Esquire’s ultimate Christmas gift guide for her

Louis Vuitton Afternoon Swim fragrance

If she’s a summer girl who loves nothing more than plunging into the ocean (or pool) after midday, Louis Vuitton’s citrus-inspired fragrance will have her feeling like she’s always by the water’s edge. With notes of bergamot, mandarin, ginger, orange and ambregris, it’s a fresh, energetic scent you can’t go wrong with.

Cartier Tank Must Solarbeat Watch

Worn by the likes of Princess Diana and Jackie Kennedy, the Cartier Tank is the timeless gift to end all timeless gifts; an iconic timepiece she’ll have and treasure forever. With a steel case, silvered dial, blued-steel sword-shaped hands and calfskin strap, it’s the perfect everyday watch, one that can be dressed up as easily as it can be dressed down.

‘Polynesian Water Goddesses’ by Ming Nomchong

If she’s looking to enhance her space, a piece of art is always a special gift. While I recommend doing your research and making sure the work you choose matches her taste, it would be difficult to go wrong with something as beautiful as this framed archival cotton rag print by Byron-based photographer Ming Nomchong.

Sarah & Sebastian Fine Gossamer Necklace

For a piece of fine jewellery with an interesting setting, this 14-karat gold necklace is bound to surprise and delight. According to the Sydney-based brand, designer Sarah Munro was inspired by the white foam of crashing waves when creating this delicate piece.

Kodak Ektar H35N Half Frame Film Camera

There’s something extra special about capturing memories the analogue way. Whether you have an exciting trip on the horizon or simply want to capture the small moments together, a film camera, like Kodak’s Ektar H35N Half Frame, is the perfect gift.

A Kokomo Private Island stay

If you haven’t already heard whispers about the sheer natural beauty and genuine barefoot luxury of Kokomo Private Island, believe us when we say: a trip here will be one you’ll never forget. Located south of the Fijian mainland among the Kadavu Islands, its white sandy beaches are surrounded by pristine diving and snorkelling spots. The resort also offers tours run by its resident team of marine biologists, so if she is passionate about ocean conservation, you can’t get more special than this.

Tom Ford Black Orchid Parfum

According to my colleagues, the aphrodisiac effect of Black Orchid by Tom Ford makes it one of the sexiest scents ever created. Sounds like something your girl needs, right?

Sir Serene Slip Dress

Every woman needs a Christmas day dress, no matter how casual or glam her holiday may be. When it comes to effortless occasion dressing, it’s hard to fault Australia’s own Sir. Crafted from lightweight silk crepe fabric, this printed slip feels festive, flattering and easygoing all at once.

Unyoked stay

If she’s outdoorsy, it’s highly likely she values experiences just as much (if not more) than material possessions. A weekend spent at one of Unyoked’s off-grid cabins guarantees quality time spent together as you unwind in the peace and quiet of the bush. With so many stunning locations all over the country, choosing where to drop out is the hardest part.

Coach Tie Dye Crochet Bucket Hat

There’s nothing cuter and more practical than a crochet bucket hat, especially when it’s from quintessential New York brand Coach.

Hugo faux-leather shoulder bag with logo strap

This summer, handbag trends can be divided into one of two camps: the maximalist and the minimalist. If she’s more of a pared back girl with a penchant for quiet luxury, this shoulder bag is sure to become her new go-to.

Archie Rose ‘September’ gin

Teaming up with renowned florist September Studios, Archie Rose Distilling Co. has created a gin that captures the flavours, scents and dynamic floral arrangements of the Darlinghurst flower studio. A harmony of strawberry gum, lemon myrtle, native thyme, peach and mandarin, it tastes just as pretty as you’d expect. You can also have the bottle personalised upon ordering, making it extra unique for she whose drink of choice is a G&T, or gin martini.

Lululemon ‘The Mat’ 5mm

If you’ve ever done yoga or pilates on a Lululemon mat, you’ll know they’re a decent cut above the rest. Featuring a natural rubber base with a little extra cushion to guarantee comfort all through the class, it comes in a number of colours, so you can select the one that suits her best.

Le Labo Thé Noir 29 100ml

Being told you smell good is the highest compliment, and it happens more often than not when I wear my Thé Noir. For this reason, I’m suggesting you buy it for your sister (or brother – it’s unisex). With notes of bergamot, fig, and bay leaves, anchored by the depth of cedarwood, vetiver, and musk, my brother purchased it for me a few years ago, and I haven’t worn anything else since.

Kathmandu Pack&Go Pouch

If she’s an outdoorsy gal, you can’t go wrong with a piece of kit from Kathmandu. For hikes, climbs or camping trips the brand’s small pouches never fail to save the day.

Linen House Quilt Cover Set in Vintage Stripe Tiramisu

If she’s anything like me and my sister, nice bedding is an annual acquisition, and one that’s best saved for Christmas time when someone else is doing the shopping. Linen House make some of my favourite sets, with colour combinations that always feel classic yet cool.

Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Smoothing Moisture Treatment

If she’s into her skincare, she’ll probably already know about the magical benefits of Kiehl’s number one moisture treatment. And if she’s not across it, she’ll become very quickly obsessed.

Didion & Babitz by Lili Anolik

If she romanticises the cultural milieu of Hollywood in the 1960s and ’70s (who doesn’t!?), and turns to Didion’s seminal essay ‘On Self-Respect’ for guidance on the reg, she will devour this book, which chronicles the complicated alliance between the Slouching Towards Bethlehem essayist and Babitz, another visual artist and writer from the Franklin Avenue set, in one sitting.

Thread Together donation

If you’re trying to move towards more impact-driven gifts, making a donation to Australian charity Thread Together is a great idea. As little as $5 can help to provide new wardrobes to those in need, from refugees, victims of domestic violence, and others facing hardship. A feel-good gift that promises to make a difference. You can make a donation here.

Sister Studios Heart Keychain

It doesn’t get much sweeter or more sentimental than these sparkly pink keychains from independent Melbourne brand Sister Studios.

Saint Laurent LE 5 À 7 supple large bag in grained leather

Your mum deserves the best, and there’s no beating a leather bag from Saint Laurent. Our pick is the LE 5 À 7, which is super spacious, with two main compartments to keep her valuables safe. With a bronze-toned ‘YSL’ clasp, it’s the chicest thing one can throw over their shoulder.

Le Creuset Cast Iron Shallow Casserole

Nothing beats a cast iron piece from the French cookware experts at Le Creuset. Perfect for browning meat and veggies, simmering sauces, stir frying and even baking, there’s not a lot the shallow casserole pan can’t do. If she loves cooking, she’ll use it every day. Our colour recommendation is Garnet, though it comes in a rainbow of tones to suit every kitchen decor.

L’Oreal Paris Colour Riche Classic Lipstick

You can’t go wrong with a lipstick, especially when that lipstick is from L’Oreal. Creamy, hydrating and long lasting, it’s the lipstick she’ll re-buy every time she runs out.

Apple AirTag

It’s hard to believe we used to travel without them. If she has a big trip planned for 2025, she’ll thank you when she returns home, luggage still in tow.

The Guide to Becoming Alive, by Richard Christiansen

After 20 years of running one of the world’s most successful creative agencies, Australian-born Richard Christiansen bought a ramshackle 1940s villa with a sprawling garden in Los Angeles, and proceeded to turn it into a thriving urban farm, selling produce and products that are beloved by celebrities and tastemakers alike. The journey guided Christiansen through a period of darkness towards happiness, all of which is chronicled in this beautiful, inspiring tome.

R.M. Williams Millicent boots

For a pair of Australian-made boots that will last her for life, R.M. Williams is the only answer. With a cuban heel and stylish pointed toe, the Millicent boots are our pick for a style she can dress up and down.

Agmes NYC Small Gia Studs

Sculptural, shiny and timeless. Handmade in Agmes’ New York studio, the Gia Studs in sterling silver are super elegant, yet subtle enough for everyday wear.

Moët Rosé Imperial

You can’t possibly go wrong with a bottle of sparkling rosé. Distinguished by its bright fruitiness, seductive palate and its elegant maturity, this special bottle also comes in a limited edition end of year box. Gift it and pop it on the same day.

Polo Ralph Lauren Cable-Knit Cotton Crewneck Cardigan

Ralph Lauren sells itself, and this cable-knit cardigan is no exception. Perfect for wearing over a dress in summer, or under a coat in winter. And if blue isn’t her favourite colour, the American brand has a selection of beautiful tones to choose from.

Fendi Roma Salt and Pepper Set

Crafted from wood and glass, this salt and pepper grinder set from the Italian brand’s homewares line makes an elegant addition to any table setting. The two-tone effect of the pair is reminiscent of the brand’s iconic Pequin motif. If she’s a Fendi lady, she’ll appreciate finding these under the tree.

Creed Delphinus fragrance

A woody, amber perfume enveloped in the luminous aura of black and pink pepper, the Paris-based house’s Delphinus fragrance will have grandma smelling better than ever.

Cushla Whiting Contours Wrist Cuff in Sterling Silver

What woman wouldn’t love getting dressed up with this sculptural cuff on her arm? The description behind the design is pure poetry: “undulating steps create a tangible landscape of topographic curves”, writes the Australian designer.

Country Road Saltbush & Hinoki Wood Body Cleanser

As the brand behind some of our favourite homewares, linen and clothing, we couldn’t be more stoked to learn that Country Road has just launched a collection of hand washes, hand creams, body cleansers and body balm, with scents ranging from the calming Saltbush & Hinoki Wood to the warmth and brightness of Cedar & Mahogany. A gift anyone would be delighted to recieve.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso One Monoface

The Reverso is one of the Swiss watchmaker’s most iconic designs, revered for its innovative case and elegant slimline design. The back of this Reverso One Monoface is left blank, meaning you can even customise it with an engraved message.

Aesop Geranium Leaf Trilogy Set

For something small that she’ll happily apply every day, remembering you every time she does so, we recommend a gift set from Australian skin care brand Aesop. You can’t beat the fresh fragrance of the Geranium Leaf line.

Montblanc Meisterstück Platinum-Coated Fountain Pen

Not only are writing instruments emerging as the next big luxury collectables, Montblanc’s Meisterstück, which celebrated its centenary this year, is also a timeless heirloom-in-waiting, best gifted to mark a milestone in life. Trust us, she’ll appreciate this.

Bollinger Special Cuvée

If she enjoys a glass (or two, or three, or four) of bubbles during the holiday season, she’ll be delighted to unwrap a bottle of French special cuvée by Bollinger. Its ripe fruit and spicy aromas (think roasted apples and brioche) make it the perfect drop for sipping on a warm summers day.

Maison Balzac Lobster Apron

Who doesn’t love to indulge in some lobster at Christmas? If she’s planning on serving some shellfish with cocktail sauce come Christmas day, this fun gift would take dressing for the occasion to a whole new level.