Our Debrief Editor, Helen Clemson, hunted down these glam festive season gifts guaranteed to put the jingle back into Christmas!
What better place to shoot a festive gift guide than at a grand hotel – and we mean total and utter luxury – in what has recently been voted the most beautiful place on the planet, Scotland! The readers of the influential travel guide Rough Guide, selected this part of the UK as ‘the most beautiful country in the world.’ And so, we went here; Gleneagles in Auchterarder, Perthshire located in the Highlands, the heart of Scotland and put together a selection of beautiful things just as fine as the surroundings they were photographed in. The story doesn’t end here though; described as a “glorious playground,” a full account of our adventure-packed and utterly hedonistic (think falconry, gun dogs, and yes there will be a bit about golf too) Gleneagles and Scottish Highlands travels will be detailed in our March 2020 issue. So, as they say, watch this space! And if you can’t wait to visit, Gleneagles.com in the meantime. But for now, check out for these swish seasonal greetings’ gifts – there’s one to suit just about everybody’s tastes!
BEST FOR: City Slickers – Falke Argyle Dress Socks (R110, visit falke.co.za)
Perhaps not the most imaginative gift for him, however if he’s a corporate – or just likes a stylish sock – you can’t go wrong with these quality dress socks that comes in five colour options.
BEST FOR: Bath and Body lovers – Sothys Cherry Blossom & Lotus Escape Nourishing Body Elixir (R495 for 100ml, available at select spas and salons or call 021 701 2900).
For those who love bubble bath and body lotion, switch things up with a body oil that is wonderfully hydrating but also doses the skin with delicate floral-musky scent.
BEST FOR: Jewellery Collectors – Verus Fine Jewellery Handcrafted G-Candy Sterling Silver Necklace with Interchangeable Raw Aquamarine Charm (R2, 290, verusfinejewellery.com)
Paying homage to South Africa, this beautifully crafted piece is made locally with an ethically sourced stone. Ideal for summer wear – think a crisp white shirts or a cool linen wrap dress – it’s a real eye catcher of an accessory.
BEST FOR: Serious Wine Drinkers – Glenelly Lady May 2014 (R520, glenellyestate.com)
Having just been awarded a Five Star rating in the 2020 Platter’s Wine Guide, Glenelly’s flagship wine Lady May is a proudly South Africa vino with a French touch. Considered a Bordeaux blend, it’s a rewarding wine as it ages.
BEST FOR: Sailors Wash Bags – Elizabeth Arden The Original Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant (R315, elizabetharden.co.za)
We can’t forget sailors unique skincare needs in this gift guide! A balm that is like a one-stop-shop is the ticket when traveling and this one treats dryness, soothes, moisturises and even helps to treat minor weather, scrapes and abrasions.
BEST FOR: Glamour Girls – Chanel Rouge Allure in Rouge Spectaculaire (R835, selected Woolworths and Edgars stores).
Easiest make up item to instantly dress up an outfit (never mind gift)? A luxe red lipstick. It’s a no brainer whether she’s 25 or 65 as a true red – like this lippy – is flattering no matter your age or your skin tone.
BEST FOR: Fashion Lovers – Lauren Clark Designs The Link Yellow Gold-Plated 925 Sterling Silver R2, 200, visit laurenclarkdesigns.com)
If the recipient loves staying on trend, this stylish bracelet by local jewellery designer Lauren Clark will have them rejoicing. It’s chunky enough to be worn alone however can be layered with another piece or two for more boho look.
