all tastes. Plus, a knit can be worn repeatedly and in countless ways, making it a gift they’ll cherish for seasons to come.”

A statement dress: Viktorija Tomasevic, shopping editor

“There’s something about a statement dress – be it the color, print or silhouette – that can completely transform your mood, making it perfect for the festive season and beyond. Since I have a few parties coming up this month, I’ll be treating myself to Matteau’s silk crepe de chine maxi dress; I love how the luxe fabric feels elevated enough for the evening but isn’t over the top, meaning I can wear it again on vacation next year, too. I also love styles with unique details, like Christopher Esber’s ‘Concave’ maxi, which has embellished cutouts at the waist and looks gorgeous with barely-there heels and a sculptural cuff.”

Winter accessories: Colleen Ross, fashion content editor

“I always leave gift shopping to the last minute, despite telling myself I’ll be more prepared every year. This usually results in an overwhelming sense of panic and impulsive purchases that either don’t reflect the person I’m buying for or aren’t very useful. But gifts I’ve learned always go down a treat are cozy winter accessories, especially those in eye-catching colors and patterns. I’ll be gifting Loewe’s fuzzy pink scarf and Arch4’s Fair Isle cashmere beanie to my friends this year.”

A pendant necklace: Emily Johnston, fine jewelry & watches buyer

“One of the many pieces on my (very long) jewelry wish list – which I’d like to gift myself and my loved ones this year – is a pendant necklace. By Pariah’s diamond-embellished agate pebble pendant on silk cord is the perfect gift for someone who loves to wear their jewelry day to night, while those who are more into silver will love Agmes’s ‘Wishbone’ style – both look effortlessly cool layered or as a standalone piece. I’ve also had my eye on the necklaces in Tabayer’s Oera collection, which is inspired by Inanna’s knot – an ancient symbol of protection.”

Knee-high boots: Phoebe Unwin, buying manager

“I’ve always been a devoted ankle-boot wearer, but this season I am on the hunt for a shoe that looks equally as chic with a skirt as it does with denim – enter the knee-high. Top of my (self) gifting wishlist is Khaite’s refined ‘Andee’ boots, which come in elevated crinkled leather and combine the perfect height and toe shape. I will be pairing mine with an oversized knit, mini skirt and sheer tights throughout winter. Since burgundy is the color of the moment, there’s no better way to introduce it to your wardrobe than with Aquazzura’s ‘Sellier’ boots – consider them the perfect gift for the most stylish person on your list.”

Bag, Loewe

A leather shoulder bag: Millie Parry, shopping assistant

“It’s always worth investing in a shoulder bag and, since it’s the season to treat yourself and your loved ones, why not start now? Loewe’s ‘Puzzle’ has been on my wish list for so long and I’m hoping this will be the year it’s finally mine. A classic that will stand the test of time, it’s crafted from supple leather with gleaming gold hardware – and comes with both a top handle and a shoulder strap, maximizing my carrying options. I especially have my eye on the ‘Edge’ version in burgundy – the color of the season. I also love Saint Laurent and Bottega Veneta for timeless styles that can easily be taken from day to night.”

Leather jacket, Khaite

A leather jacket: Lydia Zacharis, buying manager

“A good leather jacket is an irresistible gift and there are so many variations to choose from this season – sumptuously soft leathers in warm brown and burgundy tones complement classic black; and with shapes ranging from cool biker styles to sleek fitted blazers and long belted trenches, there is one for every occasion. I love how they can instantly lend an edge to both day and evening outfits; their versatility and trans-seasonal quality mean they can either be worn as a standalone piece or layered under a coat when the colder winter days kick in. I am indulging in Khaite’s button-down ‘Saraphina’ jacket – reminiscent of styles worn by Gwyneth Paltrow in the ’90s – as a treat for myself this year.”