11. 18 Material Finds Approved Gifts
A curated list of all my favorite things this holiday season
Since I was a kid, I’ve always been particular about gifts. I’ll never forget asking my mom for Betsey Johnson earrings when I was 13, and then through tears, asking if we could exchange them because they weren’t the “right” pair. Since then, my mom has made me pick out what I want before she buys it, which dilutes the surprise that comes with receiving a gift in the first place. A price I pay for being difficult to please, I suppose. Now, as an adult, I see how challenging gift-giving can be and put pressure on myself to give the “right” item, which to me means a blend of something the receiver wants but won’t buy themselves and something that feels unique to them. I’d like to say that the inherently thoughtful act of gift giving is all that really matters, but I still feel pressure around this time of year. That’s why it was freeing to put together Material Finds’ first-ever gift guide — a curated list of all my favorite things I’m giving or would love to receive this holiday season (hint, hint).
Enjoy!
Cashmere Bed Socks, $70
Cashmere socks are the ultimate everyday luxury. The thought of slipping these on while watching a movie during a snowstorm or drinking a hot cup of tea while reading on the couch makes me feel warm and fuzzy.
I’m a sucker for beautiful, considerate packaging, which is what initially drew me to Orris Soaps. They make gentle yet effective, botanically-derived soaps in France. Their Le Nomade soap made with sheep’s milk sounds divine, especially for sensitive skin like mine.
I went to Desert Vintage a few months ago and was grabbed by the warm, milky, floral scent in the store. Turns out they were burning Diptyque’s iconic Tubéreuse candle—a good option for anyone who loves a fresh, feminine scent.
Everyone has a Joan Didion origin story. Mine was reading her essay, On Keeping A Notebook, for the first time in my AP Lit class, where I was overwhelmed by her honest yet restrained prose. It will soon be a year since she’s passed but her enduring legacy continues in a new book by her friend and another of my favorite writers, Hilton Als.
This hand cream is sold out until January but totally worth getting on the wait list for. My hands are always unbelievably chapped in the winter so a restorative hand cream that doubles as an aesthetically-pleasing nightstand object is a winner in my book!
I love the fluid form of these silver candlestick holders. In general, I’m a big fan of silver decor as an accent in the home as a way to add subtle texture to your space.
I love these Mary Janes for two reasons: 1) They remind me of the excitement of getting dressed for Christmas Day as a child, and 2) The juicy bordeaux color they come in is so beautiful I could eat them.
Elsa Peretti Thumbprint Bowl , $185
If you know me, you know I love objects, but especially when they are designed by Elsa Peretti. I would use this catch-all bowl for jewelry or a collection of, er, stones. Oh wait, just me? I also like this vessel from Claude Home as a slightly more affordable catch-all option.
These earrings are opulent with a price tag to match, but timeless enough to wear for decades. I love the large, onyx stones that contrast nicely with the white delicate pearls. Wouldn’t these look so pretty on someone whose name starts with a K and ends with a -ristine? Here are some other earring options I love: Maslo Cecilia Earrings for $140, Ana Luisa Abby Hoops for $65, Agmes Sandra Earrings for $350.
Donation to Slow Factory, any $ amount
Slow Factory is a non-profit that educates and empowers communities globally to create climate-change solutions centered in sustainability literacy and culture. I particularly enjoy watching their free education videos on Fashion & Beauty politics where I have learned about everything from accessibility within design to regenerative textile practices.
Laneige Lip Mask, $24
I was given this lip mask during a Secret Santa exchange last year and couldn’t believe I hadn’t bought it for myself sooner. I like to put this on while I’m getting dressed or doing my makeup (also good for before-bed). It keeps my lips smooth and hydrated all day.
I am currently coveting housewares from Sophie Lou Jacobsen. Her delightful designs bring fun and refinement to any space. For example, this totem glass she made in collaboration with Ghia is so chic, it instantly elevates any drinking experience.
Aesthetic olive oil is one of those items I would love to receive as a gift because I can’t bring myself to indulge in buying it myself. This one is made from hand-harvested Sicilian olives and comes in a reusable glass vessel.
During the pandemic I got very good at doing my own nails and haven’t gotten a pro manicure in nearly two years. Giving myself manicures is now one of my favorite self-care rituals. I love this beautifully-packaged, at-home nail kit for buffed, natural nails.
I love the surrealism of this ricotta-shaped candle from Gohar World. Equal parts object and candle, its whimsical nature brings a smile to my face. If cheese isn’t your recipient's thing, you could go for a baguette or a delectable crosatine.
Being in my 30s means thinking about tablescapes more than I ever thought I would, so here’s another Sophie Lou Jacobsen tabletop item to consider. I love the playfulness of the spiral shape juxtaposed with the rigidity of the metal material.
Misi Pasta Kit, $50
I received fresh pasta and sauce from Misi for Christmas last year, and it was fun to cook, delicious to eat, and lovely to share with friends. If you don’t live in New York, I recommend ordering a gift box from L.A.-based Italian pantry, Bucatini, or creating a box of your own with hand-picked ingredients at your local grocery store.
My partner and I often gift each other magazine subscriptions which is a great way to give something that will keep on giving throughout the year (the best kinds of gifts, IMO). The Gentlewoman is one of my favorite bi-annual magazines. I’d recommend this for anyone who loves reading about interesting women or looking at purposefully styled editorials.