be a star.
While it’s easy to grab a bottle of Veuve Clicquot on your way to the party, hostess gifts should never be an afterthought. Do yourself a favor and stock up on a few gifts at the beginning of the holiday season. You’ll save yourself from being caught empty-handed before the office party your boyfriend failed to tell you about, and you’ll always be on the top of everyone’s invite list! Read along for our top picks for every host in your life.
The Fashion Fan
For a friend with discerning taste, it’s best to stick with funky yet thoughtful gifts she’d never buy herself. This sparkly iPhone case by Lisa Argyropoulos has just the right amount of holiday charm, and the trompe l’oeil print is guaranteed to leave fingers glitter-free. For some thing equally as seasonal, opt for a set of iridescent greeting cards. It’s something one always forgets to buy, but can never have enough of. This snowflake pattern set from Kate Spade Saturday is totally on-trend. When all else fails, a biography or memoir of a fashion icon is always sure to please.
The Top Chef
For the wannabe Martha Stewarts, it’s all about utility and style. This railroad stripe apron is versatile and chic, and comes with an adjustable neck strap for shorties. Bartenders will thank you for Sur La Table’s sphere ice molds—we recommend suggesting a drink with a “snowball” theme. Also nature-inspired, these log cutting boards are just as perfect for prep as they are for presentation. Or look to our Clever Girl of the Moment, Valleybrink Road’s Barrett Prendergast and her beautiful custom gift boxes in which she shares her favorite (and always delicious) finds.
The Technofile
Shopping for the geeks in your life can always be challenging, and hostess gifts are no exception. Pick-up some for quirky collectables, like this Eiffel Tower USB drive. For colder climates, these innovative conductive glove pins allow the wearer to use an iPhone while still staying toasty. If your host is a developer, the iPhone stencil kit and sketchpad allows them to brainstorm app ideas and fiddle with new programs.
The (Male) Host With The Most
Keep gifts masculine without bordering on stereotypical—I’m looking at you, bottle of expensive whiskey. These Japanese cast iron bottle openers are as substantial as they are minimal, and are a great gift as a collection or solo. For something inexpensive and casual, Etsy’s Amanda Catherine Designs makes simple No. 2 pencil’s with cheeky sayings. We love the classic cocktail pencils in sleek gold and black, marked with “Martini,” “ Sazerac,” and “Old-Fashioned.” In the mood for a splurge? Bodum’s gold French press coffee maker will definitely get you invited back neck year.
