MVW’s Winter Gift Guide
There’s just something magical about the holidays, isn’t there? I started writing this gift guide while gazing out at the Manhattan skyline from the 18th floor of our NYC apartment, the city blanketed in its first snow that actually stuck this winter. Now, I’m finishing it from my in-law’s kitchen in sunny California—talk about a coast-to-coast holiday vibe!
The winter holidays are one of my absolute favorite times of the year. A few weeks ago, a colleague asked me for gift ideas for their sister-in-law. I rattled off about ten options (because obviously I have opinions), and they paused mid-list to ask, “Have you ever considered writing a holiday gift guide?” Spoiler alert: I hadn’t.
So here we are—cutting it close to the holi-dates, but better late than never, right? Besides, these ideas aren’t just for December—they work for winter birthdays, early Valentine’s Day shopping, or even next year’s holiday gifting. Some of these gems are truly timeless.
MVW Hot Tip: Bookmark your favorites now and keep an eye out for sales. Sure, it’ll take all your willpower not to spoil the surprise early, but trust me—waiting a whole year will be worth it when your loved ones open the perfect gift.
And here’s another idea: these picks would make amazing additions to the traditional wedding anniversary gifts (or dating anniversaries if you’re engaged). Because let’s be real—there’s no bad time to surprise your favorite person with something thoughtful and chic.
For the Chic Skier (Beginner or Advanced)
Halfdays Aston Jacket & Emma Soft Shell Pants
Halfdays is hands down my favorite ski clothing brand. Why? Because their pieces look good on everyone! They offer a diverse range of sizes and design for real bodies—like mine. For reference, I’m 5’3" (5’4" on a good day), curvy, and often doing the classic jeans-jumping dance to get the perfect fit. Halfdays just gets it.
If you’re ready to splurge on ski wear, the Aston Jacket and Emma Soft Shell Pants are my absolute top picks. Let me break it down:
Why They’re a Must-Have: Ski gear that’s functional, flattering, and stylish is hard to find, but Halfdays nails it. The Aston Jacket is designed to fit and flatter, featuring a waist-cinching belt, a built-in goggle wipe, a phone harness, and plenty of pockets for all your essentials. Meanwhile, the Emma Soft Shell Pants are warm, stretchy, and perfect for active days on the slopes.
What’s Inside: The Aston Jacket has PrimaLoft filling for maximum warmth and insulation while still looking chic. The sleek design is both practical and flattering, with plenty of room for layers underneath. The Emma Soft Shell Pants are made to move with you, offering the flexibility you need for skiing without sacrificing style. I have mine in classic black (always in style) and my Aston Jacket in a bright Spritz color for visibility on the mountain.
Why They'll Love It: Whether they’re beginners or advanced skiers, they’ll love the comfort and chic design of this combo. These pieces will take them from the slopes to après-ski and beyond—because looking good on the mountain is always a win. Halfdays is that girl, and these pieces make the perfect gift for any skier who loves to look good and stay cozy on the slopes.
For the Home Office Queen
Brooklyn Candle Studio x Allison Kunath Candle Collaboration in Mojave
I love a great candle, and the Brooklyn Candle Studio x Allison Kunath collaboration truly hits all the marks. From the stunning design to the incredible scent, this candle is one they’ll be sure to showcase in their space.
Why It's a Must-Have: Candles bring a sense of peace and style to any room, and this one has it all. From the design (featuring a powerful, sensual drawing of a woman) to the warm, smoky scent, it’s the perfect way to elevate their workspace or living area. It’s a special gift that’s both chic and meaningful.
What’s Inside: The Mojave scent is a beautiful blend of cedar, palo santo, and bitter spice—perfectly evoking the smell of a campfire and desert roads at night. As if the fragrance wasn’t enough, 10% of proceeds go to Planned Parenthood, Equality Now, and Fòs Feminista, making it a gift that gives back. Plus, each candle features a unique, hand-drawn design by artist Allison Kunath.
Why They'll Love It: Whether they’re working from home or just winding down after a long day, this candle creates the perfect atmosphere. It’s a beautiful, thoughtful gift that not only smells amazing but also supports important causes. Plus, the stunning design will fit in perfectly with any decor.
For the Coffee Connoisseur
Bialetti Moka Dolce & Gabbana Stovetop Espresso Maker, Carretto
The first time I ever made coffee with a Bialetti Moka, I was living in Florence during my junior year abroad. Fun fact: I lived in Italy for a year and speak pretty good Italian! The other day, I met a vendor for the first time, and when I asked him in Italian where he was from, the look of surprise and delight on his face was priceless—it still makes me smile.
Why It's a Must-Have: This stovetop espresso maker is the Italian version of a French press—simple, affordable, and perfect for creating a rich, full-bodied brew with an espresso-like flavor. It’s an ideal gift for anyone who loves coffee and wants to enjoy espresso-style drinks without the complexity of a dedicated espresso machine.
What’s Inside: The Bialetti Moka Dolce & Gabbana edition is a piece of art, featuring the iconic Carretto design. It’s a tribute to Sicily’s landscapes and folklore, and comes in two stunning colors—rich blue and vivid red. Not only will they be brewing coffee in style, but they’ll be adding a beautiful conversation piece to their kitchen.
Why They'll Love It: Whether they're new to coffee-making or a seasoned aficionado, this Moka will give them the perfect way to brew delicious coffee every time. I gifted one to my mom for Christmas, and a friend of mine has been eyeing this model for months. If they love coffee (and style), they’ll love this Moka!
For the Aspiring Chef
Pasta Everyday by Meryl Feinstein
Pasta is life, and Pasta Everyday is my go-to cookbook for turning anyone into a pasta-making aficionado. It was on my wishlist last Christmas, and thankfully, someone gifted it to me! Now, it’s one of my favorite cookbooks, and it’s reached the point where it's covered in sauce in some places (a sign of a well-loved book!).
Why It's a Must-Have: This cookbook is beautifully organized, with easy-to-follow recipes that range from quick weeknight meals to more intricate dishes. It’s a perfect gift for someone who loves Italian food and is ready to dive into the art of pasta making.
What’s Inside: The book covers everything from gnocchi to egg fettuccini, pesto to roasted tomato and garlic sauce, so your giftee will never run out of inspiration. Each recipe feels like a warm hug, especially when paired with a glass of wine and a few friends to share.
Why They'll Love It: This cookbook will turn them into a pasta-making expert, guaranteed. I’ve already made fried gnocchi, egg fettuccini, and more—and I can’t wait to get back to NYC and make the roasted tomato and garlic sauce again! If they’re into food, this is a must-have in their kitchen.
For the Aspiring Baker
What’s for Dessert by Claire Saffitz
Claire Saffitz is a dessert genius, and What’s for Dessert is the ultimate guide for anyone who’s ready to take their sweet creations to the next level.
Why It's a Must-Have: This book is packed with mouthwatering recipes, beautiful photography, and a step-by-step approach to baking. From cookies to cakes, there’s something in here for everyone—and Claire's personal touch makes each recipe feel like a little piece of dessert magic.
What’s Inside: Whether they’re baking a Tiramisu-y Icebox Cake or Lime Squiggles, they’ll be using the same tips and tricks Claire herself learned while training at École Grégoire Ferrandi in Paris. Claire’s expertise makes each recipe feel accessible but professional, so your giftee will feel like a pastry pro in no time.
Why They'll Love It: This is the perfect gift for someone who’s passionate about baking or wants to step up their game. They’ll love trying recipes from Claire’s book and impressing their friends with their new dessert skills. Whether they're making treats for a party or just indulging their sweet tooth, this cookbook has them covered.
For the Avid Traveler
The AirFly Pro & Bric's B|Y Ulisse 21" Carry-On Expandable Spinner
I have both of these travel essentials, and I’m obsessed. Let’s start with the AirFly Pro—a game-changer for in-flight entertainment. Airlines should absolutely add Bluetooth compatibility to their seat-back screens (looking at you, Delta!), but since that doesn’t seem likely anytime soon, this nifty little device has you covered.
Why It's a Must-Have: The AirFly Pro allows you to connect your Bluetooth headphones (hello, AirPods!) to the seat-back entertainment system wirelessly, so no more hunting for old-school plug-ins. Bonus? It supports dual connections, so you and your travel buddy can watch the same movie together. And it’s not just for planes—it works in cars and with other devices too!
What’s Inside: Compact and easy to pack, the AirFly Pro features long battery life and universal compatibility. Whether you're flying, driving, or just trying to pair your headphones with a non-Bluetooth device, this adapter is a total lifesaver.
Why They'll Love It: Perfect for the tech-savvy traveler, this device makes flying so much more enjoyable. Whether they’re watching movies, listening to music, or sharing audio with a friend, the AirFly Pro keeps it hassle-free.
Now onto the luggage—because what’s a trip without a great carry-on?
Why It's a Must-Have: We’ve traveled with the Bric's B|Y Ulisse set on multiple international trips, and it’s been a dream. Our previous luggage (from a popular company mind you) didn’t even survive one international trip (the wheels literally fell off!), but Bric’s? Sturdy, stylish, and built to last. It’s a favorite among celebrities like Amal Clooney and Kate Middleton for a reason.
What’s Inside: This 21" carry-on spinner is the perfect size for short trips or as a companion to checked luggage. It’s expandable, lightweight, includes a laundry bag, and comes with a TSA-approved lock. Plus, the sleek design is a travel aesthetic in itself—quiet luxury at its finest.
Why They'll Love It: The combination of durability, style, and practicality makes this carry-on a standout gift for any traveler. Whether they’re heading out for a weekend getaway or an international adventure, the Bric’s Ulisse Spinner will quickly become their go-to luggage.
For the Wellness Enthusiast
Bearaby Cotton Napper Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets are a game-changer for relieving anxiety and promoting better sleep, and the Bearaby Cotton Napper takes it up a notch with its luxurious feel and customizable options.
Why It's a Must-Have: With its organic cotton construction and chic design, the Bearaby Cotton Napper isn’t just functional—it’s a statement piece for any home. Weighted blankets help reduce stress and improve sleep quality, making this a thoughtful gift for anyone who could use a little extra R&R.
What’s Inside: Available in weights ranging from 10 to 25 pounds and a variety of gorgeous colors, it’s easy to customize for the recipient. Plus, with over 300K glowing reviews, this blanket is a proven favorite.
Why They'll Love It: This isn’t just any weighted blanket—it’s luxury redefined. The Bearaby blends wellness with high-end design, offering a plush, breathable texture that feels as good as it looks. Whether they’re draping it over their couch or winding down in bed, it brings an air of sophistication and comfort to their space. It’s a gift that feels indulgent in the best way possible.
For the Tech Lover
Therabody SmartGoggles (2nd Gen)
The perfect fusion of wellness and innovation, the Therabody SmartGoggles (2nd Gen) are here to elevate relaxation and recovery to the next level.
Why It's a Must-Have: These goggles are more than just a tech gadget—they’re a game-changer for anyone who spends long hours in front of screens or struggles to unwind. With smart technology designed to reduce eye strain, relieve headaches, and lower stress, they deliver a spa-like experience wherever you are.
What’s Inside: Equipped with exclusive SmartSense™ technology, these goggles adapt to the user’s heart rate for a tailored relaxation experience. They feature vibration, heat, and massage settings that can be customized to target specific needs. Plus, their sleek, lightweight design makes them easy to pack for travel or use at home.
Why They'll Love It: I was gifted these this year, and I’m already obsessed! These goggles gave me one of the best facial massages I’ve ever had—hard stop. They’re so relaxing that my husband said I fell asleep within minutes of trying the Sound Bath meditation feature. Whether they’re winding down after a long day or recovering from screen fatigue, the Therabody SmartGoggles bring the ultimate in relaxation and futuristic flair.
For the BookTok Enthusiast
Reese Witherspoon has earned her title as a literary icon through her incredibly popular book club, which champions diverse voices, especially amplifying women of color and authors from varied backgrounds and genres. If your recipient is a BookTok fan who loves both community and diverse stories, the Reese’s Book Club Box is a dream gift.
Why It's a Must-Have: Each month, Reese selects a book (or two) that promotes unique perspectives, strong female voices, and thought-provoking stories. These picks have sparked conversations nationwide and continue to inspire readers to dive deeper into new worlds.
What’s Inside: The box includes Reese's latest book selections along with exclusive luxury goodies like popular makeup brand staples, tote bags, candles, bath bombs, and other curated treats.
Why They'll Love It: Whether they’re reading on a lazy Sunday or joining the online book club discussion, this box is the perfect way to treat the BookTok enthusiast to a monthly surprise that aligns with their love of literature and self-care.
For the Luxe Lover
Quince 14K Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire Studs
If you're looking for a gift that screams both luxury and sustainability, the Quince 14K Lab-Grown Diamond Solitaire Studs are a dream come true. Quince is all about quiet luxury—delivering impeccable quality without the inflated price tags associated with well-known designer labels. Whether you're gifting a major milestone or simply treating someone to something special, these diamonds are bound to dazzle.
Why It's a Must-Have: These earrings feature FG VS2+ diamonds, which offer stunning clarity and sparkle without the traditional brand-name markup. Quince is a luxury brand offering beautiful, high-quality goods at a fraction of the price—and these diamonds are no exception. The diamonds are IGI certified, so you can be sure of their authenticity and quality.
What’s Inside: The studs range from 1 to 5 carats, allowing you to find the perfect pair to suit any style or budget. They're set in solid 14K gold, which complements the timeless beauty of the lab-grown diamonds.
Why They'll Love It: Not only are these earrings a classic addition to any wardrobe, but they also represent a shift toward sustainability. Lab diamonds are real diamonds—they’re stunning, ethically sourced, and environmentally friendly, making them an investment you can feel good about. As a huge fan of diamonds (and a lover of all things sparkly), I’m all for the rise of lab-grown stones, and these earrings prove they’re just as beautiful as their mined counterparts. Plus, Quince’s attention to quality means these earrings will stand the test of time, making them a staple for years to come.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—my curated list of luxury gifts that are perfect for everyone on your list (or, let’s be honest, maybe just a little treat for yourself). From thoughtful and meaningful to truly indulgent, each of these gifts is not just about the item itself but the experience and joy it brings. Whether you're shopping for a chic skier, a tech lover, or a BookTok enthusiast, these selections will elevate their day-to-day with a touch of luxury and practicality.
Remember, a truly great gift is one that reflects the recipient’s personality, passions, and style. So, as you scroll through and finalize your picks, know that you’re giving something special—an item that’s sure to make lasting memories. And trust me, there’s no better feeling than gifting something they’ll treasure forever.
Now, excuse me while I go add more diamonds to my cart. 💎😉 Oh, and in case you’re in need of a wedding planner who knows how to add a little luxury to your big day, don’t forget to reach out. I’ve got you covered for all your wedding planning needs!
