Stylish gifts for the holiday season
From the most luxurious skin cream to the perfect fragrance, NEWBY HANDS asks two eminently stylish women to share their favorite festive gifts of the season
The Holidays can be one of the best times of the year, with that wonderful mix of family, friends, food and parties. But there is also the added stress of fitting everything in; going out, having fun and looking great and not feeling (or looking) too exhausted. Plus, there is the gift buying as you try to find something perfect for everyone on your list.
My take on gift giving is simple; whether a dinner hostess or longterm friend, make sure you think of what the recipient would really want to receive, not just what you would like to give them – as the two can often be quite different. Looking at the what they already love to use, have in their purse, wardrobe or home gives a good guide to what they like to have around them.
One great piece of advice I was given (and now live by) is to ensure you always take some time for yourself over the Holidays. Just half an hour in a warm bath, with a great face mask to boost dehydrated, post-party skin and soothing essential oils to calm the mind, in enough to leave you feeling centered and recharged. Rethinking your skincare is another must as weather, travel and late nights can leave the complexion dull and reactive – hydrating serums and richer creams are essential.
For other great tips to inspire you over this Holiday season, beauty founder Aerin Lauder and fashion muse and actress Bianca Brandolini d’Adda, share their advice on everything from the perfect gifting to great skincare to for this special season.
How to choose the perfect gift
Aerin Lauder: “I’ve always believed in a wardrobe of fragrances, which is why I love gifting fragrance to someone special. Aerin Amber Musk is one of my favourites to give at this time of year – it’s about mountains, snow, fresh air and warm evenings indoors. It’s that cosy moment, a scent you want to wrap yourself in.”
Bianca: “I like to get personalized gifts for the people I love. I make sure I think of their personality and style when I choose colors and shapes.”
How to care for your skin during the party season
Bianca: “My skin tends to get really dry this time of year so I focus on hydration, including drinking lots of water, hot water and herbal teas. And I like to hydrate my skin as well, especially around the eyes as they get the most affected by the cold – I double up on my favorites, the new Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Transformative energy Dual Fusion serum and the Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Transformative Energy Eye Cream.”
Aerin: “I love to keep my make-up simple and feminine – I use Aerin Rose Lip Conditioner, it’s a pretty nude shade that works alone or over any lipstick for that extra polished look. I also keep a great powder compact on hand for touch ups.”
The perfect hostess gifts
Bianca: “My favorite gifts to give hostesses over the holiday season include candles, board games that you can all enjoy together, and a personalized set of glasses from Laguna B, they are made in Murano, Venice and are perfect for Happy Hour service.”
Aerin: “I love to give candles as they are perfect way to incorporate fragrance into the home. With notes of Ambrox, musk and coconut, the Aerin Amber Musk candle makes any room into a cozy retreat.”
The perfect ‘gift’ to give to yourself
Bianca ‘A big cardigan cashmere robe from The Row.’
Aerin ‘Photographs of my sons in beautiful frames.’