As the holiday season draws closer, it's inevitable that you will be invited as a guest to a dinner or holiday party. Say goodbye to bringing that same old bottle of wine and get creative with these stylish hostess gift ideas. Or, if you are planning to have a fun soiree yourself this time of year, use this list as a guide to freshen up your entertainment essentials.
1. Essie Collection - Spin Colored-Glass Vases, $90 for set of three
With flowers or not, these Essie Collection vases stand on their own as stylish home accents in any space. They come in a set of three but can always be separated to give to other friends (or even keep one for yourself)! I love the way these gorgeous spin vases stand to the side--they are perfect to use together as center pieces or alone as a unique accent for any table.
Essie Collection - Spin Colored-Glass Vases, $90 for set of three. Each vase is 7 inches high. Contact Esther@essiecollection.com to order.
2. D.L. & Co. Delft Skull Stationery - Brights, $50
A modern twist on a classic gift, the fun set of Delft Skull Stationery in eye-popping bright shades will bring more naughty than nice to you and your guests this holiday season. The collection of folded notes are blank inside and made of hand-finished Italian paper with a unique interpretation of a gold skull image on the front. So exquisite and edgy!
3. Jonathan Adler Muse Bowl, $98
Each Jonanthan Adler pottery piece is made in its Soho studio, where Jonathan and his team design and sculpt every prototype. This particular muse bowl is inspired by Jonathan's admiration for Salvador Dali and Misia. I adore this cool hand-sculpted white porcelain bowl where fashion meets function. I was so excited when I received one as a gift from a dear friend!
4. Alexandra Von Furstenberg Acrylic Leopard Coasters, $100 (set of 4)
Check out these mod yet classic AVF Acrylic Leopard-Print Coasters--they are so versatile and instantly add playfulness to any table! The set of 4 are made of thick, high-quality acrylic and can be stacked together to create a cool sculpture. The leopard pattern works well in traditional or modern homes, making them the perfect holiday hostess gift.
5. Rablabs Fusio Spreaders, $82 for set of 2
These unique Rablabs Fusio Spreaders are created from semi-precious agate edged in 24-karat gold or sterling silver. Presented in a luxury gift box, the spreaders are so stunning they could even stand as a home decoration on their own!
6. Wide French Cut Voyage et Cie Hand-Pured Candles, $60
The organic and sustainable soy wax candles by Voyage et Cie are hand poured, containing the finest fragrance oils and three non-toxic 100% cotton wicks. They are quite large and have a dramatic french cut shape so make a fab and unique gift choice. Plus, they smell as beautiful as they look!
7. Kastehelmi Medium Plate, $48
These amazing serving plates by Kastehelmi (Finnish for "dewdrop") are made of hand blown glass and designed in 1964 by Oiva Toikka in Finland. The highly-styled serving plates are decorated with glass droplets to create a three-dimensional surface. They are also well-priced and available in a range of colors.
Kastehelmi Medium Plate, $48, shown in light blue
8. Sempli Cupa Rocks Tumbler Set, $50
We were all taught that in order to bring out the flavor of fine spirits, we should swirl our cups. Well these Cupa Rocks Tumblers do exactly that for you! The shape of the tumbler is designed to sit on its side so that when you set it down, it creates a swirling motion that facilitates oxygenation. The set of two tumblers are made of lead-free crystal and inspired by Swedish and Italian design.
9. Mark and Graham Personalized Lacquer Tray, $69 small, $125 large
These Mark and Graham's Lacquer Trays are great personalized gifts, especially for lovers of mid-century modern design. They are the perfect perches for serving beverages or can be used as a stylish catchall. Available in white, orange and navy.
10. Lette Macarons - Create your own box of 24, $44
Yummy macarons--yes please! These delicate and delicious pastries are shipped overnight to preserve their freshness, making them a perfect last minute gift. There are many seasonal specials to choose from in addition to the variety of 13 classic flavors. Pick your favorites and don't forget to send a box to yourself too!
