Season's Giftings

The clock is ticking and there are less than two weeks until Christmas Day, so by now you've probably decided who's been naughty and who's been nice. It's time to put down the spiked cider and pick up the shopping list. From sisters to friends and moms to daughters, we've rounded up a few gifts that any girl would want to wake up to Christmas morning.

The Wine Lover

Photo: Chapel Down produces some great bubbly perfect for ringing in 2015

One of our favorite things about the holidays is the chance to eat, drink and be merry. Give loved ones one more chance to do that before they are tied down to the obligatory detox once New Year’s resolutions kick in. We’ve rounded up some great bottles from Hong Kong distributor Victoria Wines (read about sine other great wines supplied by Victoria Wines here). For your festive feast you can’t go wrong with Ross Hill Pinnacle Pinot Gris 2013 (HK$275) or Jamsheed Yarra Valley “Yarra Glen” Syrah 2012 (HK$485). Do it yourself gifts are great options, especially ones that can be drunk. If your friend is culinarily inclined, give her (or him, wine is unisex you know) a bottle of syrah - or shiraz if you prefer - which is great for making mulled wine due to their spicy characteristics. Viña Leyda Reserva Syrah 2011 (HK$98) is a great, affordable option. And finally, no New Year celebration is complete without bubbles. For a change, try England’s Chapel Down Pinot Reserve 2007 (HK$318); it’s a great alternative to Champagne. Subscribe at the bottom of this page to receive an exclusive 10% discount on full priced wines from Victoria Wines. For delivery information click here.

The Globetrotter

Photo: Get a Room! voucher from Mr & Mrs Smith

This gift is perfect for the jet-setting, five-star hotel-loving traveler. Boutique hotel and booking website Mr & Mrs Smith are offering a cheeky alternative to the standard run-of-the-mill gift card. Available in HK$500 increments, their Get a Room! vouchers can be used towards a stay at any of the hotels in their global collection, including over a hundred locations just a short flight from Hong Kong. The selective company has a group of hotels ranging from stylish to quaint so you’ll be sure that your gift will be used towards a truly fantastic stay. Check out some of the hotels they offer here.

The Fashionista

Photo: Metallic Ricky bag from Ralph Lauren

Nothing screams the holiday season like silver and gold. Iconic American designer Ralph Lauren offers a little festive glitter with the metallic soft ricky bag (MOP19,500). Available in pewter and bronze, it is a perfect dose of fashion festiveness. The bag can be found at Ralph Lauren stores across the city including the newly opened Flagship store in Lee Gardens which includes both men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, leather goods, and more - perfect for your loved ones with a penchant for the finer things in life. Check it out online here.

Photo: SAU offers festive fashion this holiday with the Natalya dress.

For a more wallet-friendly and local option, Hong Kong designer Cheryl Leung has launched her SAU Collection, which has plenty of classy and feminine wardrobe staples which have been worn by socialites in Hong Kong and London alike. A seasonal must have is the Natalya dress (HK$2,040). Nude lining covered with delicate lace, this festive red dress is an ideal holiday pick, and one that can be donned for Chinese New Year as well.

The Lady of Leisure

Photo: So Spa at Sofitel is here to pamper you and your loved ones this holiday

This one is for the ladies whose planners are filled with spa sessions and leisurely lunches. This season put yourself in your friend’s shoes (or slippers) for the day with the offer from Sofitel Macau: a Christmas package for two at So Spa (details here). The two hour spa session offers a great opportunity to relax and unwind during the hectic holiday season (read our review of So Spa here).

Photo: Sleep Naked offers gifts to keep you warm this winter

If the spa isn't your friend’s speed, you can’t go wrong with a plush, cosy robe. Perfect for hours spent swanning around the house, Sleep Naked robes (found in luxury hotels worldwide) are made from 100% cotton towelling and include free delivery in Hong Kong and Macau. Sizes are available in small, medium and large (US$60/65/70). If they’re good enough for the likes of the Dorchester and Claridges, they’re good enough for us.

The Sophisticate

Photo: Wallpaper Owl II by Emma Hack can be found at the Cat Street Gallery

You don’t have to be Peggy Guggenheim to appreciate the art works featured at Hong Kong’s Cat Street Gallery. The gallery is currently featuring CRACKER!, a group show to celebrate the holiday season with pieces from more than 20 local and international artists up for grabs. You can’t go wrong with the beautiful work of Australian artist, Emma Hack, who painstakingly paints the bodies of her models to match quirky backdrops that are often Florence Broadhurst works.

Photo: An elegant and stylish piece from Portuguese designer Ottiu

We could spend hours drooling over the costly but beautiful furniture designed by Portuguese brand Ottiu. Our top pick is the Luna Dining Chair (EUR2,350 + shipping), but with the wide range of offerings, you are sure to find something for any and all tastes, but possibly not all pockets. Other amazing Ottiu pieces can be found here.

#fashion #beauty #glamour #drink