Home & Heart: A Gift Guide for the House Proud
Your favorite people will love these elegant offerings from legacy brands.
We all have people in our lives who know how to make a house a home. Whether they live in a tiny walk-up studio or a sprawling ranch house, these people have feathered their nests in the most tasteful and welcoming ways, creating space where conversation flows as easily as wine.
Gifts for these people often tend toward the perishable, and 99.9% of the time, there is no problem with that. However, sometimes, you need to acknowledge their hospitality with more than just a bottle of wine. Here are some spectacular gifts for the ultimate host on your holiday gift list.
Piaget’s Polo 79
As a luxury Maison with a history going back to 1874, Piaget is well-versed in sophistication. That is why we recommend the brand’s 21st-century take on the 1979 original, the Polo 79.
A sporty classic embraced by both the Gen Xers who wore it the first time around in the ‘80s and Zoomers born 20 years after it was introduced, the Polo 79 is the perfect gift for the person in your life who prefers the stylish to the trendy.
Cased in 18-karat yellow gold, the Polo 79 measures 38mm x 7.35mm, making it a little bit bigger than the first-generation Polo, so it’s not exactly your mom’s watch, but it’s close (in a good way). Plus, its history and style make it an excellent conversation starter.
It is also an excellent gift for those on your list who don’t identify as watch people because the fit and finish of the brushed gold bracelet make it a gorgeous piece of jewelry.
Baccarat’s Eye Oval Vase XL
Anyone can bring flowers to their host, but a great guest will bring something gorgeous to set them in. And we can’t think of a prettier vessel than an amber-colored Eye Oval Vase XL from Baccarat.
With a history dating back to 1764 when King Louis XV of France commissioned the creation of a glassworks atelier in the Lorraine region, Baccarat’s artisans have the expertise needed to create the extraordinary undulating design of this crystal vase.
By combining a series of techniques, including exterior horizontal cuts, a series of interior vertical cuts, and a fusion of amber and clear glass, each Eye Vase the artisans at Baccarat create features an amazing optical illusion of perpetual motion.
Royal Copenhagen’s Blue Fluted Plain Fine China
While we’re not quite ready for Grandma’s fine China to make a comeback, there is something nice about having a matching dinner service. Fortunately, the best thing about Royal Copenhagen’s Blue Fluted Plain pattern is that its elegant blue and white porcelain is almost guaranteed to compliment your giftee’s existing table settings.
First introduced in 1775, its classic floral pattern is the definition of timeless. Plus, with prices starting at $48 for an eggcup, it’s also one of those rare affordable extravagances.
Mikimoto’s Akoya Cultured Pearl Three Piece Set in 18K Yellow Gold
Pearls are the ultimate in sophistication: They are chic, last forever, and look good on everyone. And when it comes to luxurious and lustrous pearls, Mikimoto is the first name that springs to mind, having been in business since 1893.
And what could be better than a strand of pearls than a three-piece parure that includes an 18-inch necklace and bracelet featuring 6-7mm Akoya cultured pearls, along with matching 7mm stud earrings, all set in 18K yellow gold?
Ginori 1735’s Large Scented Candle La Dama Orange Renaissance
Our favorite homey space always smells great. Thus, there is nary a host who wouldn’t appreciate the olfactory excellence of Ginori 1735’s designer scented candles, and the woody, citrussy fragrance of the La Dama Orange Renaissance Large Scented Candle evokes all kinds of holiday nostalgia.
Moreover, since this Italian brand has been cultivating its expertise in ceramics since 1735, this candle comes in a pure porcelain container representing La Dama (The Lady), a symbol of grace that makes for a lovely objet d’art long after the candle has melted away.
Loro Piana’s Crest Plaid Baby Cashmere Throw
While Loro Piana has recently gained a lot of notice for its quiet luxury fashions, the house began as a wool trading business in the early 1800s in Trivero, Italy. And since there are few non-perishable gifts for a host or hostess they can appreciate when they are alone, we recommend this Loro Piana nutmeg-colored 59 x 78.7 in. (150 x 200 cm) Crest Plain throw blanket made in Italy using 100% Baby cashmere.
Besides, when your loved one isn’t swaddled in its soft, warm comfort, its intricate jacquard weaves and signature crest at its center make it a luxurious decor accent that will have guests asking where they can get one.
Happy Holidays!