MR PORTER’s Holiday Gift Guide: The Luxury Gifts They’ll Keep For Ever

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MR PORTER’s Holiday Gift Guide: The Luxury Gifts They’ll Keep For Ever

Words by Emma Pradella | Photography by Mr Jack Wilson | Styling by Ms Sophie Watson

9 November 2023

It’s that time of the year again. If you’re a serious gift giver, you’ll know that there’s nothing worse than scrambling to find last-minute gifts come December. So, to make things easier, we’ve compiled the ultimate gift guide that is sure to get you to the holidays with your stockings full – and your loved ones’ wish lists ticked off.

We’re kicking off the season of giving by giving you an edit of the finest luxury gifts for those whose style we’d define as classic, understated – even a little old-school. For those who can appreciate well-made pieces that are sure to stand the test of time. From sumptuous knits to winter boots and accessories, to those seriously stylish homeware that are sure to impress the discerning without you having to know their measurements, our foolproof gift guide has everything you need for the holidays and beyond.

When it comes to gifts, few things are more deserving of the words “must-have” than a warm, sumptuous knit. Think of those items of knitwear that make perfect hibernation companions. Stay on the more adaptable side of things with this cashmere rollneck by Inis Meáin, which will work well with pretty much anything in their wardrobe. If your recipient style is a little more adventurous, opt for something fun, such as Brunello Cucinelli’s cashmere cardigan, knitted in a classic Fair Isle pattern, or Allude’s striped half-zip sweater.

If your recipient is a style-discerning gentleman, chances are that he already owns a pair of boots. Or two. But one can never have too many, especially by the likes of Officine Creative, TOM FORD or George Cleverley. And when we say that you’ll find something for everyone, we really do mean it – from suede, hiking-inspired styles to refined Chelsea boots to rugged lace-ups, modelled after a pair originally designed for the dapper characters of the Kingsman film franchise, and plenty more.

The perfect everyday bag can be likened to something as personal as a fragrance – it’s hard to find, but once you’ve identified the right one, you won’t find anything quite like it. You’ll be pleased to hear, then, that we’ve assembled here three iterations of what we’d call “the perfect bag” on our virtual shelves. Métier’s briefcase, for instance, is a sleek addition to any workweek attire, while SAINT LAURENT’s backpack and The Row’s understated weekender are guaranteed to make their getaways and gym trips that bit more stylish.

If there’s a homebody in your life who deserves something special, then cosy winter accessories is a gifting category that you can never go wrong with. Indeed, you’ll struggle to find a recipient who won’t be delighted to find one in his stocking come Christmas morning – especially when it’s a pair of plush slippers from Mulo, ZEGNA x The Elder Statesman’s cashmere beanie or a wool Fair Isle scarf from Drake’s.

As we brace ourselves for the colder months ahead – and the season when we spend the most time at home – there’s nothing they’ll appreciate more than a cosy little something to warm up their space. That could be a sleek vase from L’Objet, a soft throw from Italian king of fabrics Loro Piana, or something that’ll take their games nights to the next level, such as this sophisticated backgammon set by Alexandra Llewellyn. Our edit of luxury homeware gifts is guaranteed to wow even the most composed of unwrappers.

With dinner-party season in full swing, refined tableware is what it takes to be the host with the most. Looking to throw the perfect gathering? If you’ve read our guide, you’ll know that considered details go a long way. Opt for Soho Home’s decanter, which can double up as a vase once the dinner is over, or Brunello Cucinelli’s placemats, coasters and napkin rings set. This silver-plated cutlery set by Christofle – a favourite of The Ritz, the Orient Express and the ocean liner Normandie – will make an elegant centrepiece. It’s certainly a fun conversation starter.