It’s no secret Christmas is a time of consumption. It’s all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of shopping and finding things for the people we love. While we all like to indulge in a little gift giving and show our appreciation, it’s possible to be more conscious in the process.
You may have heard us talk about our ‘buy lasting and buy less’ philosophy before, and it’s something we think is worthwhile adopting to how you choose to gift too. Choosing something high-quality that you know will get a lot of use is the ideal way to reduce your impact. We chatted to style advisor Gaurav for his list of future-proof presents to give the men in your life or add to your own wishlist.
Cream Wool-Cashmere Leisure Pants & Full-Zip Knit
Coordinated sets are easily becoming one of the most popular picks for laid-back weekends and this ultra-comfy knitwear is sure to be a hit as we head into the holidays and have some time off. We recommend getting a set crafted from wool and cashmere for the ideal mix of luxury and low maintenance. The cashmere ensures they are super soft and comfy while the wool means more durability and even less washing, making this gift even better for the environment.
“These sets are basically a perfect blend of comfort and aesthetics. They take comfort to a new level and still look so great, whether you are out going for a casual coffee or just lounging around at home or even work if you have a cool, relaxed office. I personally love the oatmeal. It’s a very neutral tone that feels very now and works with every skin tone and every age”
Taupe Lambskin, Brown Peccary Skin, Dark Blue Deerskin, & Navy Deerskin Gloves
Whether you expect a white Christmas or just a very cold one, there is something particularly sophisticated about putting on a pair of leather gloves. With their extremely soft cashmere lining, this range by Mazzoleni will keep hands comfortably warm in the height of winter. Available in lambskin, deerskin, or the epitome of luxury leather Peccary, it’s the sort of gift someone will keep and wear forever.
“These are something I would love to receive myself. A pair of high-quality leather gloves are such an investment piece. If you buy them for a loved one you know they will never need to buy them again, it’s really a thoughtful gift. The ones by Mazzoleni are so beautiful and functionally incredible too. In a taupe or brown or even navy it will go with most everything in their closet”
Cashmere Cardigan Jacket in Oatmeal & Navy Blue
Cashmere Cardigan Jacket in Oatmeal & Navy Blue
Another great way to lower your impact is to ensure your present will get lots of wear, like this jacket by Cino. Essentially a vest with knitted sleeves in the same color, Gaurav describes it as a perfect layering piece when you feel like dressing up but don’t want to wear a sports jacket. In a versatile hue like navy or oatmeal, the 100% cashmere piece is extremely practical and warm while feeling like a dream to wear.
“We know a lot of guys have an affinity with laying a vest on top of a sweater or a sports jacket. But this is like a two-in-one kind of piece, so you don't have to invest in a vest and a knit and worry about what colors will go together. You can wear it out and still keep it on when you head inside. Even with just a t-shirt underneath, it looks so chic.”
If you’re on a tighter budget or looking for a great stocking stuffer, grab a pair or three from Falke. These aren’t your average socks. They are made from responsibly sourced fibers, woven with a little stretch and reinforced in their design to help lengthen their life. We love them because they’re lightweight and breathable, so super comfortable. A simple gift everyone is sure to appreciate.
“If you’re still not sure what to get your guy, you can’t go wrong with neutral socks. One pair or even better, a pack of three. They’re an essential that everybody needs, so it's a no brainer. Falke are one of the best socks manufacturers in the world. I love wearing them.”
5. Matching beanie & scarf
Cream Ribbed Wool-Cashmere Beanie & Scarf
One for the busy man in your life, get a matching beanie and scarf and you are essentially giving the gift of time. With less to think about you’ll be making his wardrobe more efficient and giving him one less decision to make in a day. Gaurav assures us they have been battle tested by all the advisors in chilly Toronto, so you know they will keep you cozy in any weather. Whether you choose pure cashmere or a blend with merino wool, these knitted accessories will get even better with age.
“Accessories are a pretty classic gift but what I've learned in my experience is that men struggle to find the perfect matching scarf with a beanie. We don't like to think too much when it comes to fashion, so getting a set just makes it all very easy. They won’t have to think about it!”
Brown Suede Woven Belt
Most self-respecting men will already have a traditional leather belt, but they may not have considered one of Gaurav’s favorites: the woven belt. It’s a more contemporary take and goes well with that soft tailoring look that we love. Crafted from pure leather and yarn dyed, it’s a simple way to add texture to your any look and also offers a different way to complement your shoes.
“Even in this new era of seeking more comfort and more drawstrings, nothing can take away from a beautiful belt, right? I like that it’s a little more unconventional. Instead of matching exactly, you can complement with some texture instead. If you're wearing suede shoes, then a belt that is braided can complement that texture of the shoes and bring the whole silhouette together.”
Ivory Dotted Wool Blend Pocket Square & Beige Silk Grenadine Pocket Square
Coming into the holiday season and all the usual special events, a pocket square can be a particularly appreciated gift. Something in white or ivory is super versatile and will easily make its way into every tuxedo pocket they have to wear, while a silk grenadine is always a favorite for the office. Almost all of our pocket squares are made from natural, durable fibers. Plus, it’s one present you don’t need to worry about getting the sizing right!
“I have about a hundred pocket squares and I’m always glad to get another one. It’s nice to have a range in the closet so you can choose the perfect one for your look and how you’re feeling. We have so many different options in store. If they are classic, something silk is a good choice or if they have more flare, we have plenty of patterns too.”
Wine Red Silk Grenadine Tie
Taupe Wool-Linen Grenadine Tie
Another classic gift for men. If you are looking to go this route, our recommendation is to steer clear of the standard stripe and instead select something textured and sophisticated like a grenadine tie in silk or a natural blend, so your gift will be something special as well as durable.
“You know, we’re all about effortless styling, so we will even be putting together a bunch of tie and pocket square combo deals in the store to make it even easier to pick up something great that will pair perfectly.”
Bloodstone Gold Bow Cufflinks, Cornelian Stone Gold Bow, & Smokey MOP Gold Cufflinks
By December, the holiday season will be in full swing and invitations for functions and New Years parties plentiful, making a pair of quality cufflinks an excellent gift. Not only are they extremely durable, but timeless in design too, so you don’t need to worry about them going out of style.
“A nice pair of cufflinks is a forever kind of gift. I love that. The biggest thing to remember is to try and match their jewelry or wedding band if they have one. It’s that sort of thing that will make it even more thoughtful and make their black-tie look even more polished and put together”
Atelier Munro giftcard
The best way to ensure your gift gets the maximum amount of wear for its footprint? Let the person pick it themselves. You can grab one for any budget, making this a particularly great gift for the man who has everything, the guy who is impossible to shop for or those pickier gents! Gaurav’s tip: if you’re in doubt that they’ll love it, go for a gift card.
“For me, one of these gift cards is the perfect way to show a man you appreciate them and their taste. If they’re picky it’s especially good. We work with the best mills and artisans across the globe, and everything we make is made for not only now, but for years to come so you know whatever they make will be loved for a long time and more sustainable because of that.”
Ready to start shopping?
Drop by or book an appointment at any of our flagship stores to find the perfect present.