THE RICHES OF THE SEASON

THE RICHES OF THE SEASON

Our editorial team, truly high culture curators, has worked all of 2021 to bring you this ravishing list of inspiring gift ideas that we think are some of the finest selections you can choose to help make 2022 ahead the very best year ever.

RAISING THE BAR

Part of the Wyatt collection of tableware and bar tools, Ralph Lauren’s guest-ready tea set is crafted from stainless steel and finished with equestrian-inspired saddle leather accents. Shine brightly as you entertain. $250. At RalphLauren.com.

YES TO THE DRESS

Pure happiness exudes from this fanciful, divine, dusty pink creation in this Rembrandt Dress by Greta Constantine. Floral adornments cascade down the side of the A-line gown, while a silk-wool tie at the neckline can be tied in delightfully numerous ways. Exclusively at The SIL, founded by Texas native Natalie Bond Bloomingdale. Made to order. $1,895. At ShopTheSIL.com.

SPARKLING STYLE

Nothing says personal style like a newly discovered vintage handbag. Mid-century Texan Enid Collins, founder of Collins of Texas, designed the most charmingly jeweled treasures that we think are ripe to be re-discovered and worn with state pride. From $100. At various auction and shopping sites.

THE ULTIMATE THROWDOWN

Why not give the gift of pure luxury with this Frette Chains Throw? Made of Italian-made virgin wool,  it is not only cozy but also adds a chic element to any room. Available in seven colors. $1,575. At Frette.com.

MASTER BUILDER 2.0

How can anyone resist this DIY Frank Lloyd Wright model building kit of the Guggenheim Museum? By Brand Little Building Company, it’s a high-fidelity architectural element that will look like it came from the master’s studio. $98. At Huckleberry.com.

CELEBRATE & CELEGRAZE

Instead of sending a fruit basket for a special occasion, try a personalized gift like this that is sure to be a hit. We recommend sending a charcuterie in the form of an initial, or perhaps a number if it’s a birthday. From $56. At BerryAndBrie.com.

HOW TO HOST WITH THE MOST

Take the guesswork out of your next dinner party or gala with the Astor Hostess Seating Chart, an indispensable tool for any entertainer who likes to make sure they host a successful event.. $550. At BlueCarreon.com.

IMAGINE THAT

Imagine the most perfect candle ever created…for you and your environment. Social-Lite Candles are the hit of the season–as gifts to loved ones…and yourself. The 100% soy candles come in four delectable scents, Make Mine Champagne, My Secret Past, Isn’t It Right, and Set To Jet, and come wrapped in gorgeous gift boxes:. $58 each. At DirtyBartender.com.

HIGHER GROUND

When you and seven of your best friends climb that mighty mountain, here’s where you should stay. The super tough 2-Meter Dome eight-person tent is purpose-built to help you thrive in merciless environments like the Himalayas and Antarctica. $5,500. At TheNorthFace.com.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

The perfect way to spend a winter evening? We think a puzzle is the ideal option, especially when it is so artful and worthy to hang upon completion. This one shown, Wet Kiss by Marilyn Minter, is a favorite. $100. At ArtXPuzzles.com.

CRAFTED FOR COCKTAILS

Nothing says the perfect host gift, or let’s have a breezy cocktail, more than a hand-crafted linen napkin by August Morgan, founded by Austinite Kate Hersch. The colorful and creative squares are not only a conversation starter, but also are so handy to have nearby. In dozens of catchy quips, we love them all. $44 for a set of 4. At AugustMorgan.com.

GAMES PEOPLE PLAY

This is so cool you won’t want to relegate it to the basement. This Playing Court printed, wall-mountable mini ping pong table is perfect for hours of family fun, don’t you think? $1,470. At Mr.Porter.com.

DISCO’S INFERNO

Turn any favorite room into your own Studio 54-esque nightclub playground with this Kicko multi-colored LED revolving strobe light ball. You’ll surely impress your kids, as well as dazzle the neighbors. $29.99. At Amazon.com.

LONDON CALLING

The perfect, and we mean perfect, signature gift basket is from Fortnam & Mason in London. With an array of both the exotic and familiar, their famous hampers are chock full of bliss. We love most the hamper for four since it can make any al fresco occasion special. $722. At FortnumAndMason.com.

SURE, THEY MIGHT HAVE EVERYTHING

The ultimate host gift is something beautiful and unique, such as a stunning Maison Bijoux box. Beautifully hand-made with shell inlay and brass cladding. They are topped with agate slices and are truly like gems to behold. $240. At BlueCarreon.com. 

LET’S BE CLEAR ABOUT THIS

Experts know that a beverage can taste better when served in a fine glass. No argument here since we think the Margot decanter and Dearborn glass set is the elbows up favorite for sumptuous cocktails. $800. At FFerroneDesign.com.

KEEPING TRACK

Since entertaining will be back in force once again, wouldn’t you like to note those special times ahead? The Entertaining Journal is the perfect way–with plenty of room for menus, guest lists, outfits worn, and so many more details to savor. $125. At MrsJohnLStrong.com.

JEWELS FOR THE ROOM

Decorative pillows are the jewelry of any well-appointed room. Why not have vibrant, hand-crafted pillows to highlight your gorgeous space? Austinite Deborah Main offers a variety of vintage and rare fabrics, as well as new textiles to put a punctuation point in any room to make it feel even more couture. Custom orders available. From $384. At ThePillowGoddess.com.

SENSATIONAL SWEET TOOTH

Chocolate is always the perfect gift. The thoughtful and delightful creations by Austin-based Delysia Chocolates have put smiles on many faces by now. Clever as ever, look for more themed truffle boxes in 2022, such as this one, Taste of the South. $34.95. At Delysia.com.

HOME SUITE HOME

How about a suite of gifts from designer and luxe retailer Jonathan Adler? Bright, happy, and always colorfully graphic, we recommend the Maxime star coasters ($68), Arcade lacquer tray ($295), the Gilded lollipop holder ($148), and the Arcade lacquer boxes (From $98) and so much more. At JonathanAdler.com.

THE GIFT-GIVER’S GAMBIT

Thanks to the success of The Queen’s Gambit, chess is the hottest strategic pursuit these days, so why not choose this over-the-top set that is crafted of solid mahogany and is also an instant heirloom, too? $7,700. At Hermes.com.

DID I EAR YOU RIGHT?

This adorable cow earpods case also clips on to a bag as a novel accessory. We’re always misplacing ours, so why not have a Texas-themed festive reminder so they stand out? $610. At LouisVuitton.com.

THE SLOPES ARE DOPE

You’ll be mountain royalty as you whisk by in this colorful Burton Deep Thinker Snow Board 2022. It powers through fresh powder and chops like a boss yet holds a clean edge on firmer surfaces. In short, it’s an all-round ripper of a board for the high energy rider. $599. At Evo.com.

PICTURE PERFECT

Hop back in time when instant photos took 60 seconds with this cool Polaroid camera that is a special Saint Laurent edition. With its reflex lens, the photos promise to be clear and concise like never before. $1230. At SaintLaurent.com.

YOU PROVIDE THE ADVENTURE

Getting away from it all now has a new meaning. Be the cool kid who can be mobile in style in this Airstream 20X travel trailer. It’s self-contained with all you’d need to have for a spontaneous road trip. Starts at $48,900. At Airstream.com.

WHY WAIT FOR GAME NIGHT?

This Jenga-esque tumble tower is so cool and colorful that you’ll want to always keep this dyed 45 wood block sculpture in full view. Perfect for indoors or outside fun. $110. At ElysiaHome.com.

GLOBAL INSPIRATION

Any exotic locale is just a jet ride away. So, be inspired every day for your next getaway with a limited-edition image by Italian photographer Massimo Vitali. It’s sure to set off any room. Prices vary. At MassimoVitali.com.

SHE’S SUCH A DOLL

For the child who has everything, the Malle Maison Vivienne on-the-go doll house was designed as a collection piece. Iconic Louis Vuitton Courrier Lozine and Wardrobe trunks were identically reproduced in miniaturism to highlight Louis Vuitton craftmanship. $63,500. At LouisVuitton.com.

THE WOW FACTOR

THE WOW FACTOR

What a year for both giving and receiving during the holiday season. No matter what, the show must go on… and all year long, we’ve been searching the globe for the most unique, interesting, practical, and dazzling offerings for everyone in your life. Join our style seekers Alexandra del Lago, Jake Gaines, Lance Avery Morgan, and Leanne Raesener for these inspiringly glamorous ideas. 

SEA TO SHINING SEA

Respecting the delicate flavor of caviar and other species of delicious roe, Larusmiani’s ultra-fine 5-piece caviar set includes two knives with mother-of-pearl handles, two small spoons, and a spoon made entirely of mother-of-pearl. Go ahead, take a dip. $1835. At TheRake.com.

STAYING THE COURSE

The Southern Tide x Star E.V. Collaboration to create an environmentally astute V.I.P. golf cart has our vote as the best way to get from the clubhouse to the 18th hole. Price upon request. At SouthernTide.com.

RESORT-ING TO NEW IDEAS

Bora Bora is where you’ll want to go as your next five-star destination…to flee the everyday world. The recently renovated Four Seasons Bora Bora, with its tropical splendor and amenities, is like no other in the world. From ocean-topped villas to the best activities on the planet, you’ll feel like you’ve really escaped. Price upon request. At FourSeasons.com.

CHIC CHAPEAU

From the neighborhood park to the French Riviera, this raffia straw hat will tell many stories. The dramatic brim provides plenty of shade, and the laced grosgrain on the crown  is inspired by the ribbon ties (chose black or navy) of traditional Basque espadrilles. $300. At LolaHats.com.  

FRENCH TIPS

With its recently refurbished interior, you’ll feel perfectly at home in the new world-meets-old world style at the Plaza Athénée in Paris. The sleek chrome-laden restaurant, Alain Ducasse, will welcome you back to the City of Lights with open arms.  At DorchesterCollection.com.

SEE YOURSELF IN A NEW LIGHT

With technology that mimics actual true sunlight, this Simple Human Sensor Mirror Pro Wide View mirror is perfect for the vanity or, yes, selfies, with its real-life settings of office, restaurant, and candlelight. $400. At SimpleHuman.com.

SUCH BRIGHT, GRAY DAYS AHEAD

Feel like you’re on holiday every day…with a clever Slim Aarons-esque print from photographer Gray Malin. With a bevy of beachy keen images to choose from, having one is never enough to capture that mid-century lifestyle finesse. Unframed prints start at $299. At GrayMalin.com.  

DRESS OF YOUR DREAMS

The luxury of putting on a dress by Esme Vie is unparalleled. Part of a capsule collection, and exclusive to The SIL, an online boutique created by Vernon, Texas native Natalie Bond Bloomingdale, this St. Tropez dress in lilac dream, with an accent of rose floral buttons, is a terrific choice for a dramatic entrance. $1095. At ShopTheSIL.com.

TURN ON AND DROP-IN

Combining creativity with craftsmanship, Cassandra Collections, by designer San Antonio-bred Austin resident Cassandra King Polidori, features unique jewelry to be worn as everyday essentials…or for formal occasions. How about a cadre of them? Price upon request. At CassandraCollections.com.

BEAUTY-FULL AND SO HELPFUL

With The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign to support the Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, as you beautify, you’ll be helping those in need, too. We recommend the Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede scent, $142. At JoMalone.com, Darphin INTRAL Redness Relief Soothing Serum, $90. At BlueMercury.com, and LA MER Crème de la Mer’s The Moisturizing Cream, $190. At CremeDeLaMer.com.

BEAUTY-FULL AND SO HELPFUL

With Estee Lauder’s Pink Ribbon Products campaign to support the Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, as you beautify, you’ll be helping those in need, too. We recommend the Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede scent, $142. At JoMalone.com, Darphin INTRAL Redness Relief Soothing Serum, $90. At BlueMercury.com, and LA MER Crème de la Mer’s The Moisturizing Cream, $190. At CremeDeLaMer.com.

FLYIN’ HIGHER THAN EVER

How better to try something new? Feel the rush in a safe, contained environment with an indoor skydiving experience. For skydiving simulators and wind tunnel skydiving in Texas, there are a variety of locations near you. Price upon request. At Cloud9Living.com.

CORRESPONDING IDEAS

Welcome to the ultimate paper lover’s indulgence. Here’s a selection of jotters, stationery, gift tags, and coasters–all with a beloved Bell’INVITO signature touch of detail. The Pucker. $455. At BellINVITO.com.

CAFTAN CHIC

Want to live an eternal Palm Beach lifestyle? All that it takes is donning an Ala Von Auersperg Kathe caftan in her signature bright, festive colors and timeless silhouettes. No matter what the occasion, from entertaining at home to attending a wedding, it’s always right. $650. At AlavonAuersperg.com.

HELLO, YOUR LADYSHIP

Why not make it official? The world of The Crown beckons you. Actually, the manor of Alconbury, UK, welcomes you. Once you fill out the paperwork, you’ll be titled. A Lordship is offered, too, for the gents. Tiaras and septors not included. $30. At UncommonGoods.com.

OUI, LE CAFÉ

Need your morning java as fresh as possible? Look no further than this easy-to-use Chambord French Press coffee maker. In four minutes flat, the job is done, and you’ll be on your way. Plus, this will look so very sleek on your counter. $50. At Amazon.com.

CAPTIVATING CLUTCHES

Who can decide on just one perfect purse? Very few can. So why not ask for a wardrobe of them to refresh your style? Kathy Fielder and her eponymous store in Dallas have scads to choose from, and these are just a few of  our favorites. Prices upon request. At KathyFielderBoutique.com.

ARTFUL SPORT

Be the hit on your mountain with these Keith Haring Tribal 78 skis that boast an excellent  edge grip on the ice and are very stable throughout each aspect of the turn. Adds more color to your outfit on the black run, don’t you think? $2500. At BomberSki.com.

GO, GO GADGET

Electronics can be customized to your every need. We recommend the coolest new products from JLab Audio that will have you on the go with the most innovative wireless sound quality on the planet. We suggest the Epic Air ANC–truly wireless smart active noise-canceling earbuds with a companion  JLab Air ANC App. We also dig the Talk Microphone–a USB microphone great for video conference calls and podcasting, the Studio Pro wireless headset and the Buddies Studio Wireless kids headphones are important with virtual/online learning, and these can be both wired and wireless. Prices vary. At JLabAudio.com.

POCKET LISTING

Interesting art can and should, surround you at all times. So, why not choose a pocket square that tells a story, too? This L’Envie silk number is one of the dozens of designs by London’s esteemed clothier, Rampley & Co. $85. At TheRake.com.

FIND YOUR EXPERT SPIRIT ANIMAL

Masterclass, with its online courses taught by experts, will help you learn to cook from Gordon Ramsey, write a book from James Patterson, or learn about conservation from Dr. Jane Goodall, to name a few  examples of the world-class masters. Subscription is $15 a month. At Masterclass.com.

VIEW FROM THE TOP

This aerial photographer’s drone dream has a 20-megapixel camera that captures super sharp images and video and is extremely easy to navigate. It will make your family’s next vacation a lot more exciting (at least for you, dad). The DJI Phantom 4 Pro Version 2.0 Quadcopter utilizes the Flight Autonomy system for a total of five directions of obstacle sensing and four directions of obstacle avoidance. $1599. At B&H Photo Video.com.

SWIM & SLIM

The new slim swimsuit silhouette will take off visual pounds when you visit your favorite resort again soon. The always-right Vilebrequin trunks continue to be a classic and comes in father-son sets that are memory-making and perfectly Instagram-able. From $260. At Vilebrequin.com.

YES, I SEE THAT

Whether you are channeling your inner 007, or just want to have the latest style in shades, there are plenty of designs to choose from, thanks to Houston-based designer Margot Hogan, founder of Transparent Sunglasses. Her horn-rimmed shades for men, like those presented here, will have you seeing a rosy future. Prices vary. At TransparentSunglasses.com.

YOUR TABLE IS READY

We relish an everyday object that can become extraordinary, don’t you? Like these billiard balls, for instance, that will refine any pool table and game room. In the signature Tiffany & Co. blue, of course. $1750. At Tiffany & Co.

THE ORIGINAL ZOOM

If you could have any classic car of your choice, wouldn’t you choose a vintage 1957 Chevrolet Corvette? At 63 years old, and entering its golden years, it’s as gorgeous as ever and still rides like an adventure-filled dream. Price upon request. At Hemmings.com.

MEET YOU AT THE 19th HOLE

Born to reclaim the lost legacy of great American irons, Texas-based P53 is the only bespoke golf irons company in the world to commit from day one to 100% U.S. forging and hand-made production in over two decades. P53’s head of design and customization has worked with over sixty of golf’s major champions. The time, care, skill, and effort invested into every set of P53 irons is peerless. Created by founder Christopher Griffin. Price upon request. At P53Irons.com.

ROBOTIC SYNERGY

Take a break and let A.I. do the mowing with this Automower by Husqvarna. It will have your neighbors scratching their heads as they watch it cut the lawn on its own, even when it’s drizzling. From $1599. At Lowes.com.

LET’S TABLE THAT FOR NOW

With Table Topics, you can be sure there’s never a lull at a dinner party. Try these questions to start great conversations that range in many themes, including Past Present Future, and our favorite, Not Your Mom’s Dinner Party. $25 per box. At TableTopics.com.

PUMP UP THE JAM

Leave it to Hermès to create a portable turntable. You can now spin your favorite vinyl records anywhere, and look cooler than ever while doing so. Price upon request. At Hermès.com.

BLANKET CLAUSE

For the wintery nights, how about cuddling up in these luxe Equadorian-made blankets by QISU, a company founded by Austinites Fernando Gonzaga and Mark Erwin? Offered in a selection of vibrant colors with contrasting fringe, these alpaca wool throws will liven up any space, especially since they are so ultra-soft,  hypoallergenic, and waterproof. Prices and sizes vary from $249. At QISUme.com.

COCKTAILS, EVERYONE?

Austinite Kate Hersch, founder of August Morgan, is popular with the home entertaining crowd for many reasons. Her quirky and quippy linen cocktail napkins are the hostess gift to give and receive. $40 for a set of four. At AugustMorgan.com.

TIME TO TOWEL OFF

A towel that expresses who you are by the pool, or at the surf, is a treasure. We love these 100% cotton velour, oversized ones by Texas-raised stylist-to-the-stars Stefan Beckman, founder of Lateral Objects in New York. Each towel can come with its own dive mesh pouch. $120. At LateralObjects.com.

FRAGRANTLY ATMOSPHERIC

Home fragrance has been completely redefined with the introduction of Home Cologne eau de toilette by San Antonio-based Soular Therapy. This luxury ambiance spray offers an elevated, boutique experience in scents like The Study No. 629, The Library No. 721 (shown), and Hacienda No. 117. It’s inspired by nature and architecture to instantly transform any room, office or vehicle…while also sanitizing linens and cotton fabric with its 70% ethanol alcohol, skin-safe formulation. $39-65. At SoularTherapy.com.

AS SHARP AS EVER

Hand-crafted in Japan, we love that these extremely sharp stainless steel knives have durable birch Pakkawood handles and blades with a hornet’s nest pattern on each side. The seven-piece set, for the chef in your life, includes five knives, a birch block display, and honing steel. $1199. At WilliamsSonama.com.

JEWELRY FOR THE HOME

A custom pillow can change the face and feel of any room. Treat yourself and your spaces, with peacock feathers, vintage fabrics, and jewelry for a one-of-a-kind look, created by The Pillow Goddess founder Deborah Main, an Austin-based artisan. Prices vary. Shown, $1217 and $1395. At DeborahMainDesigns.com.

TREASURE CHEST

Enhance any occasion with the Rolls-Royce Champagne Chest, crafted by artisans to the highest standard of elegance and luxury. This curated creation includes a removable serving tray, a champagne bottle thermal flask, two thermal caviar bowls, and four hand-blown champagne flutes, all with a leather carrying sleeve. $47,000. At Rolls-RoyceMotorcars.com.

MOVIE NIGHT IS EVERY NIGHT

From the patio and backyard to the family room, turn up the fun with the Nebula Capsule II, the 1 ½ pound device that projects up to 100 feet wide with a 270-degree angle. And just think, you can introduce your kids to classic films in a new way. $580. At Anker.com.