Style

Gifting Guide | The Fashionista

Words by Lisa Armstrong, Fashion Journalist of The Year and The Telegraph's Head of Fashion

CMK Christmas Website Assets Festive Party Season Favourites

Discover perfect presents for every occasion with Lisa Armstrong's expertly curated gifting guide, designed to inspire and delight both gift givers and receivers alike.

If they’ve had their eye on the ball, whatever their age, the fashionistas in your life know that this season’s knits are fluffy, light diffusing and practically gauzy - the equivalent of wearing a disco ball, and it’s not often you can say that about anything so wintery and cosy. That make them flattering on the skin, but also special enough to wear at night, like this Jigsaw Halo cashmere jumper.

No one wants a one season wonder anymore. And these days, buying with longevity in mind doesn’t mean it can’t also be bang on trend. The catwalks are full of tried and tested classics - from blazers and pleated skirts to trench coats, timeless knitwear and practical chunky boots or the perennial dash of big cat energy. Mango’s kitten heel slingbacks are a case in point: the ideal dose of leopard print that delivers instant playfulness while keeping it classy.

Jigsaw Jumper £225, Mango Heels £35.99

Mint Velvet’s metallic dress is another wowzer with a built-in vintage feel that means it won’t date either. If their style is more monochrome and understated, think Parisian, think chic-simple, think never-going-to-date then check out Phase Eight’s LBTD (little black tuxedo dress) or this Tuxedo Blazer from River Island if two-pieces are more their style.

Want your present to ooze quiet luxury? Enter The White Company’s faux fur Teddy coat, made with recycled fibres.

Sometimes the successful gift is simply about giving them what they need. Take these classic, knee-high boots which are guaranteed to elevate any outfit. An added bonus with Dune is that their boots come in different widths (they’re also available in gold and silver but it’s not always about being the loudest - know your audience).

Other times the perfect prezzie is about digging a bit deeper and finding what they didn’t know they wanted. That’s going the extra mile and may require some psychological sleuthing on your part. A cashmere scarf, like this one from M&S, which comes in six colours, with a fringe (literally and metaphorically swishy), is bound to please. Just like this storm-blue cashmere men’s jumper from John Lewis & Partners – a staple in any winter wardrobe.

M&S Scarf £55, John Lewis & Partners Jumper £99

On the other hand, this raffia beach tote from Reiss might be a bit more of an unexpected choice, but it will get them daydreaming about their next holiday. And, if it also gets them thinking how they’re going to go full Ripley in the style stakes, then, result.

Speaking of retro sleek - what could be chicer than this oatmeal tweed peacoat from Moss? Mind you, investments come in all sizes and to suit all pockets. If you’re looking for something within a tight budget, a little bit of specialist knowledge goes a mighty long way - like knowing that bows are a major fashion statement this winter. This crystal trimmed hair bow from H&M delivers a lot of bang for your buck, especially when it’s one of those trends that never goes out of style.

About the Author

Lisa Armstrong is The Telegraph's Head of Fashion. She's written for Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Allure, Glamour and numerous international publications as well as authoring The Harper's Bazaar Guide to Style