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The first thing I do when I start thinking about holiday presents for my nearest and dearest is to think about everything I’ve bought or experienced this year, and take stock of my favorites. If I’ve tried it and loved it, there’s a good chance my aunt, mother-in-law, or cousin will, too. This strategy may not always work for everyone on my list, but it does help ground it! Here are 10 of my favorites from the past year – a luxe gift guide that’s tried and tested.

1. Tickets to see a show

I’ll be the first to admit I’m not actually a big gift person, I much prefer experiences. (Back in the spring, my husband and I got our whole family tickets to see Hamilton, and this year for my birthday all I want is a chic staycation after the frenetic holiday season has died down). Top of my list for my father-in-law is always to check our what musicals or comedy acts are playing at the Hippodrome here in Baltimore. Aside from its gilded old-world glamour, tickets to the Hippodrome mean you can build a whole experience around the show, with dinner beforehand, and maybe drinks at a chic bar afterwards.

2. A weekend away

This is the ultimate romantic gift (for your partner), or thoughtful escape (for your parents, or sister and brother-in-law, etc.). I love the idea of giving people something to look forward to in the new year. It doesn’t have to be a big trip – maybe it’s a one-night staycation in the city, like The Avenue Suites in Georgetown, or a two-night escape somewhere a little off the beaten path, like Wade’s Point Inn on the Bay. 

3. A piece of custom jewelry

Fine jewelry is very personal, and can be difficult to purchase for someone in a bubble. Instead, let this gift bridge the world of experiences and tangible gifts by making a memory out of the design process. Consider working with a local jewelry artist – Rebecca Myers Design and Shana Kroiz Fine Art both have unique styles that make a not-to-be-missed statement.

Or, help a loved one turn an heirloom into a new, wearable piece to be cherished for years to come. Zachary’s Jewelers has a marvelous team of in-house designers and craftspeople who can rework old jewelry or design it from scratch, like the Forevermark diamond ring they created for me here. (You have to have diamonds on a luxury gift guide, amiright?) Maybe your best friend has an old ring from her grandmother that isn’t quite her style, or your Mom has a pair of loose sapphires she bought on a trip and never had set – whatever the design challenge, you can be the one to save the day by helping them create a piece they’ll actually wear and love.

4. The perfect work bag

We go to work most days a week, so the things that make the workday easier and more stylish should not be sniffed at. Whether your gift recipient is looking for the perfect ladies’ laptop tote or a rugged man’s briefcase, I’m a huge fan of Lo & Sons – a brand I reviewed back in 2017 because I found myself obsessed with about six of their bags. I quickly converted most of my family to their popular Pearl crossbody and Catalina Deluxe duffle as well – take our word for it, you can’t go wrong with Lo & Sons.

Shop Lo & Sons Bags

5. Cozy cashmere essentials

Cashmere has got to be at the top of every luxury gift guide, ever. Thick cashmere wraps, hats, and socks are pretty much what my warm, snuggly dreams are made of – and it’s a genre of gift that can rarely steer you wrong. I love the selection that Wrabyn boutique in Annapolis has in right now – from a luxurious cashmere poncho to a scarf/wrap hybrid trimmed in rabbit fur, their selection will keep you and your nearest and dearest cozy all season long.

Cashmere: the ultimate gift guide staple. Red cashmere poncho, taupe cashmere wrap trimmed in fur, and silk-cashmere blend socks, all from Wrabyn. Photos taken at the POD DC hotel.

6. An efficient suitcase

The only thing as good as gifting a trip away, is the promise of a trip away – perhaps made with a beautiful piece of Away luggage for him or her. The quintessential suitcase, I am a huge fan of how my Away Larger Carry-on has weathered cobblestones in Granada and the streets of NYC during fashion week. The best part – this gift works for anyone in the family. Get $20 of your Away purchase with my referral link.

7. A versatile handbag

I’d be remiss if I didn’t give a shoutout to my favorite discovery of the year, luxury handbag brand Senreve. I’d been eyeing them for a few months before I finally bit the bullet and bought one of their Mini Maestra bags before my trip to Spain – not only did it fit my DSLR camera and all my essentials, it switched from a crossbody to a backpack to a handbag every time I needed the flexibility. Did I mention how stylish it is? Senreve is offering tax-free shopping for Cyber Monday as well as several free-gift-with-purchase options. Plus use my link for $50 off your order.

Shop Senreve Bags

8. A unique piece of clothing

It’s not easy to find a piece of clothing unique enough for the artistic fashionista in your life. To that I say, find an independent fashion designer like Onirik and scoop up a piece that no one else will have. With fabrics like all-natural linen with a metallic finish, Onirik designs and sews heirloom-quality pieces in small batches with luxury fabrics – and a fit that feels bespoke.

Onirik Eliza skirt styled with a sequin tee from Wrabyn and Inez Alta heels. Shot at the Crimson Whiskey Bar in the POD DC hotel.

9. Buzzworthy flats

Last year, pairs of Rothy’s lightweight flats were a hit with my aunt and mother-in-law. Made of recycled plastic in dozens of fun colors and prints, they’re practical, chic, and environmentally friendly.

Shop Rothy’s Flats

10. Fine wine

For those who appreciate a fine wine, seeking out a unique bottle to their tastes can be a very thoughtful gift. I love retailers like D.C.-based The Lady Pearly, who focus on wines in a niche area, like their Bordeaux blends and champagnes. Don’t be shy about reaching out to them directly for a recommendation!

If you enjoyed this luxury gift guide, follow me on Instagram @theprimpysheep for more style inspiration and product reviews!