Esquire's ultimate 2023 Christmas gift guide
The editors of Esquire have merged their Christmas wish lists together, to compile the best ever festive gift guide for men.
YES, CHRISTMAS IS RIGHT around the corner (again!). Unbelievable? Truly. But with plans to prepare and gifts to buy, there’s no use in procrastinating the inevitable. Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t accept a little assistance in the ideas department, and that’s exactly what the editors of Esquire are here to help you with. It’s our job to keep up with what’s cool in the fashion, grooming, wellness, food and drinks space, so while we can’t lay claim to having finished our own Christmas shopping quite yet, we can most certainly provide you with a few quality suggestions.
Over the past couple of weeks, we’ve been busy browsing our favourite brands to collate a list of products we’d be genuinely jazzed to find under the Christmas tree. From clothing to gadgets, watches to experiences, scroll on to find a curated list of gifts fit for your brother, father, grandfather, friends and everyone in between.
The best Christmas gifts for Australian men in 2023
Best men’s fashion Christmas gifts
The best summer shirt
Calibre Textured Stripe Short-Sleeved Shirt
Crafted from the finest European cotton with a subtle textured stripe, this is the perfect shirt for poolside drinks come summer. Designed by iconic Australian menswear brand Calibre, it’s a gift you can’t go wrong with.
Loafers that will last forever
BOSS Leather Moccasins with Branded Penny Trim
Every stylish guy needs a good pair of loafers. Crafted from brush-off leather with a branded penny trim and rubber-lug sole, BOSS’ Leather Moccasins are a classy choice.
A summer fragrance
Acqua Di Parma Zafferano
Warm and dry notes of saffron are stirred with luminous citrus notes, “like golden sparks dancing with the powerful spicy notes to create an unexpected sensation”. Yes, Acqua Di Parma’s Zafferano scent is summer in a bottle.
A stylish bucket hat
Burberry Check Cotton Bucket Hat
The Burberry check is timeless. But under the guidance of creative director Daniel Lee, it’s also had a zeitgeist-y revamp. The perfect present for the most stylish hat wearer in your life.
A passport holder
Giorgio Armani Printed Leather Passport Holder
Know someone headed on an overseas adventure? Don’t let them leave the country without a stylish passport holder. With a plaited leather print, Giorgio Armani’s calfskin iteration is made for the most fashionable globetrotter.
Some high fashion shades
Celine Black Frame 41 Sunglasses
It’s hard to beat a pair of classic black shades—especially when they’re by Celine.
A cross-body bag
Dior Safari North-South Mini Tote Bag
Featuring the iconic Dior Oblique Jacquard print, this mini tote-style bag is as practical as it is stylish. Wear it across your body, or remove the adjustable shoulder strap to carry this by hand.
Seventies-style shades
Moscot Sheister Sunglasses
For the guy with great 1970s-influenced style, Moscot’s ‘Sheister’ shades are a sure-fire way to channel Hunter S. Thompson’s flair.
A truly addictive fragrance
Narciso Rodriguez For Him ‘Bleu Noir’
The sensuality of iris enhances notes of suede leather, which is sweetened by the addiction of Tonka. Narciso Rodriguez’s Bleu Noir oozes sensuality and opulence.
Very well-made socks
Ferragamo Medium Gancini Jacquard Socks
No, socks and jocks aren’t copout Christmas gifts. As anyone who’s received a pair will attest, Italian brand Ferragamo’s cotton socks are the hardest-working gifts you can give.
The shoe of 2023 (and 2024)
Adidas Originals Samba OG Shoes
They might have won 2023, but the Adidas Sambas aren’t going anywhere in 2024. We recommend giving an out of the box colour, such as this retro brown and mustard pair.
Timeless cufflinks
Cartier ‘Santos de Cartier’ Cufflinks
A pair of keepsakes that will last forever, these Cartier cufflinks in palladium-finish sterling silver are made for gifting to someone special.
A fashionable, functional brolly
Blunt Classic Umbrella
If you didn’t think it was possible for an umbrella brand to develop a cult following, think again. New Zealand-born Blunt claims it makes the “world’s best umbrellas”, and, well, the world seems to agree—unlike most umbrellas, it’s meticulously engineered, meaning no awkward inside-out action when the wind picks up. It’s a practical gift that will stand the test of time.
Sporty shorts
Song for the Mute x Adidas Originals shorts in Emerald Green
It was the breakout fashion collaboration of the year, and although it’s mostly sold-out, a few pieces of apparel, including these fly emerald green shorts, remain.
A luxurious backpack
Saint Laurent Nuxx Backpack in Nylon
A zippered exterior pocket, padded laptop compartment and adjustable straps; Saint Laurent’s ‘Nuxx’ backpack is perfect for the guy on the go.
Some cool Jorts
Wynn Hamlyn Denim Shorts
Big, baggy, cargo-style denim shorts are back in a big way, and New Zealand-based designer Wynn Hamlyn makes a particularly cool pair. Gift them to a fashion guy and watch his street cred rise.
Leather mules
Bottega Veneta Sunday Slippers
The Italian brand’s Intrecciato technique has become the fashion crowd’s go-to texture. With this in mind, we’re sure there’s someone on your list that’s pining for a pair of Bottega Veneta’s Sunday Slippers.
A sharp bow-tie
Giorgio Armani Pure Silk Bow Tie
Know someone with a fancy occasion coming up? Why not get them in the mood with a beautiful new bow tie. In our educated opinion, Giorgio Armani make the best in the world.
An everyday long sleeve
Haydenshapes Shapers LS Tee
Everyone needs a good long sleeve T-shirt. We wear our ‘Shapers’ tees from Aussie surf and lifestyle brand Haydenshapes around the clock, and we’re positive someone on your list will, too.
The perfect white T-shirt
Jac+Jack Sans Cotton Tee
The perfect white T-shirt does exist. Crafted from 100 percent organic cotton jersey, you can find it at Jac+Jack, the Aussie brand behind some of our favourite essentials.
A cosy sweater
Giorgio Armani Alpaca-Blend Crew-Neck Jumper
For the person travelling to the Northern Hemisphere, Giorgio Armani’s warm, cosy crew-neck jumper with fisherman details is bound to be a hit they’ll keep and wear forever.
The most premium jocks
Tommy Hilfiger Logo Waistband Trunks – 5 Pack
Because so few people buy quality underwear for themselves, we highly recommend gifting a set of Tommy Hilfiger jocks—some of the most comfortable we’ve worn—for Christmas.
Pastel board shorts
Zegna 232 Road Brand Mark Swim Boxers
Made from a luxurious quick-dry fabric with a tailoring-inspired construction (no baggy ‘knee knockers’ here), Zegna’s board shorts are some of the finest on the market.
A dapper tie
Gucci ‘G-Rope’ Silk Tie
The humble tie has made a valiant fashion comeback—and we’re big fans of wearing ours with a casual shirt and jeans. But when looking for something that will dress up and down, this classic number from Gucci has our vote.
Best gifts for the watch lover
An elegant watch
IWC Portugieser Chronograph
A truely elegant timepiece, IWC’s Portugieser Chronograph is guaranteed to make someone’s Christmas a truly unforgettable one. Featuring a stainless steel case, automatic, self-winding movement and 41.0 mm diameter, you can’t possibly go wrong.
A stylish & sporty chronograph
Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Chronograph
With a superb signature dial boasting three levels of finishing (an internal opaline bezel, grained circle for the hours and indexes, as well as a sunray-brushed center), Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Polaris Chronograph is the kind of gift you’ll never, ever forget.
A pioneering timepiece
Longines Spirit Zulu Time
Inspired by its rich history of outfitting pilots, sailors and explorers, Longines’ Sprit Zulu Time is a sporty yet sleek self-winding mechanical watch that’s built for action.
Innovative and iconic
Panerai Luminor Marina
Recognisable, solid and iconic. The jet black Luminor Marina encapsulates the modern design direction of luxury watchmaker Panerai while keeping the traditions of marine watches, such as a water resistance of 300m, intact.
A retro-inspired watch
Tudor Glamour Date+Day
Equipped with a steel and yellow gold double bezel, yellow gold screw-down winding crown and 38 hour power reserve, Tudor’s Glamour Date+Day will delight first time owners and experienced watch nerds alike.
A true dive watch
Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 6000M Ultra Deep
As its name suggests, this newcomer is made for serious deep-sea explorers. Rigorously tested and certified, the Ultra Deep is water resistant to 6,000m. That’s ocean basin depth.
A watch for golf fanatics
TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition
Dubbed “the most luxurious connected golf watch ever”, this Connected Calibre by TAG is customised for your best performance on the golf course. An un-beatable gift for a golf fanatic.
A watch for seafarers
Blancpain X Swatch Indian Oceans ‘Fifty Fathoms’ Watch
In honour of Swiss luxury watchmaker Blancpain’s iconic ‘Fifty Fathoms’ divers watch, this collaborative timepiece is made with Bioceramic material and engraved with the words: Passion for Diving – License to Explore.
Best sports, wellness & grooming gifts
A sporty drink bottle
Lululemon ‘Back to Life’ Sports bottle – 946ml
Everyone needs a good insulated drink bottle. Lululemon’s bright blue iteration features a leak-proof lid and slip-free texture, making it perfect for the most active person on your Christmas shopping list.
A stylish overnight companion
Fendi Travel Organiser
Crafted from woven fabric with Fendi’s iconic ‘FF’ motif in brown and tobacco, this is the ideal gift for anyone who prefers to travel in style.
A classic fragrance
Dolce&Gabbana ‘The One’ Pour Homme EDT – 50ML
This spicy, oriental fragrance is both vibrant and engaging. Perfect for everyday wear.
A fancy golf kit
Louis Vuitton Black Monogram Andrews Golf Kit
For the golfer with an appreciation for luxurious touches. He might not want to bash these tees around the fairway—but they sure will look good dangling from his pocket.
New gym kit
New Balance Impact Run Short Sleeve T-shirt
We all have a fitness fanatic to buy for, and the NB ICEx technology sweat-wicking fabric of New Balance’s Impact T-shirt pledges to keep you cool and comfortable through any run.
A Timothée Chalamet-approved fragrance
Chanel ‘Bleu de Chanel’ Eau de Parfum
If it’s good enough for Timothée Chalamet (the acting sensation is the face of Chanel’s first fragrance for men), it’s more than good enough for us. An aromatic, intensely woody fragrance, it’s destined to attract all the right kinds of attention.
Good things for your skin
Aesop Sun Care Trio
There’s sunscreen, and there’s Aesop sunscreen. Featuring face, body and lip sunscreen, this is the best way to encourage your loved ones to stay sun-smart this summer.
An adventurous fragrance
Montblanc Explorer Platinum Eau de Parfum – 100ml
Montblanc’s newest fragrance for men is about embodying the spirit of adventure and exuding the confidence of a true explorer. It showcases noble woods like cypress and cedarwood, with notes of grapefruit, violet leaves and sage lending the masculine scent an air of refinement. We like it a lot.
Best tech gifts for men
A soft fluffy beach towel
Orlebar Brown ‘Seymour’ towel
Who doesn’t want a plush towel for spreading out on at the beach? Orlebar Brown’s version is spacious, stylish, and crafted from pure cotton, meaning there’s lots to love.
Noise cancelling headphones
Montblanc MB 01 Over-Ear Headphones
Montblanc’s MB 01 Over-Ear Headphones are designed to meet growing expectations for better sound quality, haptic experience and longer-lasting performance. Perfect for the person who likes tuning into a playlist on the go, before unwinding in peace to a favourite record at home.
A home for your AirTag
Apple AirTag Fine-woven Key Ring
Travelling with an Apple AirTag is only sensible these days. But of course, you need something to clip your tag into, and Apple’s fine-woven key rings are the perfect solution for anyone preparing to trot around the globe.
A sleek laptop case
Maison de Sabre Laptop Sleeve
For the discerning laptop user, Australian brand Maison de Sabre’s sleeves are made from full-grain leather that’s sourced exclusively from Gold Rated European tanneries. The emerald green colour is a stylish touch.
The coolest AirPods case
Rimowa Matte Black Case for AirPods Pro
If you travel with a Rimowa suitcase, then why shouldn’t your AirPods? The industrial-style grooved polycarbonate exterior makes this case a stylish option for the astute guy.
Best home & lifestyle gifts
A perfectly aged whisky
Glenfiddich 18YO Single Malt Scotch Whisky – 700mL
Matured in the finest Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks, Glenfiddich’s 18-year-old Single Malt Scotch has a remarkably rich aroma with ripe orchard fruit, spiced apple and a robust oakiness. A knockout drop to enjoy on Christmas day.
A cool new carpet
Double ‘Relativity Blue’ Cotton-Feel Rug
Searching for something for the design-lover in your life? Aussie rug brand Double has the best selection of modern, affordable rugs on the market—and they’re all completely machine washable. This wavy blue number will lift the vibes of any living room.
A suave change tray
Hermès ‘Mises et Relances H Evelyne’ Mini Change Tray
A stylish holder for all of your bits and bobs. We use ours for jewellery, cards and loose change, and we’re sure the discerning cash-carrier on your list will too.
A beautiful carafe
Armani Casa Riviere Bottle in Murano Glass
Destined to add some serious panache to any nightstand, sideboard or dining table, Armani Casa’s Murano Glass carafe and glass set is made for the design-inclined entertainer.
An award-winning Aussie whisky
LARK Christmas Cask – 500ML
Founded by whisky purists and pioneers Bill and Lyn Lark, LARK Distilling Co. has been crafting world-class, multiple award-winning Tasmanian whisky for over three decades. Their Christmas Cask is sure to delight any whisky drinker.
Organic cotton bath towels
Loop Home
Designed in Melbourne and woven in Turkey from the finest organic cotton, Loop Home’s 650 GSM bath towels are up there with some of the softest we’ve used. The terracotta and stone colours of the brand’s new collection are also aesthetically pleasing, meaning whoever you gift them to won’t be inclined to hide them when guests come around.
French vodka
Grey Goose Limited Edition Vodka – 1L
It’s a mainstay in every bar cupboard, so why settle for anything less than the best? You can’t go wrong with Grey Goose; the brand’s limited edition release comes in an illuminated bottle, making it an infallible festive gift.
A countryside-inspired candle
R.M. Williams Scented Candle
Bring the campfire inside with R.M. Williams’ first ever candle. Described as an “aromatic journey from Australia’s tropical forests to its outback arid plains”, it hums with notes of sage, tobacco leaves, hay and aged wood.
Champagne (of course!)
Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut Champagne NV
One of the best non-vintage Champagnes on the market, Mumm is our choice for a festive tipple. It’s also a gift you can’t possibly go wrong with.
An unbeatable experience
Ponant ‘Australia’s Iconic Kimberly’ Cruise
The Kimberly is one of the most remote regions of Australia, defined by its red soil, ochre cliffs, deep inlets, roaring waterfalls and the odd saltwater crocodile. With such vast gorges and waterways, one of the best ways to explore the area is on a cruise—a Ponant Cruise. The renowned cruising company hosts 10-day journeys into the West Australian wonder, and we couldn’t think of a cooler gift to impress the adventurer with.
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